SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, DC 20549 -------- FORM 10-K FOR ANNUAL AND TRANSITION REPORTS PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (Mark One) |X| ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2002 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: 0-27378 NUCO2 INC. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter) Florida 65-0180800 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) Incorporation or Organization) 2800 S.E Market Place, Stuart, Florida 34997 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (772) 221-1754 Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None. Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, $.001 par value ----------------------------- (Title of Class) 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 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. [ ] (continued next page)The aggregate market value at September 18, 2002 of shares of the Registrant's common stock, $.001 par value per share (based upon the closing price of $10.00 per share of such stock on the Nasdaq National Market on such date), held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was approximately $98,554,000. Solely for the purposes of this calculation, shares held by directors and executive officers of the Registrant have been excluded. Such exclusion should not be deemed a determination or an admission by the Registrant that such individuals are, in fact, affiliates of the Registrant. At September 18, 2002, there were outstanding 10,633,405 shares of the Registrant's common stock, $.001 par value. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE The information required by Items 10, 11, 12 and 13 of Part III is incorporated by reference to the Registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed not later than October 28, 2002 pursuant to Regulation 14A. NUCO2 INC. Index ----- Page ---- PART I. Item 1. Business. 1 Item 2. Properties. 7 Item 3. Legal Proceedings. 7 Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders. 7 PART II. Item 5. Market For Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters. 7 Item 6. Selected Financial Data. 8 Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. 9 Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. 22 Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. 23 Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. 23 PART III. Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant. 23 Item 11. Executive Compensation. 23 Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters. 23 Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions. 23 PART IV. Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K. 23 Signatures 27 Index to Financial Statements F-1 1. Business. General NuCo2 Inc. is the largest supplier in the United States of bulk CO2 systems and bulk CO2 for carbonating fountain beverages. In most instances, CO2 is presently supplied to fountain beverage users in the form of gas, which is transported and stored in high pressure cylinders. Bulk CO2 is a relatively new technology that is replacing high pressure CO2 as the beverage carbonation system of choice. We are the first and only company to operate a national network of service locations with over 99% of fountain beverage users in the continental United States within our current service area. Our customers are many of the major national and regional restaurant and convenience store chains, movie theater operators, theme parks, resorts and sports venues, including: Quick Serve Restaurants Casual/Dinner Houses Arby's McDonald's Applebee's Official All Star Cafe Bumpers Drive-In Panera Bread Company Bahama Breeze Outback Steakhouse Burger King Papa Gino's Bertucci's Perkins Family Restaurants Captain D's Pizza Hut Cheesecake Factory Pizzeria Uno Carl's Jr. Quizno's Classic Subs Chevy's Ponderosa Steak House Checker's Drive-In Sbarro Chili's Red Lobster/Olive Garden Chick-Fil-A Schlotzsky's Deli Cooker Bar & Grill Rio Bravo Cantina Churchs Chicken Sonic Drive-In Don Pablo's Roadhouse Grill D'Angelo's Sandwich Shop Steak'n Shake Friendly's Restaurant Ruby Tuesday Dunkin' Donuts Taco Bell Hard Rock Cafe Ryan's Family Steak House Hardee's Wendy's Landry's Shoney's KFC White Castle Longhorn Steakhouse Spaghetti Warehouse Krystal Macaroni Grill Contract Feeders Wholesale Clubs Convenience/Petroleum ARAmark BJ's Wholesale 7-Eleven Golden Pantry Compass Group Costco AM/PM Pantry Stores Host Marriott Sam's Club BP/Amoco Phillips 66 Sodexho Circle K Racetrac Petroleum Coastal Mark Shell ETD Sports Venues Conoco Spectrum Stores AMF Bowling Centers Exxon Sunshine Jr. Brunswick Recreation Centers E-Z Serve Tom Thumb Derby Lane Farm Stores Georgia Dome Madison Square Garden Movie Theatres Pro Player Stadium Litchfield Cinemas United Artist Cinemas Raymond James Stadium Loew's Cineplex Wallace Theatres Staples Center Regal Cinemas We are a Florida corporation, incorporated in 1990. Through a combination of internal growth and over 30 acquisitions, we have expanded our service area from one service location and 19 customers in Florida to 98 service locations and approximately 71,000 bulk and high pressure CO2 customers in 45 states as of June 30, 2002. Today, the majority of our growth is driven by the conversion of high pressure CO2 users to bulk CO2 systems. 1 Service Locations [OBJECT OMITTED] Our bulk CO2 customer base is highest in Florida, Texas, Georgia, New York and California. Substantially all of our revenues have been derived from the rental of bulk CO2 systems installed at customers' sites, the sale of CO2 and high pressure cylinder revenues. Revenues have grown from $812,000 in fiscal 1991 to $72.3 million in fiscal 2002. Net Sales (in millions) [OBJECT OMITTED] Opportunity for Growth CO2 is universally used for carbonating fountain beverages. Bulk CO2 systems are permanently installed at the customer's site and are filled by the supplier from a specialized bulk CO2 truck, unlike high pressure cylinders which are typically changed out when empty and transported to the supplier's depot for refilling. Advantages to users of bulk CO2 systems over high pressure cylinders include enhanced safety, improved beverage quality and product yields, reduced employee handling and cylinder storage requirements, and elimination of downtime and product waste during high pressure cylinder changeovers. Consequently, we believe that bulk CO2 systems will eventually displace most high pressure cylinders in the fountain beverage market. 2 We estimate there are currently approximately 140,000 bulk CO2 beverage users in the United States. Of these, approximately 70,000 are already our customers. We also currently service approximately 1,000 stand alone high pressure CO2 customers. There are an estimated 600,000 convertible fountain beverage users in the continental United States suitable for bulk CO2 services. Therefore, the bulk CO2 industry presents substantial opportunity for growth. [OBJECT OMITTED] Products and Services We offer our customers two principal services: (1) a stationary bulk CO2 system installed on the customer's site and (2) routine filling of the bulk CO2 system with bulk CO2. The bulk CO2 system installed at a customer's site consists of a cryogenic vessel for the storage of bulk CO2 and related valves, regulators and gas lines. The cryogenic vessel preserves CO2 in its liquid form and then converts the liquid product to gaseous CO2, the necessary ingredient for beverage carbonation. Presently, we offer bulk CO2 systems ranging from 300 to 600 lbs. of CO2 capacity. This range of bulk CO2 system sizes permits us to market our services to a range of potential customers. We typically enter into a six-year bulk CO2 system lease and CO2 supply agreement with our customers. Generally, these agreements are classified as one of two types: (1) "budget plan" service contracts or (2) "rental plus per pound charge" contracts. Under budget plan contracts, customers pay a fixed monthly charge for the lease of a bulk CO2 system installed on the customer's site and refills of bulk CO2. The bulk CO2 is included in the monthly rental charge up to a predetermined maximum annual volume. This arrangement is appealing to the customer since we bear the initial cost of the equipment and installation, with the customer paying a predictable and modest monthly usage fee. If the maximum annual volume of CO2 is exceeded, the customer is charged on a per pound basis for additional bulk CO2 delivered. Under rental plus per pound charge contracts, we also lease a bulk CO2 system to the customer, but the customer is charged on a per pound basis for all bulk CO2 delivered. Although the bulk CO2 system is typically owned by us and leased to the customer, some customers own their own bulk CO2 systems. Even with customers that own their own bulk CO2 systems, we seek to arrange for long-term bulk CO2 supply contracts. We believe that the use of long-term contracts provides benefits to both us and our customers. Customers are able to largely eliminate CO2 supply interruptions and the need to operate CO2 equipment themselves, while the contract adds stability to our revenue base. Service termination is typically caused by restaurant closure. After the expiration of the initial term of a contract, the contract generally renews unless we or the customer notifies the other of intent to cancel. To date, our experience has been that contracts generally "roll-over" without a significant portion terminating in any one year. We also supply high pressure gases in cylinder form, including CO2, helium and nitrogen. We estimate that we currently service approximately 1,000 stand-alone high pressure CO2 customers, most of whom are very low volume users. Helium and nitrogen are supplied mostly to existing customers in connection with filling balloons and dispensing beer, respectively. We have an agreement with The Coca-Cola Company ("Coca-Cola") that establishes a framework to develop a strategic alliance between us for providing Coca-Cola's fountain customers in the United States with quality CO2 and CO2 dispensing systems, technology and services that are superior to that which have thus far been available. 