For the Quarterly Period Ended October 30, 2004
Table of Contents

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


 

(Mark One)

x Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended October 30, 2004 or

 

¨ Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the transition period from              to             

 

Commission File Number 1-7562

 


 

THE GAP, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Delaware   94-1697231
(State of Incorporation)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

Two Folsom Street

San Francisco, California 94105

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (650) 952-4400

 


 

Indicate by check mark whether Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether Registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  x    No  ¨            

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of Common Stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Common Stock, $0.05 par value, 876,738,375 shares as of November 29, 2004

 



Table of Contents

THE GAP, INC.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

        

PAGE

NUMBER


PART I

  FINANCIAL INFORMATION     

Item 1

  Financial Statements     
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
October 30, 2004, January 31, 2004 and November 1, 2003
   3
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
Thirteen and Thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003
   4
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003
   5
    Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements    6
    Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm    11

Item 2

  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    12

Item 3

  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk    20

Item 4

  Controls and Procedures    20

PART II

  OTHER INFORMATION     

Item 1

  Legal Proceedings    21

Item 2

  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds    21

Item 6

  Exhibits    21

 

2


Table of Contents

THE GAP, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

(In millions except share and par value)

 

   October 30,
2004


    January 31,
2004


    November 1,
2003


 

ASSETS

                        

Current Assets:

                        

Cash and equivalents

   $ 2,214     $ 2,261     $ 1,589  

Short-term investments

     514       1,073       449  

Restricted cash

     1,015       1,351       1,354  
    


 


 


Cash and equivalents, short-term investments and restricted cash

     3,743       4,685       3,392  

Merchandise inventory

     2,629       1,704       2,595  

Prepaid income taxes

     21       20       3  

Other current assets

     372       300       334  
    


 


 


Total current assets

     6,765       6,709       6,324  

Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $3,684, $3,611, and $3,518

     3,193       3,368       3,434  

Other assets

     273       286       429  
    


 


 


Total assets

   $ 10,231     $ 10,363     $ 10,187  
    


 


 


LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

                        

Current Liabilities:

                        

Current maturities of long-term debt

   $ —       $ 283     $ 262  

Accounts payable

     1,439       1,178       1,243  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     951       872       882  

Income taxes payable

     27       179       184  
    


 


 


Total current liabilities

     2,417       2,512       2,571  

Long-Term Liabilities:

                        

Long-term debt

     513       1,107       1,247  

Senior convertible notes

     1,380       1,380       1,380  

Lease incentives and other liabilities

     623       581       588  
    


 


 


Total long-term liabilities

     2,516       3,068       3,215  

Shareholders’ Equity:

                        

Common stock $.05 par value

                        

Authorized 2,300,000,000 shares; Issued 982,856,787, 976,154,229 and 974,065,559 shares; Outstanding 887,572,286, 897,202,485 and 894,286,436 shares

     49       49       49  

Additional paid-in capital

     850       732       711  

Retained earnings

     6,951       6,241       5,924  

Accumulated other comprehensive earnings

     44       31       1  

Deferred compensation

     (9 )     (9 )     (10 )

Treasury stock, at cost

     (2,587 )     (2,261 )     (2,274 )
    


 


 


Total shareholders’ equity

     5,298       4,783       4,401  
    


 


 


Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 10,231     $ 10,363     $ 10,187  
    


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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THE GAP, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended

    Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

 

(In millions except share and per share amounts)

 

   October 30,
2004


    November 1,
2003


    October 30,
2004


    November 1,
2003


 

Net Sales

   $ 3,980     $ 3,929     $ 11,369     $ 10,968  

Costs and expenses

                                

Cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses

     2,413       2,402       6,793       6,837  

Operating expenses

     1,100       1,051       3,113       2,872  

Loss on early retirement of debt

     10       1       105       1  

Interest expense

     38       52       134       180  

Interest income

     (15 )     (8 )     (40 )     (27 )
    


 


 


 


Earnings before income taxes

     434       431       1,264       1,105  

Income Taxes

     169       168       493       431  
    


 


 


 


Net earnings

   $ 265     $ 263     $ 771     $ 674  
    


 


 


 


Weighted average number of shares - basic

     902,039,162       893,709,825       900,700,983       891,408,515  

Weighted average number of shares - diluted

     997,620,291       990,020,341       998,816,833       985,827,392  

Earnings per share - basic

   $ 0.29     $ 0.29     $ 0.86     $ 0.76  

Earnings per share – diluted

   $ 0.28     $ 0.28     $ 0.81     $ 0.72  

Cash dividends paid per share

   $ 0.02 (a)   $ 0.02 (d)   $ 0.07 (a) (b) (c)   $ 0.07 (d) (e) (f)

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


(a) Includes a dividend of $0.02 per share declared in second quarter of fiscal 2004 but paid in third quarter of fiscal 2004.
(b) Includes a dividend of $0.02 per share declared in first quarter of fiscal 2004 but paid in second quarter of fiscal 2004.
(c) Includes a dividend of $0.02 per share declared in fourth quarter of fiscal 2003 but paid in first quarter of fiscal 2004.
(d) Includes a dividend of $0.02 per share declared in second quarter of fiscal 2003 but paid in third quarter of fiscal 2003.
(e) Includes a dividend of $0.02 per share declared in fourth quarter of fiscal 2002 but paid in first quarter of fiscal 2003.
(f) Includes a dividend of $0.02 per share declared in first quarter of fiscal 2003 but paid in second quarter of fiscal 2003.

