Back to GetFilings.com
================================================================================
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended January 2, 1999
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 333-56013
ADVANCE STORES COMPANY, INCORPORATED
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Virginia 54-0118110
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
5673 Airport Road 24012
Roanoke, Virginia (Zip Code)
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
(540) 362-4911
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark whether the 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 if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of Regulation S-K ((S)229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and
will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive
proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this
Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [_] Not Applicable.
As of April 2, 1999, the registrant had outstanding 536 shares of Class A
Common Stock, par value $100 per share (the only class of common stock of the
registrant outstanding). The registrant's Class A Common Stock is not traded in
a public market.
Aggregate market value of the registrant's voting and nonvoting Class A Common
Stock. Not Applicable.
Documents Incorporated by Reference: None
================================================================================
PART I
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains "forward-looking statements"
within the meaning of Section 27-A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These
statements include without limitation the words "believes," "anticipates,"
"estimates," "intends," "expects," and words of similar import. All statements
other than statements of historical fact included in statements under "Item 1.
Business," "Item 2. Properties," "Item 3. Legal Proceedings" and "Item 7.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operation" include forward-looking information and may reflect certain
judgements by management. Such forward-looking statements involve known and
unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual
results, performance or achievements of the Company or the automotive
aftermarket industry to be materially different from any future results,
performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking
statements. These potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited
to, those identified in the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4, as
amended, effective October 30, 1998. The Company disclaims any obligation to
update any such factors or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to
any of the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect future events
or developments.
Item 1. Business.
General
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated (the "Company") is the second largest
specialty retailer of automotive parts and accessories in the United States. As
of January 2, 1999, the Company had 1,567 stores in 39 states, Puerto Rico and
the U.S. Virgin Islands operating under the "Advance Auto Parts," "Parts
America" and "Western Auto" names. In addition, the Company supplies
approximately 740 stores in 48 states through the Western Auto dealer network.
In fiscal 1996, 1997 and 1998 (prior to the Western Auto Merger in November
1998, described below), 100% of the Company's total revenues were derived from
the retail sale of automotive parts and services.
The Company was formed in 1929. In the 1980s, the Company sharpened its
marketing focus to target sales of automotive parts and accessories to "do-it-
yourself" ("DIY") customers and accelerated its growth strategy. From the 1980s
through the present, the Company has grown significantly through new store
openings and strategic acquisitions. In 1996, the Company began to aggressively
expand its sales to "do-it-for-me" ("DIFM") customers by implementing a
commercial delivery program which supplies parts and accessories to third party
automotive service and repair providers.
Recapitalization
In April 1998, Advance Holding Corporation, the Company's parent
("Holding"), consummated its recapitalization (the "Recapitalization"). See Note
3 to "Item 8. Financial Statements" for a detailed discussion of the
Recapitalization.
Western Auto Merger
On November 2, 1998, Western Auto Supply Company merged into Advance
Acquisition Corporation ("AAC"), a subsidiary of the Company (the "Western Auto
Merger"). At the time of the Western Auto Merger, AAC changed its name to
Western Auto Supply Company ("Western Auto"). References to Western Auto Supply
Company refer to the entity prior to the Western Auto Merger. As consideration
in the Western Auto Merger, the Company issued to Sears, Roebuck and Co.
("Sears"), the parent company of Western Auto Supply Company, 11,474,606 shares
of Common Stock of Holding (the "Holding Common Stock") representing
approximately 40.6% of the outstanding Holding Common Stock, paid Sears $175.0
million in cash and made a commitment to Sears to share in a portion of losses
incurred by Sears with respect to certain related credit card portfolios, not to
exceed $10.0 million. Certain existing stockholders of Holding invested an
additional $70.0 million in equity to fund a portion of the cash purchase price,
the remainder of which was funded through additional borrowings under the
Company's Credit Facility (the "Credit Facility") and cash on hand.
1
Immediately prior to the Western Auto Merger, Western Auto Supply Company
operated 612 auto parts stores in the United States under the "Parts America"
name. The Parts America stores are similar to the Advance Auto Parts stores in
terms of size, format and product offerings. In addition, Western Auto Supply
Company operated 38 auto parts and service stores in Puerto Rico and the U.S.
Virgin Islands and one store in each of California and Hawaii under the "Western
Auto" name (the "Service Stores"). The Service Stores offer automotive parts and
accessories as well as service, repairs, tires and certain non-automotive goods.
Western Auto Supply Company also supplied approximately 740 Western Auto dealer
stores in 48 states. Western Auto Supply Company supplied its stores and dealers
through four distribution centers.
As a result of the Western Auto Merger, the Company intends to close
certain Parts America and Advance Auto Parts stores in overlapping areas. As of
January 2, 1999, 52 Parts America stores and 31 Advance Auto Parts stores have
been closed or identified to be closed. In addition, the Company anticipates
that additional stores will be closed in fiscal 1999.
The Company plans to convert the remaining Parts America stores to Advance
Auto Parts stores (the "Parts America Conversion"). The Parts America Conversion
will change certain merchandise lines (the "Merchandise Conversion"), store
level management information systems (the "MIS Conversion"), and the format and
name of the Parts America stores to conform with the Advance Auto Parts stores.
The Merchandise Conversion will align the in-store inventory with the Advance
Auto Parts stores and is expected to be completed by the end of the first
quarter of 1999. The MIS Conversion will replace the current Parts America store
level systems with Advance Auto Parts store level systems. The Company expects
to complete the MIS Conversion by the end of the second quarter of 1999. The
format and name changes will occur with the actual physical conversion of Parts
America stores into Advance Auto Parts stores (the "Physical Conversion"). The
Company expects to complete the Physical Conversion of the Parts America stores
by the end of fiscal 1999. The Company initiated the Parts America Conversion in
the fourth quarter of 1998. The Company does not plan to convert the Service
Stores as part of the Parts America Conversion.
Store Operations
The retail store is the focal point of the Company's operations. The
Company's stores generally are located in or adjacent to good visibility, high
traffic strip shopping centers. Domestic stores generally range in size from
5,000 to 10,000 square feet, averaging approximately 8,000 square feet, and
currently stock between 16,000 and 21,000 stock-keeping units ("SKUs"). In
addition, approximately 95,000 SKUs that are not stocked at the store level are
available on a next or same day basis to virtually all domestic stores through
the Company's PDQ/(R)/ network. The Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands stores
average approximately 15,800 square feet. The Company's stores are divided into
six regions which are supervised by a Regional Vice President who is supported
by District Assistant Vice Presidents. Reporting to district management are
Division Managers who have direct responsibilities for store operations. A
typical division consists of 14 to 18 stores. Depending on store size and sales
volume, each store is staffed by 8 to 30 employees under the leadership of a
store manager. Stores generally are open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm.
2
The Company's stores are currently located as follows:
Number of Number of Number of
Stores as Stores as of Stores as of
Location of January 2, Location January 2, 1999 Location January 2, 1999
- ----------- ------------- ------------- --------------- ------------------- ---------------
Arkansas 5 Louisiana 6 Pennsylvania 105
Alabama 55 Massachusetts 19 Puerto Rico 36
California 1 Maryland 30 Rhode Island 4
Colorado 15 Mississippi 12 South Carolina 98
Connecticut 20 Michigan 20 South Dakota 1
Delaware 4 Maine 8 Tennessee 101
Florida 26 Missouri 39 Texas 34
Georgia 125 Nebraska 11 U.S. Virgin Islands 2
Hawaii 1 New Hampshire 4 Virginia 123
Iowa 21 New Jersey 11 Vermont 2
Illinois 20 New York 88 Wisconsin 15
Indiana 48 North Carolina 167 West Virginia 61
Kansas 25 Ohio 140 Wyoming 2
Kentucky 60 Oklahoma 2
Management Information Systems
Store Based Information Systems
The Company's store based information systems, which are designed to
improve the efficiency of its operations and enhance customer service, are
comprised of Point-of-Sale ("POS"), Electronic Parts Catalogs ("EPC") and Store
Level Inventory Management ("SLIM") systems. These systems are tightly
integrated by a communications network and together provide real time,
comprehensive information to store personnel, resulting in improved customer
service levels and in-stock availability. As part of the Parts America
Conversion, the Company is in the process of completing the MIS Conversion.
Point-of-Sale: The Company's POS system has improved store productivity
and customer service by streamlining store procedures. POS information is used
to formulate the Company's pricing, marketing and merchandising strategies as
well as to rapidly replenish inventory. Additionally, the POS system maintains a
customer purchase and warranty history database which may be used for targeted
marketing programs.
Electronic Parts Catalog: The EPC system is a software based system that
identifies the application, location and availability of over 1.5 million parts
enabling sales associates to assist customers in parts selection and ordering
based on the year, model, engine type and application needed. The EPC system
displays an identified part and its inventory status, and if the part is not
available at the store, its availability through PDQ/(R)/. The EPC system also
displays related parts for sales associates to recommend to a customer, leading
to increased average customer sales. The integration of this system with the POS
system improves customer service by reducing time spent at the cash register and
fully automating the sales process between the parts counter and the POS
register. Additionally, this system allows sales associates to order parts and
accessories electronically from the Company's PDQ/(R)/ system with immediate
confirmation of price, availability and delivery. Information about a customer's
automobile can be entered into a permanent customer database that can be
accessed immediately whenever the customer visits or telephones the store.
Store Level Inventory Management System ("SLIM"): The SLIM system provides
real-time inventory tracking at the store level. With SLIM, store personnel can
check the quantity of on-hand inventory for any SKU, automatically process
returns and defective merchandise, designate SKUs for cycle counts and track
merchandise transfers.
3
Communications Network: The Company is in the process of replacing its
satellite communications with a Frame Relay network. Frame Relay communications
will be installed in over 800 stores in 1999 and implemented in all stores by
the end of 2000. The Frame Relay network will provide increased capacity to
support the Company's growth strategy and future in-store applications.
Logistics and Purchasing Information Systems
The Company has installed its Distribution Center Management System
("DCMS") in its Roanoke, Jeffersonville and Thomson distribution centers and
plans to install it in its Gadsden, Salina and Delaware distribution centers.
The Salina and Delaware facilities were acquired in the Western Auto Merger. The
DCMS has also been installed in the Master PDQ/(R)/ warehouse in Andersonville
and in the Youngwood and Goodlettsville PDQ/(R)/ warehouses. The DCMS has been
installed in the Riverside and the Guilderland Center PDQ/(R)/ warehouses in the
first quarter of 1999. The DCMS, together with new material handling equipment,
significantly reduces warehouse and distribution costs while improving
efficiency. Using this technology, the Company will be able to service over
2,000 stores from its six retail distribution centers that serve stores in the
United States.
The Company currently is assessing the logistics and purchasing information
systems in its Gastonia and Temple distribution centers, which were acquired in
the Western Auto Merger and service the Service Stores and the dealer network.
The E3 Replenishment System, which was implemented in 1994, monitors the
Company's distribution center and PDQ/(R)/ warehouse inventory levels and orders
additional products when appropriate. In addition, the system tracks sales
trends by SKU, allowing the Company to adjust future orders to evolving demand.
Purchasing and Merchandising
Merchandise is selected and purchased for all retail stores and the dealer
network by personnel at the Company's corporate offices in Roanoke and Kansas
City. In fiscal 1998, the Company purchased from over 200 vendors, with no
single vendor accounting for 10% or more of purchases. The Company's purchasing
strategy involves negotiating multi-year agreements with certain vendors based
upon its expansion plans. In connection with the Western Auto Merger, the
Company entered into several long-term agreements that will provide lower
acquisition costs on future purchases.
The Company's merchandising objective is to carry a broad selection of
brand name products, including Fram-Bendix-Autolite, Fel-Pro, Federal-Mogul and
AC Delco, that generate customer traffic and appeal to the Company's commercial
delivery customers. In addition, the Company stocks a wide selection of high
quality private label products that appeal to value conscious customers. Sales
of replacement parts account for approximately 65% of the Company's sales and
generate higher gross profit margins than maintenance items or general
accessories. The Company determines its product mix based on a merchandising
program designed to identify the optimal inventory mix at each individual store
based on that store's historical sales. In connection with the Western Auto
Merger, the Company reached agreements with Sears to supply the Service Stores
and dealer network with certain DieHard/(R)/ and Craftsman/(R)/ brand products.
Warehouse and Distribution
The Company currently operates six distribution centers that service retail
stores in the United States. They are located in Roanoke, Gadsden,
Jeffersonville, Thomson, Salina and Delaware. The Company also operates
distribution centers in Temple and Gastonia which service the Service Stores and
dealer network.
All distribution centers that service retail stores in the United States
are equipped with technologically advanced material handling equipment,
including carousels, "pick to light" systems, radio frequency technology and
automated sortation systems. The Delaware and Salina distribution centers are
not as technologically advanced as the existing Advance distribution centers and
plans to upgrade them further are being reviewed.
4
The Company offers approximately 25,000 SKUs on a next day basis to
substantially all of its domestic retail stores via its seven PDQ/(R)/
warehouses. One additional PDQ/(R)/ warehouse will open in the first quarter of
1999. Stores place orders to these facilities through an on-line ordering
system, and ordered parts are delivered to substantially all stores the next day
through the Company's dedicated PDQ/(R)/ trucking fleet. The Company operates a
PDQ/(R)/ warehouse that stocks approximately 70,000 SKUs of harder to find
automotive parts and accessories. This facility is known as the "Master
PDQ/(R)/" warehouse and utilizes existing PDQ/(R)/ distribution infrastructure
to provide next day service to substantially all of the Company's stores.
The following table sets forth certain information relating to the
Company's main distribution facilities:
Opening Size
Distribution Facility Date Area Served (Sq. ft.)
- --------------------------------------- ---- ----------- ---------
Main Distribution Centers
Roanoke, Virginia................... 1988 Mid-Atlantic 440,000
Gadsden, Alabama.................... 1994 South 240,000
Jeffersonville, Ohio................ 1996 Mid West 383,000
Gastonia, North Carolina(1)......... 1969 Service Stores, 663,000
Dealer Network
Salina, Kansas(1)................... 1971 West 441,000
Delaware, Ohio(1)................... 1972 Northeast 510,000
Dealer Network,
Temple, Texas(1).................... 1974 Service Stores 550,000
Thomson, Georgia.................... 1999 Southeast 383,000
PDQ/(R)/ Warehouses
Roanoke, Virginia................... 1983 Mid-Atlantic 50,400
Smithfield, North Carolina.......... 1991 Southeast 42,000
Jeffersonville, Ohio(2)............. 1996 Midwest 50,000
Thomson, Georgia(2)................. 1998 South, Southeast 50,000
Goodlettsville, Tennessee........... 1999 Central 41,900
Youngwood, Pennsylvania............. 1999 East 49,000
Riverside, Missouri................. 1999 West 45,000
Guilderland Center, New York(3)..... 1999 Northeast 47,400
Master PDQ/(R)/ Warehouse
Andersonville, Tennessee........... 1998 All 66,000
________________
(1) The Company acquired these facilities in the Western Auto Merger in November
1998.
(2) This facility is located within the main distribution center.
(3) The Company recently executed a lease for this facility and contemplates
that it will open in April 1999.
Employees
As of April 7, 1999, the Company employed approximately 15,687 full-time
employees and 9,289 part-time employees. Approximately 84% of the Company's
workforce is employed in store level operations, 11% in distribution and 5% in
the Company's corporate offices in Roanoke and Kansas City. The Company has
never experienced any labor disruption and believes that its labor relations are
good. One Service Store employs unionized employees.
5
Competition
The Company competes in the automotive aftermarket industry which consists
of replacement parts, maintenance items and accessories and which, according to
industry estimates, generates approximately $78.0 billion in sales per year. The
Company competes for both DIY and DIFM customers. Although the number of
competitors and the level of competition vary by market area, both markets are
highly fragmented and generally very competitive. The Company competes primarily
with national and regional retail automotive parts chains (such as AutoZone,
Inc., Discount Auto Parts, Inc., O'Reilly Automotive, Inc., The Pep Boys--Manny,
Moe & Jack and Trak Auto Corporation), wholesalers or jobber stores (some of
which are associated with national automotive parts distributors or
associations, such as NAPA), independent operators, automobile dealers and mass
merchandisers that carry automotive replacement parts, maintenance items and
accessories (such as Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.). The Company believes that chains of
automotive parts stores, such as the Company, with multiple locations in
regional markets, have competitive advantages in customer service, marketing,
inventory selection, purchasing and distribution as compared to independent
retailers and jobbers that are not part of a chain or associated with other
retailers or jobbers. The principal competitive factors that affect the
Company's business are store location, customer service and product selection,
availability, quality and price.
Tradenames, Service Marks and Trademarks
The Company owns and has registrations for the trade names "Advance Auto
Parts," "Western Auto" and "Parts America" and the trademark "PDQ(R)" with the
United States Patent and Trademark Office for use in connection with the
automotive parts retailing business. In addition, the Company owns and has
registered a number of trademarks with respect to its private label products.
The Company believes that its various tradenames, service marks and trademarks
are important to its merchandising strategy, but that its business is not
otherwise dependent on any particular service mark, tradename or trademark.
There are no infringing uses known by the Company that materially affect the use
of such marks. However, in connection with a decision in a recent lawsuit, the
Company is restricted from opening stores under the "Advance Auto Parts" name in
Jefferson County, Kentucky. See "--Legal Proceedings."
Environmental Matters
The Company is subject to various federal, state and local laws and
governmental regulations relating to the operation of its business, including
those governing recycling of batteries and used lubricants, and regarding
ownership and operation of real property. The Company handles hazardous
materials during its operations, and its customers may also use hazardous
materials on the Company's properties or bring hazardous materials or used oil
onto the Company's properties. The Company currently provides collection and
recycling programs for spent automotive batteries and used lubricants at certain
of its stores as a service to its customers pursuant to agreements with third
party vendors. Pursuant to these agreements, the spent batteries and used
lubricants are collected by Company employees, deposited into vendor-supplied
containers/pallets and stored by the Company until collected by the third-party
vendors for recycling or proper disposal. Persons who arrange for the disposal,
treatment, or other handling of hazardous or toxic substances may be liable for
the costs of removal or remediation at any affected disposal, treatment or other
site affected by such substances.
The Company owns and leases property. Under various environmental laws and
regulations, a current or previous owner or operator of real property may be
liable for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous or toxic substances
on, under, or in such property. Such laws often impose joint and several
liability and may be imposed without regard to whether the owner or operator
knew of, or was responsible for, the release of such hazardous or toxic
substances. Certain other environmental laws and common law principles also
could be used to impose liability for releases of hazardous materials into the
environment or work place, and third parties may seek recovery from owners or
operators of real properties for personal injury or property damage associated
with exposure to released hazardous substances. Compliance with such laws and
regulations has not had a material impact on its operations to date, but there
can be no assurance that future compliance with such laws and regulations will
not have a material adverse effect on the Company or its operations. The Company
believes it is currently in material compliance with such laws and regulations.
6
Item 2. Properties
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the Company's
principal facilities:
Square Nature of
Primary Use Location Footage Occupancy
- ------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------ ------- ---------
Corporate offices..................................... Roanoke, Virginia 49,000 Leased (1)
Corporate offices..................................... Kansas City, Missouri 160,000 Owned
Administrative offices................................ Roanoke, Virginia 40,000 Leased
Distribution center................................... Roanoke, Virginia 440,000 Leased (2)
Distribution center................................... Gadsden, Alabama 240,000 Owned
Distribution center................................... Salina, Kansas 441,000 Owned
Distribution center................................... Delaware, Ohio 510,000 Owned
Distribution center................................... Temple, Texas 550,000 Owned
Distribution center................................... Gastonia, North Carolina 663,000 Owned
Distribution center and regional PDQ(R) Warehouse..... Jeffersonville, Ohio 383,000 Owned
Distribution center and regional PDQ(R) Warehouse..... Thomson, Georgia 383,000 Leased (3)
Regional PDQ(R) Warehouse............................. Salem, Virginia 50,400 Leased
Regional PDQ(R) Warehouse............................. Smithfield, North Carolina 42,000 Leased
Regional PDQ(R) Warehouse............................. Goodlettsville, Tennessee 41,900 Leased
Regional PDQ(R) Warehouse............................. Youngwood, Pennsylvania 49,000 Leased
Regional PDQ(R) Warehouse............................. Riverside, Missouri 45,000 Leased
Regional PDQ(R) Warehous.............................. Guilderland Center, New York 47,400 Leased
Master PDQ(R) Warehouse............................... Andersonville, Tennessee 66,000 Leased
____________________
(1) This facility is owned by Ki, L.C., a Virginia limited liability company
owned by two trusts for the benefit of a child of Nicholas F. Taubman. See
"Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions."
(2) This facility is owned by Nicholas F. Taubman. See "Item 13. Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions."
(3) The construction of this facility was financed by a $10.0 million IRB
issuance from the Development Authority of McDuffie County of the State of
Georgia, from which the Company leases the facility. The Company has an
option to purchase this facility for $10.00 at the end of five years or upon
prepayment of the outstanding bonds.
At January 2, 1999, 1,429 of the Company's stores were leased. The
expiration dates (including renewal options) of the store leases are summarized
as follows:
Years Stores (1)
--------- ----------
1999-2000 53
2001-2005 136
2006-2010 252
2011-2020 871
2021-2030 96
2031-2045 21
____________________
(1) Of these stores, 23 are owned by affiliates of the Company. See "Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions."
7
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
On November 5, 1997, Joe C. Proffitt, Jr. on behalf of himself and all
others in the States of Alabama, California, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, North
Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia who
purchased batteries from the Company from November 1, 1991 to November 5, 1997
filed a class action complaint and motion of class certification against the
Company in the circuit court for Jefferson County, Tennessee, alleging the sale
by the Company of used, old or out-of-warranty automotive batteries as new. The
complaint seeks compensatory and punitive damages.
An appeal has been taken in connection with the November 1996 and the
October 1997 decisions in a federal district court restricting the Company from
opening stores under the "Advance Auto Parts" name in a single county in
Kentucky. In addition, the court granted summary judgment in favor of the
Company in connection with various infringement and unfair competition claims
brought by the appellant. The appellant is seeking to overturn parts of the
court's decisions regarding the appellant's inability to cancel two of the
Company's trademark registrations and to obtain relief on the infringement and
unfair competition claims.
Subsequent to January 2, 1999, the Company was notified by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") that Western Auto may have
potential liability under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation
and Liability Act relating to two battery salvage and recycling sites that were
in operation in the 1970s and 1980s. Management has begun investigating the EPA
notification. An estimate of the range of liability is not reasonably possible
until technical studies are sufficiently completed and the amount of potential
indemnification from Sears, if any, is further investigated. The ultimate
exposure will also depend upon the participation of other parties named in the
notification who are believed to share in responsibility.
Three lawsuits were filed against the Company on July 28, 1998 in the
federal district court in South Carolina for wrongful death relating to an
automobile accident involving an employee of the Company. The complaints seek
compensatory and punitive damages. The Company believes its financial exposure
is covered by insurance.
The Company currently and from time to time is involved in litigation
incidental to the conduct of its business. The damages claimed against the
Company in some of these proceedings are substantial. Although the amount of
liability that may result from these matters cannot be ascertained, the Company
does not currently believe that, in the aggregate they will result in
liabilities material to the Company's consolidated financial condition, results
of operations or cash flow.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Securityholders.
On November 2, 1998, the sole stockholder of the Company executed a consent
authorizing the amendment of the Company's bylaws to increase the number of
authorized directors to no fewer than nine and no more than eleven.
8
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters.
There is no established public trading market for the Company's Common
Stock. All of the Common Stock of the Company is held by Holding.
In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company paid a cash dividend
to Holding in the amount of $183.0 million. In addition, in June 1998, the
Company paid a dividend to Holding in the amount of $150,000. The Company
expects to pay dividends to Holding in the future in order for Holding to meet
operating expenses. See "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results Operations--Liquidity and Capital Resources" for
a discussion of restrictions in the Company's debt instruments on its ability to
pay cash dividends.
On November 2, 1998, the Company sold an aggregate of 263 shares of its
Common Stock to Holding in a series of transactions to fund the Company's
acquisition of $193.0 million of Holding Common Stock (which constituted merger
consideration in the Western Auto Merger) and to provide $70.0 million of cash
which was used as cash merger consideration in the Western Auto Merger.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
The following table sets forth selected consolidated statement of
operations, balance sheet and other operating data of the Company. The selected
consolidated financial data for each of the five fiscal years during the period
ended January 2, 1999 are derived from the audited financial statements of the
Company which have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP. The data presented below
should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the
Company and the notes thereto included herein, the other financial information
included herein and "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations." The following financial data includes
certain expenses related to the merger integration and Parts America Conversion
incurred in fiscal 1998 and certain private company expenses that were
eliminated in the Recapitalization. See "Item 7. Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for a detailed
discussion of these expenses.