3 The framework for the strategic alliance was established in March 2000. With the first phase of the program successfully completed, phase two is now being implemented and a business plan is being developed jointly by the companies that will address far-reaching aspects of the strategic alliance, including, but not limited to, sales and marketing efforts, service, product quality, carbonation process monitoring and coordination of all aspects of the business process. The agreement contemplates that we will be the sole preferred provider of bulk CO2 to Coca-Cola's customers. We will jointly develop a differentiated CO2 marketing program to be used exclusively for Coca-Cola's customers. Marketing and Customers At June 30, 2002, we serviced approximately 71,000 bulk and high pressure CO2 customers, none of which accounted for more than 2% of our fiscal 2002 net sales. We market our bulk CO2 products and services to large customers such as restaurant and convenience store chains, movie theater operators, theme parks, resorts and sports venues. Our customers include most of the major national and regional chains throughout the United States. We approach large chains on a corporate or regional level for approval to become the exclusive supplier of bulk CO2 products and services on a national basis or within a designated territory. We then direct our sales efforts to the managers or owners of the individual or franchised operating units. Our relationships with chain customers in one geographic market frequently help us to establish service with these same chains when we expand into new markets. After accessing the chain accounts in a new market, we attempt to rapidly build route density by leasing bulk CO2 systems to independent restaurants, convenience stores and theaters. Our products and services are sold by a sales force of 38 commission only independent sales representatives and 39 salaried sales personnel. Competition We are the largest and the sole national supplier of bulk CO2 systems and bulk CO2 for carbonating fountain beverages. In many of our markets, we are a leading or the dominant supplier of bulk CO2 services. Major restaurant and convenience store chains continue to adopt bulk CO2 technology and search for qualified suppliers to install and service bulk CO2 systems. With the exception of us, we believe that qualified suppliers of bulk CO2 services do not presently exist in many regions of the United States. Unlike many of our competitors for whom bulk CO2 is a secondary service line, we have no material lines of business at present other than the provision of bulk CO2 services. All aspects of our operations are guided by our focus on the bulk CO2 business, including our selection of operating equipment, design of delivery routes, location of service locations, structure of customer contracts, content of employee training programs and design of management information and accounting systems. By restricting the scope of our activities to the bulk CO2 business, and largely avoiding the dilution of management time and resources that would be required by other service lines, we believe that we are able to maximize the level of service we provide to our bulk CO2 customers. We offer a wide range of innovative sales, marketing and billing programs. We believe that our ability to compete depends on a number of factors, including product quality, availability and reliability, price, name recognition, delivery time and post-sale service and support. Despite the customer-level advantages of bulk CO2 systems over high pressure cylinders, we generally price our services comparably to the price of high pressure cylinders. This has proved an effective inducement to cause customers to convert from high pressure cylinders to bulk CO2 systems. We believe that we enjoy advantages over our competitors due to the density of our route structure and a lower average time and distance traveled between stops. Each bulk CO2 system serviced by us has a label with a toll-free help line for the customer's use. We respond to service calls on a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week basis, and the experience level of our personnel aids in the resolution of equipment failures or other service interruptions, whether or not caused by our equipment. Recognizing the public visibility of our customers, we carefully maintain the appearance of our vehicles and the professional image of our employees. Many types of businesses compete in the fountain beverage CO2 business and market share is fragmented. High pressure cylinders and bulk CO2 services are most frequently provided by distributors of industrial gases. These companies generally provide a number of products and services in addition to CO2 and often view bulk CO2 systems as high-service adjuncts to their core business. Industrial gas distributors generally have been reluctant to attempt to convert their high pressure cylinder customers to bulk CO2 systems for several reasons including the capital outlays required to purchase bulk CO2 systems and the idling of existing high pressure cylinders and associated equipment. Other competitors in the fountain beverage CO2 business include fountain supply companies and distributors of restaurant supplies and groceries, which vary greatly in size. There are also a number of small companies that provide bulk CO2 services that operate on a local or regional geographic scope. While many of these suppliers lack the capital necessary to offer bulk CO2 systems to customers on lease, suppliers vary widely in size and some of our competitors have significantly greater financial, technical or marketing resources than we do. 4 Operations At June 30, 2002, we operated 98 service locations (76 stationary depots and 22 mobile depots) located throughout our 45 state service area and operated 161 specialized bulk CO2 trucks and 76 technical service vehicles. Each specialized bulk CO2 truck refills bulk CO2 systems at customers' sites on a regular cycle and CO2 delivery quantities are measured by flow meters installed on the bulk CO2 trucks. Each stationary depot is equipped with a storage tank (up to 40 tons) which receives bulk CO2 from large capacity tanker trucks and from which our specialized bulk CO2 trucks are filled with bulk CO2 for delivery to customers. In most instances, the bulk CO2 system at a customer's site is accessible from the outside of the establishment and delivery of bulk CO2 does not cause any interference with the operations of the customer. All dispatch and billing functions are conducted from our corporate headquarters in Stuart, Florida, with route drivers, installers and service personnel operating from our service locations. Implementation of our Intelligent Distribution System, AccuRoute(TM), continued during the year. AccuRoute(TM) includes these core components: Portable Account Link (PAL) This is the mobile information system for use in our delivery operation. The system utilizes a hand held device to provide field personnel with up to date delivery route and customer account information and also serves as an input source to record all delivery transaction information. PAL has been operational since the spring of 2000. Scheduling System In order to ensure reliability and consistent service levels to the customer, deliveries are made at a fixed interval. Information from the scheduling system is used to determine the proper frequency. Accounts are closely monitored by our field and corporate personnel. Each account is placed into the correct frequency grouping based on delivery history, seasonality, and promotions reported to us by the customer. The scheduling system analyzes a customer's CO2 usage and determines the optimal next delivery date, considering both maximum payload delivery and safety stock held in the customer's tank. The foundation of the scheduling system is the delivery information gathered by the PAL system. The scheduling system utilizes sophisticated computer algorithms that consider: 1. Tank size 2. Delivery history 3. Seasonal factors 4. Safety margins Based on delivered quantities over time, the scheduling system determines a daily usage rate. Usage, combined with tank size and last delivery date, is used to determine how often a customer's tank must be filled. The scheduling system was first deployed during the fall of 2000 and currently is being significantly refined and enhanced. Route Optimization The route optimization system will produce efficient delivery routes to minimize time and distance traveled between deliveries. We expect that this will significantly improve the levels of service to our customers by enabling our drivers to deliver more stops in less time. Testing of a potential third-party solution has taken place and we expect that additional solutions will be evaluated in the near future. Final selection should occur, and initial implementation begin during fiscal 2003. Mobile Fleet Communication We have implemented two-way voice communication and text messaging primarily using the Nextel(R) wireless communication system. This system allows for real-time, voice communication or two-way text messaging with delivery and service personnel, regardless of their location virtually anywhere in the country. This capability has greatly increased our ability to maximize the utilization of our resources and to provide the highest level of customer service. 5 Remote Tank Monitoring This system will provide readings of CO2 pressure and volume either on demand by polling the monitor on the tank or will automatically generate an alert when a predetermined set point is reached. We envision that this system will especially benefit those customers that experience large swings in CO2 usage, such as theaters, sports venues and seasonal customers. We are presently reviewing remote tank monitoring alternatives with our strategic partners, Coca-Cola and The BOC Group, Inc., and our major supplier of bulk CO2 systems, as well as several other solution providers. Initial testing of remote tank monitoring began in December 2001 and continues. Customer Extranet Customers will be able to log on to a secure Web site and among other things, maintain their accounts, review account balances and delivery history, as well as scheduled deliveries, and place orders or request special service. The Customer Extranet is expected to be deployed in the fall of 2002. Bulk CO2 Supply Bulk CO2 is currently a readily available commodity product, which is processed and sold by various sources. In May 1997, we entered into a ten-year bulk CO2 requirements contract with The BOC Group, Inc., the multinational industrial gases company, that provides a stable supply of high quality CO2 at competitive prices. In addition, the agreement provides that if sufficient quantities of bulk CO2 become unavailable for any reason, we will receive treatment as a preferred customer. Bulk CO2 Systems We purchase new bulk CO2 systems from the two major manufacturers of such systems and we believe