 

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THE GAP, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

     Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

 

(In millions)

 

   October 30,
2004


   

November 1,

2003


 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

                

Net earnings

   $ 771     $ 674  

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:

                

Depreciation and amortization

     454       500  

Loss on disposal of property and equipment and other non-cash items affecting net earnings

     14       34  

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock

     21       15  

Deferred income taxes

     (24 )     (26 )

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                

Merchandise inventory

     (910 )     (517 )

Other assets

     (39 )     (45 )

Accounts payable

     184       59  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     53       (12 )

Income taxes payable

     (152 )     (14 )

Lease incentives and other liabilities

     102       17  
    


 


Net cash provided by operating activities

     474       685  
    


 


Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

                

Purchase of property and equipment

     (305 )     (181 )

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

     —         1  

Purchase of short term investments

     (1,139 )     (498 )

Maturities of short term investments

     1,698       362  

Net change in lease rights and other assets

     (10 )     4  
    


 


Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities

     244       (312 )
    


 


Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

                

Payments of long-term debt

     (871 )     (527 )

Restricted cash

     336       (1,306 )

Issuance of common stock

     103       71  

Purchase/reissuance of treasury stock

     (273 )     —    

Cash dividends paid

     (60 )     (59 )
    


 


Net cash used for financing activities

     (765 )     (1,821 )
    


 


Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash

     —         10  
    


 


Net decrease in cash and equivalents

     (47 )     (1,438 )

Cash and equivalents at beginning of period

     2,261       3,027  
    


 


Cash and equivalents at end of period

   $ 2,214     $ 1,589  
    


 


 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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THE GAP, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

 

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

The condensed consolidated balance sheets as of October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003, the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations for each of the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003, and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the thirty-nine week periods ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003 have been prepared by The Gap, Inc. (the “company,” “we,” and “our”), without audit. In the opinion of management, such statements include all adjustments (which include only normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary to present fairly our financial position, results of operations and cash flows at October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003 and for all periods presented. In the third quarter ended October 30, 2004, the company recorded an entry to remove $223 million of fully depreciated assets that were no longer in service. This asset adjustment resulted from a recent physical inventory of certain fixed assets. This adjustment had no material net impact to the Consolidated Balance Sheet and had no impact on cash flows from investing activities. The company recorded $3 million in operating expense in the thirteen week period ended October 30, 2004 in connection with this physical inventory.

 

Certain information and disclosures normally included in the notes to the annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been omitted from these interim financial statements. We suggest that you read these condensed consolidated financial statements in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2004.

 

Certain amounts from the prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on net earnings as previously reported.

 

The results of operations for the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results that may be expected for the year ending January 29, 2005.

 

2. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

 

In December 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board published a revision to Financial Interpretation No. 46 (“FIN 46”), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (hereafter referred to as “FIN 46R”) to clarify some of the provisions of FIN 46, and to exempt certain entities from its requirements. Under the new guidance, there are new effective dates for companies that have interests in structures that are commonly referred to as special-purpose entities. The rules are effective in financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004. FIN 46R did not have any impact on our operating results or financial position as we do not have any variable interest entities.

 

3. STOCK-BASED AWARDS

 

We account for stock-based awards to employees and directors using the intrinsic value method of accounting in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”. Under the intrinsic value method, when the exercise price of employee stock options equals the market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant, no compensation expense is recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. Restricted stock and discounted stock option awards, which are granted at less than fair market value, result in the recognition of deferred compensation. Deferred compensation is shown as a reduction of shareholders’ equity and is amortized to operating expenses over the vesting period of the stock award. We amortize deferred compensation for each vesting layer of a stock award using the straight-line method.

 

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure of Amendment of FASB Statement No. 123” and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (“SFAS 123”) requires the disclosure of proforma net earnings per share as if we had adopted the fair value method. Under SFAS 123, the fair value of stock based compensation is calculated through the use of option pricing models. These models require subjective assumptions, including future stock price volatility and expected time to exercise, which affect the calculated values. The following table illustrates the effect on net earnings and earnings per share had we applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123.

 

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     Thirteen Weeks Ended

    Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

 

(In millions)

 

   October 30,
2004


    November 1,
2003


    October 30,
2004


    November 1,
2003


 

Net earnings

                                

As reported

   $ 265     $ 263     $ 771     $ 674  

Add: Stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net earnings, net of tax related effects

     1       —         2       —    

Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair-value-based method for all awards, net of related tax effects

     (21 )     (15 )     (60 )     (37 )
    


 


 


 


Pro forma net earnings

   $ 245     $ 248     $ 713     $ 637  
    


 


 


 


Earnings per share:

                                

As reported-basic

   $ 0.29     $ 0.29     $ 0.86     $ 0.76  

Pro forma-basic

     0.27       0.28       0.79       0.72  

As reported-diluted

     0.28       0.28       0.81       0.72  

Pro forma-diluted

     0.26       0.26       0.75       0.68  

 

4. COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS

 

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 130, “Reporting Comprehensive Income” (SFAS 130), establishes standards for reporting comprehensive earnings. Comprehensive earnings include net earnings as currently reported under generally accepted accounting principles, and other comprehensive earnings. Other comprehensive earnings consider the effect of additional economic events that are not required to be recorded in determining net earnings but rather are reported as a separate component of shareholders’ equity. Other comprehensive earnings include foreign currency translation adjustments and fluctuations in the fair market value of certain derivative financial instruments. Comprehensive earnings for the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003 were as follows:

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended

    Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

 

(In millions)

 

   October 30,
2004


    November 1,
2003


    October 30,
2004


    November 1,
2003


 

Net earnings

   $ 265     $ 263     $ 771     $ 674  

Adjustments for foreign currency translation

     38       26       26       30  

Adjustments for fluctuations in fair market value of financial instruments, net of tax related effects

     (30 )     (25 )     (33 )     (25 )
    


 


 


 


Comprehensive earnings

   $ 273     $ 264     $ 764     $ 679  
    


 


 


 


 

5. DEBT AND OTHER CREDIT ARRANGEMENTS

 

As of October 30, 2004, we had $861 million in trade letters of credit issued under our letter of credit agreements and revolving credit facility. There were no drawings under our revolving credit facility.

 

In line with our objective of reducing long-term debt, during the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004, we repurchased and extinguished early an aggregate of $180 million in principal amount of our bonds due 2005, $91 million in principal amount of our bonds due 2007 and $325 million in principal amount of our bonds due 2008. Therefore, for the thirty-nine weeks

 

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ended October 30, 2004, we reduced our domestic debt by $596 million. Although the bond repurchases are net present value positive, we incurred $105 million in losses on early retirement of debt due to premiums paid and issuance cost write-offs. In addition, in September 2004, we repaid a maturing €227 million 5-year euro bond ($275 million). Including the natural maturity of the euro bond, we have repaid $871 million in debt during fiscal 2004.

 

On August 30, 2004, we terminated all commitments under our $750 million three-year secured revolving credit facility scheduled to expire in June 2006 (the “old Facility”) and replaced the old Facility with a new $750 million five-year unsecured revolving credit facility scheduled to expire in August 2009 (the “new Facility”). The new Facility is available for general corporate purposes, including commercial paper backstop, working capital, trade letters of credit and standby letters of credit. The drawn cost and fees related to the new Facility fluctuate based on our long-term senior unsecured credit ratings and our leverage ratio.