Fiscal Year(1)
------------------------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
-------- -------- -------- -------- ----------
(dollars in thousands)
Statement of Operations Data:
Net sales ...................... $482,347 $602,559 $705,983 $848,108 $1,220,759
Cost of sales................... 297,444 369,962 437,615 524,586 763,353
Selling, general and
administrative expenses(2) .... 155,457 198,153 230,531 282,980 403,250
Expenses associated with the
Recapitalization(3)............ -- -- -- -- 14,277
Expenses associated with
restructuring(4) .............. -- -- -- -- 6,774
Expenses associated with non-
cash compensation(5) .......... -- -- -- -- 695
Operating income................ 29,446 36,444 40,319 43,598 32,410
Interest expense................ 3,633 6,327 6,221 7,732 29,517
Other, net...................... 10,472 (1,764) (151) (824) 606
Income before income taxes...... 36,285 28,353 33,947 35,042 3,499
Income tax expense.............. 13,453 11,648 13,735 14,670 1,887
Net income (6).................. 22,832 16,705 20,212 20,372 1,612
9
Fiscal Year(1)
------------------------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
-------- -------- -------- -------- ----------
(dollars in thousands)
Other Data:
EBITDA(7) ....................... $ 42,694 $ 51,243 $ 57,818 $ 65,399 $ 62,374
EBITDAR(8) ...................... 64,893 82,427 96,423 113,697 130,645
Capital expenditures............. 25,781 42,939 44,264 48,864 65,790
Percentage increase in comparable
store net sales(9) .............. 10.8% 3.3% 2.1% 5.7% 7.8%
Commercial sales(10) ............. N/A N/A 68,878 100,180 129,926
Net cash provided by (used in)
operating activities ............ (5,358) 26,854 22,991 41,484 37,897
Net cash used in investing
activities ...................... (14,201) (39,855) (44,121) (48,607) (423,675)
Net cash provided by
financing activities ............ 19,559 22,925 13,777 7,638 412,551
Stores open at end of period...... 437 536 649 814 1,567
Balance Sheet Data:
Net working capital(11) .......... 79,721 92,699 101,957 113,136 310,833
Total assets ..................... 228,242 287,716 384,620 450,201 1,261,516
Total debt (including current
maturities) ..................... 69,622 92,727 107,920 113,777 455,776
Stockholders' equity.............. 71,880 88,585 108,797 129,169 221,011
______________________
(1) The Company's fiscal year consists of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Saturday
nearest to December 31. All fiscal years presented are 52 weeks except for
fiscal 1997, which consists of 53 weeks.
(2) Fiscal 1998 amount includes certain merger integration and Parts America
Conversion expenses that total $7,788. Fiscal 1997 amount includes an
unusual medical claim that exceeded the Company's stop loss insurance
coverage. The Company has increased its stop loss coverage effective January
1, 1998 to a level that would provide insurance coverage for a medical claim
of this magnitude. The pre-tax amount of this claim, net of related
increased insurance costs, was $882. In addition, amounts are included for
all fiscal years for private company expenses incurred prior to the
Recapitalization that relate primarily to compensation and benefits paid to
the Company's Chairman that were eliminated after the Recapitalization.
These amounts are $1,496, $2,037, $2,482, $3,056 and $845 for fiscal 1994,
fiscal 1995, fiscal 1996, fiscal 1997 and fiscal 1998, respectively.
(3) Represents expenses incurred in the Recapitalization related primarily to
bonuses paid to certain employees and professional services.
(4) Represents expenses primarily related to lease costs associated with the 31
Advance Auto Parts stores closed or identified to be closed in overlapping
markets in connection with the Western Auto Merger.
(5) Represents non-cash compensation expenses related to options granted to
certain Company employees.
(6) Fiscal 1994 includes a net after-tax gain of $6,700 on the sale of equity
securities of TBC Corporation, a distributor of automotive products in which
the Company held a minority equity ownership interest.
(7) EBITDA represents operating income plus depreciation and amortization
included in operating income. EBITDA is not intended to represent cash flow
from operations as defined by GAAP and should not be considered as a
substitute for net income as an indicator of operating performance or as an
alternative to cash flow (as measured by GAAP) as a measure of liquidity.
The Company has included it herein because management believes this
information is useful to investors as such measure provides additional
information with respect to the Company's ability to meet its future debt
service, capital expenditure and working capital requirements and, in
addition, certain covenants in the Indenture and Credit Facility are based
upon an EBITDA calculation. The Company's method for calculating EBITDA may
differ from similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
Management believes certain one time expenses, private company
expenses, Recapitalization expenses, non-cash compensation expenses,
restructuring expenses and merger integration expenses should be eliminated
from the EBITDA calculation to evaluate the operating performance of the
Company.
10
The following table reflects the effect of these items:
Fiscal Year
----------------------
1997 1998
------- -------
(dollars in thousands)
EBITDA............................... $65,399 $62,374
Medical claim (see note 2 above)... 882 --
Private company expenses(a)........ 3,056 845
Recapitalization expenses(b)....... -- 14,277
Non-cash compensation expenses..... -- 695
Restructuring expenses............. -- 6,774
Merger integration expenses(c)..... -- 7,788
------- -------
EBITDA, as adjusted.................. $69,337 $92,753
____________
(a) Reflects management's estimate of expenses primarily related to
compensation and other benefits of the Company's Chairman, who prior to
the Recapitalization was Holding's principal stockholder, that were
eliminated after the Recapitalization.
(b) Represents non-recurring management bonuses and other expenses incurred
in connection with the Recapitalization.
(c) Represents certain expenses related to the merger integration and Parts
America Conversion. See "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
(8) EBITDAR represents EBITDA plus operating lease expense. Because the
proportion of stores leased versus owned varies among industry competitors,
the Company believes that EBITDAR permits a meaningful comparison of
operating performance among industry competitors. The Company leases
substantially all of its stores.
(9) Comparable store net sales is calculated based on the change in net sales
starting once a store has been opened for thirteen complete accounting
periods (each period represents four weeks). Relocations are included in
comparable store net sales from the date of opening. Additionally, each
converted Parts America store will be included in the comparable store net
sales calculation after thirteen complete accounting periods following its
physical conversion to an Advance Auto Parts store. The Company has not
included and currently does not plan to include Service Stores in its
comparable store net sales calculation.
(10) Represents net sales from Advance Auto Parts stores only to commercial
customers, including net sales from stores without commercial delivery. The
Company's commercial sales program began in 1996.
(11) Net working capital represents total current assets less total current
liabilities.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of
operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial
statements of the Company, the notes thereto and other data and information
appearing elsewhere in this Report on Form 10-K. The Company's fiscal year ends
on the Saturday nearest December 31. As used in this section, fiscal 1998
represents the 52 weeks ended January 2, 1999; fiscal 1997 represents the 53
weeks ended January 3, 1998; and fiscal 1996 represents the 52 weeks ended
December 28, 1996. The Company's first quarter consists of 16 weeks, and the
other three quarters consist of 12 weeks.
General
The Company is the second largest retailer of automotive parts and
accessories in the United States, with 1,567 stores in 39 states, Puerto Rico
and the U.S. Virgin Islands as of January 2, 1999. Based on store count, the
Company believes it is the largest automotive retailer in a majority of its
markets.
In April 1998, Holding consummated its Recapitalization. See Note 3 to
"Item 8. Financial Statements" for a detailed discussion of the
Recapitalization. As a result of the Recapitalization, the Company incurred
approximately $325.0 million in long-term debt and approximately $20.3 million
in deferred financing costs, raising equity funding and fees and expenses. The
transactions constituting the Recapitalization affecting the Company have been
accounted for as the issuance of debt, the repayment of intercompany debt to
Holding and as a dividend to Holding for financial reporting purposes.
11
On November 2, 1998, Western Auto Supply Company merged with a subsidiary
of the Company. See "Item 1. Business" for a discussion of the Western Auto
Merger. As a result of the Western Auto Merger, the Company incurred
approximately $90.0 million in long-term debt and approximately $9.3 million in
fees and expenses, of which $0.2 million was charged to operating and
administrative expenses during the fiscal quarter in which the merger was
consummated. The Company accounted for the Western Auto Merger using the
purchase method of accounting.
As of the date of the Western Auto Merger, management formalized a plan to
close certain Parts America stores in overlapping markets or stores not meeting
the Company's profitability objectives, to exit certain other facility leases,
to relocate certain Western Auto administrative functions to the Company's
headquarters and to terminate certain management, administrative and support
employees of Western Auto. Additional purchase price liabilities have been
recorded for approximately $9.0 million for severance and relocation costs and
approximately $14.4 million for store closing and other exit costs. As of
January 2, 1999, 66 employees have been terminated and 52 Parts America stores
have been closed. The Company expects to finalize its plan for termination of
employees and closure of Parts America stores within one year from the date of
the Western Auto Merger. Additional liabilities for severance, relocation, store
closing and other facility exit costs may result in an adjustment to purchase
accounting.
The Company expects to achieve benefits from the combination with Western
Auto through improved product pricing and terms from vendors, consolidated
advertising, distribution and corporate support efficiencies, and the closure of
certain overlapping locations. However, due to the Western Auto Merger, the
Company has incurred and expects to incur additional store closing, store
conversion, distribution center conversion and system conversion expenses and
other exit costs as part of the Parts America Conversion. In addition, the
Company, as part of its plan, will continue to liquidate at reduced prices
certain SKUs carried in the Parts America inventory.
Results of Operations
The following tables set forth certain operating data for the Company
expressed in dollars and as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated.
Fiscal Year Ended
--------------------------------------
December 28, January 3, January 2,
1996 1998 1999
------------ ---------- ----------
(in thousands)
Net sales........................................ $705,983 $848,108 $1,220,759
Cost of sales.................................... 437,615 524,586 763,353
-------- -------- ----------
Gross profit..................................... 268,368 323,522 457,406
Selling, general and administrative expenses..... 225,567 276,868 394,617
-------- -------- ----------
Operating income, as adjusted.................... 42,801 46,654 62,789
Expenses associated with Recapitalization........ -- -- 14,277
Expenses associated with restructuring........... -- -- 6,774
Expenses associated with merger integration...... -- -- 7,788
Expenses associated with private company......... 2,482 3,056 845
Expenses associated with non-cash compensation... -- -- 695
-------- -------- ----------
Operating income................................. 40,319 43,598 32,410
Interest expense................................. 6,221 7,732 29,517
Other, net....................................... 151 824 (606)
Income tax expense............................... 13,735 14,670 1,887
-------- -------- ----------
Income........................................... $ 20,212 $ 20,372 $ 1,612
======== ======== ==========
12
Fiscal Year Ended
--------------------------------------
December 28, January 3, January 2,
1996 1998 1999
------------ ---------- ----------
(in thousands)
Net sales..................................... 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Cost of sales................................. 62.0 61.9 62.5
----- ----- -----
Gross profit.................................. 38.0 38.1 37.5
Selling, general and administrative expenses.. 31.9 32.6 32.3
----- ----- -----
Operating income, as adjusted................. 6.1 5.5 5.2
Expenses associated with Recapitalization..... -- -- 1.2
Expenses associated with restructuring........ -- -- 0.6
Expenses associated with merger integration... -- -- 0.6
Expenses associated with private company...... 0.4 0.4 0.1
Expenses associated with non-cash compensation -- -- 0.1
----- ----- -----
Operating income.............................. 5.7 5.1 2.6
Interest expense.............................. 0.9 0.9 2.4
Other, net.................................... 0.0 0.1 (0.1)
Income tax expense............................ 1.9 1.7 0.2
----- ----- -----
Income........................................ 2.9% 2.4% 0.1%
===== ===== =====
Net sales consist primarily of comparable store net sales, new store net
sales and, for fiscal 1998, sales resulting from the Western Auto Merger.
Comparable store net sales is calculated based on the change in net sales
starting once a store has been opened for thirteen complete accounting periods
(each period represents four weeks). Relocations are included in comparable
store net sales from the date of opening. Additionally, each converted Parts
America store will be included in the comparable store net sales calculation
after thirteen complete accounting periods following its physical conversion to
an Advance Auto Parts store. The Company has not included and currently does not
plan to include Service Stores in its comparable store net sales calculation.
Cost of goods sold includes merchandise costs and warehouse and
distribution expenses. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales may be
affected by variations in the Company's product mix, price changes in response
to competitive factors and fluctuations in merchandise costs and vendor
programs.
Selling, general and administrative expenses are comprised of store
payroll, store occupancy, net advertising expenses, other store expenses and
general and administrative expenses, including salaries and related benefits of
corporate employees, administrative office expenses, data processing,
professional expenses and other related expenses.
Fiscal Year Ended January 2, 1999 Compared to Fiscal Year Ended January 3, 1998
Net sales for fiscal 1998 increased $372.7 million, or 43.9%, to $1,220.8
million over net sales for fiscal 1997. Fiscal 1998 represented the first year
that the Company recorded sales in excess of $1.0 billion in a fiscal year. The
Western Auto Merger, which closed November 2, 1998, added $178.3 million in
sales. The remainder of the net sales increase was due to a 7.8% increase in
comparable store sales and new stores opened within the last year. The
comparable sales increase was due to increased product availability at the store
level and from the PDQ(R) and Master PDQ(R) warehouse system. In addition,
comparable store sales continued to benefit from the growth of the commercial
sales program.
13
The Western Auto Merger added 560 net new stores operating under the Parts
America name, 40 stores operating under the Western Auto name, and the wholesale
dealer network. In conjunction with the Western Auto Merger , the Company closed
or identified to be closed 52 Parts America and 31 Advance Auto Parts
overlapping stores ("Store Closings") and is in the process of evaluating
additional store closures. During fiscal 1998, in addition to the Western Auto
Merger , the Company opened 169 new stores, relocated 8 stores, and closed 14
stores in addition to the Store Closings and the stores closed due to
relocations. In fiscal 1998, the Company added 111 stores to its commercial
delivery program, bringing the total to 532 stores. As of January 2, 1999, the
Company operated 1,567 stores in 39 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin
Islands and supplied approximately 740 independent dealers through the wholesale
dealer network.
After the Western Auto Merger, the Company immediately initiated the Parts
America Conversion. The Parts America Conversion includes the Merchandise
Conversion, the MIS Conversion and the Physical Conversion of the Parts America
stores to Advance Auto Parts stores. As of January 2, 1999, the Company had
initiated the Merchandise Conversions and had completed 22 MIS Conversions and
12 Physical Conversions. The Company had completed approximately 95% of the
Merchandise Conversions, 297 MIS Conversions and 115 Physical Conversions as of
April 2, 1999. The Company expects to complete the Merchandise Conversions by
the end of the first quarter of 1999, the MIS Conversions by the end of the
second quarter of 1999 and the Physical Conversions by the end of fiscal 1999.
Gross profit for fiscal 1998 was $457.4 million, or 37.5% of net sales,
compared with $323.5 million, or 38.1% of net sales, in fiscal 1997. The
decrease in the gross profit percentage resulted largely from the gross profit
contribution from the acquired Western Auto dealer network and Service Stores,
primarily due to lower margins associated with service and tires and the
wholesale nature of the dealer network. Additionally, certain product lines in
Parts America stores that were discontinued were sold at lower prices to
liquidate inventory. Excluding the impact of the Western Auto Merger, the
Company's gross profit percentage would have increased to 38.9% of net sales
primarily due to decreased warehouse and delivery costs as a percentage of sales
and generally better pricing and more favorable terms from its vendors in fiscal
1998 compared to fiscal 1997.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses, before expenses associated
with the Recapitalization, restructuring, merger integration, private company
and non-cash compensation, increased to $394.6 million, or 32.3% of net sales,
in fiscal 1998 from $276.9 million, or 32.6% of net sales. The decrease as a
percentage of sales was due to the incremental sales volume added by the Western
Auto Merger and the lower selling, general and administrative expense structure
of the dealer network.
Operating income, as adjusted for expenses associated with the
Recapitalization, restructuring, merger integration, private company and non-
cash compensation in fiscal 1998 was $62.8 million or 5.2% of net sales as
compared to $46.7 million or 5.5% of net sales in fiscal 1997.
The Company recorded $14.3 million and $6.8 million in expenses related to
the Recapitalization and a restructuring charge related to the closure of
certain Advance Auto Parts stores as part of the Store Closings, respectively.
The Recapitalization costs consisted of $11.5 million of bonuses paid to certain
employees for past performance, $0.2 million in related employment taxes and
$2.6 million of non-recurring expenses, which consisted primarily of
professional fees. The restructuring charge relates to estimated exit costs of
$6.3 million and write-offs of related leasehold improvements of $0.4 million
associated with the decision to close 31 Advance Auto Parts stores that were in
overlapping markets with certain Parts America stores obtained in the Western
Auto Merger. As of January 2, 1999, Holding had closed three of these stores
with the remainder to be closed during the first two quarters of fiscal 1999.
Store exit costs represent the present value, discounted at a 6.5% interest
rate, of the remaining lease payments, including management's estimate of future
insurance, property tax and common area maintenance, reduced by management's
estimate of future sublease revenue. In addition, the Company recorded $7.8
million of expenses that consisted of a one-time penalty of $3.3 million for the
cancellation of a long-term vendor contract due to a product line changeover at
the Advance Auto Parts stores and $4.5 million in integration and transition
expenses, primarily for professional services, travel, store conversions, and
project incentives.
14
Interest expense in fiscal 1998 was $29.5 million compared to $7.7 million
in fiscal 1997. The increase in interest in 1998 was primarily due to the
increase in debt related to the Recapitalization, the additional debt incurred
in the Western Auto Merger and higher interest rates.
Income tax expense for fiscal 1998 was $1.9 million as compared to an
expense of $14.7 million in fiscal 1997, with effective tax rates of 53.9% and
41.9%, respectively. This increase in effective tax rate was due to lower pretax
earnings due to the Recapitalization and the Western Auto Merger.
As a result of the above factors, the Company recorded net income of $1.6
million in fiscal 1998 as compared to net income of $20.4 million in fiscal
1997. As a percentage of net sales, net income for fiscal 1998 was 0.1% as
compared to 2.4% for fiscal 1997.
Fiscal Year Ended January 3, 1998 Compared to Fiscal Year Ended December 28,
1996
Net sales for fiscal 1997 increased by $142.1 million, or 20.1%, over net
sales for fiscal 1996. This increase was due to an increase in comparable store
sales (adjusted to exclude the fifty-third week of 1997) of 5.7%, and new stores
opened within the last year. Comparable store net sales were enhanced by the
commercial delivery program and by increased average sales per customer. In
fiscal 1997, Holding opened 170 stores and also relocated 15 stores and
remodeled 27 stores. By fiscal year end 1997, Holding had 814 stores, as
compared to 649 stores at the end of fiscal 1996.
Gross profit for fiscal 1997 was $323.5 million, or 38.1% of net sales,
compared with $268.4 million, or 38.0% of net sales, for fiscal 1996. The
increase in the gross profit percentage was primarily due to decreased warehouse
and delivery expenses (5.7% of net sales in fiscal 1997 compared to 5.8% of
net sales in fiscal 1996) which resulted from the implementation of the
distribution center management system ("DCMS") and more efficient material
handling equipment in certain distribution centers. In addition, Holding was
able to offset lower gross profit margins in its commercial delivery business
with improved gross profit margins in its DIY business. Holding believes that
as its store count grows, it will achieve greater operating leverage from its
distribution centers.
Selling, general and administrative expenses, before private company
expenses, for fiscal 1997 increased by $51.3 million as compared to fiscal 1996
and, as a percentage of net sales, increased from 31.9% to 32.6%. This increase
as a percentage of net sales was primarily due to the higher operating costs as
a percentage of net sales of the greater number of new stores that were in the
early stage of maturation in fiscal 1997, particularly the 58 stores opened in
the fourth quarter of 1997. In addition, the increase was partially
attributable to increases in reserves for self-insured medical and worker
compensation plans.
Interest expense for fiscal 1997 was $7.7 million compared to $6.2 million
in fiscal 1996. Interest expense was affected by higher rates and increased
borrowings in fiscal 1997.
Income tax expense for fiscal 1997 was $14.7 million as compared to $13.7
million for fiscal 1996, with effective tax rates of 41.9% and 40.5%,
respectively. This increase was primarily due to increasing tax reserves.
As a result of the above factors, net income of $20.4 million was recorded
in fiscal 1997 as compared to 20.2 million for fiscal 1996. As a percentage of
sales, net income for fiscal 1997 was 2.4% as compared to 2.9% for fiscal 1996.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company's primary capital requirements have been the funding of its
continued store expansion program, store relocations and remodels, inventory
requirements, the construction and upgrading of distribution centers, the
development and implementation of proprietary information systems and the
Western Auto Merger. From fiscal 1996 through fiscal 1998, the Company opened
454 stores, closed the Western Auto Merger, constructed two new distribution
centers, and expanded its Roanoke distribution center. The Company has financed
its growth through a combination of internally generated funds, borrowings, and
issuances of equity.
15
The Company's new stores require capital expenditures of approximately
$120,000 per store and an inventory investment of approximately $400,000 per
store. A substantial portion of these inventories are financed through vendor
payables. Pre-opening expenses, consisting primarily of store set-up costs and
training of new store employees, average approximately $25,000 per store and are
expensed when incurred. Additionally, the Company plans to convert the Parts
America stores into Advance Auto Parts stores, which will require capital
expenditures of approximately $80,000 and conversion expense of approximately
$30,000 per store. Generally, Parts America stores carried approximately
$100,000 more inventory (including support inventory in the distribution
centers) than Advance Auto Parts stores. The Company expects
to reduce the inventory levels in the Parts America stores to the Company's
average over the next 12-18 months.
Historically, the Company has negotiated extended payment terms from
suppliers to finance inventory growth, and the Company believes that it will be
able to continue financing much of its inventory growth through such extended
payment terms. The Company anticipates that inventory levels will continue to
increase primarily as a result of new store openings and increased SKU levels.
Additionally, related to the Western Auto Merger, the Company and Holding
entered into several new long-term vendor agreements which will provide for
price reductions on future purchases. The Company believes this will have a
positive impact on gross margins after the turn of existing inventory.
In fiscal 1996, net cash provided by operating activities was $21.5
million. Of this amount, $20.2 million was due to net income. Depreciation and
amortization provided an additional $17.5 million of funds and $16.2 million was
used for working capital and other. Net cash used for investing activities was
$44.1 million and was comprised primarily of capital expenditures. Net cash
provided by financing activities was $15.1 million and was comprised primarily
of net borrowings.
In fiscal 1997, net cash provided by operating activities was $41.7
million. Of this amount, $20.4 million was due to net income. Depreciation and
amortization provided an additional $21.8 million of funds and $0.5 million was
used for working capital and other. Net cash used for investing activities was
$48.6 million and was comprised of capital expenditures. Net cash provided by
financing activities was $7.4 million and was comprised primarily of net
borrowings.
In fiscal 1998, net cash provided by operating activities was $37.9
million. Of this amount, $1.6 million was due to net income. Depreciation and
amortization provided an additional $30.0 million of funds, amortization of
deferred debt issuance costs provided an additional $1.9 million and $7.6
million was provided by working capital and other. Net cash used for investing
activities was $423.7 million and was comprised primarily of net capital
expenditures of approximately $59.7 million, cash consideration of
approximately $171.0 million in the Western Auto Merger and $193.0 million for
the purchase of Holding Common Stock related to the Western Auto Merger. Net
cash provided by financing activities was $412.6 million and was comprised
primarily of net borrowings and issuance of equity.
The Company funded the Western Auto Merger with 11,474,606 shares of
Holding Common Stock representing approximately 40.6% of the outstanding Holding
Common Stock, additional borrowings of $90.0 million under a deferred term loan
facility under the Credit Facility, the sale of approximately $70.0 million of
Holding Common Stock to existing stockholders of Holding and cash on hand. After
the Western Auto Merger, Sears sold certain credit card portfolios related to
Western Auto to third party buyers and is attempting to sell the remaining
credit card portfolio related to Western Auto. The Company has agreed to share
in losses associated with the credit card portfolios up to a maximum of $10.0
million. The Company intends to close additional stores in overlapping markets
as well as evaluate other potential facility closures as a result of the Western
Auto Merger and is in the process of completing this analysis. Thus far,
management, through purchase accounting, has accrued $11.8 million for the
closing of certain Parts America stores, $9.0 million for severance and
relocation and $2.6 million for other exit costs. The Company also assumed
certain restructuring reserves of $9.7 million that Western Auto recorded in
prior restructuring activities. Additionally, the Company assumed a deferred
compensation plan from Western Auto. At January 2, 1999, the total liability
under the deferred compensation plan was $15.3 million, of which $6.3 million is
recorded as current liabilities. The classification for deferred compensation is
determined by employee election, and can be changed upon 12 months' notice.
The Company believes it will have sufficient liquidity to fund its debt
service obligations, including indebtedness incurred in connection with the
Western Auto Merger, and implement its growth strategy over the next twelve
months. As of January 2, 1999, the Company had outstanding indebtedness
consisting of $200.0 million of Senior
16
Subordinated Notes (the "Senior Subordinated Notes"), borrowings of $225.0
million under the Credit Facility and $10.0 million of indebtedness under the
McDuffie County Development Authority Taxable Industrial Bonds ("IRB").
The Senior Subordinated Notes bear interest at a rate of 10.25%, payable
semiannually, and require no principal payments until maturity. The Indenture
governing the Senior Subordinated Notes contains certain covenants that limit,
among other things, the ability of the Company and its restricted subsidiaries
to incur additional indebtedness and issue preferred stock, pay dividends or
certain other distributions, issue stock of subsidiaries, make certain
investments, repurchase stock and certain indebtedness, create or incur liens,
engage in transactions with affiliates, enter into new businesses, sell stock of
restricted subsidiaries and restrict the Company from engaging in certain
mergers or consolidations and sell assets. The $10.0 million principal amount
IRB bears interest at a variable rate and will require no principal payments
until maturity in November 2002.