that we are the largest purchaser of bulk CO2 systems from these manufacturers combined. We currently purchase bulk CO2 systems in four sizes (300, 400, 450 or 600 lbs. of bulk CO2 capacity) depending on the needs of our customers. Bulk CO2 systems are vacuum insulated containers with extremely high insulation characteristics allowing the storage of CO2, in its liquid form, at very low temperatures. Bulk CO2 systems operate under low pressure, are fully automatic, and require no electricity. Based upon manufacturers' estimates, the service life of a bulk CO2 system is expected to exceed 20 years with minimal maintenance. We maintain an adequate inventory of bulk CO2 systems to meet expected customer demand. Employees At June 30, 2002, we employed 541 full-time employees, 215 of whom were involved in management, sales or customer support, 251 of whom were route drivers and 75 of whom were in technical service functions. We consider our relationship with our employees to be good. Trademarks We market our services using the NuCo2(R) trademark which has been registered by us with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The current registration expires in 2007. Seasonality At June 30, 2002, approximately 13,000 of our bulk CO2 customers were billed under rental plus per pound charge contracts or by the pound for all bulk CO2 delivered. Customers who purchase bulk CO2 by the pound tend to consume less CO2 in the winter months and our revenues to such customers will be correspondingly lower in times of cold or inclement weather. Regulatory Matters Our business is subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations adopted for the protection of the environment, the health and safety of employees and users of our products. For example, the transportation of bulk CO2 is subject to regulation by various federal, state and local agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation. Regulatory authorities have broad powers and we are subject to regulatory and legislative changes that can affect the economics of the industry by requiring changes in operating practices or by influencing the demand for, and the costs of, providing services. We believe that we are in compliance in all material respects with all such laws, regulations and standards currently in effect and that the cost of compliance with such laws, regulations and standards has not and is not anticipated to materially adversely effect us. 6 2. Properties. ---------- Our corporate headquarters are located in a 32,000 square foot rented facility in Stuart, Florida that accommodates corporate, administrative, marketing, sales and warehouse space. At June 30, 2002, we also rented 76 stationary service locations throughout 45 states. These facilities are rented on terms consistent with market conditions prevailing in the area. We believe that our existing facilities are suitable for our current needs and that additional or replacement facilities, if needed, are available to meet future needs. 3. Legal Proceedings. ----------------- We are involved from time to time in litigation arising in the ordinary course of business, none of which is expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders. --------------------------------------------------- Not applicable. 5. Market For Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Our Common Stock trades on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol "NUCO". The following table indicates the high and low sale prices for our Common Stock for each quarterly period during fiscal 2001 and 2002, as reported by the Nasdaq National Market. Calendar 2000 High Low - ------------- ---- --- Third Quarter $ 9.000 $ 6.031 Fourth Quarter 8.375 5.031 Calendar 2001 - ------------- First Quarter $ 13.875 $ 7.563 Second Quarter 15.800 11.125 Third Quarter 13.200 7.940 Fourth Quarter 12.850 9.820 Calendar 2002 - ------------- First Quarter $ 13.050 $ 11.120 Second Quarter 14.010 10.900 At September 19, 2002, there were approximately 200 holders of record of our Common Stock, although there is a much larger number of beneficial owners. We have never paid cash dividends on our Common Stock and we do not anticipate declaring any cash dividends on our Common Stock in the foreseeable future. We intend to retain all future earnings for use in the development of our business. In addition, the payment of cash dividends is restricted by financial covenants in our loan agreements. On November 1, 2001, we sold 2,500 shares of our Series B 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") to Paribas North America, Inc., a Delaware corporation, for aggregate cash proceeds of $2.5 million in reliance upon the exemption from registration provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act. Shares of the Series B 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of our Common Stock at any time at a conversion price of $12.92 per share. No underwriting discounts or commissions were paid. On August 22, 2002, we sold 1,663,846 shares of our Common Stock without registration under the Securities Act to 24 "accredited investors" at a price of $9.75 per share for aggregate cash proceeds of $16,222,499 in reliance 7 upon the exemption from registration provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and Regulation D thereunder. Commissions in the amount of $920,138 were paid. 6. Selected Financial Data. ----------------------- The Selected Financial Data set forth below reflect our historical results of operations, financial condition and operating data for the periods indicated and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Fiscal Year Ended June 30, -------------------------- 2002 2001* 2000* 1999* 1998* ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- (in thousands, except per share amounts and Operating Data) Income Statement Data: Net sales ............................................. $ 72,312 $ 67,633 $ 57,951 $ 47,098 $ 35,077 Cost of products sold ................................. 35,491 33,177 28,565 24,548 18,178 Selling, general and administrative expenses .......... 17,614 17,368 12,352 10,121 9,296 Depreciation and amortization ......................... 16,319 17,475 15,501 12,763 8,912 Loss on asset disposal ................................ 4,661 4,891 901 1,110 500 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Operating (loss) income ............................... (1,773) (5,278) 632 (1,444) (1,809) Interest expense, net ................................. 8,402 10,207 10,015 7,489 3,639 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- (Loss) before extraordinary item ...................... (10,175) (15,485) (9,383) (8,933) (5,448) Extraordinary item .................................... 796 -- -- -- 187 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Net (loss) ............................................ $ (10,971) $ (15,485) $ (9,383) $ (8,933) $ (5,635) ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= (Loss) per common share before extraordinary item ............................... $ (1.23) $ (2.01) $ (1.30) $ (1.24) $ (0.75) Extraordinary item .................................... (0.09) -- -- -- (0.03) --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Net (loss) per common share ........................... $ (1.32) $ (2.01) $ (1.30) $ (1.24) $ (0.78) Weighted average shares outstanding ................... 8,742 7,926 7,238 7,217 7,210 *Restated to conform to current year's classifications Other Data: EBITDA (1) ............................................ $ 14,546 $ 12,197 $ 16,133 $ 11,319 $ 7,103 Operating Data: Company owned bulk CO2 systems serviced Beginning of period .............................. 60,000 58,000 50,395 39,295 21,919 New installations, net ........................... 1,000 2,000 7,605 11,100 9,446 Acquisitions ..................................... -- -- -- -- 7,930 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Total company owned bulk CO2 systems serviced ......... 61,000 60,000 58,000 50,395 39,295 Customer owned bulk CO2 systems serviced .............. 9,000 9,000 10,000 8,605 6,800 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Total bulk CO2 systems serviced ....................... 70,000 69,000 68,000 59,000 46,095 Total high pressure CO2 customers ..................... 1,000 2,000 5,000 6,000 9,000 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Total customers ....................................... 71,000 71,000 73,000 65,000 55,095 Stationary depots ..................................... 76 74 70 69 63 Mobile depots ......................................... 22 19 21 15 2 Bulk CO2 trucks ....................................... 161 157 158 166 150 Technical service vehicles ............................ 76 87 95 86 76 High pressure cylinder delivery trucks ................ -- 2 7 7 17 Balance Sheet Data: Cash and cash equivalents ............................. $ 1,562 $ 626 $ 279 $ 1,579 $ 337 Total assets .......................................... 132,638 138,016 148,549 141,630 124,498 Total debt (including short-term debt) ................ 87,660 87,346 92,082 82,461 59,328 Redeemable preferred stock ............................ 8,552 5,466 5,050 -- -- Total shareholders' equity ............................ 25,219 33,982 38,240 47,733 55,643 - ------------------- 8 (1) EBITDA represents operating (loss) income plus depreciation and amortization. Information regarding EBITDA is presented because of its use by certain investors as one measure of a corporation's ability to generate cash flow. EBITDA should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, operating income, net income or cash flows from operating activities as an indicator of a corporation's operating performance. 