 

In addition, on August 30, 2004, we executed amendments to our four letter of credit agreements, which provided an aggregate $1.2 billion in letter of credit issuing capacity, to align certain of the terms and conditions with the terms of the new Facility. On October 29, 2004, we executed additional amendments to our four letter of credit agreements, reducing our required percentage of restricted cash from 103 percent to 100 percent of the letter of credit issuing capacity. Also effective October 29, 2004, we reduced the aggregate letter of credit issuing capacity under these agreements from $1.2 billion to $900 million. As a result, our restricted cash decreased by $336 million. The restricted cash collateralizes our letters of credit, which are used to finance our inventory purchases, and we have reduced this amount to more closely reflect ongoing usage. The letter of credit agreements are scheduled to expire in June 2006 and are secured, in the aggregate, by $900 million in cash, which is included in restricted cash on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

The new Facility does not contain any restrictions on share repurchases, dividend increases, and debt repurchases. The new Facility contains financial and other covenants, including, but not limited to, limitations on liens and subsidiary debt as well as two financial ratios - a fixed charge coverage ratio and a leverage ratio. The letter of credit agreements contain a fixed charge coverage ratio, which is more lenient than the ratio in the new Facility. As with the old Facility, a violation of these covenants could result in a default under the new Facility and letter of credit agreements, which would permit the participating banks to restrict our ability to further access the new Facility for letters of credit and advances, terminate our ability to request letters of credit pursuant to the letter of credit agreements and require the immediate repayment of any outstanding advances under the new Facility. In addition, such a default could, under certain circumstances, permit the holders of our outstanding unsecured debt to accelerate payment of such obligations.

 

6. EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share are computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share includes the additional dilutive effect of our potentially dilutive securities, which include certain stock options and unvested shares of restricted stock, calculated using the treasury stock method, and convertible notes which are potentially dilutive at certain earnings levels calculated using the if-converted method. The following summarizes the incremental shares from the potentially dilutive securities:

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended

   Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

     October 30,
2004


   November 1,
2003


   October 30,
2004


   November 1,
2003


Net earnings-basic (in millions)

   $ 265    $ 263    $ 771    $ 674

Net earnings-diluted (in millions)

   $ 277    $ 275    $ 807    $ 711

Weighted-average number of shares-basic (in thousands)

     902,039      893,710      900,701      891,408

Incremental shares resulting from:

                           

Stock options

     9,973      10,702      12,508      8,811

Senior convertible notes

     85,608      85,608      85,608      85,608
    

  

  

  

Weighted-average number of shares-diluted (in thousands)

     997,620      990,020      998,817      985,827
    

  

  

  

Earnings per share-basic

   $ 0.29    $ 0.29    $ 0.86    $ 0.76

Earnings per share-diluted

   $ 0.28    $ 0.28    $ 0.81    $ 0.72

 

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Excluded from the above computations of weighted-average shares for diluted earnings per share were options to purchase 43,092,040 and 32,810,161 anti-dilutive shares of common stock and 0 shares of unvested restricted stock during the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004, respectively. Excluded from the above computations of weighted-average shares for diluted earnings per share were options to purchase 29,256,735 and 32,571,995 anti-dilutive shares of common stock and 0 and 1,470 anti-dilutive shares of unvested restricted stock during the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2003, respectively.

 

7. OTHER OPERATING CHARGES

 

The following table provides the liability balances for actions previously taken associated with our cost containment efforts and downsizing of our headquarter facilities primarily in our San Francisco and San Bruno campuses.

 

(In millions)

 

   Sublease Loss
Reserve


 

Balance at January 31, 2004

   $ 105  

Adjustment to provision

     (2 )

Cash payments

     (17 )
    


Balance at October 30, 2004

   $ 86  
    


 

(In millions)

 

  

Sublease Loss

Reserve


 
Balance at February 1, 2003    $ 115  
Adjustment to provision      9  
Cash payments      (17 )
    


Balance at November 1, 2003    $ 107  
    


 

Our sublease loss charges primarily relate to the net present value of the difference between the contract rent obligations and the rate at which we expect to be able to sublease the properties. These estimates and assumptions are monitored on at least a quarterly basis for changes in circumstances.

 

Remaining cash expenditures associated with the sublease loss reserve are expected to be paid over the remaining various lease terms through 2017. Based on our current assumptions as of October 30, 2004, we expect the sublease of our excess facilities to result in a total cash outlay of approximately $214 million for future rent expense. Our accrued liability related to the domestic sublease loss charges of $85 million at October 30, 2004, was net of approximately $110 million of estimated sublease income to be generated from sublease contracts, which have not yet been identified. Our ability to generate this amount of sublease income is highly dependent upon economic conditions and commercial real estate market conditions in the San Francisco Bay Area market at the time we negotiate sublease arrangements with third parties. While the amount we have accrued represents our best estimate of the remaining obligations we expect to incur in connection with these facilities, estimates are subject to change and may require additional adjustments as conditions and facts change. If adverse macroeconomic conditions continue, particularly as they pertain to the commercial real estate market, we may be required to further reduce our estimated future sublease income and, accordingly, incur a charge to increase our estimated accrued liability.

 

8. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

In September and October 2004, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of $750 million of our common stock. During the third quarter of 2004, we repurchased approximately 17 million shares of our common stock at a total cost of approximately $338 million, including commissions at an average price per share of $19.72. See Note 10 for a discussion on subsequent activity related to our share repurchase program.

 

Differences in cash used in financing activities related to purchase of treasury stock differs from the comparable change in shareholders’ equity by $65 million due to the timing between the recognition of treasury stock purchases and the cash settlement of the treasury stock purchases as well as the reissuance of treasury stock.

 

On September 28, 2004 we announced that our Board of Directors voted a quarterly dividend of $0.0222 per share payable on December 13, 2004, to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 19, 2004.

 

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9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

We have applied the measurement and disclosure provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 45 (“FIN45”), “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of the Indebtedness of Others,” to our agreements that contain guarantee and indemnification clauses. FIN 45 requires that upon issuance of a guarantee, the guarantor must disclose and recognize a liability for the fair value of the obligation it assumes under the guarantee. The initial recognition and measurement provisions of FIN 45 are effective for guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. As of October 30, 2004, we did not have any material guarantees that were issued or modified subsequent to December 31, 2002.