The Company has access to a total of $465.0 million through the Credit
Facility in addition to its operating cash flow. The Credit Facility provides
for (i) a $125.0 million Tranche B term loan, which was made at the closing of
the Recapitalization; (ii) a revolver with maximum borrowings including letters
of credit of approximately $125.0 million, of which $38.3 million was available
on April 2, 1999, (iii) a $125.0 million delayed draw term loan (which was
undrawn as of April 2, 1999), of which $50.0 million is available to the Company
through October 15, 1999 and $75.0 million is available to the Company through
April 15, 2001, and (iv) a $90.0 million deferred term loan facility, which was
made at the closing of the Western Auto Merger. The term loan facilities, other
than the Tranche B term loan, will mature on the sixth anniversary of initial
borrowing, and the Tranche B term loan will mature on the eighth anniversary of
initial borrowing. Annual principal payments on the term loan facilities prior
to the sixth anniversary of initial borrowing will be nominal; thereafter,
required principal payments will be approximately $236.5 million in 2004, $60.0
million in 2005 and $30.0 million in 2006, assuming the term loan facilities
have been fully borrowed. The revolving loan facility will mature on the sixth
anniversary of initial borrowing. None of the delayed draw term loans were
drawn in connection with the Recapitalization or the Western Auto Merger. Until
the delivery to the lenders of the Company's consolidated financial statements
for the first four fiscal quarters after the closing of the Recapitalization,
the interest rates under the delayed draw facilities and the revolver are based,
at the option of the Company, on either a Eurodollar rate plus 2.25% per annum
or a base rate plus 1.25% per annum. From and after the delivery of such
consolidated financial statements, the interest rates under the delayed draw
facilities and the revolver will be determined by reference to a pricing grid
that will provide for reductions in the applicable interest rate margins based
on the Company's trailing total debt to EBITDA ratio (as defined in the Credit
Facility). The initial margins will be 2.25% and 1.25% for Eurodollar and base
rate borrowings, respectively, and can step down to 1.75% and 0.75%,
respectively, if the Company's total debt to EBITDA ratio is less than or equal
to 4.00 to 1.00. The interest rate under the Tranche B term loan and the
deferred term loan facility is based, at the option of the Company, on a
Eurodollar rate plus 2.50% or a base rate plus 1.50%.
The Credit Facility contains covenants restricting the ability of the
Company and its subsidiaries to, among others things, (i) pay dividends on any
class of capital stock or make any payment to purchase, redeem, retire, acquire,
cancel or terminate capital stock, (ii) prepay, redeem, retire, acquire, cancel
or terminate debt, (iii) incur liens or engage in sale-leaseback transactions,
(iv) make loans, investments, advances or guarantees, (v) incur additional debt
(including hedging arrangements), (vi) make capital expenditures, (vii) engage
in mergers, acquisitions and asset sales, (viii) engage in transactions with
affiliates, (ix) enter into any agreement which restricts the ability to create
liens on property or assets or the ability of subsidiaries to pay dividends or
make payments on advances or loans to the Company or other subsidiaries; (x)
change the nature of the business conducted by the Company and its subsidiaries,
(xi) change the passive holding company status of Holding, and (xii) amend
existing debt agreements or the Company's or Holding's certificate of
incorporation, by-laws or other organizational documents. The Company is also
required to comply with financial covenants in the Credit Facility with respect
to (a) limits on annual aggregate capital expenditures,(b) a maximum leverage
ratio, (c) a minimum interest coverage ratio, and (d) a minimum retained cash
earnings test. The Company is generally prohibited from paying dividends
(including to Holding) except that as long as no defined event of default under
the Credit Facility then exists, the Company will be permitted to pay dividends
to Holding in an amount sufficient to cover the cash interest due on the
Debentures commencing October 15, 2003.
The loans under the Credit Facility are secured by a first priority
security interest in substantially all tangible and intangible assets of the
Company. Amounts available to the Company under the revolver and delayed draw
term
17
loans are subject to a borrowing base formula, which is based on certain
percentages of the Company's inventories. As of January 2, 1999, $226.9 million
was available under these facilities, net of $13.1 million outstanding for
letters of credit. The Company intends to use borrowings under the revolver and
delayed draw term loans for store expansion, the Parts America Conversion and
funding of working capital. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are required to
be prepaid, subject to certain exceptions, with (a) 50% of defined excess cash
flow, (b) 100% of the net cash proceeds of all asset sales or other dispositions
of property by the Company and its subsidiaries (including certain insurance and
condemnation proceeds), subject to certain exceptions (including exceptions for
(i) reinvestment of certain asset sale proceeds within 360 days of such sale and
(ii) certain sale-leaseback transactions), (c) 100% of the net proceeds of
issuances of debt obligations of the Company and its subsidiaries, and (d) 100%
of the net proceeds of issuance of equity of the Company and its subsidiaries.
Because increases in net working capital, capital expenditures and debt
repayments are deducted in calculating excess cash flow, the Company does not
anticipate that the prepayment obligation under the Credit Facility in respect
thereof will have a material effect on its operating strategy. With respect to
growth through acquisitions, the operation of this covenant may result in the
application of cash resources for prepayments which would require the Company to
secure additional equity or debt financing to fund an acquisition, but while no
assurance can be given, the Company does not anticipate that this would have a
material effect on its ability to finance acquisitions in the future. The
Company did not make any mandatory prepayments in fiscal 1998 and does not
anticipate any mandatory prepayments under this provision in fiscal 1999.
Seasonality
The Company's business is somewhat seasonal in nature, with the highest
sales occurring in the spring and summer months. In addition, the Company's
business is affected by weather conditions. While unusually heavy precipitation
tends to soften sales as elective maintenance is deferred during such periods,
extremely hot and cold weather tends to enhance sales by causing parts to fail.
Year 2000 Conversion
The following discussion about the implementation of the Company's Year
2000 program, the costs expected to be associated with the program and the
results the Company expects to achieve constitute forward-looking information.
As noted below, there are many uncertainties involved in the Year 2000 issue,
including the extent to which the Company will be able to adequately provide for
contingencies that may arise, as well as the broader scope of the Year 2000
issue as it may affect third parties and the Company's business partners.
Accordingly, the costs and results of the Company's Year 2000 program and the
extent of any impact on the Company's results of operations could vary
materially from that stated herein.
A significant percentage of the software that runs most computers relies on
two-digit date codes to perform computations and decision-making functions.
Commencing on January 1, 2000, these computer programs may fail from an
inability to interpret date codes properly, misinterpreting "00" as the year
1900 rather than 2000. The Company has completed the identification of all
necessary internal software changes to ensure that it does not experience any
loss of critical business functionality due to the Year 2000 issue. The Company
has appointed an internal Year 2000 project manager and remediation team and has
adopted a four phase approach of assessment, remediation, testing, and
contingency planning. The scope of the project includes all internal software,
hardware, operating systems, and assessment of risk to the business from vendors
and other partners' Year 2000 issues. The assessment of all internal systems
has been completed, the remediation and testing phases are in progress, and
contingency planning for certain information technology systems has begun.
The Company is utilizing internal and external resources to correct,
replace, and test its software for Year 2000 compliance. The Company has two
Year 2000 compliance teams focused on the completion of the Year 2000 projects
in the retail stores and related support functions (the "Retail Team") and the
Service Stores, dealer network and related support functions (the "KC Team").
The Retail Team expects and plans to complete the Year 2000 project no later
than June 30, 1999. The KC Team expects and plans to complete the Year 2000
project no later than August 1999. The total cost of the Year 2000 project for
the Retail Team is estimated at $3.7 million. Of that cost, approximately $1.0
million represents the purchase of new software and hardware, which will be
capitalized. The remaining costs were or will be expensed as incurred during
fiscal 1998 and 1999. The total cost of the Year 2000 project for the KC Team is
estimated at $2.5 million, of which approximately $1.5 million represents the
purchase of new hardware and software, which will
18
be capitalized. As of the end of fiscal 1998, the Company has spent
approximately $1.7 million on the Year 2000 project.
The Company's Year 2000 program is designed to minimize the possibility of
serious Year 2000 interruptions. Possible Year 2000 worst case scenarios include
the interruption of significant parts of the Company's business as a result of
critical information systems failure or the failure of vendors, distributors or
service providers. Since these possibilities cannot be eliminated, ongoing
communications have been established with almost all vendors and other partners
to monitor their progress in resolving Year 2000 issues, most of which the
Company believes are making substantial progress. However, the Company cannot
guarantee that Year 2000 related systems issues of its business partners will be
corrected in a timely manner or that the failure of its business partners to
correct these issues would not have a material adverse effect.
The Company has begun to develop contingency plans in the event a business
interruption caused by Year 2000 problems should occur. For certain information
technology systems, contingency plans are in place. Elements of the Company's
contingency plans include: switching of vendors, back-up systems that do not
rely on computers, and the stockpiling of certain products in the months before
the Year 2000.
The cost and time estimated for the Year 2000 project are based on the
Company's best estimates. There can be no guarantee that these estimates will
be achieved or that planned results will be achieved. Risks factors include,
but are not limited to, the retention of internal and external resources
dedicated to the project, the timely delivery of software corrections from
external vendors, and the successful completion of key business partners' Year
2000 projects.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks.
The Company currently utilizes no material derivative financial instruments
that expose it to significant market risk. The Company is exposed to cash flow
and fair value risk due to changes in interest rates with respect to its long-
term debt. While the Company cannot predict the impact interest rate movements
will have on its debt, exposure to rate changes is managed through the use of
fixed and variable rate debt.
The Company's exposure to interest rate risk has changed significantly
since January 3, 1998 due to the increase in total debt outstanding and the
change in debt instruments as a result of the Recapitalization and the Western
Auto Merger. The Company's fixed rate debt consists primarily of outstanding
balances on the Senior Subordinated Notes. The Company's variable rate debt
relates to borrowings under the Credit Facility and the IRB (see "Item 7.
Management's Discussion and Analysis and Results of Operations--Liquidity and
Capital Resources"). The Company's variable rate debt is primarily vulnerable
to movements in the LIBOR, Prime, Federal Funds and Base CD rates.
The table below presents principal cash flows and related weighted average
interest rates on the Company's long-term debt at January 2, 1999 by expected
maturity dates. Expected maturity dates approximate contract terms. Fair values
included herein have been determined based on quoted market prices. Weighted
average variable rates are based on implied forward rates in the yield curve at
January 2, 1999. Implied forward rates should not be considered a predictor of
actual future interest rates.
Fair
Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal Market
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 Thereafter Total Value
------ ------ ------ ------- ------ ---------- -------- --------
Long-term debt:
Fixed rate........... $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $200,000 $200,000 $203,000
Weighted Average
Interest Rate........ -- -- -- -- -- 10.3% 10.3%
Variable rate......... $ 500 $1,000 $1,500 $12,000 $2,000 $218,000 $235,000 $235,000
Weighted Average
Interest Rate........ 7.5% 7.7% 7.9% 7.8% 8.0% 8.1% 8.0%
19
Item 8. Financial Statements.
See the Index included at "Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
and Reports on Form 8-K."
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure.
None.
20
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the directors
and executive officers of the Company as of April 15, 1999:
Name Age Position with the Company
- ---- --- -------------------------
Nicholas F. Taubman 64 Chairman of the Board and Director
Garnett E. Smith 59 President and Chief Executive Officer and Director
Carroll R. Tilley, Jr. 49 Executive Vice President and General Manager
Jimmie L. Wade 45 Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer
J. O'Neil Leftwich 37 Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer
Paul W. Klasing 39 Senior Vice President, Merchandising
David R. Reid 36 Senior Vice President, Real Estate and Store Support
S. Lynn Stevens 50 Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer
Anthony R. Weatherly 39 Senior Vice President, Store Operations
Kenneth A. Wirth, Jr. 40 Senior Vice President, Sales
Joe H. Vaughn, Jr. 38 Vice President, Finance, Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer
John M. Roth 40 Director
Mark J. Doran 35 Director
Timothy C. Collins 42 Director
Peter M. Starrett 50 Director
Julian C. Day 46 Director
Michael Coyne 35 Director
William L. Salter 55 Director
Mr. Taubman, Chairman of the Board, joined the Company in 1956. Mr.
Taubman has served as Chairman since January 1985 and as Chief Executive Officer
from January 1985 to July 1997. From 1969 to 1984, Mr. Taubman served as
President. Mr. Taubman has served on numerous business, arts and civic boards.
Mr. Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer and a Director of the
Company, joined the Company in November 1959 and is responsible for overall
management and operations of the Company. Mr. Smith served as President and
Chief Operating Officer from January 1985 until July 1997 at which time he
became Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Smith has also served in numerous other
positions including Executive Vice President and General Manager, Vice President
of Purchasing, Buyer and Store Manager.
Mr. Tilley, Executive Vice President and General Manager, joined the
Company in June 1984. Mr. Tilley has served as Vice President and Senior Vice
President of Purchasing, Advertising and Marketing and was promoted to his
present position in July 1997. Mr. Tilley's responsibilities include
merchandising, marketing and store operations.
Mr. Wade, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, joined
the Company in February 1994. Mr. Wade is responsible for logistics,
distribution, transportation, inventory management and information services.
From 1987 to 1993, Mr. Wade was Vice President, Finance and Operations, for S.H.
Heironimus, and from 1979 to 1987, he was Vice President-Finance of American
Motor Inns. Mr. Wade is a certified public accountant.
Mr. Leftwich, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Secretary
and Treasurer joined the Company in September 1984. Mr. Leftwich was appointed
Chief Financial Officer of the Company in January 1994, Senior Vice President in
July 1997 and Secretary and Treasurer in February 1998. Mr. Leftwich has also
served in numerous other positions with the Company. Mr. Leftwich is
responsible for financial, human resources and loss prevention functions and is
a certified public accountant.
21
Mr. Klasing, Senior Vice President, Merchandising, joined the Company in
April 1995. Mr. Klasing is responsible for purchasing, quality control and
pricing. From 1981 to 1992, Mr. Klasing worked for Kragen Auto Parts (now CSK
Automotive) and from 1992 to 1995 for Montgomery Ward/Auto Express in various
positions.
Mr. Reid, Senior Vice President, Real Estate and Store Support, joined the
Company in October 1984. Mr. Reid is responsible for real estate and store
visual presentation. In addition, since March 1999, Mr. Reid has served as the
Chief Executive Officer of Western Auto. From 1994 to 1995, Mr. Reid was
Assistant Vice President, Store Support for the Company. Mr. Reid has also
served in training and store operations as Store Manager and Division Manager.
Ms. Stevens, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, joined
the Company in July 1979. Ms. Stevens is responsible for systems development,
computer services and technology. Ms. Stevens has held several management
positions in Information Services, most recently as Vice President, Systems
Development.
Mr. Weatherly, Senior Vice President, Store Operations, joined the Company
in August 1981. Mr. Weatherly is responsible for district, division, and store
operations. Mr. Weatherly has held numerous other operational positions
including District Assistant Vice President, Zone Manager, Division Manager and
Store Manager.
Mr. Wirth, Senior Vice President, Sales joined the Company in September
1982. Mr. Wirth is responsible for the Company's largest product category,
batteries, as well as new store sales coordination, commercial sales and
training. From June 1992 to January 1998, Mr. Wirth served as Senior Vice
President, Store Operations and prior to that held numerous other operational
positions including Zone Manager, Division Manager and Store Manager.
Mr. Vaughn, Vice President, Finance, Assistant Secretary and Assistant
Treasurer, joined the Company in May 1995. Mr. Vaughn was appointed Vice
President, Finance in October 1997 and Assistant Secretary and Assistant
Treasurer in April 1998. Mr. Vaughn is responsible for treasury, employee
benefits, corporate services and risk management. From 1983 to 1989, Mr. Vaughn
worked for KPMG Peat Marwick, from 1989 to 1992, he worked for Dominion Bank,
and from 1992 to 1995, he worked for Ferguson Andrews & Associates. Mr. Vaughn
is a certified public accountant.
Mr. Doran, Director, became a member of the Board in connection with the
Recapitalization. Mr. Doran joined Freeman Spogli & Co. Incorporated ("Freeman
Spogli") in 1988 and became a principal in January 1998. Mr. Doran is also a
director of AFC Enterprises, Inc. and Century Maintenance Supply, Inc.
Mr. Roth, Director, became a member of the Board in connection with the
Recapitalization. Mr. Roth joined Freeman Spogli in March 1988 and became a
principal in March 1993. Mr. Roth is also a director of AFC Enterprises, Inc.
and Envirosource, Inc.
Mr. Collins, Director, became a member of the Board in connection with the
Recapitalization. Mr. Collins is Senior Managing Director and Chief Executive
Officer of Ripplewood Holdings L.L.C., a private investment firm formed by him
in October 1995. From February 1990 to October 1995, Mr. Collins was a Senior
Managing Director of the New York office of Onex Corporation, an Ontario
corporation listed on the Toronto and Montreal Stock Exchanges. Mr. Collins is
also a director of Danielson Holding Corporation and Dayton Superior
Corporation.
Mr. Starrett, Director, became a member of the Board in November 1998.
Since August 1998, Mr. Starrett has served as a consultant to Freeman Spogli.
Prior to August 1998, Mr. Starrett was President of Warner Bros. Studio Stores
Worldwide and had been employed by Warner Bros. since May 1990. Mr. Starrett is
also a director of AFC Enterprises, Inc., Brylane, Inc., Guitar Center, Inc.,
Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. and The Pantry, Inc.
Mr. Day, Director, became a member of the Board in April 1999. Mr. Day has
been the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Sears since
March 1999. From July 1993 to June 1998, Mr. Day served as the Executive Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer of Safeway Inc. and had been employed by
Safeway since 1992.
22
Mr. Coyne, Director, became a member of the Board in connection with the
Western Auto Merger. Mr. Coyne joined Sears in November 1993 and is currently
Director of Strategy and Business Development. Mr. Coyne has held previous
positions in the investor relations, capital markets, and controller groups
within Sears. From August 1985 to November 1993, Mr. Coyne worked for Ernst &
Young. Mr. Coyne is a certified public accountant.
Mr. Salter, Director, became a member of the Board in April 1999. Mr.
Salter has served as the President of the Home Stores division of Sears since
1996. From 1995 to 1996, Mr. Salter served as President of the hard lines
division of Sears, and from 1993 to 1995 as the Vice President and General
Manager of the home appliances and electronics division of Sears.
Directors of the Company are elected annually and hold office until the
next annual meeting of stockholders or until their successors are duly elected
and qualified.
Executive Officers are elected by, and serve at the discretion of, the
Board of Directors. The Company has entered into employment agreements with
certain of its executive officers. See "--Executive Employment Contracts."
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
The following table sets forth information with respect to compensation
earned by the Chief Executive Officer and the four other most highly compensated
executive officers who were serving as executive officers at the end of the last
completed fiscal year (collectively, the "Executive Officers").
Summary Compensation Table
Long-Term
Compensation
Annual Compensation Awards
--------------------------------------- ------------
Securities
Fiscal Other Annual Underlying All Other
Name and Principal Position Year Salary Bonus(1) Compensation(2) Options/SARs Compensation(3)
- --------------------------- ------ -------- ---------- --------------- ------------ ---------------
Garnett E. Smith............ 1998 $457,600 $7,948,011 $ -- 362,500 $8,000
President and Chief 1997 453,580 471,553 -- -- 7,500
Executive Officer
Carroll R. Tilley, Jr....... 1998 $240,000 $1,236,040 $ -- 145,000 $7,459
Executive Vice 1997 219,014 110,429 -- -- 7,500
President and General
Manager
J. O'Neil Leftwich.......... 1998 $164,415 $ 828,220 $ -- 72,500 $6,932
Senior Vice President 1997 153,825 42,500 -- -- 7,500
and Chief Financial
Officer, Secretary and
Treasurer
Kenneth A. Wirth, Jr........ 1998 $112,060 $ 264,411 $ -- 25,000 $6,778
Senior Vice President, 1997 106,460 75,900 -- -- 7,500
Store Operations
Paul W. Klasing............. 1998 $140,000 $ 231,382 $ -- 25,000 $6,589
Senior Vice President, 1997 107,692 18,778 -- -- 6,129
Merchandising
______________________
(1) In connection with the Recapitalization, an aggregate of $11.5 million in
extraordinary bonuses were paid to senior employees in April 1998.
(2) While certain officers received perquisites, such perquisites do not exceed
the lesser of $50,000 or 10% of each officer's respective salary and bonus.
(3) Consists of matching contributions made by the Company under the Company's
401(k) savings plan.
23
Executive Employment Contracts
On April 15, 1998, Mr. Smith entered into an employment and non-competition
agreement with the Company. The agreement has an initial term of three years,
and renews automatically each year thereafter unless terminated by the Company
or Mr. Smith. The agreement provides for a base salary of $458,000, subject to
annual increases at the discretion of the Board of Directors, and an annual cash
bonus based on the Company's achievement of performance targets established by
the Board of Directors. The bonus to be paid upon achievement of targets will
be consistent in amount with the bonuses paid to Mr. Smith by the Company
historically. In the event Mr. Smith is terminated without cause, or terminates
his employment for "good reason" as defined in the employment agreement, he will
receive salary through the later of the end of the term of employment or one
year from the effective date of termination, less any amounts earned in other
employment. Mr. Smith has agreed not to compete with the Company, to preserve
its confidential information, not to recruit or employ employees of the Company
to or in other businesses, and not to solicit customers or suppliers of the
Company for competitors.
On April 15, 1998, Messrs. Leftwich, Tilley, Wirth and Klasing entered into
employment agreements with the Company. The agreements provide that each
Executive Officer will receive a base salary of $162,000, $240,000, $112,000 and
$140,000, respectively, subject to annual increases at the discretion of the
Board of Directors. Such agreements contain severance provisions that provide
for base salary for the remainder of the term of the agreement upon termination
of employment or one year, unless the termination is due to death, disability or
retirement, by the Company for "cause" (as defined in the agreements) or by the
employee other than for "good reason" (as defined in the agreements), less any
amounts earned in other employment. The initial term of the employment
agreements is two years, after which the term of employment will extend from
year-to-year unless terminated by either the Company or the employee. Other
provisions require the Company to pay bonuses earned by the employee upon the
Company's achievement of earnings targets established by the Board of Directors,
and an agreement by the employee not to compete with the Company, to preserve
its confidential information, not to recruit or employ employees of the Company
to or in other businesses, and not to solicit customers or suppliers of the
Company for competitors.
Consulting Agreement
Mr. Taubman has entered into a consulting and non-competition agreement
with Holding and the Company. The agreement, which has a term of three years,
requires Holding or the Company to pay consulting fees in an amount of $300,000
per annum, plus an annual bonus of at least $300,000 based upon the achievement
of targeted performance goals established by the Board of Directors. In fiscal
1998, Mr. Taubman earned $708,222 pursuant to the consulting agreement. Mr.
Taubman has agreed not to compete with the Company, to preserve its confidential
information, not to recruit or employ employees of the Company to or in other
businesses, and not to solicit customers or suppliers of the Company for
competitors. Pursuant to the consulting agreement, Holding and Mr. Taubman have
entered into an indemnity agreement whereby Holding will indemnify Mr. Taubman
for actions taken as an officer or director of or consultant to Holding or the
Company to the fullest extent permitted by law. The amount of time Mr. Taubman
must devote to his consultation duties declines throughout the term of the
agreement. The Company has entered into indemnification agreements similar to
that with Mr. Taubman with five of its other directors.
Compensation of Directors
Directors of the Company receive no compensation as directors. Directors
are reimbursed for their reasonable expenses in attending meetings and
performing duties as directors.
Stock Subscription Plans
Holding has adopted Stock Subscription Plans (the "Stock Subscription
Plans") pursuant to which certain directors, officers and key employees of the
Company have purchased 801,800 shares of the outstanding Holding Common Stock at
the same price as Freeman Spogli's purchase of its shares in the
Recapitalization, or fair market value at the time of purchase. $2,615,000 of
the purchase price for such shares was paid by delivery of full recourse
promissory notes bearing interest at the prime rate and due five years from the
Recapitalization, secured by all of the stock each such executive owns in
Holding. Messrs. Smith, Leftwich, Tilley, Wirth and Klasing purchased
24
250,000 shares, 50,000 shares, 150,000 shares, 20,000 shares and 20,000 shares,
respectively. For these individuals, $0, $250,000, $750,000, $106,000 and
$110,000 of their purchase price, respectively, was financed through the
delivery of promissory notes on the terms described above. As of January 2,
1999, the outstanding balance on the promissory notes was $237,500, $750,000,
$106,000 and $110,000 for each of Messrs. Leftwich, Tilley, Wirth and Klasing,
respectively. The agreements entered into in connection with the Stock
Subscription Plans provide for restrictions on transferability, and acquired
shares are subject to a right of first refusal and a repurchase right at stated
prices in favor of Holding and co-sale rights in favor of the executive if
Freeman Spogli sells its shares to a third party. The agreements also include an
obligation to sell at the request of Freeman Spogli. These rights (but not the
restrictions on transferability) will terminate upon an initial public offering
by Holding of Holding Common Stock, as further defined in agreements entered
into under the Stock Subscription Plans.
Stock Option Plans
Holding has adopted stock option plans (the "Option Plans"), under which
Holding made initial grants of approximately 898,750 shares of Holding Common
Stock in April 1998. Each Option Plan participant has entered into an option
agreement (an "Option Agreement") with Holding. The Option Plans and each
outstanding option thereunder are subject to termination in the event of a
change in control of Holding or other extraordinary corporate transactions, as
more fully described in the Option Plans. In addition, all options granted
pursuant to the Option Plans will terminate 90 days after termination of
employment (unless termination was for cause, in which event an option will
terminate immediately) or 180 days in the event of termination due to death or
disability. Shares received upon exercise of options are subject to both a
right of first refusal and a repurchase right at stated prices in favor of
Holding, and co-sale rights in favor of the optionee. These rights will
terminate upon an initial public offering by Holding of its Common Stock, as
further defined in the Option Agreements. Shares received upon exercise of
options, as well as all outstanding options, are also subject to obligations to
sell at the request of Freeman Spogli. All options will terminate on the
seventh anniversary of the Option Agreement under which they were granted if not
exercised prior thereto.