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- THIS MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS CONTAINS FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS THAT INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES. OUR ACTUAL RESULTS COULD DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE ANTICIPATED IN THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. FACTORS THAT MAY CAUSE SUCH DIFFERENCES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, OUR EXPANSION INTO NEW MARKETS, COMPETITION, TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES, RELIANCE ON KEY SUPPLIERS AND AVAILABILITY OF MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL. THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE MADE AS OF THE DATE OF THIS FORM 10-K AND WE ASSUME NO OBLIGATION TO UPDATE THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS OR TO UPDATE THE REASONS WHY ACTUAL RESULTS COULD DIFFER FROM THOSE PROJECTED IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. OVERVIEW We are the largest supplier in the United States of bulk CO2 systems and bulk CO2 for carbonating fountain beverages. As of June 30, 2002, we operated a national network of 98 service locations in 45 states servicing approximately 71,000 bulk and high pressure customers. Currently, 99% of fountain beverage users in the continental United States are within our present service area. Historically, due to a combination of internal growth and acquisitions, we have experienced high levels of growth in terms of number of customers and net sales, averaging 20% to 50% per year from 1995 through 2000. Today, the majority of our growth is internal resulting from the conversion of high pressure CO2 users to bulk CO2 systems. During the fiscal years ended June 30, 2001 and 2002, we deliberately slowed new customer contract signings and the related installation rate of bulk CO2 systems. This decision was made to enable us to focus on improving our operating effectiveness in order to better position us for future growth. We decentralized service location management from our headquarters in Stuart, Florida to the depot locations themselves and in connection with this decision hired new full-time depot and regional managers. This slowed our gross margin improvement plan in fiscal 2001 and 2002, although it is anticipated to enhance it in the future. We also devoted significant resources to developing and implementing our new AccuRoute(TM) system to improve our productivity and better service our customers. The result of this decision was that our revenue growth slowed from prior years although revenue still grew at 16.7% and 6.9% in fiscal 2001 and 2002, respectively. In addition, the ramp down in growth enabled our sales force to concentrate on signing higher margin new customers and resigning existing customers at increased rates. Because of these initiatives, we feel that we will be ready to accelerate our growth in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. During fiscal 2002, early increases in net sales were primarily the result of pricing initiatives on both new and renewal customers. During the quarter ended March 31, 2002, revenue growth reflected a strategic decision to reduce fuel and other surcharges along with a planned reduction in our high pressure cylinder business. The weak economy also impacted revenues during the year due to a large number of small independent restaurant closings, reduced volume on per pound and fill only customers and slower growth in new customer installations. We believe that our future revenue growth, gains in gross margin and profitability will be dependent upon (i) increases in route density in existing markets and the expansion and penetration of bulk CO2 system installations in new market regions, both resulting from successful ongoing marketing, (ii) improved operating efficiencies and (iii) price increases. New multi-unit placement agreements combined with single-unit placements will drive improvements in achieving route density. Our success in reaching multi-placement agreements is due in part to our national delivery system. We maintain a "hub and spoke" route structure and establish additional stationary bulk CO2 service locations as service areas expand through geographic growth. Our entry into many states was accomplished largely through the acquisition of businesses having thinly developed route networks. We expect to benefit from route efficiencies and other economies of scale as we build our customer base in these states through intensive regional and local marketing initiatives. Greater density should also lead to enhanced utilization of vehicles and other fixed assets and the ability to spread fixed marketing and administrative costs over a broader revenue base. 9 Generally, our experience has been that as our service locations mature their gross profit margins improve as a result of their volume growing while fixed costs remain essentially unchanged. New service locations typically operate at low or negative gross margins in the early stages and detract from our highly profitable service locations in more mature markets. Fiscal 2001 and 2002 were periods of transition for us in which we achieved significant progress in better positioning ourselves for the next phase of growth. We continue to focus on improving operating effectiveness, increasing prices and strengthening management. We anticipate that these initiatives will contribute positively to all areas of our Company. GENERAL Substantially all of our revenues have been derived from the rental of bulk CO2 systems installed at customers' sites, the sale of CO2 and high pressure cylinder revenues. Revenues have grown from $18.9 million in fiscal 1997 to $72.3 million in fiscal 2002. We believe that our revenue base is stable due to the existence of long-term contracts with our customers which generally rollover with a limited number expiring without renewal in any one year. Revenue growth is largely dependent on (1) the rate of new bulk CO2 system installations, (2) the growth in bulk CO2 sales at (i) customers having rental plus per pound charge contracts and (ii) customers who own their own bulk CO2 systems, and (3) price increases. Cost of products sold is comprised of purchased CO2, vehicle and service location costs associated with the storage and delivery of CO2. Selling, general and administrative expenses consist of wages and benefits, dispatch and communications costs, as well as expenses associated with marketing, administration, accounting and employee training. Consistent with the capital-intensive nature of our business, we incur significant depreciation and amortization expenses. These stem from the depreciation of our bulk CO2 systems and related installation costs, amortization of sales commissions, and amortization of deferred financing costs and other intangible assets. With respect to bulk CO2 systems, we capitalize costs that are associated with specific installations of such systems with customers under non-cancelable contracts and which would not be incurred but for a successful placement. All other service, marketing and administrative costs are expensed as incurred. We believe that earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") is one of the principal financial measures by which we should be measured as we continue to achieve national market presence and to build route density. Information regarding EBITDA is presented because of its use by certain investors as one measure of a corporation's ability to generate cash flow. EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, operating income, net income or cash flows from operating activities as an indicator of a corporation's operating performance. EBITDA excludes significant costs of doing business and should not be considered in isolation from GAAP measures. Since 1990, we have devoted significant resources to building a sales and marketing organization, adding administrative personnel and developing a national infrastructure to support the rapid growth in the number of our installed base of bulk CO2 systems. The costs of this expansion and the significant depreciation expense recognized on our installed network have resulted in accumulated net losses of $53.0 million at June 30, 2002. 10 Results of Operations The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the percentage relationship, which the various items bear to net sales: Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2002 2001* 2000* ---- ---- ---- Income Statement Data: Net sales .................................. 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Cost of products sold ...................... 49.1 49.1 49.3 Selling, general and administrative expenses 24.4 25.7 21.2 Depreciation and amortization .............. 22.6 25.8 26.8 Loss on asset disposal ..................... 6.4 7.2 1.6 ------- ------- ------- Operating (loss) income .................... (2.5) (7.8) 1.1 Interest expense, net ...................... 11.6 15.1 17.3 ------- ------- ------- (Loss) before extraordinary item ........... (14.1) (22.9) (16.2) Extraordinary item - extinguishment of debt. (1.1) -- -- ------- ------- ------- Net (loss) ................................. (15.2)% (22.9)% (16.2)% ======= ======= ======= Other Data: EBITDA .................................. 20.1% 18.0% 27.8% ======= ======= ======= *Restated to conform to current year's classifications. FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2002 COMPARED TO FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2001 Net Sales Net sales increased $4.7 million, or 6.9%, from $67.6 million in 2001 to $72.3 million in 2002. The increase in sales is primarily a result of improved pricing initiatives on both new and renewal customers, offset by our strategic decision to reduce fuel and other surcharges and the planned reduction in the stand alone high pressure cylinder business made in the third quarter of fiscal 2002. Cost of Products Sold Costs of products sold increased by $2.3 million, or 7.0%, from $33.2 million in 2001 to $35.5 million in 2002, and as a percentage of net sales, equaled 49.1% in both fiscal years. Operational wages and benefits increased by $1.2 million from $13.3 million in 2001 to $14.5 million in 2002, and as a percentage of net sales, increased from 19.7% in 2001 to 20.1% in 2002. The increases are primarily attributable to increased field management personnel to enhance the operational effectiveness of our depots locally. CO2 purchases increased by $1.0 million from $7.5 million in 2001 to $8.5 million in 2002, and as a percentage of net sales, increased from 11.2% in 2001 to 11.8% in 2002. The dollar increase is attributable to increased purchases of CO2, partially offset by lower per pound costs, based on volume incentive pricing. Truck expenses decreased $0.6 million in 2001 to $5.3 million in 2002 while decreasing as a percentage of sales from 10.8% in 2001 to 8.8% in 2002. The dollar decrease is primarily attributable to decreased fuel and truck repair costs. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $0.2 million, or 1.4%, from $17.4 million in 2001 to $17.6 million in 2002, and as a percentage of net sales decreased from 25.7% in 2001 to 24.4% in 2002. The increase is primarily attributable to increases in selling, executive and administrative wages and benefits, and other general expenses, offset by a decrease in bad debt expense. Selling and administrative wages and benefits increased by $0.2 million from $9.7 million in 2001 to $9.9 million in 2002. These costs include wages and benefits associated with the hiring of incremental sales and corporate management. Other general expenses increased $0.3 million from $4.6 million in 2001 to $4.9 million in 2002. Bad debt expense decreased $0.3 million from $3.1 million in 2001 to $2.8 million in 2002. As a percentage of net sales, bad debt expense decreased from 4.5% in 2001 to 3.8% in 2002. The decrease is primarily attributable to corrective action taken on the potential uncollectability of certain accounts receivable that came to light as a result of several issues in the billing and cash application areas noted in the prior year. We believe that the factors that gave rise to these issues have been addressed in order to prevent their reoccurrence in the future. Although there was a decrease in bad debt expense for 2002 compared to 2001, a charge of $1.9 million was recorded in the fourth quarter to increase reserves due to the unusually high closure rate among independent operators who have gone out of business in recent periods because of unfavorable economic conditions. 11 Depreciation and Amortization Depreciation and amortization decreased from $17.5 million in 2001 to $16.3 million in 2002. As a percentage of net sales, depreciation and amortization expense decreased from 25.8% in 2001 to 22.6% in 2002. Depreciation expense increased from $12.3 million in 2001 to $12.6 million in 2002 primarily as a result of new asset additions. Amortization expense decreased by $1.4 million from $5.1 million in 2001 to $3.7 million in 2002. The decrease in amortization expense is a result of our adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 142 ("SFAS 142"), "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets". This accounting standard requires that goodwill be separately disclosed from other intangible assets in the balance sheet, and no longer be amortized, but tested for impairment on a periodic basis. In accordance with this standard we discontinued the amortization of goodwill effective July 1, 2001. For fiscal 2002, we were not required to recognize an impairment of goodwill. Loss on Asset Disposal Loss on asset disposal decreased $0.2 million from $4.9 million in 2001 to $4.7 million in 2002 and as a percentage of net sales, decreased from 7.2% in 2001 to 6.4% in 2002. In June 2001, as a result of our plan to discontinue further installation of 50 and 100 lb. tanks, a loss of $1.2 million was recorded. Additionally, in 2001, we recognized a loss of $1.8 million as a result of adopting a more conservative approach of immediately removing tanks upon service termination, compared with the prior practice of leaving a tank in place when prospects for a new customer at the same location appeared likely. During 2002, an additional loss in the amount of $1.1 million was recognized relating to 50 and 100 lb. tanks that were removed from service during the year. In June 2002, we adopted a plan to replace all 50 and 100 lb. tanks in service at customers over a three to four year period. Our decision to replace these small tanks was based on an evaluation of undiscounted cash flows, contribution to depot fixed overhead, pricing and targeted margins. As a result of our decision, the remaining 50 and 100 lb. tanks were written down to their estimated net realizable value and a loss on impairment of $1.8 million was recorded in June 2002. As of June 30, 2002, the net book value of 50 and 100 lb. tanks totaled $2.8 million which will be depreciated over a remaining period of time that they are expected to be utilized. Operating Loss Operating loss decreased by $3.5 million from $5.3 million in 2001 to $1.8 million in 2002. As a percentage of net sales, operating loss decreased from 7.8% in 2001 to 2.5% in 2002. Interest Expense, Net Interest expense, net, decreased by $1.8 million, from $10.2 million in 2001 to $8.4 million in 2002, and decreased as a percentage of net sales from 15.1% in 2001 to 11.6% in 2002. The dollar decrease is primarily attributable to an overall decline in interest rates as well as lower average debt levels. Extraordinary Item Extraordinary item, extinguishment of debt, totaled $0.8 million in 2002. This charge is attributable to the write-off of deferred charges related to our prior credit facility. The refinancing of our prior credit facility occurred during the first quarter of 2002 (see Note 5 to Consolidated Financial Statements). Net Loss Net loss decreased by $4.5 million, or 29.2%, from $15.5 million in 2001 to $11.0 million in 2002. No provision for income tax expense in either 2001 or 2002 has been made due to historical net losses. At June 30, 2002, we had net operating loss carryforwards for federal income tax purposes of $105.0 million, which are available to offset future federal taxable income, if any, in varying amounts through June 2022. 12 EBITDA For the reasons described above, EBITDA increased by approximately $2.3 million, or 19.3%, from $12.2 million in 2001 to $14.5 million in 2002 and increased as a percentage of net sales from 18.0% to 20.1%. FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2001 COMPARED TO FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2000 (Restated to conform to current year's classifications.) Net Sales Net sales increased $9.6 million, or 16.7%, from $58.0 million in 2000 to $67.6 million in 2001. Of the $9.6 million increase, $4.8 million, or 50.0% was attributable to increased volume and $4.8 million, or 50.0% was attributable to increased pricing. The volume increase in 2001 was primarily realized as a result of having a full year's revenue from customers who signed contracts with us during 2000. During 2001, we slowed our growth to focus on improving our operating efficiencies and strengthening management and to enable our sales force to focus on enhancing pricing initiatives for both new and renewal contracts in order to better position us for future growth. Cost of Products Sold Cost of products sold increased $4.6 million, or 16.1%, from $28.6 million in 2000 to $33.2 million in 2001, and as a percentage of net sales was 49.3% and 49.1% in 2000 and 2001, respectively. CO2 purchases increased $0.5 million from $7.1 million in 2000 to $7.6 million in 2001, while decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 12.2% in 2000 to 11.2% in 2001. The dollar increase is attributable to increased purchases of CO2, offset by lower per pound costs, based on increased volume purchases, and the percentage decrease is attributable to lower costs per pound. Operations wages and benefits increased by $3.3 million from $9.8 million in 2000 to $13.3 million in 2001 and increased as a percentage of net sales from 17.0% in 2000 to 19.4% in 2001. The increases are primarily attributable to increased field management personnel to enhance the management of our depots locally and the temporary reassignment of a portion of our installers' responsibilities to other operational activities during this slower growth period. We will continue to increase field management personnel in fiscal 2002. In addition, the implementation of our new Intelligent Distribution System ("AccuRoute(TM)"), had an initial negative impact on our gross margin. Although AccuRoute(TM) enables us to make less frequent deliveries to our customers and should have resulted in an immediate cost savings, many of our customers perceived that they were getting low on gas and called for immediate deliveries. Thus, we incurred additional expenses, as we made unscheduled deliveries to these accounts. We believe, that as our customers become more aware of our new delivery schedule, this problem will not reoccur in the future. In 2001, we also experienced increased driver turnover. Truck expenses increased $0.8 million from $5.2 million in 2000 to $6.0 million in 2001 while decreasing as a percentage of sales from 9.0% in 2000 to 8.8% in 2001. The dollar increase is primarily attributable to increased fuel costs and insurance. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $5.0 million from $12.4 million in 2000 to $17.4 million in 2001, and increased as a percentage of net sales from 21.2% in 2000 to 25.7% in 2001. The increase is primarily attributable to increases in bad debt expense and in selling, executive and administrative wages and benefits and a decrease in advertising allowances from the prior year. Bad debt expense increased $2.7 million from $0.4 million in 2000 to $3.1 million in 2001. As a percentage of net sales, bad debt expense increased from 0.8% in 2000 to 4.5% in 2001. The increase is primarily attributable to increased reserves due to the potential uncollectibility of certain accounts receivable that came to light as a result of several issues in the billing and cash application areas. We believe that the factors that gave rise to these issues have been addressed in order to prevent their reoccurrence in the future. Selling, executive and administrative wages and benefits increased $1.9 million from $7.8 million in 2000 to $9.7 million in 2001, and increased as a percentage of net sales from 13.5% in 2000 to 14.4% in 2001. The increase is primarily attributable to increased costs associated with the hiring of our new management team. These costs include wages, relocation expenses, recruiting fees and a signing bonus. Advertising allowances decreased $0.7 million from $0.8 million in 2000 to $0.1 million in 2001, and decreased as a percentage of net sales from 1.5% in 2000 to 0.2 % in 2001. The decrease is a result of lower advertising allowances from our tank manufacturers, due to decreased levels of purchases, consistent with our planned slower growth during 2001. 