 

However, we are a party to a variety of contractual agreements under which we may be obligated to indemnify the other party for certain matters. These contracts primarily relate to our commercial contracts, operating leases, trademarks, intellectual property, financial agreements and various other agreements. Under these contracts we may provide certain routine indemnifications relating to representations and warranties (e.g., ownership of assets, environmental or tax indemnifications) or personal injury matters. The terms of these indemnifications range in duration and may not be explicitly defined.

 

Generally, the maximum obligation under such indemnifications is not explicitly stated and as a result, the overall amount of these obligations cannot be reasonably estimated. Historically we have not made significant payments for these indemnifications. We believe that if we were to incur a loss in any of these matters, the loss would not have a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

 

As party to a reinsurance pool for workers’ compensation, general liability and automobile liability, we have guarantees with a maximum exposure of $86 million, of which $20 million has been cash collateralized.

 

As a multinational company, we are subject to various proceedings, lawsuits, disputes and claims (“Actions”) arising in the ordinary course of our business. Many of these Actions raise complex factual and legal issues and are subject to uncertainties. Actions filed against us include commercial, intellectual property, customer, and labor and employment related claims, including class action lawsuits in which plaintiffs allege that we violated federal and state wage and hour laws. The plaintiffs in some Actions seek unspecified damages or injunctive relief, or both. Actions are in various procedural stages, and some are covered in part by insurance.

 

We cannot predict with assurance the outcome of Actions brought against us. Accordingly, adverse developments, settlements or resolutions may occur and negatively impact earnings in the quarter of such development, settlement or resolution. However, we do not believe that the outcome of any current Action would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, liquidity or financial position taken as a whole.

 

10. SUBSEQUENT EVENT

 

Subsequent to the end of the third quarter of 2004, we repurchased approximately 16 million additional shares of our common stock at a total cost of approximately $348 million, including commissions, through December 1, 2004. On December 1, 2004, our Board of Directors authorized an additional $250 million for the company’s share repurchase program, bringing the total repurchase program to $1 billion.

 

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Fax: +1 415 783 4329

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

Board of Directors and Shareholders

The Gap, Inc.

 

We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets of The Gap, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003, and the related condensed consolidated statements of operations for each of the thirteen- and thirty-nine-week periods ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003, and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the thirty-nine-week periods ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.

 

We conducted our reviews in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and of making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

 

Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to such condensed consolidated financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the consolidated balance sheet of The Gap, Inc. and subsidiaries as of January 31, 2004, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein); and in our report dated March 30, 2004, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of January 31, 2004 is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

San Francisco, California
December 3, 2004

 

   Member of

Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu

 

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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The information made available below and elsewhere in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q contains certain forward-looking statements that reflect the current view of The Gap, Inc. (the “company”, “we” and “our”) with respect to future events and financial performance. Wherever used, the words “estimate,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “may” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements.

 

Any such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and our future results of operations could differ materially from historical results or current expectations. Some of these risks include, without limitation, ongoing competitive pressures in the apparel industry, risks associated with challenging domestic and international retail environments, changes in the level of consumer spending or preferences in apparel, trade restrictions and political or financial instability in countries where our goods are manufactured, impact of legal proceedings, and/or other factors that may be described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and/or other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Future economic and industry trends that could potentially impact revenues and profitability are difficult to predict.

 

We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein will not be realized.

 

We suggest that this document is read in conjunction with the Management’s Discussion and Analysis included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2004.

 

Overview

 

Our year-to-date performance demonstrates our ability to drive shareholder value as we position ourselves for longer-term growth. Throughout the year, we have made solid progress against our objectives, delivering strong operating results, and strengthening our financial position. Earnings year-to-date are up 14 percent, and in the third quarter, our debt has been reduced by an additional $397 million; our credit rating has improved; and we began a $750 million share repurchase program, our first since 2000. Through December 1, 2004, we purchased approximately 33 million shares for approximately $686 million, including commissions. In addition, on December 1, 2004, our Board of Directors authorized an additional $250 million for the share repurchase program.

 

We continue to drive organic growth in the business with Plus Sizes at Old Navy, Petites at Banana Republic, Maternity at Gap and Old Navy, and accessories across all divisions. After an extensive study of the market, we are launching Banana Republic in Japan in the fall of 2005. With its affinity for fashion and luxury products, Japan offers a strong market for Banana Republic. We also expect to begin testing a specialty women’s retail apparel brand in the United States in the second half of 2005, opening up to 10 stores in two geographic regions. The brand will target women over age 35, offering apparel for a range of occasions in a new specialty retail store environment.

 

Although the third quarter was challenging, our continued operational focus drove solid earnings, margins and cash flow, allowing us to maintain strong cash balances, even after significant share repurchases, and nearly $400 million in additional debt retirement.

 

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Net Sales

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended

   Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

     October 30,
2004


   November 1,
2003


   October 30,
2004


   November 1,
2003


Net sales (In millions)

   $ 3,980    $ 3,929    $ 11,369    $ 10,968

Total net sales increase percentage

     1%      8%      4%      12%

Comparable store sales (decrease) increase percentage

     (1)%      6%      2%      9%

Net sales per average square foot

   $ 104    $ 103    $ 300    $ 287

Square footage of store space – at end of period (In millions)

                   37      37

Number of Store Locations(1):

                           

Beginning of Period

     2,999      3,095      3,022      3,117

New store locations

     61      16      102      33

Closed store locations

     (9)      (36)      (73)      (75)

End of Period

     3,051      3,075      3,051      3,075

(1) Expanded stores do not change store count

 

A store is included in comparable store sales (“Comp”) when it has been open at least one year and has not been expanded or remodeled by more than 15 percent or permanently relocated within that year. Therefore, a store is included in Comp on the first day it has comparable prior year sales. Stores in which square footage has been expanded or remodeled by 15 percent or more are excluded from Comp until the first day they have comparable prior year sales.

 

A store is considered non-comparable (“Non-comp”) when, in general, the store had no comparable prior year sales. For example, a new store, or a store that has been expanded by more than 15 percent or permanently relocated within the last year. Non-store sales such as from online operations are also considered Non-comp.

 

Net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2004 increased $51 million compared to the same period last year. This increase reflects a decrease in our comparable store sales of $35 million and an increase in our non-comparable store sales of $86 million.