Three different types of options may be granted pursuant to the Option
Plans. Fixed Price Service Options will vest over a three-year period in three
equal annual installments beginning in fiscal 1999. Performance Options will be
earned in installments based upon satisfaction of certain performance targets
for the four-year period ending in fiscal 2001. Variable Price Service Options
will vest in equal annual installments over a two year period beginning in 2000,
and have an exercise price that increases over time.
Option Grants in Connection with the Recapitalization
The following table sets forth information concerning Options granted in
fiscal 1998 to each of the Executive Officers.
Individual Grants Potential Realizable Value at
------------------------------------------------------- Assumed Annual Rates of Stock
% of Total Price Appreciation
Number of Options/ for Option Term
Securities SARs Fixed Price and
Underlying Granted to Exercise or Performance Options
Options/SARs Employees in Base Price Expiration ------------------------------
Name Granted(#) Fiscal Year ($/Sh)(1) Date 0%(2) 5% ($)(3) 10% ($)(3)
- ------------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ---------- ----- --------- ----------
Garnett E. Smith......... 362,500(4) 40.3 10.00 4/14/05 - 814,201 1,897,434
Carroll R. Tilley, Jr. .. 145,000(5) 16.1 10.00 4/14/05 - 325,680 758,974
J. O'Neil Leftwich....... 72,500(6) 8.1 10.00 4/14/05 - 162,840 379,487
Kenneth A. Wirth, Jr. ... 25,000(7) 2.8 10.00 4/14/05 - 56,994 132,820
Paul W. Klasing.......... 25,000(8) 2.8 10.00 4/14/05 - 56,994 132,820
________________
25
(1) Represents the fair market value of the underlying shares of Common Stock at
the time of the grant. A portion of the grant consists of Variable Price
Service Options with an exercise price that increases $2.00 on each April 15
(the anniversary of the grant date).
(2) Unless the stock price increases, which will benefit all stockholders
commensurately, an Option holder will realize no gain.
(3) Represents the value of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon the
exercise of the Option, assuming the stated rates of price appreciation for
seven years, compounded annually, with the aggregate exercise price deducted
from the final appreciated value. The 5% and 10% rates are established by
the SEC as examples only and are not intended to forecast future
appreciation in the Common Stock price. Variable Price Service Options will
have no value at the appreciation rates shown. Performance Options are
assumed to be fully vested at the end of the period. Full vesting would
require achievement of certain performance targets (as defined in each Stock
Option Agreement) by the Company for the period beginning January 4, 1998
and ending at the end of the Company's fiscal year 2001.
(4) Represents 37,500 Fixed Price Service Options, 162,500 Variable Price
Service Options, and 162,500 Performance Options.
(5) Represents 15,000 Fixed Price Service Options, 65,000 Variable Price Service
Options and 65,000 Performance Options.
(6) Represents 7,500 Fixed Price Service Options, 32,500 Variable Price Service
Options, and 32,500 Performance Options.
(7) Represents 3,000 Fixed Price Service Options, 11,000 Variable Price Service
Options, and 11,000 Performance Options.
(8) Represents 3,000 Fixed Price Service Options, 11,000 Variable Price Service
Options, and 11,000 Performance Options.
Option Exercises and Year-End Value
The following table sets forth information with respect to the Executive
Officers concerning option exercises for the fiscal 1998 and exercisable and
unexercisable options held as of January 2, 1999.
Number of Securities
Underlying Unexercised Value of Unexercised
Options at In-the-Money Options at
Shares January 2, 1999(#) January 2, 1999($)(a)(b)
Acquired on Value --------------------------- ---------------------------
Name Exercise(#) Realized($) Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
- ------------------------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- -------------
Garnett E. Smith -- -- 0 362,500 $ -- $2,472,250
Carroll R. Tilley, Jr. -- -- 0 145,000 -- 988,900
J. O'Neil Leftwich -- -- 0 72,500 -- 494,450
Kenneth A. Wirth, Jr. -- -- 0 25,000 -- 170,500
Paul W. Klasing -- -- 0 25,000 -- 170,500
______________________
(a) There is no established public trading market for the Holding Common Stock.
Holding believes that the fair market value of the Holding Common Stock was
$16.82 per share as of January 2, 1999.
(b) Values for "in-the-money" outstanding options represent the positive spread
between the respective exercise prices of the outstanding options and the
fair market value of the underlying the Holding Common Stock of $16.82 as
described in note (a).
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
The Board of Directors of the Company determines the compensation of the
Executive Officers. During fiscal 1998, Messrs. Taubman and Smith participated
in Board of Director deliberations regarding the compensation of the Company's
Executive Officers.
26
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
Not applicable.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.
Affiliated Leases
The Company leases its Roanoke, Virginia distribution center, an
office/warehouse, a warehouse, 23 of its stores and four former stores from
Nicholas F. Taubman or members of his immediate family, and its corporate
headquarters from Ki, L.C., a Virginia limited liability company owned by two
trusts for the benefit of a child of Mr. Taubman. Rents for the affiliated
leases may be slightly higher than rents for non-affiliated leases, but the
Company does not believe the amount of such difference to be material. In
addition, certain terms of the affiliate leases may be more favorable to the
landlord than those contained in leases with non-affiliates, primarily terms
relating to the maintenance of the facilities. However, in connection with the
Recapitalization, certain other terms of the leases with affiliates (including
provisions relating to assignment, damage by casualty and default cure periods)
were amended so that they would be no less favorable to the Company than non-
affiliated leases. All affiliate leases are on a triple net basis. Lease
expense for leases with affiliates has been $3,076,000, $3,171,000 and
$2,888,000 for fiscal 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively.
Three Western Auto Puerto Rico stores are on the premises of Sears stores
and the buildings are subleased from Sears. The rental rates were established
prior to the Western Auto Merger by arm's-length negotiation between the Company
and Sears, and the Company believes that the rent under and terms of the
subleases reflect market rates and terms at the time of the Western Auto Merger.
$97,450 in rent payable to Sears was accrued in fiscal year 1998.
Stockholders Agreement
Mr. Taubman and the Arthur Taubman Trust Dated July 13, 1964 (the "Taubman
Trust" and, together with Mr. Taubman, the "Continuing Stockholders"), Freeman
Spogli, Ripplewood Partners, L.P. and Ripplewood Advance Auto Parts Employee
Fund I L.L.C. (collectively, "Ripplewood"), WA Holding Co. ("WAH"), a wholly
owned subsidiary of Sears, and Holding have entered into an Amended and Restated
Stockholders Agreement (the "Stockholders Agreement"). Under the Stockholders
Agreement, Freeman Spogli, Ripplewood, WAH and the Continuing Stockholders have
the right to purchase their pro rata share of certain new issuances of
securities, including capital stock by Holding. In addition, the Stockholders
Agreement provides for restrictions on the transferability of the shares of
Holding Common Stock of the parties until the earlier of April 1, 2000 or upon
consummation of a public offering. Prior to April 15, 2001 (or if earlier, the
date of an initial public offering), any transfers of Holding Common Stock by
any Continuing Stockholder and Ripplewood are subject to rights of first offer
in favor of Freeman Spogli and WAH on a pro rata basis. Prior to an initial
public offering, any transfers of Holding Common Stock are subject to rights of
first refusal in favor of (i) Freeman Spogli and WAH on a pro rata basis, in the
case of a transfer by Ripplewood, (ii) WAH, in the case of a transfer by Freeman
Spogli and (iii) Freeman Spogli, in the case of a transfer by WAH. The
Stockholders Agreement further provides tag-along rights such that (i) upon
transfers of Holding Common Stock by Freeman Spogli (excluding transfers to
affiliates of Freeman Spogli), the Continuing Stockholders, Ripplewood and WAH
will have the right to participate in such sales on a pro rata basis; (ii) upon
transfers of Holding Common Stock by WAH (excluding transfers to affiliates of
WAH), Freeman Spogli, the Continuing Stockholders and Ripplewood will have the
right to participate in such sales on a pro rata basis; and (iii) upon transfers
of Holding Common Stock by Ripplewood (excluding transfers to affiliates of
Ripplewood), Freeman Spogli will have the right to participate in such sales on
a pro rata basis, and if Freeman Spogli exercises such right, the Continuing
Stockholders and WAH will have the right to participate in such sales on a pro
rata basis. In addition, from and after April 1, 2000, or earlier with the
consent of WAH, if Freeman Spogli sells all of its holdings of Holding Common
Stock, Ripplewood and the Continuing Stockholders will be obligated to sell all
of their shares of Holding Common Stock at the request of Freeman Spogli.
Without the consent of the majority of the other stockholders, Sears will not
sell WAH to a third party so as to dispose of its indirect interest in Holding.
The Stockholders Agreement further provides that the parties will vote at
each annual meeting of Holding to elect to the Board of Directors Mr. Taubman,
the Chief Executive Officer of Holding, three nominees of Freeman
27
Spogli, three nominees of WAH and one nominee of Ripplewood. Certain transfers
of Holding Common Stock by either Freeman Spogli or WAH will reduce the number
of directors such parties are entitled to nominate. Ripplewood has granted
Freeman Spogli an irrevocable proxy to vote Ripplewood's stock in Holding on all
matters, expiring upon an initial public offering of common stock by Holding,
but Freeman Spogli will nominate one director designated by Ripplewood. The
Ripplewood director will agree to vote with the Freeman Spogli directors on all
matters prior to an initial public offering of common stock by Holding. Pursuant
to the Stockholders Agreement, Mr. Taubman has certain approval rights with
respect to major corporate transactions.
Options Granted to the Continuing Stockholders
In connection with the Recapitalization, Holding entered into an Option
Agreement with Mr. Taubman and the Taubman Trust whereby each of them has been
granted immediately exercisable options to purchase 250,000 shares of Holding
Common Stock. The options have an initial exercise price of $10.00, with the
exercise price increasing by $2.00 on each anniversary of the Recapitalization.
Both the exercise price and the number of shares which may be purchased pursuant
to the options are subject to certain adjustments. The options will expire if
not exercised by the seventh anniversary of the Recapitalization. Shares
received upon exercise of all or any part of the option by the Continuing
Stockholders will be subject to the Stockholders Agreement.
Sale of Airplane
In fiscal 1998, in connection with the Recapitalization, Mr. Taubman
purchased an airplane from the Company for $4.1 million, a price equal to the
approximate net book value of the airplane, which amount also equaled the
approximate fair market value of the airplane (based on estimates of value
provided by the airplane's manufacturer). The airplane was purchased in 1995 for
$5.2 million.
Registration Rights Agreement
Pursuant to the Stockholders Agreement, Holding agreed, beginning 180 days
after consummation of an initial public offering of common stock by Holding,
that upon the request of Freeman Spogli, WAH and the Continuing Stockholders it
will register under the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws the
sale of Holding Common Stock owned by Freeman Spogli, WAH and the Continuing
Stockholders subject to certain limitations. Holding has granted unlimited
piggy-back registration rights to Freeman Spogli, Ripplewood, WAH and the
Continuing Stockholders. Holding also granted three demand registrations to
each of Freeman Spogli and WAH, two demand registrations to the Continuing
Stockholders, and one demand registration to Ripplewood. Holding granted WAH
the right, beginning 180 days after the consummation of an initial public
offering, to distribute its shares of Holding Common Stock to Sears'
stockholders. Holding's obligation is subject to certain limitations relating
to the minimum amount required for registration, the timing of registrations and
other similar matters. Holding is obligated to pay any registration expenses
incidental to such registrations, excluding underwriters' commissions and
discounts. Holding has agreed to indemnify Freeman Spogli, Ripplewood, WAH, the
Continuing Stockholders and the control person of any of the foregoing against
certain liabilities including liabilities under the Securities Act.
Management Equity Plans
See "Item 11. Executive Compensation--Stock Subscription Plans" and
"--Stock Option Plans."
Indemnification Agreements
In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company entered into
indemnification agreements with certain of the directors of the Company.
28
Certain Payments
In connection with the Recapitalization, a portion of the common stock and
all of the preferred stock of Holding were converted into the right to receive
in the aggregate approximately $351.0 million in cash and certain options to
purchase shares of Holding Common Stock. In addition, Freeman Spogli and
Ripplewood, stockholders of Holding, received collectively a $5.0 million fee
for arranging the financing, performing advisory and consulting services and
negotiating the Recapitalization, and Freeman Spogli, Ripplewood and the
Continuing Stockholders received collectively a $3.5 million fee for performing
similar services with respect to the Western Auto Merger. In connection with
the Recapitalization, certain employees of the Company, including the Executive
Officers, received an aggregate of approximately $11.5 million in bonuses with
Messrs. Smith, Tilley, Leftwich, Wirth and Klasing receiving $7.0 million, $1.0
million, $750,000, $150,000 and $150,000, respectively.
Other Transactions with Sears
On November 2, 1998, Western Auto Supply Company merged into a subsidiary
of the Company. In the Western Auto Merger, WAH was issued 11,474,606 shares of
Holding Common Stock, representing approximately 40% of the outstanding Holding
Common Stock. In connection with the Western Auto Merger, WAH became entitled,
under the Stockholders Agreement described above, to nominate three directors to
the Board of Directors of Holding. Michael Coyne, an employee of Sears, was
appointed to the Board of Directors on November 2, 1998. Julian C. Day and
William L. Salter, each an employee of Sears, were appointed to the Board of
Directors in April 1999.
In connection with the Western Auto Merger, Western Auto entered into
agreements with Sears in order to continue to obtain supplies of certain
products bearing trademarks owned by Sears for the Western Auto dealer network
and the Service Stores for three years. Pursuant to these agreements, Western
Auto purchased directly from the manufacturers approximately $6.0 million of
these products in fiscal 1998, and the Company believes that Sears received fees
in association with such sales. The prices paid per unit for the products sold
in the Western Auto and Parts America stores were determined prior to the
Western Auto Merger by arm's-length negotiation between the Company and Sears.
In connection with the Western Auto Merger, Western Auto and Western Auto
of Puerto Rico, Inc., a subsidiary of Western Auto, entered into agreements with
Sears and its affiliates whereby consumers can make retail purchases at Western
Auto, Parts America and Western Auto Puerto Rico stores and the dealer network
using the Sears credit card and other Western Auto private label credit cards.
The Sears affiliates are paid a discount fee on each retail transaction that is
competitive with the fees paid by Western Auto and the Company to third party
credit card providers such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express. In fiscal
1998, Western Auto and Western Auto of Puerto Rico accrued approximately
$657,000 in discount fees payable to Sears, $147,000 of which was paid. In
addition, a portion of Western Auto's Puerto Rico administrative facility and
certain Western Auto employees are leased to Sears for use in Sears
administration of the credit card program. The lease payments, which aggregated
approximately $644,000 in fiscal 1998, are intended to reimburse the Company for
its expense in connection with the facility and the employees.
In connection with the Western Auto Merger, Sears and the Company are each
providing certain services to effect an orderly transition of Western Auto
Supply Company from a subsidiary of Sears to a subsidiary of the Company. Such
services include payroll, accounts payable and administration of commercial
credit programs. Each party is reimbursed by the other for its costs incurred in
providing transition services. Pursuant to this arrangement, the Company accrued
$844,000 for services performed by Sears for the Company and $38,000 as
reimbursement for services performed by the Company for Sears in fiscal 1998.
Under the terms of an insurance program established by a Sears subsidiary
on behalf of Western Auto Supply Company prior to the Western Auto Merger, with
respect to certain insurable losses where the Company may otherwise have a
retention obligation or deductible under the applicable insurance policy
providing coverage, the Company will be entitled to be reimbursed by Sears for
its losses. No material payments were made under the insurance program in fiscal
year 1998. Western Auto is currently processing a claim with Sears under the
insurance program from which the Company expects to receive approximately $1.5
million.
29
In connection with the Western Auto Merger, Sears and the Company entered
into an agreement under which the Company may be given a priority position as a
local supplier to up to approximately 250 Sears Auto Centers or NTB Stores that
are located near Company stores. Under this agreement, upon request from a Sears
Auto Center or NTB Store, the Company will deliver parts and charge a price
negotiated prior to the Western Auto Merger between the Company and Sears. In
addition, if the volume of activity under this agreement meets certain agreed-
upon thresholds, Sears will receive rebates on its purchases. The supply
arrangement is currently being phased in by the Company and Sears, and no
material purchases were made by Sears in fiscal year 1998. There can be no
assurance that the program will result in meaningful revenues to the Company in
fiscal year 1999.
In connection with the Western Auto Merger, Sears has arranged to buy
from the Company certain products in bulk for its automotive centers, at cost
plus a set handling fee. In fiscal 1998, the Company shipped approximately $2.1
million in products to Sears. The Company made final shipments to Sears under
this arrangement of $530,000 in first fiscal quarter of fiscal 1999.
30
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K.
(a) Documents filed as part of this Report:
(1 & 2) Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedules:
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Financial Statements:
Report of Independent Public Accountants--Arthur Andersen LLP..... F-1
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of January 2, 1999 and
January 3, 1998................................................. F-2
Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998 and December 28, 1996.......... F-3
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity for
the Years Ended January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998 and
December 28, 1996............................................... F-4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998 and December 28, 1996.......... F-5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements January 2, 1999,
January 3, 1998 and December 28, 1996........................... F-6
Schedule II -- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts.................. F-40
Western Auto Supply Company and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Financial Statements:
Report of Independent Public Accountants--Deloitte & Touche
LLP............................................................. F-41
Consolidated Balance Sheets - October 31, 1998 and January 3,
1998............................................................ F-42
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the 43 Weeks Ended
October 31, 1998 and the Years (53/52 weeks) Ended
January 3, 1998 and December 28, 1996........................... F-43
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity For the 43
Weeks Ended October 31, 1998 and the Years (53/52 weeks)
Ended January 3, 1998 and December 28, 1996..................... F-44
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows For the 43 Weeks Ended
October 31, 1998 and the Years (53/52 weeks) Ended
January 3, 1998 and December 28, 1996........................... F-45
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements........................ F-46
(3) Exhibits:
31
Exhibit
Number Description
- ------- -----------
2.1(1) Merger Agreement dated as of March 4, 1998 among AHC
Corporation and Advance Holding Corporation ("Holding") with FS
Equity Partners III, L.P., FS Equity Partners IV, L.P. ("FSEP IV"),
and FS Equity Partners International, L.P.
2.2(1) Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of August 16, 1998 among
Sears, Roebuck and Co. ("Sears"), Western Auto Holding Co.
("WAHC"), Holding, the Company, Western Auto, Advance
Acquisition Corporation ("AAC") and certain stockholders of
Holding.
2.3(2) Amendment No. 1 to Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of
November 2, 1998 among the Registrant, Sears, WAHC, Western
Auto, Holding, AAC and certain stockholders of Holding.
3.1(1) Articles of Incorporation of the Company, as amended to date.
3.2(1) Bylaws of the Company, as amended to date.
4.1(1) Indenture dated as of April 15, 1998 among the Company,
LARALEV, INC., as guarantor, and United States Trust Company of
New York, as Trustee, with respect to the 10.25% Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2008 (including the form of 10.25% Senior
Subordinated Note due 2008).
4.2(2) Supplemental Indenture dated as of November 2, 1998 between
Western Auto and United States Trust Company of New York, as
trustee.
10.1(3) Amended and Restated Stockholders Agreement dated November 2,
1998 among FS Equity Partners IV, L.P., Ripplewood Partners, L.P.,
Ripplewood Advance Auto Parts Employee Fund I L.L.C., Nicholas
F. Taubman, The Arthur Taubman Trust dated July 13, 1964, WA
Holding Co. and Holding (including the Terms of the Registration
Rights of Common Stock).
10.2(4) Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of October 19,
1998 among Holding, the Registrant, the lenders party thereto, The
Chase Manhattan Bank ("Chase"), Chase Securities Inc., DLJ Capital
Funding, Inc. and First Union National Bank.
10.3(5) Pledge Agreement dated as of April 15, 1998, as amended and
restated as of November 2, 1998, among the Registrant, Holding, the
Subsidiary Pledgors listed therein and Chase, as collateral agent.
10.4(6) Guarantee Agreement dated as of April 15, 1998, as amended and
restated as of November 2, 1998, among Holding, the Subsidiary
Guarantors listed therein and Chase, as collateral agent.
10.5(7) Indemnity, Subrogation and Contribution Agreement dated as of
April 15, 1998, as amended and restated as of November 2, 1998,
among the Registrant, Holding, the Guarantors listed therein and
Chase, as collateral agent.
10.6(8) Security Agreement dated as of April 15, 1998, as amended and
restated as of November 2, 1998, among the Registrant, Holding, the
Subsidiary Guarantors listed therein and Chase, as collateral agent.
10.7(1) Lease Agreement dated as of March 16, 1995 between Ki, L.C. and
the Company for the Company's headquarters located at 5673 Airport
Road, Roanoke, Virginia, as amended.
32
Exhibit
Number Description
- ------- -----------
10.8(1) Lease Agreement dated as of January 1, 1997 between Nicholas F.
Taubman and the Company for the distribution center located at 1835
Blue Hills Drive, N.E., Roanoke, Virginia, as amended.
10.9(1) Trust Indenture dated as of December 1, 1997 among McDuffie
County Development Authority, First Union National Bank, as
trustee, and Branch Banking and Trust Company, as credit facility
trustee, relating to the $10,000,000 Taxable Industrial Development
Revenue Bonds (Advance Stores Company, Incorporated Project)
Series 1997 (the "IRB").
10.10(1) Lease Agreement dated as of December 1, 1997 between
Development Authority of McDuffie County and the Company
relating to the IRB.
10.11(1) Letter of Credit and Reimbursement Agreement dated as of
December 1, 1997 among the Company, Holding and First Union
National Bank relating to the IRB.
10.12(1) Advance Holding Corporation 1998 Senior Executive Stock Option
Plan.
10.13(1) Form of Advance Holding Corporation 1998 Senior Executive Stock
Option Agreement.
10.14(1) Advance Holding Corporation 1998 Executive Stock Option Plan.
10.15(1) Form of Advance Holding Corporation 1998 Stock Option
Agreement.
10.16(1) Advance Holding Corporation 1998 Senior Executive Stock
Subscription Plan.
10.17(1) Form of Advance Holding Corporation Senior Executive Stock
Subscription Agreement.
10.18(1) Advance Holding Corporation 1998 Employee Stock Subscription
Plan.
10.19(1) Form of Advance Holding Corporation Employee Stock Subscription
Agreement.
10.20(1) Form of Secured Promissory Note.
10.21(1) Form of Stock Pledge Agreement.
10.22(1) Form of Employment and Non-Competition Agreement between
Childs, Cox, Dickerson, Gearheart, Gerald, Gray, Gregory, Hale,
Helms, Jeter, Knighten, Kyle, Livesay, McDaniel, Miley, Quinn,
Rakes, Richardson, Smith, Turner and Williams and the Company
(one-year agreement).
10.23(1) Form of Employment and Non-Competition Agreement between
Tilley, Bigoney, Buskirk, Felts, Fralin, Haan, Klasing, Leftwich, Reid,
Stevens, Vaughn, Wade, Weatherly and Wirth and the Company (two-
year agreement).
10.24(1) Form of Indemnity Agreement between certain directors of Holding
(other than Nicholas F. Taubman) and Holding.
10.25(1) Form of Consulting and Non-Competition Agreement among
Nicholas F. Taubman, Holding and the Company.
10.26(1) Indemnity Agreement dated as of April 15, 1998 between Nicholas F.
Taubman and Holding.
10.27(1) Option Agreement dated as of April 15, 1998 between Nicholas F.
Taubman and Holding.
33
Exhibit
Number Description
- ------- -----------
10.28(1) Option Agreement dated as of April 15, 1998 between Arthur
Taubman Trust dated July 13, 1968 and Holding.
10.29(1) Employment and Non-Competition Agreement among Garnett E.
Smith, Holding and the Company.
10.30(1) Form of Series B Note.
21.1 Subsidiaries of the Company.
24.1 Power of Attorney (contained in the signature pages hereof)
27.1 Financial Data Schedule.
_________________________________
(1) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated by
the same number filed with the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4
effective October 30, 1998 (File No. 333-56013).
(2) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated as
exhibit 4.3 filed with the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated
November 2, 1998.
(3) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated as
exhibit 10.31 filed with the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated
November 2, 1998.
(4) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated as
exhibit 10.32 filed with the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated
November 2, 1998.
(5) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated as
exhibit 10.33 filed with the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated
November 2, 1998.
(6) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated as
exhibit 10.34 filed with the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated
November 2, 1998.
(7) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated as
exhibit 10.35 filed with the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated
November 2, 1998.
(8) Incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit designated as
exhibit 10.36 filed with the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated
November 2, 1998.
(4) Reports on Form 8-K.
(a) Current Report on Form 8-K (date of earliest event--November
2, 1998) related to the Western Auto Merger.
34
Report of Independent Public Accountants
To the Board of Directors and Stockholder of
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Advance Stores
Company, Incorporated (a Virginia Company) and subsidiaries (the Company and a
wholly owned subsidiary of Advance Holding Corporation), as of January 2, 1999,
and January 3, 1998, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes
in stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the
period ended January 2, 1999. These consolidated financial statements and the
schedule referred to below are the responsibility of the Company's management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial
statements and schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Advance Stores
Company, Incorporated and subsidiaries as of January 2, 1999, and January 3,
1998, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the
three fiscal years in the period ended January 2, 1999, in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.