13 Depreciation and Amortization Depreciation and amortization increased $2.0 million from $15.5 million in 2000 to $17.5 million in 2001. As a percentage of net sales, such expense decreased from 26.8% in 2000 to 25.8% in 2001. Depreciation expense increased $1.5 million from $10.8 million in 2000 to $12.3 million in 2001 principally due to the increase in bulk CO2 systems leased to customers. The increase in 2001 is partially attributable to us having a full year's deprecation in 2001 for customers who signed contracts with us in 2000. As a percentage of net sales, depreciation expense decreased from 18.8% in 2000 to 18.2% in 2001. Amortization expense increased by $0.5 million from $4.7 million in 2000 to $5.2 million in 2001 primarily due to the increase in amortization of deferred lease acquisition costs and deferred charges. As a percentage of net sales, amortization expense decreased from 8.0% in 2000 to 7.6% in 2001. Loss On Asset Disposal Loss on asset disposal increased $4.0 million from $0.9 million in 2000 to $4.9 million in 2001 and as a percentage of net sales, increased from 1.6% in 2000 to 7.2% in 2001. The dollar increase is primarily attributable to write-downs on fixed assets. During the fourth quarter, we decided to focus on the placement of larger tanks on a prospective basis in order to enhance margins. We adopted a plan to discontinue the installation of 50 and 100 pound tanks and to dispose of the 50 and 100 pound tanks held for installation; in connection therewith, a loss of $1.2 million was recorded. In addition, in an effort to improve asset control and utilization, write-offs of $1.8 million were recorded, as we adopted a more conservative approach of immediately removing tanks upon service termination, compared to the prior practice of leaving a tank in place when prospects for a new customer at the same location appeared likely. We also wrote-down to net realizable value excess tank bodies for our bulk trucks, many of which were obsolete due to capacity requirements, and high pressure cylinders. We recorded charges of $0.8 million associated with these write-downs. Operating (Loss) Income For the reasons described above, the operating loss was $5.3 million or 7.8% of net sales, in 2001 compared to operating income of $0.6 million, or 1.1% of net sales, in 2000. Interest Expense, Net Interest expense, net, increased $0.2 million from $10.0 million in 2000 to $10.2 million in 2001, and decreased as a percentage of net sales from 17.3% in 2000 to 15.1% in 2001. Increased levels of long-term debt, on average through 2001, were partially offset by the favorable rate environment in effect during the latter half of the year. Net Loss For the reasons described above, the net loss increased $6.1 million or 65.0%, from $9.4 million in 2000 to $15.5 million in 2001. No provision for income tax expense in either 2000 or 2001 has been made due to historical net losses. At June 30, 2001, we had net operating loss carryforwards for federal income tax purposes of $86.5 million, which are available to offset future federal taxable income, if any, in varying amounts through June 2021. EBITDA For the reasons described above, EBITDA decreased from $16.1 million in 2000 to $12.2 million in 2001. As a percentage of net sales, EBITDA decreased from 27.8% in 2000 to 18.0% in 2001. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS In July 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 "Business Combinations" ("SFAS 141"), and SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" ("SFAS 142"). SFAS 141 requires all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001 to be accounted for using the purchase method. Under SFAS 142, goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are no longer amortized but are reviewed annually (or more frequently if impairment indicators arise) for impairment. Separable intangible assets that are not deemed to have indefinite lives will continue to be amortized over their useful lives. We adopted this statement in the first quarter of fiscal 2002, resulting in no goodwill amortization expense in fiscal 2002. Accumulated amortization of goodwill was $5,006 at June 30, 2002 and 2001. In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets" ("SFAS 144"). This statement addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment of long-lived assets and for long-lived assets to be disposed of. SFAS 144 supercedes SFAS Statement No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of." However, SFAS 144 retains the fundamental provisions of Statement No. 121 for (a) recognition and measurement of the impairment of long-lived assets to be held and used and (b) measurement of long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale. SFAS 144 was early adopted by us during the year ended June 30, 2002. 14 In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, "Rescission of SFAS Statements No. 4, 44 and 64, Amendment of SFAS Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections" ("SFAS 145"). Among other things, SFAS 145 rescinds the provisions of SFAS No. 4 that require companies to classify certain gains and losses from debt extinguishments as extraordinary items. The provisions of SFAS 145 related to classification of debt extinguishment are effective for fiscal years beginning after May 15, 2002. Gains and losses from extinguishment of debt will be classified as extraordinary items only if they meet the criteria in APB Opinion No. 30; otherwise such costs will be classified within income from operations. We intend to adopt SFAS 145 during the first quarter of fisal 2003. We are currently reviewing whether or not the fiscal 2002 extraordinary item will have to be reclassified. In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities" ("SFAS 146") which addresses financial accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities and nullifies EITF Issue No. 94-3 "Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring)." The principal difference between SFAS 146 and EITF 94-3 relates to SFAS 146's requirements for recognition of a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity. SFAS 146 requires that a liability be recognized when the liability is incurred. Under EITF 94-3, a liability for an exit cost was recognized at the date of an entity's commitment to an exit plan. SFAS 146 also establishes that fair value is the objective for initial measurement of the liability. The provisions of SFAS 146 are effective for exit or disposal activities that are initiated after December 31, 2002, but early application is encouraged. We do not expect the adoption of SFAS 146 to have a material impact on our financial statements or results of operations. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES Our cash requirements consist principally of (1) capital expenditures associated with purchasing and placing new bulk CO2 systems into service at customers' sites; (2) payments of interest on outstanding indebtedness; and (3) working capital. Whenever possible, we seek to obtain the use of vehicles, land, buildings, and other office and service equipment under operating leases as a means of conserving capital. As of June 30, 2002, we anticipated making cash capital expenditures of approximately $24.0 million in 2003, primarily for purchases of bulk CO2 systems for new customers, the replacement of 50 and 100 lb. tanks in service at existing customers and replacement units for our bulk truck fleet. In June 2002, we adopted a plan to replace all 50 and 100 lb. tanks in service at customers over a three to four year period. While this decision will not increase revenue through new customers, it is expected to improve operating efficiencies, gross margins and profitability. The capital expenditures related to the 50 and 100 lb. tank and bulk truck fleet replacement programs are expected to be approximately $1.9 million and $1.8 million, respectively, in fiscal 2003. Once bulk CO2 systems are placed into service, we generally experience positive cash flows on a per-unit basis, as there are minimal additional capital expenditures required for ordinary operations. In addition to capital expenditures related to internal growth, we review opportunities to acquire bulk CO2 service accounts, and may require cash in an amount dictated by the scale and terms of any such transactions successfully concluded. On September 24, 2001, we entered into a $60.0 million second amended and restated revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks ("Amended Credit Facility"). Pursuant to the Amended Credit Facility, we may request, at any time absent a default, that the Amended Credit Facility be increased by an additional $15.0 million to a total of $75.0 million. This new facility replaced our prior facility, which was due to expire in May 2002. The Amended Credit Facility contains interest rates and an unused facility fee based on a pricing grid calculated quarterly on total debt to annualized EBITDA. We are entitled to select the Base Rate or LIBOR, plus applicable margin, for principal drawings under the Amended Credit Facility. The applicable LIBOR margin pursuant to the pricing grid currently ranges from 2.50% to 4.75%, the applicable unused facility fee pursuant to the pricing grid ranges from .375% to ..50% and the applicable Base Rate margin pursuant to the pricing grid currently ranges from 1.50% to 3.75%. Interest only is payable periodically until the expiration of the Amended Credit Facility. Additionally, it is collateralized by substantially all of our assets. We are precluded from declaring or paying any cash dividends and are required to meet certain affirmative and negative covenants, including but not limited to financial covenants. As of June 30, 2002 and at various dates in the past we have been unable to meet certain covenants and have had to obtain waivers or modifications of terms from our lenders. On September 27, 2002, the Amended Credit Facility was amended to adjust certain financial covenants for the quarter ended June 30, 2002 and prospectively, and to extend the maturity to November 17, 2003. In October 1997, we issued $30.0 million of our 12% Senior Subordinated Promissory Notes ("Notes") with interest only payable semi-annually on April 30 and October 31, due October 31, 2004. On May 4, 1999, we sold an additional $10.0 million of our 12% Senior Subordinated Promissory Notes ("Additional Notes"). Except for their October 31, 2005 maturity date, the Additional Notes are substantially identical to the Notes. As of June 30, 2002 and at various dates in the past we have been unable to meet certain covenants and have had to obtain waivers or modifications of terms from our lenders. On September 27, 2002, concurrently with the amendment to the Amended Credit Facility, certain financial covenants of the Notes and Additional Notes were amended to adjust certain financial covenants for the quarter ended June 30, 2002, and prospectively. Although we believe that we will be able to comply with the current provisions of our borrowing arrangements, circumstances may result in our having to obtain waivers or further modifications in the future. In November 2001, we sold 2,500 shares of our Series B 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, no par value (the "Series B Preferred Stock"), for $1,000 per share (the "Liquidation Preference"). Cumulative 15 dividends are payable quarterly in arrears at the rate of 8.0% per annum