 

Coming off a strong first half, business softened early in the third quarter, as traffic slowed and we faced an increasingly promotional environment. As we are susceptible to seasonal fluctuations, we met these challenges with in-season adjustments to our promotions, marketing and in-store selling strategies to offset the softer trends. This allowed each brand to better manage their business through the quarter.

 

Comparable store sales by division for the third quarter were as follows:

 

Gap U.S. reported a positive 2 percent versus a positive 5 percent last year

Gap International reported a negative 10 percent versus a positive 4 percent last year

Banana Republic reported a positive 3 percent versus a positive 11 percent last year

Old Navy reported negative 1 versus a positive 6 percent last year

 

Total sales by division for the third quarter were as follows:

 

Gap U.S. reported $1.3 billion versus $1.3 billion last year

Gap International reported $440 million versus $476 million last year

Banana Republic reported $538 million versus $512 million last year

Old Navy reported $1.7 billion versus $1.6 billion last year

 

Net sales for year-to-date fiscal 2004 increased $401 million compared with the same period last year. Comparable store sales increased $186 million and non-comparable store sales increased $215 million.

 

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The increase in our year-to-date sales was primarily due to an increase in regular price selling at higher regular margins and higher markdown margins compared with the same period last year. The increase during the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal year 2004 in our comparable store sales was driven by improvement in our traffic comps at Banana Republic and Old Navy and increased units per transaction for the total company. Strong product acceptance during the first quarter of fiscal 2004 and disciplined inventory management during the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 drove higher average unit retail sales, primarily at Banana Republic and Gap U.S.

 

Comparable store sales by division for year-to-date were as follows:

 

Gap U.S. reported a positive 2 percent versus a positive 9 percent last year

Gap International reported a negative 8 percent versus a positive 10 percent last year

Banana Republic reported a positive 9 percent versus a positive 6 percent last year

Old Navy reported a positive 2 percent versus a positive 11 percent last year

 

Total sales by division for year-to-date were as follows:

 

Gap U.S. reported $3.7 billion versus $3.7 billion last year

Gap International reported $1.3 billion versus $1.4 billion last year

Banana Republic reported $1.6 billion versus $1.4 billion last year

Old Navy reported $4.8 billion versus $4.5 billion last year

 

With regard to weak International division performance, we will continue to study local market preferences and are working to better balance product assortments to be more market appropriate. In addition, we continue to add design talent for the International division and placed some merchants local in country. As we are still in the early stages with these teams, it will take time before they have a meaningful impact.

 

Because we translate foreign currencies into U.S. dollars for reporting purposes, currency fluctuations can have an impact on our results. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates during 2004 positively affected the translation of foreign currency sales into U.S. dollars. For year-to-date 2004, currency fluctuations accounted for $130 million of the increase in net sales.

 

Store count and square footage for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 was as follows:

 

    

January 31, 2004

Total

Store Count


   Opened

   Closed

   

October 30, 2004

Total

Store Count


  

October 30, 2004

Total

Square Footage


Gap U.S.

                         

Gap Brand

   1,249    5    (41 )   1,213    11,086,228

Gap Outlet

   140    5    (3 )   142    1,391,829
    
  
  

 
  
     1,389    10    (44 )   1,355    12,478,057
    
  
  

 
  

Gap (International)

                         

United Kingdom

   133    —      (4 )   129    1,205,689

United Kingdom Outlet

   7    —      (1 )   6    57,090

Canada

   102    —      (1 )   101    964,295

Canada Outlet

   2    —      —       2    24,806

France

   35    —      —       35    285,128

Japan

   67    8    —       75    793,880

Japan Outlet

   2    —      —       2    35,474

Germany

   10    —      (10 )   —      —  
    
  
  

 
  
     358    8    (16 )   350    3,366,362
    
  
  

 
  

Banana Republic

                         

Banana Republic U.S.

   376    8    (2 )   382    3,247,221

Banana Republic Canada

   16    2    —       18    134,659

Banana Republic Outlet

   43    17    (1 )   59    484,976
    
  
  

 
  
     435    27    (3 )   459    3,866,856
    
  
  

 
  

Old Navy

                         

Old Navy U.S.

   765    40    (9 )   796    15,832,886

Old Navy Canada

   33    17    —       50    923,258

Old Navy Outlet

   42    —      (1 )   41    582,433
    
  
  

 
  
     840    57    (10 )   887    17,338,577
    
  
  

 
  

Total

   3,022    102    (73 )   3,051    37,049,852
    
  
  

 
  

 

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Cost of Goods Sold and Occupancy Expenses

 

Cost of goods and occupancy expenses include the cost of merchandise, rent, occupancy and depreciation for our distribution centers and stores.

 

Cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased 0.5 percentage points from 61.1 percent to 60.6 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2004 and decreased 2.6 percentage points from 62.3 percent to 59.7 percent in the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004, compared to the same periods in fiscal 2003. Cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses were relatively flat compared to the same period in 2003 for both the third quarter of fiscal 2004 as well as the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004. The decrease in cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses as a percentage of net sales was driven by slightly higher merchandise margins of 0.1 percentage points and by lower occupancy expenses of 0.4 percentage points.

 

Merchandise margins were flat for the third quarter of fiscal 2004 compared to the same period in fiscal 2003. Merchandise margins increased 1.7 percentage points for the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 compared to the same period in fiscal 2003 as a result of continued disciplined inventory management. During the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004, we realized better year-over-year margins on regular price and markdown sales.

 

The decrease in occupancy expenses as a percentage of net sales for the third quarter and first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 compared to the same periods in fiscal 2003 came from leveraging of rent, occupancy, and depreciation expenses due to continual store fleet optimization and less depreciation from asset depletion in addition to improved sales performance.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Operating expenses as a percentage of net sales increased 0.9 percentage points from 26.7 percent to 27.6 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2004 and increased 1.2 percentage points from 26.2 percent to 27.4 percent for the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004, compared to the same periods in fiscal 2003. Operating expenses were relatively flat, increasing $49 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2004 compared to the same period in 2003. Operating expenses increased $241 million for the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 to $3.1 billion compared to $2.9 billion for the same period in fiscal 2003. The increase in total operating expense dollars for the third quarter and first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 was primarily driven by increased planned costs related to our growth initiatives and variable expenses due to sales growth.

 

For the full year fiscal 2004, we expect total operating expense dollars, together with losses on early retirement of debt, to increase by about 10 percent compared to fiscal 2003. Marketing expenses are expected to be about $540 million for the full year. This reflects the lower-than-expected marketing production costs seen during the first half of 2004.