Our audits were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole. The schedule listed in the
index to consolidated financial statements and schedule is presented for
purposes of complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and
are not part of the basic consolidated financial statements. The schedule has
been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audits of the basic
consolidated financial statements and, in our opinion, fairly states in all
material respects, the financial data required to be set forth therein in
relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.
Greensboro, North Carolina ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
April 9, 1999.
F-1
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets - January 2, 1999, and January 3, 1998
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
January 2, January 3,
Assets 1999 1998
------ ---------- ----------
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 34,220 $ 7,447
Receivables, net 91,659 21,901
Inventories 726,172 280,267
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 9,254 2,893
Deferred income taxes 223 -
Refundable income taxes 1,140 168
---------- ---------
Total current assets 862,668 312,676
Property and equipment, net 377,761 134,896
Other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $1,696 and $0 21,087 2,054
---------- ---------
$1,261,516 $ 449,626
========== =========
Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity
------------------------------------
Current liabilities:
Bank overdrafts $ 20,250 $ 7,235
Borrowings secured by receivables 5,000 3,359
Current portion of long-term debt 1,026 -
Current portion of deferred revenue 8,049 1,530
Accounts payable 364,758 157,096
Accrued expenses 152,752 27,187
Deferred income taxes - 3,133
---------- ---------
Total current liabilities 551,835 199,540
---------- ---------
Long-term debt 434,500 106,542
---------- ---------
Deferred revenue 1,389 693
---------- ---------
Deferred income taxes 2,172 12,839
---------- ---------
Other long-term liabilities 50,609 843
---------- ---------
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholder's equity:
Common stock, Class A, voting, $100 par value; 5,000
shares authorized; 536 and 273 issued and outstanding 54 27
Additional paid-in capital 273,598 940
Outstanding stock options 3,431 -
Unamortized stock option compensation (2,736) -
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (53,336) 128,202
---------- ---------
Total stockholder's equity 221,011 129,169
---------- ---------
$1,261,516 $ 449,626
========== =========
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
are an integral part of these statements.
F-2
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
For the Years Ended January 2, 1999,
January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands)
1998 1997 1996
---------- ---------- ---------
(52 weeks) (53 weeks) (52 weeks)
Net sales $1,220,759 $ 848,108 $ 705,983
Cost of sales, including purchasing and warehousing costs 763,353 524,586 437,615
---------- ---------- ---------
Gross profit 457,406 323,522 268,368
Selling, general and administrative expenses 403,945 279,924 228,049
Expenses associated with the Recapitalization of the Parent 14,277 0 0
Expenses associated with restructuring 6,774 0 0
---------- ---------- ---------
Operating income 32,410 43,598 40,319
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (29,517) (7,732) (6,221)
Interest income 1,623 23 275
Net losses on sales of property and equipment (150) (362) (97)
Other, net (867) (485) (329)
---------- ---------- ---------
Total other income (expense), net (28,911) (8,556) (6,372)
---------- ---------- ---------
Income before provision for income taxes 3,499 35,042 33,947
Provision for income taxes 1,887 14,670 13,735
---------- ---------- ---------
Net income $ 1,612 $ 20,372 $ 20,212
========== ========== =========
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
of these statements.
F-3
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity
For the Years Ended January 2, 1999,
January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Class A Retained
Common Stock Additional Unamortized Earnings Total
------------- Paid-in Outstanding Stock Option (Accumulated Stockholder's
Shares Amount Capital Stock Options Compensation Deficit) Equity
------ ------ ----------- ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------
Balance, December 30, 1995,
as previously reported 1 $ - $ 967 - - $ 87,618 $ 88,585
Effect of stock split 272 27 (27) - - - -
------ ------ ----------- ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------
Balance, December 30, 1995, as adjusted 273 27 940 - - 87,618 88,585
Net income - - - - - 20,212 20,212
------ ------ ----------- ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------
Balance, December 28, 1996, as adjusted 273 27 940 - - 107,830 108,797
Net income - - - - - 20,372 20,372
------ ------ ----------- ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------
Balance, January 3, 1998, as adjusted 273 27 940 128,202 129,169
Dividend to parent - - - - - (183,150) (183,150)
Contribution of capital
from parent - - 10,259 - - - 10,259
Issuance of Class A common
stock associated with Western Merger,
net of issuance costs of $575 263 27 262,399 - - - 262,426
Stock option compensation - - - 3,431 (3,431) - -
Amortization of stock
option compensation - - - - 695 - 695
Net income - - - - - 1,612 1,612
------ ------ ----------- ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------
Balance, January 2, 1999 536 $ 54 $273,598 $ 3,431 $ (2,736) $ (53,336) $221,011
====== ====== =========== ============= ============ ============ =============
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
are an integral part of these statements.
F-4
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended January 2, 1999,
January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands)
1998 1997 1996
---------- ------------ -----------
Cash flows from operating activities: (52 weeks) (53 weeks) (52 weeks)
Net income $1,612 $20,372 $20,212
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 29,964 21,801 17,499
Amortization of stock option compensation 695 - -
Amortization of deferred debt issuance costs 1,891 - -
Net losses on sales of property and equipment 150 362 97
(Benefit) provision for deferred income taxes (3,453) 4,211 5,250
Restructuring charge 6,774 - -
Net (increase) decrease in:
Receivables, net 4,844 (7,546) (5,604)
Inventories (99,653) (27,723) (72,645)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (2,064) (837) 517
Refundable income taxes (972) (168) -
Net increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable 65,170 27,072 58,589
Accrued expenses 24,102 3,553 (1,169)
Deferred revenue 7,215 195 (1,416)
Other long-term liabilities 1,622 387 245
---------- ------------ -----------
Net cash provided by operating activities 37,897 41,679 21,575
---------- ------------ -----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment (65,790) (48,864) (44,264)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment 6,073 257 143
Payment for purchase of Advance Holding Corporation Common Stock (193,003) - -
Western Merger, net of cash acquired (170,955) - -
---------- ------------ -----------
Net cash used in investing activities (423,675) (48,607) (44,121)
---------- ------------ -----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Increase (decrease) in bank overdrafts 13,016 (7,032) 817
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 581 13,121 16,116
Principal payments on long-term debt (97,117) (232) (1,740)
Borrowings under debt facilities 425,000 - -
Payment of debt issuance costs (20,786) - -
Contributed capital from Advance Holding Corporation 10,259 - -
Dividend paid to Advance Holding Corporation (183,150) - -
Proceeds from issuance of Class A common stock 262,425
Other 2,323 1,586 -
---------- ------------ -----------
Net cash provided by financing activities 412,551 7,443 15,193
---------- ------------ -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 26,773 515 (7,353)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 7,447 6,932 14,285
---------- ------------ -----------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $34,220 $7,447 $6,932
========= =========== ==========
Supplemental cash flow information:
Interest paid $21,792 $8,440 $6,354
Income taxes paid, net of refunds received 6,540 12,454 11,212
Noncash transactions:
Debt issuance and acquisition costs accrued
at January 2, 1999 3,597 - -
Accrued credit card liability - Western Merger 10,000 - -
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
are an integral part of these statements.
F-5
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
1. Description of Business:
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the Company), a wholly
owned subsidiary of Advance Holding Corporation (the Parent), is a retailer of
automotive replacement parts, accessories and maintenance items, with 1,567, 814
and 649 stores as of, January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996,
respectively. The Company's principal markets are located throughout the
Eastern and Midwest portions of the United States.
On November 2, 1998, Western Auto Supply Company, and its wholly owned
subsidiaries, Parts America, Inc., Western Auto of Puerto Rico, Inc., Western
Auto of St. Thomas, Inc. and WASCO Insurance Company, collectively known as
Western, formerly wholly owned by Sears, Roebuck and Co. (Sears) were merged
with a subsidiary of the Company (Note 4). The Western Merger added 560 net
retail stores in the U.S. operating under the "Parts America" name, and 36
retail stores in Puerto Rico, two retail stores in the U.S. Virgin Islands and
two domestic specialty stores that provide service and parts sales, under the
"Western Auto" name. In addition to the retail stores, the Company also assumed
Western's wholesale business to independent dealers that operate under the
"Western Auto" name.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:
Accounting Period
The Company's fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest the end of the month of
December. The consolidated financial statements reflect the results of
operations for the 52-week periods ended January 2, 1999 (fiscal 1998) and
December 28, 1996 (fiscal 1996), and the 53-week period ended January 3, 1998
(fiscal 1997).
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and
its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and
transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the
financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during
the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
F-6
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash in banks, money market funds and
commercial paper with original maturities of three months or less.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using
the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for approximately 90% and 89% of
inventories at January 2, 1999, and January 3, 1998, respectively, and the
first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for remaining inventories. The Company
capitalizes certain purchasing and warehousing costs into inventory. Purchasing
and warehousing costs included in inventory at January 2, 1999, and January 3,
1998, were $41,168 ($18,768 related to inventory acquired from Western) and
$16,608, respectively. Inventories consist of the following:
January 2, January 3,
1999 1998
---------- -----------
Inventories at FIFO $718,909 $280,267
Reserve to state inventories at LIFO 10,622 2,274
---------- -----------
Inventories at LIFO 729,531 282,541
Other reserves (3,359) (2,274)
---------- -----------
$726,172 $280,267
========== ===========
As a result of price decreases on certain inventory items that went into effect
in the last quarter of fiscal 1998, replacement cost of inventory was
approximately $709,559 at January 2, 1999. Replacement cost approximated FIFO
cost at January 3, 1998.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and
amortization. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged directly to
expense when incurred; major improvements are capitalized. When items are sold
or retired, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the
accounts, with any gain or loss reflected in the consolidated statements of
operations.
Depreciation of land improvements, buildings, furniture, fixtures and equipment
and vehicles is provided over the estimated useful lives, which range from 2 to
40 years, of the respective assets using the straight-line method. Amortization
of leasehold improvements is provided over the shorter of the estimated useful
lives of the respective assets or the term of the lease using the straight-line
method.
F-7
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 121, "Accounting for the
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of,"
requires that long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets to be
held and used or disposed of by an entity be reviewed for impairment whenever
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset
may not be recoverable. SFAS No. 121 also requires that assets to be disposed
of be reported at the lower of the carrying amount or the fair market value less
selling costs. During 1996, the Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 121,
the effect of which was not material to the accompanying consolidated financial
statements.
Allowances
The Company receives cooperative advertising allowances, rebates and various
other incentives from vendors that are recorded as a reduction of cost of sales
or selling, general and administrative expenses when earned. Cooperative
advertising revenue is earned as advertising expenditures are incurred. Rebates
and other incentives are earned based on purchases. Amounts received or
receivable from vendors that are not yet earned are reflected as deferred
revenue in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Management's estimate
of the portion of deferred revenue that will be realized within one year of the
balance sheet date has been reflected as a current liability in the accompanying
consolidated balance sheets. Total deferred revenue is $9,438 and $2,223 at
January 2, 1999, and January 3, 1998, respectively, of which $5,568 and $0 are
receivable at January 2, 1999, and January 3, 1998, respectively.
Closed Stores
The Company recognizes a provision for future obligations at the time a decision
is made to close a store. The provision for closed stores includes the present
value of the remaining lease payments, reduced by the present value of estimated
revenues from subleases, and management's estimate of future insurance, property
tax and common area maintenance.
Postretirement Benefits
The Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits for
eligible retired employees. Employees retiring from the Company with 20
consecutive years of service after age 40 are eligible for these benefits,
subject to deductibles, copayment provisions and other limitations.
The estimated cost of retiree health and life insurance benefits is recognized
over the years that the employees render service as required by SFAS No. 106,
"Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions." The
initial accumulated liability, measured as of January 1, 1995, the date the
Company adopted SFAS No. 106, is being recognized over a 20-year amortization
period.
F-8
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
In connection with the Western Merger (Note 4), the Company assumed Western's
benefit obligation under its postretirement health care plan. Under Western's
postretirement plan, employees retiring from the Company on or after age 55 who
have rendered at least 10 years of service and have participated in the group
health insurance plan are entitled to extend their participation in the plan and
purchase postretirement coverage for themselves and their dependents. The plan
was frozen in fiscal year 1996.
During 1998, the Company adopted SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosure about
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits". SFAS No. 132 revises employers'
disclosure about pension and other postretirement benefit plans. It does not
change the measurement or recognition of these plans.
Preopening Expenses
Preopening expenses, which consist primarily of payroll and occupancy costs, are
expensed as incurred.
Advertising Costs
The Company expenses advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expense was
approximately $35,972, $23,274 and $21,694 in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
Warranty Costs
The Company's vendors are primarily responsible for warranty claims. Warranty
costs relating to merchandise and services sold under warranty which are not
covered by vendors' warranties are estimated based on the Company's historical
experience and recorded in the period the product is sold.
Income Taxes
Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences in future years of
differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their financial
reporting amounts at each period-end, based on enacted income tax laws and
statutory income tax rates applicable to the periods in which the differences
are expected to affect taxable income. The provision for income taxes includes
the income tax payable or receivable for the period and the net change during
the period in deferred income tax assets and liabilities.
F-9
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes merchandise revenue at the point of sale to a retail
customer and point of shipment to a wholesale customer, while service revenue is
recognized upon performance of service. The majority of sales are made for
cash; however, during 1996, the Company began to extend credit through a third-
party provider of private label credit cards. Receivables under the private
label credit card program are transferred to the third-party provider on a
limited recourse basis. The Company provides an allowance for doubtful accounts
on receivables sold with recourse based upon factors related to credit risk of
specific customers, historical trends and other information. In fiscal 1997,
the Company adopted SFAS No. 125, "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of
Financial Assets and Extinguishment of Liabilities," which provides that this
arrangement be accounted for as a secured borrowing. Receivables under the
private label credit card and the related payable to the third-party provider
were $5,000 and $3,359 at January 2, 1999 and January 3, 1998, respectively.
Stock Options
As permitted under SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," the
Company elected to account for its employee stock options using the intrinsic
value method prescribed in Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" (APB No. 25). Under APB No. 25,
compensation cost for stock options is measured as the excess, if any, of the
market price of the Company's common stock at the measurement date over the
exercise price. Pro-forma information is presented as if net income had been
calculated under the fair value based method as prescribed by SFAS No. 123 (Note
17).
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133,
"Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities". This Statement
establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments,
including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts
(collectively referred to as derivatives), and for hedging activities. It
requires companies to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities
in their statement of financial position and measure those instruments at fair
value. This Statement is effective for all fiscal quarters of fiscal years
beginning after June 15, 1999. The Company plans to adopt the provisions of
this Statement in fiscal 2000. The Company has not yet determined the impact
SFAS No. 133 will have on its financial position or the results of its
operations.
Reclassifications
Certain items in the fiscal 1997 and fiscal 1996 financial statements have been
reclassified to conform with the fiscal 1998 presentation.
F-10
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
3. Recapitalization:
On April 15, 1998, Advance Holding Corporation (the Parent) consummated its
recapitalization pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated March 4, 1998
(the Merger Agreement). Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, AHC Corporation (AHC),
a corporation controlled by an investment fund organized by Freeman Spogli & Co.
Incorporated (FS&Co.), merged into the Parent (the Merger), with the Parent as
the surviving corporation. In the Merger, a portion of the Parent's common
stock and all its preferred stock were converted into the right to receive in
the aggregate approximately $351,000 in cash and certain stock options for
500,000 shares of the Parent's common stock. Certain shares representing
approximately 14% of the Parent's outstanding Class A common stock remained
outstanding upon consummation of the Merger. Immediately prior to the Merger,
FS&Co. purchased approximately $80,500 of the common stock of AHC, which was
converted in the Merger into approximately 64% of the Parent's outstanding
common stock and Ripplewood Partners, L.P. and its affiliates (Ripplewood)
purchased approximately $20,000 of the common stock of AHC, which was converted
in the Merger into approximately 16% of the Parent's outstanding common stock.
In connection with the Merger, management purchased approximately $8,000, or
approximately 6%, of the Parent's outstanding common stock.
On April 15, 1998, the Company entered into a new bank credit facility that
provides for (i) three senior secured term loan facilities in the aggregate
amount of $250,000 and (ii) a secured revolving credit facility of up to
$125,000. At the closing of the Merger, $125,000 was borrowed under one of the
term loan facilities. On April 15, 1998, the Company also issued $200,000 of
senior subordinated notes and the Parent issued approximately $60,000 of senior
discount debentures. Proceeds from the new bank facility and senior
subordinated notes were used to pay a $183,000 dividend to the Parent and to
extinguish a substantial portion of the Company's long-term debt.
The Merger, the dividend, the retirement of debt, borrowings under the new bank
credit facility, the Parent's issuance of the senior discount debentures and the
Company's issuance of the senior subordinated notes collectively represent the
"Recapitalization". The Recapitalization transactions effecting the Company
have been accounted for as the issuance of debt, the repayment of intercompany
debt to affiliated company (the Parent, Note 3) and as a dividend to the Parent
for financial reporting purposes.
F-11
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Concurrent with the Recapitalization, the Company paid $11,500 in bonuses to
certain employees, including executive officers. In addition, the Company
incurred expenses of $2,777, primarily professional services, related to the
Recapitalization, of which $1,807 has been allocated to the Company by the
Parent for expenses incurred by the Parent on behalf of the Company. Such
bonuses and expenses are presented as expenses associated with the
Recapitalization of the Parent in the accompanying consolidated statement of
operations.
The Company has deferred $17,650 of debt issuance costs related to the new debt
incurred in connection with the Recapitalization.
In connection with the Recapitalization, FS&Co. and Ripplewood collectively
received $5,000 in fees for negotiating the Recapitalization, advisory and
consulting services, arranging financing and raising equity funding.
Approximately $3,935 of the fee has been recorded by the Company, with $2,935
classified as deferred debt issuance costs and $1,000 charged to expenses
associated with the Recapitalization of the Parent. Approximately $1,065 of the
fee has been recorded by the Parent.
4. Western Merger:
On November 2, 1998, the Company consummated a Plan of Merger (the Western
Merger) with Sears to acquire Western for $175,000 in cash and 11,474,606 shares
of the Parent's common stock. In addition, the Company has agreed to share
losses incurred by Sears as a result of the sale, or as a result of continuing
the private label credit card programs up to a maximum amount of $10,000 (Credit
Card Liability). Based on the sale of the private label credit card programs to
date, the Company has recorded the $10,000 as additional purchase price. In
connection with the transaction, the Parent sold 4,161,712 shares of common
stock to certain stockholders for $70,000 and the Company borrowed $90,000 under
a new deferred term loan facility. The remainder of the $175,000 was funded
through cash on hand. As a result of the transaction, Sears owns approximately
40.6% of the Parent's issued and outstanding common stock.
In connection with the Western Merger, the Board of Directors declared a stock
split effected as a dividend to stockholders of record as of October 30, 1998,
payable at a rate of 272 shares on the one issued and outstanding share of
Company's common stock, resulting in a total of 273 shares outstanding. As
such, the par value of $100 per share was unchanged and thereby increasing
capital stock by $27 with a corresponding reduction in additional paid-in
capital. The effect of the stock split effected as a dividend has been applied
retroactively to all periods presented in the accompanying financial statements.
F-12
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
The Western Merger has been accounted for under the purchase method of
accounting and, accordingly, the results of operations of Western for the period
from November 2, 1998, to January 2, 1999, are included in the accompanying
consolidated financial statements. The purchase price has been allocated to the
assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon preliminary estimates of fair
values. Negative goodwill of $11,738, resulting from excess fair value over the
purchase price, was allocated proportionately as a reduction to certain non-
current assets, primarily property and equipment. A summary of the fair value
of the net assets acquired and cash paid in the Western Merger follows:
Fair value of assets acquired $670,186
Liabilities assumed (287,637)
--------
382,549
Common stock issued (193,003)
Credit Card Liability (10,000)
Accrued acquisition costs (2,591)
--------
Cash paid, including acquisition costs of $1,955 176,955
Less - Cash acquired (6,000)
--------
Net cash paid $170,955
========
Total acquisition costs related to the transaction were approximately $4,546, of
which $2,591 is reflected in accrued liabilities at January 2, 1999.
Liabilities assumed include restructuring liabilities of approximately $23,354
for severance and relocation costs, facility and other exit costs (Note 5).
The following unaudited pro forma information presents the results of operations
of the Company as if the Recapitalization (Note 3) and the Western Merger had
taken place on December 29, 1996:
1998 1997
---------- ----------
Net sales $2,174,076 $2,122,019
Net loss (1,073) (37,801)
========== ==========
The pro forma amounts give effect to certain adjustments, including changes in
interest expense, depreciation and amortization, the net costs of credit card
programs retained by Sears and related income tax effects. These amounts are
based on certain assumptions and estimates and do not reflect any benefit from
economies, which might be achieved from combined operations.
The pro forma results of operations have been prepared for comparative purposes
only and do not purport to be indicative of the results of operations which
actually would have resulted had the Western Merger occurred on the date
indicated, or which may result in the future.
F-13
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
In addition to the acquisition costs, the Company incurred $4,747 of costs and
fees, of which $3,942 has been recorded as deferred debt issuance costs, $575
has been recorded as a reduction of the proceeds from the sale of common stock
and $230 has been expensed. Of the $4,747, FS&Co., Ripplewood, the Chairman of
the Board and an affiliated trust (the Continuing Stockholders) collectively
received $3,575 in fees and expenses for assistance in the Western Merger,
arranging financing, raising equity funding and general consultation.
5. Restructuring Liabilities:
Expenses associated with restructuring include estimated exit costs of $6,348
and write-offs of related leasehold improvements of $426 associated with the
decision to close 31 Advance Auto Parts stores that were in overlapping markets
with certain Parts America stores obtained in the Western Merger. As of January
2, 1999, the Company had closed 3 of these stores with the remainder to be
closed during the first two quarters of fiscal 1999. Store exit costs represent
the present value, discounted at a 6.5% interest rate, of remaining lease
payments, including management's estimate of future insurance, property tax and
common area maintenance, reduced by management's estimate of future sublease
revenue.
In connection with the Western Merger, the Company assumed the restructuring
accrual related to Western's restructuring activities prior to the Western
Merger. As of January 2, 1999, this restructuring accrual relates primarily to
ongoing lease obligations on closed facilities and estimated severance payments.
The Company is pursuing subleasing closed stores, including service bays in
stores obtained through the Western Merger that are currently not involved in
the production of revenue.
A reconciliation of activity with respect to these restructuring accruals is as
follows:
Other
Exit
Severance Costs
----------- ------------
Restructuring reserves assumed
in Western Merger $ 1,092 $ 8,569
Restructuring provision for Advance store
exit costs and fixed asset
write-downs - 6,774
Reserves utilized (410) (570)
------- --------
Balance, January 2, 1999 $ 682 $ 14,773
======= ========
F-14
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
As of the date of the Western Merger, management began to assess and formulate a
plan to close certain Parts America stores in overlapping markets or stores not
meeting the Company's profitability objectives, to exit certain other facility
leases, to relocate certain Western administrative functions to the Company's
headquarters and to terminate certain management, administrative and support
employees of Western. Additional purchase price liabilities have been recorded
for approximately $8,970 for severance and relocation costs and approximately
$14,384 for store and other exit costs. As of January 2, 1999, 66 employees
have been terminated and 52 stores have been closed. The Company expects to
finalize its plan for termination of employees and closure of Parts America
stores within one year from the date of the Western Merger. Additional
liabilities for severance, relocation, store and other facility exit costs may
result in an adjustment to purchase accounting.
A reconciliation of activity with respect to these liabilities, which are
included in restructuring accruals on the consolidated balance sheet as of
January 2, 1999, is as follows:
Other
Exit
Severence Relocation Costs
--------- ---------- -----
Recognized as liabilities assumed
in purchase accounting and
included in purchase price
allocation $ 8,000 $ 970 $ 14,384
Reserves utilized (262) (132) (652)
------- ----- --------
Balance at January 2, 1999 $ 7,738 $ 838 $ 13,732
======= ===== ========
6. Receivables:
Receivables consist of the following:
January 2, January 3,
1999 1998
------- -------
Trade-
Wholesale $ 26,463 $ -
Retail 6,470 3,359
Vendor 38,079 19,038
Installment 11,311 -
Related parties 6,236 -
Employees 555 79
Other 6,325 -
-------- --------
Total receivables $ 95,439 $ 22,476
Less - Allowance for doubtful accounts (3,780) (575)
------- --------
Receivables, net $ 91,659 $ 21,901
======= =======
F-15
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
7. Property and Equipment:
Property and equipment consists of the following:
Estimated January 2, January 3,
Useful Lives 1999 1998
------------ --------- ---------
Land and land improvements 0 - 10 years $ 45,577 $ 3,316
Buildings 40 years 71,752 10,434
Building and leasehold improvements (See Note 2) 73,772 18,435
Furniture, fixtures and equipment 3 - 12 years 254,573 143,069
Vehicles 2 - 10 years 22,892 21,979
Property held for sale 2,479 -
Construction in progress 5,065 15,603
--------- ---------
$ 476,110 212,836
Less - Accumulated depreciation and amortization (98,349) (77,940)
--------- ---------
Property and equipment, net $ 377,761 $ 134,896
=========== ==========
8. Other Assets:
As of January 2, 1999, other assets include deferred debt issuance costs of
$17,650 and $3,942 relating to the Recapitalization (Note 3) and the Western
Merger(Note 4), respectively. Such costs are being amortized over the term of
the related debt (6 years to 11 years).