on the Liquidation Preference, and, to the extent not paid in cash, will be added to the Liquidation Preference. Shares of the Series B Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of Common Stock at any time at a current conversion price of $12.92 per share. Additionally, we must redeem the Series B Preferred Stock upon the occurrence of a change in control of the Company. During 2002, our capital resources included cash flows from operations, proceeds from the sale of our Series B Preferred Stock, the exercise of stock options and warrants, and available borrowing capacity under the Amended Credit Facility. As of June 30, 2002, a total of $48.0 million was outstanding under the Amended Credit Facility with interest at 3.5% above LIBOR (5.355% to 5.42875%). On August 22, 2002, we completed the private placement of 1,663,846 shares of our Common Stock to 24 accredited investors at a price of $9.75 per share realizing net cash proceeds of approximately $15.1 million after expenses. Pursuant to the requirements of the Amended Credit Facility, we used the proceeds to pay down outstanding debt under the Amended Credit Facility. We believe that cash flows from operations and available borrowings under the Amended Credit Facility will be sufficient to fund proposed operations for at least the next twelve months. WORKING CAPITAL. At June 30, 2002 and June 30, 2001, we had working capital of $2.3 million and $1.2 million, respectively. CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES. During 2002 and 2001, net cash provided by operations was $10.9 million and $5.2 million, respectively. The increase of $5.7 million in 2002 compared to 2001 is primarily a result of a $4.5 million decrease in the net loss in 2002. Considering non-cash items, cash flows from operating activities increased by $4.0 million in 2002. The remaining increase of $1.7 million is primarily due to changes in working capital components that affect the calculation of cash flows from operating activities under the indirect method of reporting cash flows. CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES. During 2002 and 2001, net cash used in investing activities was $12.8 million and $11.8 million, respectively. These investing activities were primarily attributable to the acquisition, installation and direct placement costs of bulk CO2 systems. CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES. During 2002 and 2001, cash flows provided by financing activities were $2.9 million and $6.9 million, respectively. In 2001, cash flows from financing activities included $12.0 million from the issuance of 1,111,111 shares of Common Stock and the exercise of stock options, offset by the net repayment of long-term debt. In 2002, cash flows from financing activities included $5.4 million from the issuance of 2,500 shares of Series B Preferred Stock and the exercise of stock options, offset principally by an increase in deferred financing costs under the Amended Credit Facility. INFLATION The modest levels of inflation in the general economy have not affected our results of operations. Additionally, our customer contracts generally provide for annual increases in the monthly rental rate based on increases in the consumer price index. We believe that inflation will not have a material adverse effect on our future results of operations. Our bulk CO2 supply contract with The BOC Group, Inc. ("BOC") provides for annual adjustments in the purchase price for bulk CO2 based upon increases or decreases in the Producer Price Index for Chemical and Allied Products or the average percentage increase in the selling price of bulk merchant carbon dioxide purchased by BOC's large, multi-location beverage customers in the United States. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES In preparing our financial statements, we make estimates, assumptions and judgments that can have a significant impact on our revenue, operating income and net income, as well as on the reported amounts of certain assets and liabilities on our balance sheet. We believe that the estimates, assumptions and judgments involved in the accounting policies described below have the greatest potential impact on our financial statements, so we consider these to be our critical accounting policies. Estimates in each of these areas are based on historical experience and a variety of assumptions that we believe are appropriate. Actual results may differ from these estimates. 16 Valuation of Long-Lived Assets We review our long-lived assets for impairment, principally property and equipment, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be fully recoverable. To determine recoverability of our long-lived assets, we evaluate the probability that future undiscounted net cash flows will be greater that the carrying amount of our assets. Impairment is measured based on the difference between the carrying amount of our assets and their estimated fair value. See Note 2 of the financial statements for more information regarding asset write-downs recognized during the years ended June 30, 2002 and 2001. Reserves for Uncollectible Accounts Receivable We make ongoing assumptions relating to the collectibility of our accounts receivable. The accounts receivable amount on our balance sheet includes a reserve for accounts that might not be paid. In determining the amount of the reserve, we consider our historical level of credit losses. We also make judgments about the creditworthiness of significant customers based on ongoing credit evaluations, and we assess current economic trends that might impact the level of credit losses in the future. As discussed in Note 15 of the financial statements, in spite of our regular monitoring of accounts receivable, we recorded additional reserves for uncollectible accounts receivable of $1.9 million and $1.7 million as of June 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. While we believe that our current reserves are adequate to cover potential credit losses, we cannot predict future changes in the financial stability of our customers and we cannot guarantee that our reserves will continue to be adequate. If actual credit losses are significantly greater than the reserve we have established, that would increase our general and administrative expenses and reduce our reported net income. Conversely, if actual credit losses are significantly less than our reserve, this would eventually decrease our general and administrative expenses and increase our reported net income. Deferred Income Taxes Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. We consider the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment and record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount that is expected to be realized in future periods. ISSUES AND UNCERTAINTIES While we are optimistic about our long-term prospects, the following issues and uncertainties, among others, should be considered in evaluating our outlook. WE HAVE INCURRED LOSSES SINCE OUR INCEPTION AND FACE UNCERTAINTY IN OUR ABILITY TO BECOME A PROFITABLE COMPANY. We have incurred substantial losses since our inception in 1990. Our net loss was $9.4 million for fiscal 2000, $15.5 million for fiscal 2001 and $11.0 million for fiscal 2002. We are uncertain whether we will install a sufficient number of our bulk CO2 systems or obtain sufficient market acceptance to allow us to achieve or sustain profitability. Our losses to date have resulted primarily from expenses we incurred in building a sales and marketing organization, adding administrative personnel and developing a national infrastructure to support the rapid growth in the number of our installed base of bulk CO2 systems. The cost of this expansion and the significant depreciation expense of our installed base of bulk CO2 systems have resulted in significant operating losses to date and accumulated net losses of $53.0 million at June 30, 2002. 17 WE HAVE SUBSTANTIAL INDEBTEDNESS AND OUR OBLIGATION TO SERVICE THAT INDEBTEDNESS COULD DIVERT FUNDS FROM OPERATIONS AND LIMIT OUR ABILITY TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL FUNDING TO EXPAND OUR BUSINESS. As of June 30, 2002, we had outstanding indebtedness of $88.0 million, which included $48.0 million under our revolving credit facility and $40.0 million of our 12% senior subordinated promissory notes due 2004 and 2005. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow to service our indebtedness, we will have to: o reduce or delay planned capital expenditures, o sell assets, o restructure or refinance our indebtedness or o seek additional equity capital. We are uncertain whether any of these strategies can be effected on satisfactory terms, if at all, particularly in light of our high levels of indebtedness. In addition, the extent to which we continue to have substantial indebtedness could have significant consequences, including: o our ability to obtain additional financing in the future for working capital, capital expenditures, product research and development, acquisitions and other general corporate purposes may be materially limited or impaired, o a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations may need to be dedicated to the payment of interest on our indebtedness and therefore not available to finance our business, and o our high degree of indebtedness may make us more vulnerable to economic downturns, limit our ability to withstand competitive pressures or reduce our flexibility in responding to changing business and economic conditions. Also, our lenders require that we comply with financial and business covenants. If we fail to maintain these covenants, our lenders could declare us in default. They could demand the repayment of our indebtedness to them if this default were not cured or waived. At various times in the past we have been unable to meet certain covenants and have had to obtain waivers or modifications of terms from our lenders. Although we believe that we will be able to comply with the current provisions of our borrowing arrangements, circumstances may result in our having to obtain waivers or further modifications in the future. OUR FUTURE OPERATING RESULTS REMAIN UNCERTAIN DESPITE THE GROWTH RATE IN OUR REVENUE. You should not consider growth rates in our revenue to be indicative of growth rates in our operating results. In addition, you should not consider prior growth rates in our revenue to be indicative of future growth rates in our revenue. The timing and amount of future revenues will depend almost entirely on our ability to obtain agreements with new customers to install