 

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Loss on Early Retirement of Debt

 

In support of our ongoing goal to return to an investment grade credit rating, we reduced our outstanding debt by repurchasing $122 million of domestic debt during the third quarter of 2004 and incurred $10 million in losses on early retirements of debt due to premiums paid. For the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004, we reduced our outstanding debt by repurchasing $596 million of domestic debt. Although the bond repurchases are net present value positive, we incurred $105 million in losses on early retirement of debt due to premiums paid in the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004. Comparatively, we incurred a loss of $0.6 million for the early debt repurchase of €23 million of our euro bond ($27 million) during the third quarter of fiscal 2003.

 

Interest Expense

 

Interest expense decreased $14 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2004 to $38 million, compared to $52 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2003. Interest expense decreased $46 million in the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 to $134 million compared to $180 million in the same period of fiscal 2003. The decrease in interest expense during 2004 was primarily due to our debt repurchases as well as savings from lower facility fees on our refinancing.

 

For full year fiscal 2004, we expect interest expense to be about $170 million, which includes about $36 million for the fourth quarter. This reflects assumptions from reduced interest related to the third quarter bond repurchase, our renegotiated credit facility and our recent debt rating upgrade.

 

Interest Income

 

Interest income increased $7 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2004 to $15 million compared to $8 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2003. Interest income increased $13 million in the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 to $40 million, compared to $27 million in the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2003. The increase in interest income during 2004 was primarily due to increases in average cash available for investment as a result of higher cash balances as well as higher interest rates on investments.

 

Income Taxes

 

The effective tax rate was 39.0 percent for the third quarter of fiscal 2004 and 2003 as well as for the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 and 2003. We currently expect the fiscal 2004 effective tax rate to be within a range of 38.5 percent to 39.5 percent. The actual rate will ultimately depend on several variables, including the mix of earnings between domestic and international operations and the overall level of earnings. In October 2004, Congress enacted, and the President signed into law, the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. Among its numerous changes in the tax law this Act included certain tax relief provisions. The Company is currently reviewing the provisions of the new law and has not yet determined the impact, if any, upon future financial statements.

 

FINANCIAL CONDITION

 

The following sets forth certain measures of our liquidity:

 

     Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

   Fifty-two Weeks
Ended


($ In millions)

 

   October 30,
2004


   November 1,
2003


   January 31,
2004


Working capital

   $ 4,348    $ 3,753    $ 4,197

Current ratio

     2.80:1      2.46:1      2.67:1

 

We ended the third quarter of fiscal 2004 with $3.7 billion in cash and equivalents, short-term investments and restricted cash, of which $1.0 billion was restricted and $514 million was held in short-term investments. Our total outstanding debt was $1.9 billion. We believe the combination of cash on hand and cash from operations will provide adequate liquidity for business operations, capital expenditures, debt reduction, share repurchases, dividend payments and growth opportunities. At October 30, 2004, our working capital and current ratio calculation included the $1.0 billion of restricted cash, the majority of which is collateral for our letter of credit agreements, which are used to finance our inventory purchases.

 

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Cash Flows from Operating Activities

 

Net cash provided by operating activities for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 was $474 million, a decrease of $211 million, compared with the same period in the prior year. Net earnings improvement of $97 million, offset by an increase in working capital used in the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004, contributed to the decreased cash flow compared with the same period in the prior year. Specifically, there was a larger use of cash this year related to merchandise inventory and income taxes payable. In 2003, we reduced our excess inventory and began 2004 with lower inventory levels. The lower inventory levels required increased purchases during the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 to support sales and build inventory as we head into the holiday season. In addition, higher estimated tax payments due to our stronger earnings performance in the first quarter required more cash during the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004.

 

Our inventory balance at October 30, 2004, was $2.6 billion, a slight increase of $34 million from the same period in the prior year of $2.6 billion. Inventory per square foot was $68, 1 percent, higher than the same period in the prior year. Inventory management remains an area of focus as we continue to execute against our strategies to optimize inventory productivity and more effectively manage slower turning inventory while maintaining appropriate in-store merchandise levels to support sales growth.

 

We fund inventory expenditures during normal and peak periods through a combination of cash flow from operations and cash on our balance sheet. Our business follows a seasonal pattern, peaking over a total of about 13 weeks during the back-to-school and holiday periods. The seasonality of our operations may lead to significant fluctuations in certain asset and liability accounts between fiscal year-end and subsequent interim periods.

 

We expect inventory per square foot to be up in the low-single digits at the end of the fourth quarter and flat at the end of the first quarter of 2005.

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

 

Net cash provided by investing activities for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 was $244 million, an increase of $556 million compared with the same period in the prior year. The net change in the purchase and maturities of short-term investments of $695 million contributed principally to this increase.

 

For the third quarter of fiscal 2004 our net square footage was slightly lower compared to year-end fiscal 2003. In the third quarter of fiscal 2004, capital expenditures totaled approximately $305 million. The majority of these expenditures were used for 102 new store locations ($75 million), store remodels ($99 million) and information technology ($86 million).

 

For full year fiscal 2004, we expect capital expenditures to be about $450 million. This is driven primarily by the shifting of remodel timing to 2005, and lower-than-expected remodeling costs. This breakdown includes: store capital of $270 million, with $120 million for new stores and $150 million for existing stores, $155 million for IT, and $25 million for headquarters and distribution centers. We expect to fund these capital expenditures with cash flows from operations. Also, we anticipate full year fiscal 2004 depreciation and amortization expense to be about $600 million. We continue to expect net square footage to remain flat for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004.

 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

 

Net cash used for financing activities for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 was $765 million, a decrease of $1.1 billion compared with the same period in the prior year. The increase in the prior year was primarily due to our execution of letter of credit agreements in June 2003, which was secured by approximately $1.24 billion in cash. In the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004 we repurchased $596 million of domestic notes, including the repurchase and early retirement of our 2005 bonds during the third quarter of 2004. In addition, during the third quarter 2004, we paid off the remaining outstanding balance of our €227 million 5-year euro bond ($275 million), which was due on September 30, 2004. Comparatively, in the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2003, we repaid a maturing $500 million two-year bond during the first quarter and repurchased €23 million ($27 million) of euro bonds during the third quarter of 2003.