9. Accrued Expenses:
Accrued expenses consist of the following:
January 2, January 3,
1999 1998
--------- ---------
Payroll and related benefits $ 36,671 $ 7,307
Restructuring 20,604 -
Warranty 21,249 1,750
Other 74,228 18,130
--------- ---------
Total accrued expenses $ 152,752 $ 27,187
========= =========
F-16
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
10. Other Long-term Liabilities:
Other long-term liabilities consist of the following:
January 2, January 3,
1999 1998
--------- --------
Other postretirement employee benefits $ 30,460 $ 843
Restructuring 17,159 -
Other 2,990 -
--------- --------
Total other long-term liabilities $ 50,609 $ 843
========= ========
11. Long-term Debt:
Long-term debt consists of the following:
January 2, January 3,
1999 1998
------ -- ---------
Senior Debt:
Deferred term loans at variable interest
rates (8.125% at January 2, 1999), due April 2004 $ 90,000 $ -
Delayed draw facilities at variable interest rates, due April 2004 - -
Revolving facility at variable interest rates
(7.813% at January 2, 1999), due April 2004 10,000 -
Tranche B facility at variable interest rates
(8.125% at January 2, 1999), due April 2006 125,000 -
Revolving note payable to affiliated company, repaid in April 1998 - $ 46,856
Revolving note payable to affiliated company, repaid in April 1998 - 47,764
McDuffie County Authority taxable industrial development
revenue bonds, issued December 31, 1997, interest due monthly
beginning February 1, 1998, at an adjustable rate established by the
Remarketing Agent (6.0% at January 2, 1999), principal due on
November 1, 2002 10,000 10,000
Other note payable to affiliated company, repaid in April 1998 - 1,922
Other 526 -
Subordinate debt:
Subordinated notes payable, interest due semi-annually at 10.25%,
commencing on October 15, 1998, due April 2008 200,000 -
--------- ---------
Total long-term debt 435,526 106,542
Less - Current portion of long-term debt 1,026 -
--------- ---------
Long-term debt, excluding current portion $ 434,500 $ 106,542
========= =========
F-17
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
The deferred term loan, delayed draw facilities, revolving facility and Tranche
B facility (New Credit Facility) are with a syndicate of banks. The New Credit
Facility provides for the Company to borrow up to $465,000 in the form of senior
secured credit facilities, consisting of (i) $90,000 senior secured deferred
term loan,(ii) $50,000 senior secured delayed draw term loan facility (the
Delayed Draw Facility I), (iii) $75,000 senior secured delayed draw term loan
facility (the Delayed Draw Facility II) and, together with the Delayed Draw
Facility I, (the Delayed Draw Facilities), (iv) a $125,000 Tranche B senior
secured term loan facility (the Tranche B Facility), and (v) a $125,000 senior
secured revolving credit facility (the Revolving Facility). The Revolving
Facility has a letter of credit sublimit of $25,000. Amounts available under
the Delayed Draw Facilities and the Revolving Facility are subject to a
borrowing base formula based on a specified percentage of the Company's eligible
inventory. As of January 2, 1999, $226,900 was available under these
facilities.
Borrowings under the New Credit Facility are required to be prepaid, subject to
certain exceptions, with (a) 50% of the Excess Cash Flow (as defined), (b) the
net cash proceeds of all asset sales or other dispositions of property (as
defined), (c) the net proceeds of issuances of debt obligations and, (d) the net
proceeds of issuance of equity securities. Excess Cash Flow is defined as the
excess of (A) the sum of the Company's (i) consolidated net income (excluding
certain gains and losses and restricted payments made to its parent), (ii)
depreciation, amortization and other non cash charges, (iii) any decrease in Net
Working Capital (as defined), (iv) increases in the deferred revenues, and (v)
proceeds of certain indebtedness incurred, over (B) the sum of (a) any non cash
gains, (b) any increases in Net Working Capital, (c) decreases in consolidated
deferred revenues, (d) capital expenditures, and (e) repayments of indebtedness
(subject to certain exceptions). No mandatory Excess Cash Flow prepayments were
made in fiscal 1998 nor are any expected for fiscal 1999.
For the first four fiscal quarters after April 1998, the interest rates under
the Delayed Draw Facilities and the Revolving Facility are based, at the option
of the Company, on either a Eurodollar rate plus 2.25% per annum or a base rate
plus 1.25% per annum. Thereafter, the interest rates under the Delayed Draw
Facilities and the Revolving Facility will be determined by reference to a
pricing grid that will provide for reductions in the applicable interest rate
margins based on the trailing Total Debt to EBITDA ratio, as defined, of the
Company. The interest rate under the Deferred Term Loan and the Tranche B
Facility is based, at the option of the Company, on a Eurodollar rate plus 2.5%
or a base rate plus 1.5%. A commitment fee of 0.50% per annum will be charged
on the unused portion of the New Credit Facility.
The New Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the assets of the
Company. The New Credit Facility contains covenants restricting the ability of
the Company and its subsidiaries to, among others, (i) declare dividends or
redeem or repurchase capital stock, (ii) make loans and investments and (iii)
engage in transactions with affiliates or the Parent to change its passive
holding company status. The Company is required to comply with financial
covenants with respect to (a) a maximum leverage ratio, (b) a minimum interest
coverage ratio, and (c) a minimum retained cash earnings test.
F-18
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
On December 31, 1997, the Company entered into an agreement with McDuffie County
Authority under which bond proceeds of $10,000 were issued to construct a
distribution center. Proceeds of the bond offering that have not been expended
as of January 2, 1999, of $1,091 are in a restricted escrow account, which are
included in prepaid expenses and other current assets on the January 2, 1999,
consolidated balance sheet. These industrial development revenue bonds
currently bear interest at a variable rate, with a one-time option to convert to
a fixed rate, and are secured by a letter of credit.
The $200,000 Senior Subordinated Notes (the Notes) are unsecured and are
subordinate in right of payment to all existing and future Senior Debt. The
Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at any
time on or after April 15, 2003. In addition, at any time prior to April 15,
2001, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the initially outstanding aggregate
principal amount of the Notes at a redemption price equal to 110.25% of the
principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest and liquidated
damages, if any, thereon to the date of redemption, with the net proceeds of one
or more equity offerings; provided that, in each case, at least 65% of the
initially outstanding aggregate principal amount of the Notes remains
outstanding immediately after the occurrence of any such redemption; and
provided further, that such redemption shall occur within 90 days of the date of
the closing of such equity offering.
Upon the occurrence of a change of control, (as defined), each holder of the
Notes will have the right to require the Company to repurchase all or any part
of such holder's Notes at an offering price in cash equal to 101% of the
aggregate principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest and
liquidated damages, if any, thereon to the date of purchase.
The Notes are guaranteed by two wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company,
LARALEV, INC., which holds certain trademarks and tradenames and other
intangible assets for which it receives royalty income from the Company, and
Western.
The Notes contain certain non-financial covenants that limit, among other
things, the ability of the Company to issue preferred stock, repurchase stock
and certain indebtedness, engage in transactions with affiliates, pay dividends
or certain other distributions, make certain investments and sell stock of
subsidiaries.
As of January 2, 1999, the Company was in compliance with the covenants of the
New Credit Facility and the Notes. Substantially all of the net assets of the
Company are restricted at January 2, 1999.
F-19
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
The aggregate future annual maturities of long-term debt are as follows:
1999 $ 1,026
2000 1,000
2001 1,500
2002 12,000
2003 2,000
Thereafter 418,000
-----------
$435,526
===========
12. Income Taxes:
(Benefit) provision for income taxes for fiscal 1998, fiscal 1997 and fiscal
1996 consists of the following:
Current Deferred Total
------------------------------
1998-
Federal $ 3,858 $(2,863) $ 995
State 1,482 (590) 892
------------------------------
$ 5,340 $(3,453) $ 1,887
========= ========= =========
1997-
Federal $ 9,037 $ 2,194 $11,231
State 1,422 2,017 3,439
------------------------------
$10,459 $ 4,211 $14,670
========= ========= =========
1996-
Federal $ 7,657 $ 3,856 $11,513
State 828 1,394 2,222
------------------------------
$ 8,485 $ 5,250 $13,735
========= ========= =========
F-20
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
The provision for income taxes differed from the amount computed by applying the
federal statutory income tax rate due to:
1998 1997 1996
------- ----- -----
Pre-tax income at statutory U.S. federal
income tax rate $1,225 $12,265 $11,881
State income taxes, net of federal income
tax benefit 580 2,235 1,444
Changes in certain tax accounting methods (366) (196) -
Puerto Rico dividend withholding tax 120 - -
Nondeductible expenses 391 384 327
Other, net (63) (18) 83
------- ------- -------
$1,887 $14,670 $13,735
======= ======= =======
Deferred income taxes reflect the net income tax effect of temporary differences
between the bases of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and
for income tax reporting purposes. Net deferred income tax balances are
comprised of the following:
January 2, January 3,
1999 1998
---------- -------------
Deferred income tax assets $ 41,082 $ 5,705
Deferred income tax liabilities $(43,031) (21,677)
---------- -------------
Net deferred income taxes $($1,949) $(15,972)
========= ============
Net deferred income tax assets of $10,570 were recorded in the purchase price
allocation of Western.
Management believes that it is more likely than not that all of the deferred
income tax assets will be realized through future earnings. Therefore, no
valuation allowances against deferred income tax assets were recorded at January
2, 1999, or January 3, 1998. The amount of deferred income tax assets
realizable, however, could change in the near future if estimates of future
taxable income are changed.
F-21
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Temporary differences which gave rise to significant deferred income tax assets
(liabilities) were as follows:
January 2, January 3,
1999 1998
------------- -------------
Current deferred income taxes-
Inventory valuation differences $(23,228) $ (6,592)
Accrued medical and workers compensation 2,133 1,805
Accrued expenses not currently deductible for tax 21,548 1,418
Other, net (230) 259
------------- -------------
Total current deferred income taxes $ 223 $ (3,110)
============ ============
Long-term deferred income taxes-
Property and equipment (11,851) (13,225)
Postretirement benefit obligation 8,591 313
Other 1,088 73
------------- -------------
Total long-term deferred income taxes $ (2,172) $(12,839)
============ ============
For federal and Virginia state income tax reporting purposes, the taxable income
of the Company is included in the consolidated income tax returns of the Parent.
Accordingly, any current and deferred federal and Virginia state income taxes,
computed on a separate company basis, are payable to or receivable from the
Parent.
The Parent currently has three years that are open to audit by the Internal
Revenue Service. In addition, various Parent and Company state income and
franchise tax returns for several years are open to audit. In management's
opinion, adequate reserves have been established and any amounts assessed will
not have a material effect on the Company's financial position and results of
operations.
13. Lease Commitments:
The Company leases store locations, distribution centers, office space,
equipment and vehicles under lease arrangements, some of which are with related
parties.
At January 2, 1999, future minimum lease payments due under non-cancelable
operating leases are as follows:
Related
Parties Other Total
-----------------------------------
1999 $3,199 $ 102,259 $105,458
2000 3,041 96,817 99,858
2001 2,644 88,698 91,342
2002 2,594 80,514 83,108
2003 2,379 69,960 72,339
Thereafter 4,908 232,749 237,657
------- --------- --------
$18,765 $ 670,997 $689,762
======= ========= ========
F-22
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
At January 2, 1999, future minimum sub-lease income to be received under non-
cancelable operating leases is $9,283.
Net rent expense for fiscal 1998, fiscal 1997 and fiscal 1996 was as follows:
1998 1997 1996
--------- ---------- ---------
Minimum facility rentals $63,787 $44,707 $36,678
Contingent facility rentals 718 413 357
Equipment rentals 1,804 1,532 1,242
Vehicle rentals 2,391 1,658 331
---------- ---------- ---------
68,700 48,310 38,608
Less: sub-lease income 426 100 103
---------- ---------- ---------
$68,274 $48,210 $38,505
========== ========== =========
Contingent facility rentals are determined on the basis of a percentage of sales
in excess of stipulated minimums for certain store facilities. Most of the
leases provide that the Company pay taxes, maintenance, insurance and certain
other expenses applicable to the leased premises and include options to renew.
Certain leases contain rent escalation clauses. Management expects that, in the
normal course of business, leases that expire will be renewed or replaced by
other leases.
Rental payments to related parties of approximately $2,984 in fiscal 1998,
$3,171 in fiscal 1997 and $3,076 in fiscal 1996 are included in the total rent
expense.
14. Contingencies:
In the case of all known contingencies, the Company accrues for an obligation
when it is probable and the amount is reasonably estimable. As facts concerning
contingencies become known to the Company, the Company reassesses its position
both with respect to gain contingencies and accrued liabilities and other
potential exposures. Estimates that are particularly sensitive to future change
include tax and legal matters, which are subject to change as events evolve and
as additional information becomes available during the administrative and
litigation process.
F-23
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
In November 1997 a plaintiff, on behalf of himself and others similarly
situated, filed a class action complaint and motion of class certification
against the Company in the circuit court for Jefferson County, Tennessee,
alleging misconduct in the sale of automobile batteries. The complaint seeks
compensatory and punitive damages. The case is in the discovery stage and
management plans a vigorous defense. In addition, three lawsuits were filed
against the Company on July 28, 1998, for wrongful death relating to an
automobile accident involving an employee of the Company. Management believes
the financial exposure is covered by insurance. The Company is also involved in
various other claims and lawsuits arising in the normal course of business.
Although the final outcome of these legal matters cannot be determined, based on
the facts presently known, it is management's opinion that the final outcome of
such claims and lawsuits will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's financial position or results of operations.
Subsequent to January 2, 1999, the Company was notified by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that Western Auto may have potential
liability under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and
Liability Act relating to two battery salvage and recycling sites that were in
operation in the 1970's and 1980's. Management has begun investigating the EPA
notification. An estimate of the range of liability is not reasonably possible
until technical studies are sufficiently completed and the amount of potential
indemnification from Sears, if any, is further investigated. The ultimate
exposure will also depend upon the participation of other parties named in the
notification who are believed to share in responsibility.
Sears has agreed to indemnify the Company for certain litigation and
environmental matters of Western that existed as of the Western Merger date. The
Company has recorded a receivable from Sears of approximately $2,685, which is
included in the fair value of Western's assets (Note 4), relating to certain
environmental matters that had been accrued by Western as of the Western Merger
date. Sears has agreed to partially indemnify the Company for up to 5 years for
certain additional environmental matters that may arise relating to the period
prior to the Western Merger. The Company's maximum exposure during the
indemnification period for certain matters covered in the Western Merger
agreement is $3,750.
The Company has certain periods open to examination by taxing authorities in
various states for sales and use tax. In management's opinion, adequate
reserves have been established and any amounts assessed will not have a material
effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.
F-24
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousdands, except per share data)
The Company is self-insured with respect to workers' compensation and health
care claims for eligible active employees. The Company maintains certain levels
of stop-loss insurance coverage for these claims through an independent
insurance provider. The cost of workers' compensation and general health care
claims is accrued based on actual claims reported plus an estimate for claims
incurred but not reported. These estimates are based on historical information
along with certain assumptions about future events, and are subject to change as
additional information becomes available.
The Company has entered into employment agreements with certain employees that
provide severance pay benefits under certain circumstances after a change in
control of the Company. The maximum contingent liability under these employment
agreements is approximately $6,400 at January 2, 1999.
15. Benefit Plans:
401(k) Plan
The Company maintains a defined contribution employee benefit plan which covers
substantially all employees after one year of service. The plan allows for
employee salary deferrals, which are matched at the Company's discretion.
Company contributions were $2,634 in fiscal 1998, $3,196 in fiscal 1997 and
$2,779 in fiscal 1996.
The Company also maintains a profit sharing plan covering Western employees that
was frozen prior to the Western Merger on November 2, 1998 (Note 4). This plan
covered all full-time employees who have completed one year of service and have
attained the age of 21 as of the first day of each month. All employees covered
under this plan were included in the Company's plan on January 1, 1999. During
first quarter fiscal 1999, the Company contributed the employer match liability
assumed in the Western Merger. No additional contributions will be made to the
frozen plan.
Deferred Compensation
The Company maintains an unfunded deferred compensation plan established for
certain key employees of Western prior to the Western Merger (Note 4). The
Company assumed the plan liability of $15,253 through the Western Merger. The
plan was frozen at the date of the Western Merger.
F-25
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Postretirement Plans
The Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits for
eligible retired employees. The Company maintains the existing plan and the
assumed plan covering Western employees. Financial information related to the
plans were determined by the Company's independent actuaries as of January 2,
1999, and January 3, 1998. The following provides a reconciliation of the
benefit obligation and the funded status of the plan:
Employment Benefits
-------------------------
1998 1997
------------ ------------
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of the year $ 3,225 $2,645
Obligation assumed in the Western Merger (Note 4) 20,257 -
Service cost 240 139
Interest cost 440 195
Benefits paid (367) (58)
Actuarial gain/(loss) (236) 304
------------ ------------
Benefit obligation at end of the year 23,559 3,225
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of the year - -
Employer contributions 367 58
Benefits paid (367) (58)
------------ ------------
Fair value of plan assets at end of year - -
Reconciliation of funded status:
Funded status (23,559) (3,225)
Unrecognized transition obligation 926 984
Unrecognized actuarial loss 1,101 1,398
------------ ------------
Accrued postretirement benefit cost $(21,532) $ (843)
=========== ===========
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost is as follows:
1998 1997 1996
------- -------- --------
Service Cost $240 $139 $155
Interest Cost 440 195 113
Amortization of the transition obligation 58 58 58
Amortization of unrecognized net actuarial loss 60 54 8
------ ------ ------
$798 $446 $334
====== ====== ======
The postretirement benefit obligation was computed using an assumed discount
rate of 6.5% in 1998 and 7.0% in 1997. The health care cost trend rate was
assumed to be 6.0% for 1998, and 5.0% for 1999 and thereafter.
F-26
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
If the health care cost were increased 1% for all future years the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation would have increased by $865 as of January 2,
1999. The effect of this change on the combined service and interest cost would
have been an increase of $315 for 1998.
If the health care cost were decreased 1% for all future years the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation would have decreased by $712 as of January 2,
1999. The effect of this change on the combined service and interest cost would
have been a decrease of $256 for 1998.
The Company reserves the right to change or terminate the benefits at any time.
The Company also continues to evaluate ways in which it can better manage these
benefits and control costs. Any changes in the plan or revisions to assumptions
that affect the amount of expected future benefits may have a significant impact
on the amount of the reported obligation and annual expense.
16. Related-party Transactions:
Rents for related-party leases may be slightly higher than rents for
nonaffiliated leases, and certain terms of the related-party leases are more
favorable to the landlord than those contained in leases with nonaffiliates.
In 1996, the Company entered into an agreement for the sale and leaseback of a
$2,200 addition to a distribution center. There was no gain or loss as a result
of the transaction. The lease is classified as an operating lease in accordance
with SFAS No. 13, "Accounting for Leases."
The Company allocated certain payroll and insurance costs to the Parent in
fiscal 1997, resulting in a $1,017 reduction in selling, general and
administrative expenses in the accompanying fiscal 1997 statement of income. No
such allocations were made in fiscal 1998 and 1996.
At April 1998, the Company sold its airplane to the Chairman of the Board, an
existing stockholder, for its net book value of approximately $4,100, which
approximated fair value.
Under the terms of the shared services agreement, Sears will provide certain
services to the Company, including payroll and payable processing for Western,
among other services, until such activities are transitioned to the Company,
which the Company expects to occur in fiscal 1999. The Company and Sears have
entered into agreements that provide for the Western stores to continue to
purchase and carry certain Sears branded products during periods defined in the
agreements. The Company will also become a first-call supplier of certain
automotive products to certain Sears Automotive Group stores. In connection
with the Western Merger, Sears has arranged to buy from the Company certain
products in bulk for its automotive centers through January 1999.
The Company and Sears have entered into an agreement that provides for the
Company to lease certain employees to Sears to perform all operations and
services that were previously performed by Western and its affiliates with
respect to certain credit card operations for stores in Puerto Rico. In
addition, the Company will continue to provide certain services to Sears that
were previously performed by Western until such services are transitioned to
Sears.
F-27
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, Juanuary 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
The following table presents the related party transactions with Sears for the
period from November 2, 1998 to January 2, 1999:
Fiscal
1998
---------
Net Sales to Sears $ 2,124
Shared services revenue 644
Shared services expense (844)
Credit card fees expense (657)
Other revenues, net 53
Receivables from Sears 6,036
Payables to Sears (5,457)
17. Stock Options:
During 1998, the Company adopted a senior executive stock option plan and an
executive stock option plan (the Option Plans) for key employees of the Company.
The Option Plans provide for the granting of non-qualified stock options. All
options will terminate on the seventh anniversary of the Option Plan. Shares
available for grant under the senior executive and the executive stock option
plans are 507,500 and 450,000, respectively, at January 2, 1999.
Three different types of options were granted pursuant to the Option Plans.
Fixed Price Service Options will vest over a three-year period in three equal
installments beginning in fiscal 1999. Performance Options will be earned in
installments based upon satisfaction of certain performance targets for the
four-year period ending in fiscal 2001. Variable Price Service Options will
vest in equal annual installments over a two-year period beginning in 1999, and
have an exercise price that increases over time.
F-28
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Total options outstanding at January 2, 1999, were as follows:
Number of Initial Exercise
Shares Price
------------------------
Variable price service options 397,085 $ 10
Performance options 397,085 10
Fixed price service options 104,580 10
----------
898,750
==========
No options were exercisable at January 2, 1999.
The Company applies APB No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" in
accounting for its stock options. Accordingly, the Company did not recognize
compensation expense on the issuance of its stock options because the exercise
price equaled the fair market value of the underlying stock on the grant date.
The Board of Directors determines fair market value. The fair market value of
the stock as of January 2, 1999, as determined by the Board of Directors, was
$16.82. The excess of the fair market value per share over the exercise price
per share for the Performance Options and Variable Price Service Options is
recorded as outstanding stock options and unamortized stock option compensation
in stockholder's equity. This compensation is amortized to expense over the
vesting periods. Compensation expense related to these options of $695 is
included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying
consolidated statements of operations for the 52-week period ended January 2,
1999.
The following information is presented as if the Company elected to account for
compensation cost related to the stock options using the fair value method as
prescribed by SFAS No. 123:
1998
----------
Net income-
As reported $1,612
Pro forma 2,094
==========
For the above information, the fair value of each option granted in fiscal 1998
was estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model
with the following assumptions; (i) risk-free interest rate of 5.61%, 5.62% and
5.65%; (ii) weighted-average expected life of options of two, three and four
years and (iii) expected dividend yield of zero. As permitted for companies
with non-public equity securities by SFAS No. 123, the Company used the
assumption of zero volatility in valuing the options.
Subsequent to January 2, 1999, the Board of Directors of the Parent approved an
additional 255,000 shares at $16.82 per share for upcoming grants.
F-29
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
18. Fair Value of Financial Instruments:
The estimated fair value of the Company's financial instruments are as follows:
January 2, 1999 January 3, 1998
Carrying Fair Carrying Fair
Amount Value Amount Value
------------ ----------- ----------- ---------
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 34,220 $ 34,220 $ 7,447 $ 7,447
Receivables, net 91,659 91,659 21,901 21,901
Liabilities:
Accounts payable 364,758 364,758 157,096 157,096
Bank overdraft 20,250 20,250 7,235 7,235
Borrowings secrued by receivables 5,000 5,000 3,359 3,359
Notes payable and current portion
of long-term debt 1,026 1,026 - -
Long-term debt $434,500 $438,000 $106,542 $106,542
The carrying amount of the cash and cash equivalents, receivables, accounts
payable and borrowings secured by receivables approximates fair value because of
the short maturity of those instruments. The fair value of all fixed rate long-
term debt was determined based on current market prices. The carrying amount for
variable rate long-term debt approximates fair value for similar issues
available to the Company.
19. Segment and Related Information:
During 1998, the Company adopted SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information". This statement requires entities to report
financial and descriptive information related to segments within the
organization.
The Company has two reportable segments: Advance Stores and Western. The
Advance Stores segment consists primarily of existing retail operations of the
Company, which offer only automotive replacement parts, accessories and
maintenance items. Western consists of retail stores and wholesale operations,
all under the "Parts America" or "Western Auto" name, obtained through the
Western Merger (Note 4). The Parts America stores offer merchandise similar to
that offered in the Advance retail stores. The stores operating under the
Western Auto name carry nonautomotive items as well as auto parts and
accessories and perform certain services for retail customers. The wholesale
operation consists of distribution services to independent dealers operating
under the "Western Auto" name, including 3 franchises.
The Company is in the process of converting the Parts America stores to Advance
Auto Parts stores and expects to complete the conversions during fiscal 1999.
F-30
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
As of January 2, 1999, the Company continues to formulate an appropriate
management reporting approach for the Western operations. For the period from
November 2, 1998 to January 2, 1999, management received and used financial
information aggregated at the Western level in evaluating the performance of the
acquired operations. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the
same as those described in Note 2.
Advance
1998 Stores (a) Western (b) Totals
- ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------- --------------
Net sales $1,042,434 $ 178,325 $1,220,759
Gross profit 404,990 52,416 457,406
Operating income 32,175 235 32,410
Net interest (expense) income (28,310) 416 (27,894)
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes 4,201 (702) 3,499
Segment assets 1,036,411 225,105 1,261,516
Depreciation and amortization 26,778 3,186 29,964
Capital expenditures 55,428 10,362 65,790
1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------- --------------
Net sales $848,108 $ - $848,108
Gross profit 323,522 - 323,522
Operating income 43,598 - 43,598
Net interest expense (7,709) - (7,709)
Income before provision for income taxes 35,042 - 35,042
Segment assets 449,626 - 449,626
Depreciation and amortization 21,801 - 21,801
Capital expenditures 48,864 - 48,864
1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------- --------------
Net sales $705,983 $ - $705,983
Gross profit 268,368 - 268,368
Operating income 40,319 - 40,319
Net interest expense (5,946) - (5,946)
Income before provision for income taxes 33,947 - 33,947
Segment assets 384,620 - 384,620
Depreciation and amortization 17,499 - 17,499
Capital expenditures 44,264 - 44,264
(a) For fiscal years ended 1998, 1997 and 1996 total revenues include
approximately $130,000, $100,000 and $70,000, respectively, related to
revenues derived from commercial sales.
(b) On January 2, 1999, inventory and fixed assets of $427,714, a current
deferred tax liability of $4,952 and a noncurrent deferred tax asset of
$2,109 related to the operations of the Parts America stores were
transferred to the Advance Stores segment through a dividend.
F-31
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
20. Guarantor Subsidiaries:
The Company has wholly owned subsidiaries, LARALEV, INC. and Western (Guarantor
Subsidiaries) that are guarantors of the subordinated notes, new term loan
facility and revolving credit facility that the Company entered into as part of
the Recapitalization (Note 3) and the Western Merger (Note 4). The guarantee is
joint and several in addition to full and unconditional. LARALEV, INC. holds
certain trademarks, tradenames and other intangible assets for which it receives
royalty income from the Company. The Guarantor Subsidiaries comprise all direct
and indirect subsidiaries, other than Advance Trucking Corporation and certain
inconsequential subsidiaries, of the Company. Advance Trucking Corporation is a
wholly owned subsidiary that holds substantially all of the Company's inventory
delivery vehicles and is not a guarantor of the Company's indebtedness. The
Company has not presented separate financial statements for the subsidiaries
because management has determined that such information is not material to
investors.
F-32
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Combined condensed financial information for the guarantor and nonguarantor
subsidiaries is as follows:
Consolidated
Advance Advance
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Stores
January 2, 1999 Company Subsidiaries Subsidiaries Eliminations Company
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 29,657 $ 4,563 $ - $ - $ 34,220
Inventories 644,031 76,855 - 5,286 726,172
Other current assets 37,694 144,715 1,765 (81,898) 102,276
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total current assets $ 711,382 $ 226,133 $ 1,765 $ (76,612) $ 862,668
Investment in subsidiaries 20,434 - - (20,434) -
Property and equipment, net 314,029 54,290 9,442 - 377,761
Other assets, net 25,998 28,618 - (33,529) 21,087
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
$ 1,071,843 $ 309,041 $ 11,207 $ (130,575) $ 1,261,516
=========== ============ ============ ============ ============
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 226,939 $ 137,508 $ 312 $ (1) $ 364,758
Accrued expenses 72,207 111,250 (4) (30,701) 152,752
Other current liabilities 86,540 1,540 70 (53,825) 34,325
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total current liabilities 385,686 250,298 378 (84,527) 551,835
Long-term debt 444,124 425,000 673 (435,297) 434,500
Other long-term liabilities 21,022 43,533 97 (10,482) 54,170
Stockholder's equity:
Common Stock 54 10 - (10) 54
Additional paid in capital 273,598 (42,322) 10,050 32,272 273,598
Outstanding stock options 3,431 - - - 3,431
Unamortized stock option compensation (2,736) - - - (2,736)
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (53,336) (367,478) 9 367,469 (53,336)
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total stockholder's equity 221,011 (409,790) 10,059 399,731 221,011
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
$ 1,071,843 $ 309,041 $ 11,207 $ (130,575) $ 1,261,516
=========== ============ ============ ============ ============
F-33
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Consolidated
Advance Advance
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Stores
January 3, 1998 Company (a) Subsidiaries (b) Subsidiaries Eliminations Company
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 7,372 $ 55 $ 20 $ - $ 7,447
Inventories 280,267 - - - 280,267
Other current assets 26,135 37,813 251 (39,237) 24,962
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Total current assets 313,774 37,868 271 (39,237) 312,676
Investment in subsidiaries 39,988 - - (39,988) -
Property and equipment, net 130,764 40 4,092 - 134,896
Other assets, net 2,054 - - - 2,054
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
$ 486,580 $ 37,908 $ 4,363 $ (79,225) $ 449,626
============= ============= ============= ============ =============
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 157,085 $ - $ 11 $ - $ 157,096
Accrued expenses 31,443 827 3 (5,086) 27,187
Other current liabilities 49,090 (534) 3 (33,302) 15,257
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Total current liabilities 237,618 293 17 (38,388) 199,540
Long-term debt 106,542 - 849 (849) 106,542
Other long-term liabilities 13,251 - 1,124 - 14,375
Stockholder's equity:
Common Stock 27 10 11 (21) 27
Additional paid in capital 940 - - - 940
Retained Earnings 128,202 37,605 2,362 (39,967) 128,202
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Total stockholder's equity 129,169 37,615 2,373 (39,988) 129,169
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
$ 486,580 $ 37,908 $ 4,363 $ (79,225) $ 449,626
============= ============= ============= ============ =============
F-34
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Consolidated
Advance Advance
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Stores
January 2, 1999 Company (a) Subsidiaries (b) Subsidiaries Eliminations Company
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales $ 1,042,434 $ 178,325 $ 2,126 $ (2,126) $ 1,220,759
Cost of sales 637,444 125,909 - - 763,353
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Gross profit 404,990 52,416 2,126 (2,126) 457,406
Selling, general and administrative expenses 372,933 31,356 1,784 (2,128) 403,945
Expense associated with the Recapitalization
of the Parent 14,277 - - - 14,277
Expense associated with restructuring 6,774 - - - 6,774
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Operating income 11,006 21,060 342 2 32,410
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (32,741) (27,927) (19) 31,170 (29,517)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries 15,249 - - (15,249) -
Other, net 360 3,493 (4) (3,243) 606
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Total other income (expense), net (17,132) (24,434) (23) 12,678 (28,911)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Income (loss) before (benefit) provision for (6,126) (3,374) 319 12,680 3,499
income taxes ------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
(Benefit) provision for income taxes (7,736) (1,722) 175 11,170 1,887
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Net income $ 1,610 $ (1,652) $ 144 $ 1,510 $ 1,612
============= ============= ============= ============ =============
Consolidated
Advance Advance
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Stores
January 3, 1998 Company Subsidiaries Subsidiaries Eliminations Company
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales $ 848,108 $ - $ 1,806 $ (1,806) $ 848,108
Cost of sales 524,586 - - - 524,586
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Gross profit 323,522 - 1,806 (1,806) 323,522
Selling, general and administrative expenses 297,756 (16,849) 823 (1,806) 279,924
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Operating income 25,766 16,849 983 - 43,598
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (9,774) - (98) 2,140 (7,732)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries 12,490 - - (12,490) -
Other, net (747) 2,064 (1) (2,140) (824)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Total other (income) expense, net 1,969 2,064 (99) (12,490) (8,556)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Income before income taxes 27,735 18,913 884 (12,490) 35,042
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Provision for income taxes 7,363 6,889 418 - 14,670
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ -------------
Net income $ 20,372 $ 12,024 $ 466 $ (12,490) 20,372
============= ============= ============= ============ =============
F-35
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Consolidated
Advance Advance
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Stores
December 28, 1996 Company Subsidiaries Subsidiaries Eliminations Company
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales $ 705,983 $ - $ 2,032 $ (2,032) $ 705,983
Cost of sales 437,615 - - - 437,615
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Gross profit 268,368 - 2,032 (2,032) 268,368
Selling, general and administrative expenses 243,266 (13,932) 747 (2,032) 228,049
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating income 25,102 13,932 1,285 - 40,319
Other (income) expense:
Interest expense (7,437) - (144) 1,360 (6,221)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries 10,553 - - (10,553) -
Other, net (198) 1,231 176 (1,360) (151)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total other (income) expense, net 2,918 1,231 32 (10,553) (6,372)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Income before income taxes 28,020 15,163 1,317 (10,553) 33,947
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Provision for income taxes 7,808 5,375 552 - 13,735
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income $ 20,212 $ 9,788 $ 765 $ (10,553) $ 20,212
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
F-36
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Consolidated
Advance Advance
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Stores
January 2, 1999 Company (a) Subsidiaries (b) Subsidiaries Eliminations Company
- ---------------------------------------- ------------ ----------------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 26,972 $ (2,134) $ (1,530) $ 14,589 $ 37,897
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Transfers of property and equipment 9,968 - (9,968) - -
Purchases of property and equipment (55,435) (10,395) - 40 (65,790)
Proceeds from sales of property and
equipment 279 1,758 4,036 - 6,073
Acquisition, net of cash acquired (382,549) - - 18,591 (363,958)
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash used in investing
activities (427,737) (8,637) (5,932) 18,631 (423,675)
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Increase in bank overdrafts 6,472 6,487 54 3 13,016
Net borrowings under notes payable 14,966 539 23 (15,528) -
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 10,198 2,253 673 (12,543) 581
Principal payments of long-term debt (97,117) - (849) 849 (97,117)
Borrowings under new credit facilities 425,000 425,000 - (425,000) 425,000
Payment of debt issuance costs (20,786) (21,592) - 21,592 (20,786)
Contributed capital from Advance
Holding Corporation 10,259 - - - 10,259
Contributed capital to Advance
Trucking Corporation (10,039) - - 10,039 -
Dividend paid to Advance Holding
Corporation (180,654) - - (2,496) (183,150)
Proceeds from issuance of Class A
common stock 262,426 - 10,049 (10,050) 262,425
Payment of dividend to Advance Stores
Company - (403,408) (2,508) 405,916 -
Other 2,325 - - (2) 2,323
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------
Net cash provided by financing
activities 423,050 9,279 7,442 (27,220) 412,551
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents 22,285 (1,492) (20) 6,000 26,773
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 7,372 6,055 20 (6,000) 7,447
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $ 29,657 $ 4,563 $ - $ - $ 34,220
========== =========== =========== =========== ============
Advance Consolidated
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Advance
January 3, 1998 Company Subsidiaries Subsidiaries Eliminations Stores
- ----------------------------------------- ---------- ------------- ------------ ------------- -----------
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 31,873 $ 526 $ 965 $ 8,315 $ 41,679
---------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment (48,781) - (83) - (48,864)
Proceeds from sales of property
and equipment 257 - - - 257
---------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Net cash used in investing activities (48,524) - (83) - (48,607)
---------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Cash flows from financing activities: -
Decrease in banks overdrafts (7,032) - - (7,032)
Net borrowings under notes payable 9,687 (457) (5) (9,225) -
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 13,121 - - - 13,121
Principal payments of long-term debt (232) - (910) 910 (232)
Other 1,586 - - - 1,586
---------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Net cash provided by (used in)
financing activities 17,130 (457) (915) (8,315) 7,443
---------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents 479 69 (33) - 515
Cash and cash equivalent, beginning of year 6,893 26 13 - 6,932
---------- ----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
Cash and cash equivalent, end of year $ 7,372 $ 95 $ (20) $ - $ 7,447
========== =========== ============ ============ ===========
F-37
ADVANCE STORES COMPANY, INCORPORATED and SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Consolidated
Advance Advance
Stores Guarantor Nonguarantor Stores
December 28, 1996 Company Subsidiaries Subsidiaries Eliminations Company
- -------------------------------------------------------- --------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 15,205 $ 78 $ 1,323 $ 4,969 $ 21,575
--------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Liquidation of subsidiary 8,105 - (8,105) - -
Purchases of property and equipment (44,165) - (99) - (44,264)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment 143 - - - 143
--------- ------------ ------------ ------------ -------------
Net cash used in investing activities (35,917) - (8,204) - (44,121)
--------- ------------ ------------ ------------ -------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Increase in bank overdraft 817 - - - 817
Net borrowings under notes payable 6,161 (116) 8 (6,053) -
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 16,116 - - - 16,116
Principal payments on long-term debt (1,740) - (1,084) 1,084 (1,740)
--------- ------------ ------------ ------------ -------------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 21,354 (116) (1,076) (4,969) 15,193
--------- ------------ ------------ ------------ -------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 642 (38) (7,957) - (7,353)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 6,251 64 7,970 - 14,285
--------- ------------ ------------ ------------ -------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $ 6,893 $ 26 $ 13 $ - $ 6,932
========= ============ ============ ============ =============
(a) On January 2, 1999, the Board of Directors approved transferring
the Parts America operations to the Company. This will be
accomplished through a series of dividends of assets and
assumptions of liabilities as such amounts are segregated and
identified. As of January 2, 1999, the above amounts reflect a
dividend of $429,823 in assets (inventory, fixed assets and
related deferred income tax assets) from Western to the Company
and the Company's assumption of related deferred income tax
liabilities of $4,592.
(b) Reflects push down of $425,000 of long-term debt and $21,592 of
related debt issuance costs to guarantor subsidiaries in fiscal
1998.
F-38
Advance Stores Company, Incorporated and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
January 2, 1999, January 3, 1998, and December 28, 1996
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
21. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited):
The following table summarizes quarterly financial data for fiscal years 1998
and 1997:
1998 First Second Third Fourth
- -------------------- ----------------------------------------
Net sales $288,963 $255,037 $258,839 $417,920
Gross profit 112,586 98,589 98,357 147,874
Operating income (loss) (597) 18,966 16,961 (2,920)
Net income (loss) (2,439) 6,091 5,253 (7,293)
1997
- -------------------- ----------------------------------------
Net sales $239,151 $196,729 $206,409 $205,819
Gross profit 92,291 75,391 77,717 78,123
Operating income 10,283 11,966 10,347 11,002
Net income 4,400 5,726 5,012 5,234
Fiscal 1998 results of operations include the effect of the Recapitalization
(Note 3) and the Western Merger (Note 4) for the first and fourth quarters,
respectively.
F-39
ADVANCE STORES COMPANY, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
(dollars in thousands)
Balance at Balance at
Beginning Charges to End of
of Period Expenses Deductions Other Period
---------- ---------- ---------- ------- ----------
Allowance for doubtful
accounts receivable:
December 28, 1996 $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
January 3, 1998 -- 1,040 (465)(2) -- 575
January 2, 1999 575 1,193 (582)(2) 2,594(1) 3,780
========== ========== ========== ======= ==========
(1) Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable assumed in the Western Merger.
(2) Accounts written off during the period.
Restructuring reserves:
December 28, 1996 $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
January 3, 1998 -- -- -- -- --
January 2, 1999 -- 6,774 (2,026)(2) 33,015(1) 37,763
========== ========== ========== ======= ==========
(1) Restructuring reserves assumed and established in the Western Merger.
(2) Represents amounts paid for restructuring charges.
F-40
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the Board of Directors and Shareholder of
Western Auto Supply Company
Kansas City, Missouri
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Western Auto
Supply Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears, Roebuck and Co.) and
subsidiaries (the "Company") as of October 31, 1998 and January 3, 1998, and the
related consolidated statements of operations, stockholder's equity and cash
flows for the 43-week period ended October 31, 1998, and each of the two fiscal
years (53/52 weeks) in the period ended January 3, 1998. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of the Company as of October 31, 1998
and January 3, 1998 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the
43-week period ended October 31, 1998, and each of the two fiscal years (53/52
weeks) in the period ended January 3, 1998, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles.
As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, on August 17,
1998 the Company's parent entered into an agreement and plan of merger with
Advance Stores Company, Inc. ("Advance") whereby the Company was sold to Advance
on October 31, 1998. The consolidated financial statements herein represent the
historical balances and operating results of the Company for the periods
presented and contain no adjustments which may be required as a result of the
application of purchase accounting.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
March 26, 1999
F-41
WESTERN AUTO SUPPLY COMPANY
(A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Sears, Roebuck and Co.)
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
OCTOBER 31, 1998 AND JANUARY 3, 1998
(in $000, except share data)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 31, January 3,
ASSETS 1998 1998
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash $ 20,783 $ 23,785
Receivables, net 51,442 79,367
Inventories 360,929 356,958
Deferred income taxes 39,276 54,762
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 12,061 8,308
Income taxes receivable - Parent 36,142
-------- ----------
Total current assets 484,491 559,322
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT 354,895 348,514
GOODWILL 113,070 116,783
OTHER ASSETS 9,013 9,259
-------- ----------
TOTAL $961,469 $1,033,878
======== ==========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable $133,383 $158,332
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 91,404 130,132
Due to Parent, net 196,081
Secured borrowings 36,500
-------- ----------
Total current liabilities 224,787 521,045
ACCRUED RETIREE HEALTH CARE BENEFITS 39,376 39,454
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES 11,855 5,567
LONG-TERM DEBT - Parent 140,802
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (See Notes 9 and 12)
STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY:
Common stock, $.01 par value - authorized, 100,000
shares; issued and outstanding, 1,000 shares Nil Nil
Additional paid-in capital 744,674 376,821
Accumulated deficiency (59,223) (49,811)
-------- ----------
Total stockholder's equity 685,451 327,010
-------- ----------
TOTAL $961,469 $1,033,878
======== ==========
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-42
WESTERN AUTO SUPPLY COMPANY
(A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Sears, Roebuck and Co.)
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
PERIOD (43 WEEKS) ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1998 AND THE YEARS (53/52 WEEKS)
ENDED JANUARY 3, 1998 AND DECEMBER 28, 1996
(in $000)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 31, January 3, December 28,
1998 1998 1996
NET SALES AND OTHER REVENUES:
Net merchandise sales and other revenues $966,782 $1,260,886 $1,349,124
Net service sales 18,877 58,925 102,597
-------- ---------- ------------
Total net sales and other revenues 985,659 1,319,811 1,451,721
COSTS OF SALES (exclusive of depreciation and
amortization shown separately below):
Merchandise and other costs of sales 627,675 846,375 916,824
Service costs of sales 10,469 36,887 60,840
-------- ---------- ------------
Total costs of sales 638,144 883,262 977,664
-------- ---------- ------------
GROSS PROFIT 347,515 436,549 474,057
EXPENSES:
Selling, general and administrative 221,135 317,713 288,901
Buying and occupancy 63,159 82,902 95,932
Depreciation and amortization 36,362 38,885 33,275
Provision for uncollectible accounts 20,007 35,537 37,068
Restructuring 3,350 38,441 12,974
-------- ---------- ------------
Total expenses 344,013 513,478 468,150
-------- ---------- ------------
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) 3,502 (76,929) 5,907
OTHER EXPENSE:
Interest (15,965) (15,379) (15,064)
Loss on the sale of property and equipment (171) (6) (828)
-------- ---------- ------------
Total other expense (16,136) (15,385) (15,892)
-------- ---------- ------------
LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES (12,634) (92,314) (9,985)
INCOME TAXES:
Current benefit (24,996) (33,686) (2,676)
Deferred expense 21,774 1,801 952
-------- ---------- ------------
Total income tax benefit (3,222) (31,885) (1,724)
-------- ---------- ------------
NET LOSS $ (9,412) $ (60,429) $ (8,261)
======== ========== ============
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-43
WESTERN AUTO SUPPLY COMPANY
(A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Sears, Roebuck and Co.)
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
PERIOD (43 WEEKS) ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1998, AND THE YEARS (53/52 WEEKS)
ENDED JANUARY 3, 1998, AND DECEMBER 28, 1996
(in $000)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained
Additional Earnings Total
Paid-in (Accumulated Stockholder's
Capital Deficiency) Equity
Common Stock
BALANCE, DECEMBER 30, 1995 Nil $188,046 $ 122,207 $ 310,253
Transfer of subsidiaries to Parent (18,652) (103,328) (121,980)
Contributed capital 93,040 93,040
Income tax benefit upon exercise
of stock options 1,988 1,988
Net loss (8,261) (8,261)
---------- -------- --------------- ---------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 28, 1996 Nil 264,422 10,618 275,040
Contributed capital 110,732 110,732
Income tax benefit upon exercise
of stock options 1,667 1,667
Net loss (60,429) (60,429)
---------- -------- --------------- ---------
BALANCE, JANUARY 3, 1998 Nil 376,821 (49,811) 327,010
Contributed capital 366,692 366,692
Income tax benefit upon exercise
of stock options 1,161 1,161
Net loss (9,412) (9,412)
---------- -------- --------------- ---------
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1998 Nil $744,674 $ (59,223) $ 685,451
========== ======== =============== =========
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-44
WESTERN AUTO SUPPLY COMPANY
(A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Sears, Roebuck and Co.)
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
PERIOD (43 WEEKS) ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1998 AND THE YEARS (53/52 WEEKS)
ENDED JANUARY 3, 1998, AND DECEMBER 28, 1996
(in $000)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 31, January 3, December 28,
1998 1998 1996
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss $ (9,412) $ (60,429) $ (8,261)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash:
Depreciation and amortization 36,362 38,885 33,275
Provision for uncollectible accounts 20,007 35,537 37,068
Deferred income taxes 21,774 1,801 952
Income tax benefit upon exercise of stock options 1,161 1,667 1,988
Loss on sale of property and equipment 171 6 828
Changes in assets:
Receivables 7,918 (69,620) (17,031)
Inventories (3,971) (19,399) (47,663)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (3,753) 2,050 4,852
Changes in liabilities:
Accounts payable (25,689) (99,263) (32,598)
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (38,728) 16,539 (24,568)
Income taxes - Parent 36,142 (54,025) (15,086)
Accrued retiree health care benefits (78) (4,981) 1,655
Other, net 4 (11) 407
-------- --------- --------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activies 41,908 (211,243) (64,182)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment (60,427) (109,738) (70,338)
Sales of property and equipment 21,468 13,612 3,149
-------- --------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities (38,959) (96,126) (67,189)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Bank overdrafts 740 26,192 39,535
Payments on long-term debt (39,789)
Borrowings from Parent 29,809 130,085 56,392
Secured borrowings (repayments), net (36,500) 36,500
Capital contributed from Parent 110,732 93,040
-------- --------- --------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activies (5,951) 303,509 149,178
-------- --------- --------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH (3,002) (3,860) 17,807
CASH, BEGINNING OF PERIOD 23,785 27,645 9,838
-------- --------- --------
CASH, END OF PERIOD $ 20,783 $ 23,785 $ 27,645
======== ========= ========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash payments made for interest to:
Parent $ 14,606 $ 13,107 $ 15,064
======== ========= ========
Other $ 1,359 $ 2,272 $ 2,143
======== ========= ========
Cash payments (receipts) of income taxes - Parent $(46,730) $ 20,339 $ 13,557
======== ========= ========
Noncash transaction -
Capital contributed from Parent $366,692
========
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-45
WESTERN AUTO SUPPLY COMPANY
(A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Sears, Roebuck and Co.)
AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PERIOD (43 WEEKS) ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1998, AND THE YEARS (53/52 WEEKS)
ENDED JANUARY 3, 1998, AND DECEMBER 28, 1996
(in $000)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Operations and Principles of Consolidation - Western Auto Supply
Company (the "Company" or "Western Auto") is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Sears, Roebuck and Co. ("Sears" or the "Parent"). The Company is engaged
principally in the sale of automotive aftermarket products. Its principal
markets are located throughout the eastern and midwest portions of the
United States. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts
of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Western Auto of Puerto
Rico, Inc., Western Auto of St. Thomas, Inc., WASCO Insurance Company and
Parts America, Inc. (formerly Tire & Auto Holdings). All material
intercompany profits, transactions and balances have been eliminated.
Fiscal Year - The Company's normal fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest
to December 31, resulting in fiscal years ending January 3, 1998 ("fiscal
year 1997") and December 28, 1996 ("fiscal year 1996"). Due to the sale of
the Company (Note 2), the current reporting period includes 43 weeks and
ends on October 31, 1998 ("fiscal period 1998").
Receivables - Receivables consist primarily of wholesale and retail trade
accounts receivable from sales of merchandise, which normally are not
assessed finance charges if paid within the trade terms.
Effective for fiscal year 1997, the Company adopted Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 125, "Accounting for Transfers and
Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities." This
Statement provides accounting and reporting standards for transfers and
servicing of financial assets and extinguishments of liabilities. Those
standards are based on consistent application of a financial-components
approach that focuses on control. Under that approach, after a transfer of
financial assets, an entity recognizes the financial and servicing assets
it controls and the liabilities it has incurred, derecognizes financial
assets when control has been surrendered, and derecognizes liabilities when
extinguished. This Statement provides consistent standards for
distinguishing transfers of financial assets that are sales from transfers
that are secured borrowings. A transfer of financial assets in which the
transferor surrenders control over those assets is accounted for as a sale
to the extent that consideration other than beneficial interests in the
transferred assets is received in exchange.
At January 3, 1998, SFAS No. 125 required that the Company recognize the
receivables on its Puerto Rico credit card securitizations, which did not
qualify as sales under the Statement. Additionally, the Company recorded
borrowings on the transfer of interest in credit card receivables to a
major bank. Previously, the transfer of credit card receivables was
derecognized on the consolidated balance sheet. Adoption of SFAS No. 125
was not material to the results of operations in fiscal year 1997. As these
credit card receivables were transferred to Sears at carrying value during
fiscal period 1998 (Note 4), neither the receivables nor the borrowings
appear within the October 31, 1998 consolidated balance sheet.