 

During October and November 2004, we announced an aggregate $750 million share repurchase program. This program represents our first step toward returning excess cash to shareholders, and resulted in the purchase of over 17 million shares during the quarter for approximately $338 million, including commissions at an average price per share of $19.72.

 

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Differences in cash used in financing activities related to purchase of treasury stock differs from the comparable change in shareholders’ equity by $65 million due to the timing between the recognition of treasury stock purchases and the cash settlement of the treasury stock purchase as well as the reissuance of treasury stock.

 

Stock Repurchase Program

 

On October 7, 2004, the company announced a $500 million share repurchase program. On November 4, 2004, the company announced an addition of $250 million to the program for an aggregate $750 million. The Board of Directors authority with respect to this aggregate program expires September 28, 2005. On December 1, 2004, the Board of Directors authorized an additional $250 million for the program. The Board of Directors authority with respect to this additional portion of the program expires December 1, 2005. For more information regarding our share repurchase program, see Item 2: Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds within Part II of this Form 10-Q.

 

Credit Facility

 

As of October 30, 2004, we had $861 million in trade letters of credit issued under our letter of credit agreements and revolving credit facility. There were no drawings under our revolving credit facility.

 

In line with our objective of reducing long-term debt, during the first thirty-nine weeks of fiscal 2004, we repurchased and extinguished early an aggregate of $180 million in principal amount of our bonds due 2005, $91 million in principal amount of our bonds due 2007 and $325 million in principal amount of our bonds due 2008. Therefore, for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004, we reduced our domestic debt by $596 million. Although the bond repurchases are net present value positive, we incurred $105 million in losses on early retirement of debt due to premiums paid and issuance cost write-off. In addition, in September 2004, we repaid a maturing €227 million 5-year euro bond ($275 million). Including the natural maturity of the euro bond, we have repaid $871 million in debt.

 

On August 30, 2004, we terminated all commitments under our $750 million three-year secured revolving credit facility scheduled to expire in June 2006 (the “old Facility”) and replaced the old Facility with a new $750 million five-year unsecured revolving credit facility scheduled to expire in August 2009 (the “new Facility”). The new Facility is available for general corporate purposes, including commercial paper backstop, working capital, trade letters of credit and standby letters of credit. The drawn cost and fees related to the new Facility fluctuate based on our long-term senior unsecured credit ratings and our leverage ratio.

 

In addition, on August 30, 2004, we executed amendments to our four letter of credit agreements, which provided an aggregate $1.2 billion in letter of credit issuing capacity, to align certain of the terms and conditions with the terms of the new Facility. On October 29, 2004, we executed additional amendments to our four letter of credit agreements, reducing our required percentage of restricted cash from 103 percent to 100 percent of the letter of credit issuing capacity. Also effective October 29, 2004, we reduced the aggregate letter of credit issuing capacity under these agreements from $1.2 billion to $900 million. As a result, our restricted cash decreased by $336 million. The restricted cash collateralizes our letters of credit, which are used to finance our inventory purchases, and we have reduced this amount to more closely reflect ongoing usage. The letter of credit agreements are scheduled to expire in June 2006 and are secured, in the aggregate, by $900 million in cash, which is included in restricted cash on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. These amendments can be found in their entirety in public filings.

 

The new Facility does not contain any restrictions on share repurchases, dividend increases, and debt repurchases. The new Facility contains financial and other covenants, including, but not limited to, limitations on liens and subsidiary debt as well as two financial ratios - a fixed charge coverage ratio and a leverage ratio. The letter of credit agreements contain a fixed charge coverage ratio, which is more lenient than the ratio in the new Facility. As with the old Facility, a violation of these covenants could result in a default under the new Facility and letter of credit agreements, which would permit the participating banks to restrict our ability to further access the new Facility for letters of credit and advances, terminate our ability to request letters of credit pursuant to the letter of credit agreements and require the immediate repayment of any outstanding advances under the new Facility. In addition, such a default could, under certain circumstances, permit the holders of our outstanding unsecured debt to accelerate payment of such obligations.

 

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Other Debt Information

 

On September 3, 2004, Moody’s upgraded our senior unsecured debt rating to Ba1 from Ba2, which is now equivalent to our senior implied rating. The upgrade followed the replacement of our old Facility with the new Facility, which resulted in the release of security and the subsidiary guarantee. Prior to the refinancing, our senior unsecured debt rating was one notch below our senior implied rating due to the security and subsidiary guarantee required under the old Facility. As a result of the current upgrade by Moody’s, the interest rate payable by us on the 2008 notes will decrease by 25 basis points to 10.05 percent per annum as of December 15, 2004.

 

Summary Disclosures about Contractual Cash Obligations and Commercial Commitments

 

We have standby letters of credit, surety bonds and bank guarantees outstanding at October 30, 2004, amounting to $74 million (of which $31 million is supported by standby letters of credit issued under the revolving credit facility lines), $28 million and $4 million, respectively.

 

Rent expense for all operating leases was $249 million and $253 million, for the thirteen weeks ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003, respectively and $743 million and $746 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2004 and November 1, 2003, respectively.

 

As party to a reinsurance pool for workers’ compensation, general liability and automobile liability, we have guarantees with a maximum exposure of $86 million, of which $20 million has already been cash collateralized. Our maximum exposure and cash collateralized balance are expected to decrease in the future as our participation in the reinsurance pool diminishes.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to adopt accounting policies and make significant judgments and estimates to develop amounts reflected and disclosed in the financial statements. In many cases, there are alternative policies or estimation techniques that could be used. We maintain a process to review the application of our accounting policies and to evaluate the appropriateness of the many estimates that are required to prepare the financial statements of a large, global corporation. However, even under optimal circumstances, estimates routinely require adjustment based on changing circumstances and the receipt of new or better information. There have been no significant changes to the policies as discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2004.

 

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

 

In December 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board published a revision to Financial Interpretation No. 46 (“FIN 46”), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (hereafter referred to as “FIN 46R”) to clarify some of the provisions of FIN 46, and to exempt certain entities from its requirements. Under the new guidance, there are new effective dates for companies that have interests in structures that are commonly referred to as special-purpose entities. The rules are effective in financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004. FIN 46R did not have any impact on our operating results or financial position as we do not have any variable interest entities.