F-46
Western Auto recorded monthly credit card service fee income under a
servicing agreement (Note 4). Amounts required by the agreement to be
reimbursed to the bank for delinquent accounts were recorded as charge-offs
against the allowance for doubtful accounts. Included in the allowance for
doubtful accounts at January 3, 1998 was an estimate of the amount deemed
necessary to absorb losses on delinquent credit card balances that have
been, or may have to be, reimbursed under the agreement. The reserve was
established by charges against operations based upon management's
continuing evaluation of the pertinent factors underlying the quality of
the related outstanding balances.
Inventories - Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-
out method) or market.
Property and Equipment - Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of
accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line
method over the estimated useful asset lives ranging from 3 to 20 years.
Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the estimated
useful life or the lease term of the related asset. Maintenance and repairs
are expensed as incurred. Expenditures which significantly increase the
value or extend useful asset lives are capitalized.
Goodwill - Goodwill represents the cost in excess of fair value of net
assets acquired and is being amortized over 20 to 40 years using the
straight-line method. Accumulated amortization was $48,720 and $45,007 at
October 31, 1998 and January 3, 1998, respectively. When events and
circumstances so indicate, goodwill is assessed for recoverability based on
the expectations of future profitability of the Company, along with
management's plans with respect to operations. If the Company determines,
based on such factors, that the carrying amount is impaired, the goodwill
will be written down to its recoverable value which is calculated as the
amount of estimated future cash flows for the remaining amortization period
with a corresponding charge to earnings. No impairment losses have been
recognized in any of the periods presented.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets - Long-lived assets and certain
identifiable intangibles to be held and used by the Company are reviewed
for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that
the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets
and identified intangibles to be disposed of are reported at the lower of
carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell.
Warranties - An accrual for warranties is established by charges against
operations for anticipated costs relating to merchandise and services sold
under warranty which are not covered by manufacturers' warranties.
Advertising Costs - The Company expenses advertising costs as incurred.
Income Taxes - Under the provisions of a tax sharing agreement, the Company
and its subsidiaries file a consolidated Federal income tax return with
Sears. Substantially all of the income taxes receivable or payable are
settled through the Due to Parent intercompany account.
Deferred income taxes result from temporary differences between the
financial statement and tax basis of the Company's assets and liabilities
in accordance with the liability method. Under the tax sharing agreement,
Western Auto recognizes the benefits and costs associated with income
taxes.
Revenue Recognition - The Company recognizes merchandise revenue at the
point of sale to a retail customer and at the point of shipment to a
wholesale customer, while service revenue is recognized upon performance of
such service to a retail customer.
F-47
Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date
of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from
those estimates.
Fair Values of Financial Instruments - The Company's financial instruments
consist principally of cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts
payable, intercompany balances and long-term debt. The Company has
determined that the carrying value of its long-term debt is a reasonable
estimate of its fair value based upon the terms of the debt at year end.
The Company's remaining financial instruments typically have terms such
that the Company has determined that their carrying values are a reasonable
estimate of their fair values.
Effects of New Accounting Standard - In fiscal period 1998, the Company
adopted SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other
Postretirement Benefits." The Statement requires changes to disclosures
relating to pension and other postretirement benefit plans. The Statement
supersedes the disclosure requirements in SFAS No. 87, "Employers'
Accounting for Pensions," SFAS No. 88, "Employers' Accounting for
Settlements and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and for
Termination Benefits," and SFAS No. 106, "Employers' Accounting for
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions." The Statement did not impact
the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or
cash flows, and the effect was limited to the form and content of
disclosures contained herein.
Reclassifications - Certain reclassifications have been made in the fiscal
year 1997 and 1996 financial statements to conform with current period
presentation.
2. SALE OF COMPANY
On August 17, 1998, Sears entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the
"Sale Agreement") between the Company and Advance Stores Company, Inc. for
$175 million in cash and the retention by Sears of approximately 40% equity
ownership interest in the resulting combined company. The transaction was
finalized subsequent to the Company's close of business on October 31,
1998.
The financial statements herein represent the historical balances and
operating results of the Company for the periods presented and contain no
adjustments which may be required as a result of the application of
purchase accounting.
3. REORGANIZATION AND RESTRUCTURING CHARGES
In the fiscal year ended December 30, 1995, the Company recorded a
restructuring reserve principally related to the Company's decision to
eliminate all employee positions associated with credit operations and the
closing of the home office locations for NTW, Inc. ("NTW") and Tire
America, Inc. ("Tire America"), both subsidiaries of the Company at the
time and which were realigned and transferred to Sears. The restructuring
reserve at December 30, 1995 included the employee termination benefits,
principally severance benefits, and exit costs, principally lease
termination costs related to the closing of these facilities. The number of
employees planned to be terminated as a result of the above actions was
approximately 320. Actual employees terminated upon completion of the exit
activities approximated 370. Substantially all activities associated with
these costs were completed by the end of fiscal year 1996.
F-48
The ownership and operating activities of NTW and Tire America were
transferred to Sears effective the first day of fiscal year 1996. The
amounts in the following table represent the combined account balances of
NTW and Tire America that were removed from the Company's consolidated
balance sheet as of that date.
Receivables $ 4,553
Inventories 56,980
Deferred income tax assets 9,474
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,229
Property and equipment 134,283
Goodwill 80,568
Other assets 1,187
Accounts payable (3,622)
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (31,901)
Income taxes payable (1,147)
Current maturities of long-term debt (3,400)
Long-term debt, Sears (79,198)
Deferred income tax liabilities (2,413)
Due to Sears (44,531)
Stockholder's equity (121,980)
Restructuring charges of $12,974 were recorded in fiscal year 1996 related
to the Company's decision to exit the service aspect of its remaining
businesses and focus operations solely on the sale of parts and
accessories. This resulted in the writedown of the related service assets,
including store service bays and related equipment that were no longer
involved in the production of revenue. Additionally, in fiscal year 1996,
the Company exited retail operations in two major metropolitan markets and
accrued for such related exit costs, principally lease termination costs.
Substantially all activities associated with these costs, except for
ongoing lease obligations, were completed by the end of fiscal year 1997.
In fiscal year 1997, the Company accrued $38,441 in restructuring charges
relating to severance benefits, facility exit costs and asset write-downs.
These costs were associated with the exit from two additional major markets
where the Company operated retail stores. Additionally, the Company
restructured its distribution center operations which included the
elimination of the transportation function impacting the Company's truck
fleet and the related workforce. Home office positions supporting certain
distribution center operations exited were also eliminated. The number of
employees both planned and actually terminated, as a result of the above
actions, was approximately 4,000. With the exception of lease termination
costs, substantially all activities associated with these exit costs were
completed by the end of fiscal period 1998.
The fiscal period 1998 restructuring charges of $3,350 relate to revised
estimates of the Company's ability to sublease closed stores. Both the
number of closed stores that may be subleased as well as the date by which
these stores are anticipated to be subleased have been revised in
consideration of the Company's historical performance since the inception
of its reorganization.
The charges associated with the restructurings identified above were
recorded in the period in which the costs were incurred, when management of
the Company announced its intentions to employees, or when estimates of
previous charges were required to be revised.
F-49
The following table sets forth the restructuring reserve activity from
December 30, 1995 to October 31, 1998:
Other
Severance Exit Costs
--------- ----------
Reserves as of December 30, 1995 $ 6,731 $ 8,515
Additional reserves recorded during fiscal year 1996 12,974
Reserves used during fiscal year 1996 (2,532) (2,173)
Reserves transferred to Sears during fiscal year 1996 (2,381) (5,460)
----- -------
Reserves as of December 28, 1996 1,818 13,856
Additional reserves recorded during fiscal year 1997 16,835 21,606
Reserves used during fiscal year 1997 (8,582) (22,040)
----- ------
Reserves as of January 3, 1998 10,071 13,422
Additional reserves recorded during fiscal period 1998 3,350
Reserves used during fiscal period 1998 (8,979) (5,921)
----- -----
Reserves as of October 31, 1998 $ 1,092 $ 10,851
======= ========
4. RECEIVABLES
October 31, January 3,
1998 1998
Retail $24,434 $70,722
Wholesale 29,602 29,240
------- -------
54,036 99,962
Less allowance for doubtful accounts 2,594 20,595
------- -------
$51,442 $79,367
======= =======
The Company and Sears have an agreement with a major bank (the "Domestic
Agreement") whereby the bank extends credit on consumer credit cards to
Company customers meeting the bank's credit criteria. Under the Domestic
Agreement, the Company services receivables ($183,966 and $224,987
outstanding at October 31, 1998 and January 3, 1998, respectively) and
receives a fee based upon outstanding receivables and prevailing interest
rates. Additionally, the Company is required to reimburse the bank for
certain delinquent accounts after which time the Company pursues collection
from the cardholder. On October 31, 1998, all such receivables and the
related allowance for doubtful accounts were transferred to Sears through
an intercompany transaction in accordance with the Sale Agreement.
F-50
Under a second credit agreement with the same bank (the "Puerto Rico
Agreement"), the bank purchases an individual ownership interest in the
receivables originating on the Company's credit card in Puerto Rico. Under
the Puerto Rico Agreement, the Company services the receivables and
receives a fee based upon outstanding receivables and prevailing interest
rates. The Puerto Rico Agreement requires the Company to pay the 30-day
commercial paper rate, plus 0.37% on the portion of the portfolio that has
been secured by the bank. The weighted average interest rate on the
portfolio in fiscal period 1998 and fiscal year 1997 was 5.61% and 5.53%,
respectively. Provisions in the Puerto Rico Agreement restrict the amount
of the portfolio that the bank may secure at the lower of $44,000 or 90% of
the outstanding credit card portfolio, adjusted for charge-off experience.
During fiscal period 1998 and fiscal year 1997, total portfolio credit
extended was $40,204 and $43,255, respectively, while total portfolio
credit collected was $41,275 and $40,951, respectively, of which the
portion secured by the bank was restricted as described herein. As with the
Domestic Agreement, the Company is required to reimburse the bank for
certain delinquent accounts. During August of fiscal period 1998, the
Puerto Rico Agreement expired and was not renewed. On October 31, 1998, all
such receivables and the related allowance for doubtful accounts were
transferred to Sears through an intercompany transaction in accordance with
the Sale Agreement.
Total service charges earned by the Company on credit sales were $33,471,
$51,814, and $57,290 for fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and 1996,
respectively. Such amounts are included in net sales and other revenues.
The provision for uncollectible accounts included recoveries of $5,370,
$6,273, and $4,203 for fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
The Domestic and Puerto Rico Agreements contained certain restrictive
covenants regarding the maintenance of minimum net worth, and in the case
of the Domestic Agreement, required that a letter of credit be provided for
the benefit of the bank. Such letter of credit must be from an issuer
having a minimum credit rating of A-2 from Standard and Poor's Corporation
or Prime-2 from Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
5. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
October 31, January 3,
1998 1998
----- ----
Land $ 67,365 $ 73,204
Buildings 179,028 164,325
Equipment 199,643 198,179
Leasehold improvements 77,266 67,133
-------- --------
523,302 502,841
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 168,407 154,327
-------- --------
$354,895 $348,514
======== ========
F-51
6. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
October 31, January 3,
1998 1998
---- ----
Accrued salaries and employee benefits $31,503 $ 30,113
Restructuring reserves 11,943 23,493
Warranty reserves 18,645 15,239
Deferred income 918 2,870
Real estate and sales tax 7,204 9,244
Other 21,191 49,173
------- --------
$91,404 $130,132
======= ========
7. SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Salary and related benefits $141,090 $195,106 $213,332
Advertising 17,246 28,113 27,984
Other 62,799 94,494 47,585
-------- -------- --------
$221,135 $317,713 $288,901
======== ======== ========
8. INCOME TAXES
The following represents the approximate tax effect of each type of
temporary difference that gives rise to the Company's deferred income tax
assets and liabilities:
October 31, January 3,
1998 1998
------------------------------- -------------------------------
Current Long-Term Current Long-Term
Deferred income tax assets:
Nondeductible reserves and accruals $33,293 $51,125
Accrued retiree health care benefits $15,750 $15,782
Additional inventory costs
capitalized for tax purposes 3,586 1,257
Other 2,397 2,380
------- ------- ------- --------
39,276 15,750 54,762 15,782
------- ------- ------- -------
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Asset basis differences due
to purchase accounting (13,325) (15,425)
Accelerated depreciation for
tax purposes (14,280) (5,924)
------- -------- ------- ------
(27,605) (21,349)
------- -------- ------- ------
$39,276 $(11,855) $54,762 $ (5,567)
======= ======== ======= ========
F-52
No valuation allowance was considered necessary for fiscal period 1998 or
fiscal year 1997.
Loss before income taxes was as follows:
1998 1997 1996
-------- -------- --------
Domestic $(13,257) $(93,065) $(14,631)
Foreign 623 751 4,646
-------- -------- --------
Total $(12,634) $(92,314) $ (9,985)
======== ======== ========
Federal, state and foreign tax expense (benefit) were as follows:
1998 1997 1996
-------- -------- --------
Federal income tax:
Current $(22,723) $(32,878) $(3,936)
Deferred 19,014 2,347 537
State income tax:
Current (2,643) (1,437) (517)
Deferred 2,716 77 184
Foreign income tax:
Current 370 629 1,777
Deferred 44 (623) 231
-------- -------- -------
Income tax benefit $ (3,222) $(31,885) $(1,724)
======== ======== =======
Deferred income tax expense (benefit) consisted of the following:
1998 1997 1996
-------- -------- --------
Nondeductible reserves and accruals $17,832 $(1,619) $ (174)
Accrued retiree health care benefits 32 1,992 (662)
Additional inventory costs capitalized for
tax purposes (2,329) 243 380
Asset basis differences due to purchase
accounting (2,100) (1,187) (1,187)
Accelerated depreciation for tax purposes 8,356 2,359 1,350
Other (17) 13 1,245
------- ------- -------
Total deferred tax expense $21,774 $ 1,801 $ 952
======= ======= =======
F-53
Following is a reconciliation between income tax benefit recorded of $3,222,
$31,885, and $1,724 for fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and 1996,
respectively, and the amount computed by multiplying losses before income
taxes by the statutory Federal income tax rate of 35%:
1998 1997 1996
---------------------- ------------------------ -------------------
Amount % Amount % Amount %
Income tax benefit computed at the
statutory rate $(4,422) (35.0) $(32,310) (35.0) $(3,495) (35.0)
State taxes net of Federal benefit 47 0.4 (1,046) (1.1) (119) (1.2)
Non-deductible goodwill amortization 957 7.6 1,012 1.1 1,050 10.5
Foreign taxes net of Federal benefit 83 0.7 231 0.3 472 4.7
50% meals and entertainment 131 1.0 315 0.3 315 3.2
Other (18) (0.1) (87) (0.1) 53 0.5
------- ----- -------- ----- ------- -----
$(3,222) (25.4) $(31,885) (34.5) $(1,724) (17.3)
======= ===== ======== ===== ======= =====
Pursuant to the Sale Agreement (Note 2), the income tax receivable due the
Company was transferred to Sears through an intercompany transaction on
October 31, 1998.
9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
The Company conducts its retail operations principally from facilities under
operating leases which expire at various dates through 2015. These agreements
normally provide for minimum annual rentals, rentals based on sales volume in
excess of specified minimums, and executory costs. Management expects that,
in the normal course of business, leases which expire will be renewed or
replaced by other leases or that comparable facilities will be obtained.
Total rent expense was $36,550, $43,407, and $52,820 including $1,313,
$2,337, and $3,197 based on sales volume, for fiscal period 1998 and fiscal
years 1997 and 1996, respectively.
At October 31, 1998, the minimum rental commitments under operating leases
that have initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one
year are as follows:
Two months ending January 2, 1999 $ 6,685
1999 29,552
2000 26,570
2001 22,038
2002 19,457
2003 17,286
Thereafter 72,229
--------
Total $193,817
========
F-54
10. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
The Company has a profit sharing plan which qualifies as a thrift plan under
Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The plan covers all full-time
employees who have completed one year of service and have attained the age of
twenty-one years as of the first day of each month. Participant accounts are
payable to employees upon retirement or termination. Effective May 31, 1998,
the plan was frozen with no further contributions allowed to be made. All
participants of the plan will still earn interest and appreciation derived
from plan assets until all such assets, interest and appreciation have been
distributed. Effective June 1, 1998, all such participants became eligible to
participate in the Sears profit sharing 401(k) plan with such participation
ending on October 31, 1998 due to the sale of the Company (Note 2). The Sears
plan is substantially the same as the Company plan. Contributions by the
Company to both profit sharing plans charged to operations were $1,302,
$2,225, and $2,996 for fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
Certain employees of the Company participate in Sears stock option plans.
Options to purchase Sears stock have been granted to employees in fiscal
period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and 1994 at prices equal to the fair market
value of the stock on the date of grant. Options are generally exercisable in
not more than four equal, annual installments beginning one year after the
date of grant, and generally expire in 10 years. At October 31, 1998 and
January 3, 1998, approximately 450,000 and 570,000, respectively, common
stock options were outstanding to Western Auto employees to purchase Sears
common stock with weighted average exercise prices of $46.33 and $36.59,
respectively. The Company measures compensation cost under APB Opinion No.
25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and accordingly, no
compensation cost has been recognized for the fixed stock option plans. Had
compensation cost for the Company's participation in its parent stock option
plans been determined consistent with the fair value method outlined in SFAS
No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," the pro-forma impact on
the Company's consolidated net loss would have been to increase the net loss
by $1,570 and $845 in fiscal period 1998 and fiscal year 1997, respectively.
However, due to the sale of the Company (Note 2) all outstanding stock
options at October 31, 1998 immediately vested, creating additional pro-forma
net loss of approximately $2,300.
The Company has a deferred compensation plan for certain key employees of the
Company and its subsidiaries. The plan's performance reflects that of
specific market indexes as specified by the plan provisions. Costs of the
plan charged against earnings were not significant for fiscal period 1998 and
fiscal years 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The Company also has various other profit sharing and incentive plans. Costs
of such plans charged against operations were $12,032, $7,129, and $4,203 for
fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and 1996, respectively.
F-55
Employees retiring from the Company on or after attaining age 55 who have
rendered at least 10 years of service and have participated in the employee
group health insurance plan are entitled to extend their participation in the
plan and purchase postretirement health care coverage for themselves and their
dependents.
The following table sets forth the amounts recognized in the Company's
consolidated financial statements for the fiscal period ended October 31, 1998
and the fiscal year ended January 3, 1998, as it relates to accumulated
postretirement benefits.
1998 1997
-------- --------
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of period $ 25,307 $ 26,562
Service cost 558 928
Interest cost 1,383 1,927
Plan amendments (600)
Curtailment gain (3,585)
Benefits paid (1,328) (1,122)
Actuarial (gain) loss (5,663) 1,197
-------- --------
Benefit obligation at end of period $ 20,257 $ 25,307
======== ========
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period $ - 0 - $ - 0 -
Employer contributions 1,328 1,122
Benefits paid (1,328) (1,122)
-------- --------
Fair value of plan assets at end of period $ - 0 - $ - 0 -
======== ========
Reconciliation of funded status:
Benefit obligation at end of period $(20,257) $(25,307)
Unrecognized actuarial gain (12,318) (6,752)
Unrecognized prior service benefit (6,801) (7,395)
-------- --------
Accrued benefit cost at end of period $(39,376) $(39,454)
======== ========
October 31, January 3, December 28,
1998 1998 1996
----------- ---------- ------------
Weighted-average assumptions
as of period end:
Discount rate 6.50 % 7.25 % 7.75 %
Health care cost trend rate 6.00 % 10.50 % 11.00 %
Rate of compensation increase 4.00 % 4.00 % 4.00 %
The health care cost trend rate is assumed to decrease gradually to 5% in the
year 1999 and remain at that level thereafter.
F-56
October 31, January 3, December 28,
1998 1998 1996
----------- ---------- ------------
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost for
fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and
1996 included the following components:
Service cost $ 558 $ 928 $1,405
Interest cost 1,383 1,927 2,203
Amortization of prior service cost (534) (359) (346)
Recognized actuarial gain (157) (856) (358)
------ ------- ------
Net postretirement benefit expense 1,250 1,640 2,904
One-time gain due to reduction in workforce (5,500)
------ ------- ------
Total expense (income) $1,250 $(3,860) $2,904
====== ======= ======
As a result of the restructuring (Note 3), a significant reduction in the
Company's workforce has occurred. Accordingly, the Company recognized a
curtailment gain of $5,500 in fiscal year 1997.
Assumed health care cost trend rates have an impact on the amounts reported
for the plan. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend
rates would have the following effects:
1-Percentage- 1-Percentage-
Point Increase Point Decrease
-------------- --------------
Effect on total service and interest
cost components for fiscal period 1998 $212 $(172)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation
at October 31, 1998 $598 $(484)
11. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
At January 3, 1998, long-term debt due to Sears consisted of a $100,802 note
payable due December 31, 1999 at a fixed rate of 6.26% and a $40,000 note
payable due January 15, 2004 at a fixed rate of 6.40%. Additionally, the
Company advances to and borrows funds as needed from Sears with no set
repayment terms. Intercompany interest expense totaled approximately
$14,606, $13,107, and $15,064 for fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997
and 1996, respectively. Such interest is settled through the Due to Parent
intercompany account with Sears. At October 31, 1998, all intercompany
(including current income taxes receivable/payable) and long-term debt was
contributed to the Company by Sears in accordance with the Sale Agreement
(Note 2). This resulted in a non-cash transaction which increased additional
paid-in capital by $366,692.
F-57
During fiscal period 1998 and fiscal years 1997 and 1996, Sears charged the
Company for certain shared services totaling $10,319, $11,072, and $845,
respectively. The following table sets forth these amounts by department:
1998 1997 1996
Credit and corporate finance shared services $ 6,057 $ 7,982 $ 607
Real estate and construction 3,050 2,853
Other 1,212 237 238
------- ------- -----
$10,319 $11,072 $ 845
======= ======= =====
Also, the Company purchases and services commercial receivables from its
former subsidiaries, NTW and Tire America, and the purchases are settled
through the Due to Parent intercompany account. Any expense associated with
such servicing is charged to the respective subsidiary through the
intercompany account. As of January 3, 1998, the NTW and Tire America
accounts included in the Company's receivables were $7,696. Sears purchased
from the Company all commercial receivables at carrying value during October
of fiscal period 1998 in accordance with the Sale Agreement (Note 2).
12. LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND ASSESSMENTS
The Company is engaged in various legal actions arising in the ordinary
course of its business. Reserves which the Company believes are appropriate
have been established, however, the Company believes that the ultimate
outcome of such litigation will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's consolidated financial statements.
The Company has been notified by the United States Environmental Protection
Agency ("EPA") that it is a potentially responsible party under superfund
legislation with respect to two different sites. For both of the sites, the
EPA has issued a Record of Decision relating to its investigation and
feasibility study of the sites. Utilizing information compiled by the EPA as
part of those decisions, the Company has accrued its best estimate of its
obligation with respect to these sites. Those estimates are based primarily
on documents compiled by the EPA which estimate the total costs to remediate
the sites as well as each company's allocable share of the joint and several
remediation liability for the sites. The Company has considered the
likelihood of the contribution of other significant parties which includes
the effects of those potentially responsible parties which may not be
financially viable. The estimated amounts do not consider any benefit that
may be derived from other parties which may enter into the allocation in an
effort to settle their obligation for remediation of the sites. The estimated
liabilities accrued have not been discounted as the time frame over which the
accrued amounts may be paid out has not been determined.
In addition to the EPA matters discussed above, the Company is subject to
other legal and governmental proceedings pending against the Company, many
involving routine litigation incidental to the business. Other matters
contain allegations which are nonroutine and involve compensatory and
punitive damages as well as other types of relief.
In the opinion of management after consulting with legal counsel, the
ultimate liability in excess of reserves currently recorded is not expected
to have a material effect on results of operations, financial position,
liquidity or capital resources of the Company.
******
F-58
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Section 15(d) 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, in Roanoke,
Commonwealth of Virginia, on April 19, 1999.
ADVANCE STORES COMPANY, INCORPORATED
By: /s/ J. O'Neil Leftwich
--------------------------------
J. O'Neil Leftwich
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer,
Secretary and Treasurer
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears
below constitutes and appoints J. O'Neil Leftwich his true and lawful attorney-
in-fact with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him or her and
in his or her name, place and stead, in and any all capacities, to sign any and
all amendments to this Report on Form 10-K and to file same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorney-in-fact and agents, and each of
them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing
requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all
intents and purposes as he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agent, or his substitute or
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
Report on Form 10-K has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the
Registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature Title Date
/s/ Garnett E. Smith President and Chief Executive Officer April 19, 1999
- -------------------------- and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
Garnett E. Smith
/s/ J. O'Neil Leftwich Senior Vice President and Chief April 19, 1999
- -------------------------- Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer
J. O'Neil Leftwich (Principal Financial and Accounting
Officer)
/s/ Nicholas F. Taubman Chairman of the Board and Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
Nicholas F. Taubman
/s/ Mark J. Doran Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
Mark J. Doran
/s/ John M. Roth Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
John M. Roth
/s/ Timothy C. Collins Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
Timothy C. Collins
II-1
/s/ Peter M. Starrett Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
Peter M. Starrett
/s/ Julian C. Day Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
Julian C. Day
/s/ Michael Coyne Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
Michael Coyne
/s/ William L. Salter Director April 19, 1999
- --------------------------
William L. Salter
II-2
Supplemental Information to be Furnished with Reports Filed Pursuant
to Section 15(d) of the Act by Registrants Which Have Not Registered
Securities Pursuant to Section 12 of the Act
Other than this Report on Form 10-K, no other annual report and no proxy
materials have been or will be furnished to the Company's security holders.
II-3