 

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ITEM 3. QUANTITIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

We operate in foreign countries, which exposes us to market risk associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. Our risk management policy is to hedge substantially all forecasted merchandise purchases for foreign operations using foreign exchange forward contracts. We also use forward contracts to hedge our market risk exposure associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations for certain inter-company loans and balances denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the entity holding or issuing the inter-company loan and balance. These contracts are entered into with large, reputable financial institutions, thereby minimizing the credit exposure from our counter-parties. At October 30, 2004, we had forward contracts pertaining to merchandise hedges maturing at various dates through January 2006 to buy and sell the equivalent of approximately $915 million in foreign currencies at contracted rates.

 

In addition, we used a cross-currency interest rate swap to swap the interest and principal payable of $50 million debt securities of our Japanese subsidiary, Gap (Japan) KK, from a fixed interest rate of 6.25 percent, payable in U.S. dollars, to 6.1 billion Japanese yen with a fixed interest rate of 2.43 percent.

 

The outstanding fair market value net liability for all derivatives reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of October 30, 2004, was $90 million.

 

We have limited exposure to interest rate fluctuations on our borrowings. The interest on our long-term debt is set at a fixed coupon, with the exception of the interest rates payable by us on our outstanding notes due December 2008, which are subject to change based on our long-term senior secured credit ratings. The interest rates earned on our cash and equivalents will fluctuate in line with short-term interest rates.

 

Our market risk profile as of October 30, 2004 has not significantly changed since January 31, 2004. Our market risk profile on January 31, 2004 is disclosed in our 2003 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as of October 30, 2004. Based on such evaluation, they have concluded that as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

 

Changes in Internal Controls

 

During our last fiscal quarter, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

As a multinational company, we are subject to various proceedings, lawsuits, disputes and claims (“Actions”) arising in the ordinary course of our business. Many of these Actions raise complex factual and legal issues and are subject to uncertainties. Actions filed against us include commercial, intellectual property, customer, and labor and employment related claims, including class action lawsuits in which plaintiffs allege that we violated federal and state wage and hour laws. The plaintiffs in some Actions seek unspecified damages or injunctive relief, or both. Actions are in various procedural stages, and some are covered in part by insurance.

 

We cannot predict with assurance the outcome of Actions brought against us. Accordingly, adverse developments, settlements or resolutions may occur and negatively impact earnings in the quarter of such development, settlement or resolution. However, we do not believe that the outcome of any current Action would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, liquidity or financial position taken as a whole.

 

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

The following table presents information with respect to purchases of common stock of the Company made during the thirteen weeks ended October 30, 2004, by Gap Inc. or any affiliated purchaser, as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act.

 

     Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased


   Average
Price
Paid per
Share


   Total Number of
Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs


  

Maximum Number (or
approximate dollar
amount) of shares

that May Yet be
Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs (1)


Month #1 (Aug. 1 – Aug. 28)

   —        —      —        —  

Month #2 (Aug. 29 – Oct. 2)

   —        —      —        —  

Month #3 (Oct. 3 – Oct. 30)

   17,141,200    $ 19.72    17,141,200    $ 412 million
    
  

  
  

Total, Oct. 30, 2004

   17,141,200    $ 19.72    17,141,200    $ 412 million
    
  

  
  

Subsequent Activity:

                       

Oct. 31 - Dec. 1

   15,610,900    $ 22.31    15,610,900    $ 314 million

(1) On October 7, 2004, the company announced a $500 million share repurchase program. On November 4, 2004, the company announced an addition of $250 million to the program for an aggregate $750 million. The Board of Directors authority with respect to this aggregate program expires September 28, 2005. On December 1, 2004, the Board of Directors authorized an additional $250 million for the program. The Board of Directors authority with respect to this additional portion of the program expires December 1, 2005.

 

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

 

(10.1 )   Agreement dated as of September 28, 2004 and confirmed on September 30, 2004 by and between Gary Muto and The Gap, Inc., filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 6, 2004 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.2 )   Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.3 )   Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Bank of America, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.4 )   Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.

 

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(10.5)    Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and HSBC Bank USA, National Association (formerly HSBC Bank USA), as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.6)    Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Citibank, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.5 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.7)    Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Bank of America, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.8)    Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.9)    Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and HSBC Bank USA, National Association (formerly HSBC Bank USA), as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.10)    Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Citibank, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.11)    Employment Agreement dated as of September 25, 2002 by and between Paul S. Pressler and The Gap, Inc., filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 26, 2002 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.12)    Offer Letter dated as of January 15, 2003 by and between Byron Pollitt and The Gap, Inc., filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 21, 2003 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(15)    Letter re: Unaudited Interim Financial Information.
(31.1)    Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of The Gap, Inc. (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002).
(31.2)    Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of The Gap, Inc. (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002).
(32.1)    Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of The Gap, Inc. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(32.2)    Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of The Gap, Inc. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

   

THE GAP, INC.

Date: December 3, 2004

 

By

 

/s/ PAUL S. PRESSLER


       

Paul S. Pressler

       

President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: December 3, 2004

 

By

 

/s/ BYRON POLLITT


       

Byron Pollitt

       

Executive Vice President and

       

Chief Financial Officer

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

(10.1)   Agreement dated as of September 28, 2004 and confirmed on September 30, 2004 by and between Gary Muto and The Gap, Inc., filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 6, 2004 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.2)   Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.3)   Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Bank of America, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.4)   Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.5)   Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and HSBC Bank USA, National Association (formerly HSBC Bank USA), as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.6)   Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, and Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003 among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Citibank, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2004 as Exhibit 10.5 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.7)   Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Bank of America, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.8)   Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.9)   Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and HSBC Bank USA, National Association (formerly HSBC Bank USA), as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.10)   Amendment No. 2 dated October 29, 2004 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of June 25, 2003, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Letter of Credit Agreement dated as of August 30, 2004, among The Gap, Inc., LC Subsidiaries, and Citibank, N.A., as LC Issuer, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004 as Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.11)   Employment Agreement dated as of September 25, 2002 by and between Paul S. Pressler and The Gap, Inc., filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 26, 2002 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(10.12)   Offer Letter dated as of January 15, 2003 by and between Byron Pollitt and The Gap, Inc., filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 21, 2003 as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, Commission File No. 1-7562.
(15)   Letter re: Unaudited Interim Financial Information.
(31.1)   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of The Gap, Inc. (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002).


Table of Contents
(31.2 )    Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of The Gap, Inc. (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002).
(32.1 )    Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of The Gap, Inc. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(32.2 )    Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of The Gap, Inc. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.