bulk CO2 systems 18 and use our services. Our future operating results will depend on many factors, including: o the level of product and price competition, o the ability to manage our growth, o the ability to hire additional employees, and o the ability to control costs. WE LACK PRODUCT DIVERSITY, AND OUR BUSINESS DEPENDS ON CONTINUED MARKET ACCEPTANCE BY THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY OF OUR PRODUCT AND CONSUMER PREFERENCE FOR CARBONATED BEVERAGES. We depend on continued market acceptance of our bulk CO2 systems by the food and beverage industry, which accounts for approximately 95% of our revenues. Unlike many of our competitors for whom bulk CO2 is a secondary business, we have no material lines of business other than the leasing of bulk CO2 systems and the sale of CO2. We do not anticipate diversifying into other product or service lines in the future. The retail beverage CO2 industry is mature, with only limited growth in total demand for CO2 foreseen. Our ability to grow is dependent upon the success of our marketing efforts to acquire new customers and their acceptance of bulk CO2 systems as a replacement for high pressure CO2 cylinders. While the food and beverage industry to date has been receptive to bulk CO2 systems, we cannot be certain that the operating results of our installed base of bulk CO2 systems will continue to be favorable or that past results will be indicative of future market acceptance of our service. In addition, any recession experienced by the food and beverage industry or any significant shift in consumer preferences away from carbonated beverages to other types of beverages could harm our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to service our indebtedness. OUR MARKET IS HIGHLY COMPETITIVE AND OUR ABILITY OR INABILITY TO RESPOND TO VARIOUS COMPETITIVE FACTORS MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF CURRENT CUSTOMERS AND A FAILURE TO ATTRACT NEW CUSTOMERS. The industry in which we operate is highly competitive. While we are the first and only company to operate a national network of service locations with over 99% of fountain beverage users in the continental United States within our current service area, we compete regionally with several direct competitors. We cannot be certain that these competitors will not substantially increase their installed base of bulk CO2 systems and expand their service nationwide. Because there are no major barriers to entry, we also face the risk of a well-capitalized competitor's entry into our existing or future markets. In addition, we compete with numerous distributors of bulk and high pressure CO2, including: o industrial gas and welding supply companies, o specialty gas companies, o restaurant and grocery supply companies and o fountain supply companies. These suppliers vary widely in size. Some of our competitors have significantly greater financial, technical or marketing resources than we do. Our competitors might succeed in developing technologies, products or services that are superior, less costly or more widely used than those that have or are being developed by us or that would render our technologies or products obsolete or noncompetitive. In addition, competitors may have an advantage over us with customers who prefer dealing with one company that can supply bulk CO2 as well as fountain syrup. We cannot be certain that we will be able to compete effectively with current or future competitors. Competitive pressures could seriously harm our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to service our indebtedness. OUR ABILITY OR INABILITY TO MANAGE GROWTH MAY OVEREXTEND OUR MANAGEMENT AND OTHER RESOURCES, CAUSING INEFFICIENCIES, WHICH MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR OPERATING RESULTS. We have experienced rapid growth and intend to continue to expand our operations aggressively. Because of our limited product line, we must expand operations to become profitable. We may be unable to: o manage effectively the expansion of our operations, o implement and develop our systems, procedures or controls, o adequately support our operations or o achieve and manage the currently projected installations of bulk CO2 systems. 19 If we are unable to manage growth effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to service our indebtedness could be seriously harmed. The growth in the size and scale of our business has placed, and we expect it will continue to place, significant demands on our personnel and operating systems. Our additional planned expansion may further strain management and other resources. Our ability to manage growth effectively will depend on our ability to: o improve our operating systems, o expand, train and manage our employee base and o develop additional service capacity. WE ARE DEPENDENT ON THIRD-PARTY SUPPLIERS AND IF THESE SUPPLIERS CEASE DOING BUSINESS WITH US, WE MAY HAVE DIFFICULTY FINDING SUITABLE REPLACEMENTS TO MEET OUR NEEDS. We do not conduct manufacturing operations and depend, and will continue to depend, on outside parties for the manufacture of bulk CO2 systems and components. We intend to significantly expand our installed base of bulk CO2 systems. Our expansion may be limited by the manufacturing capacity of our third-party manufacturers. Manufacturers may not be able to meet our manufacturing needs in a satisfactory and timely manner. If there is an unanticipated increase in demand for bulk CO2 systems, we may be unable to meet such demand due to manufacturing constraints. We purchase bulk CO2 systems from Chart Industries, Inc. and Taylor Wharton Cryogenics (a division of Harsco Corporation), the two major manufacturers of bulk CO2 systems. Should either manufacturer cease manufacturing bulk CO2 systems, we would be required to locate additional suppliers. We may be unable to locate alternate manufacturers on a timely basis. A delay in the supply of bulk CO2 systems could cause potential customers to delay their decision to purchase our services or to choose not to purchase our services. This would result in delays in or loss of revenues, which would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations and our ability to service our indebtedness. In addition, we purchase CO2 for resale to our customers. In May 1997, we entered into a ten year supply contract with The BOC Group, Inc. for the purchase of bulk CO2. In the event that BOC is unable to fulfill our requirements, we would have to locate additional suppliers. A delay in locating additional suppliers or our inability to locate additional suppliers would result in loss of revenues, which would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations and our ability to service our indebtedness. WE DEPEND UPON KEY PERSONNEL AND IF WE LOSE THE SERVICES OF THESE KEY PERSONNEL, OUR ABILITY TO SELL OUR PRODUCT AND GROW OUR BUSINESS COULD BE SEVERELY IMPAIRED. OUR INABILITY TO ATTRACT, HIRE AND RETAIN ADDITIONAL QUALIFIED EMPLOYEES COULD ALSO SEVERELY IMPAIR OUR BUSINESS AND BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT. Our performance is substantially dependent on the continued services of our executive officers and key employees. Our long-term success will depend on our ability to recruit, retain and motivate highly skilled personnel. Competition for such personnel is intense. We have at times experienced difficulties in recruiting qualified personnel, and we may experience difficulties in the future. The inability to attract and retain necessary technical and managerial personnel could seriously harm our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to service our indebtedness. We do not maintain "key man" life insurance on any employee. WE MUST KEEP PACE WITH TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGES TO REMAIN COMPETITIVE SINCE IMPROVEMENTS IN OUR COMPETITOR'S PRODUCTS MAY MAKE OUR PRODUCT OBSOLETE. Our success depends in part on our ability to obtain new bulk CO2 customers by converting existing users of high pressure CO2 cylinders to bulk CO2 systems and to keep pace with continuing changes in technology and consumer preferences while remaining price competitive. Our failure to develop technological improvements or to adapt our products and services to technological change on a timely basis could, over time, seriously harm our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to service our indebtedness. YOU MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SELL OUR STOCK ON TERMS FAVORABLE TO YOU BECAUSE OUR COMMON SHARE PRICE HAS BEEN AND MAY CONTINUE TO BE VOLATILE. Our common share price has fluctuated substantially since our initial public offering in December 1995. The market price of our common shares could decline from current levels or continue to fluctuate. The market price of our common shares may be significantly affected by the following factors: o announcements of technological innovations or new products or services by us or our competitors, o trends and fluctuations in the use of bulk CO2 systems, 20 o timing of bulk CO2 systems installations relative to financial reporting periods, o release of reports, o operating results below expectations, o changes in, or our failure to meet, financial estimates by securities analysts, o industry developments, o market acceptance of bulk CO2 systems, o economic and other external factors, and o period-to-period fluctuations in our financial results. In addition, the securities markets have from time to time experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that are unrelated to the operating performance of particular companies. These market fluctuations may also materially and adversely affect the market price of our common shares. OUR OPERATING RESULTS MAY FLUCTUATE DUE TO SEASONALITY SINCE CONSUMERS TEND TO DRINK FEWER QUANTITIES OF CARBONATED BEVERAGES DURING THE WINTER MONTHS. Approximately 6% of our bulk CO2 customers lease our bulk CO2 systems and, in addition, are billed by the pound for bulk CO2 delivered. Approximately 13% of our bulk CO2 customers own their own bulk CO2 systems and are billed by the pound for all CO2 delivered. We believe that, on a relative basis, customers purchasing bulk CO2 by the pound tend to consume less CO2 in the winter months. Our sales to such customers will be correspondingly lower in times of cold or inclement weather. We cannot be certain, however, that these seasonal trends will continue. Consequently, we are unable to predict revenues for any future quarter with any significant degree of accuracy. FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE, YOUR ONLY RETURN ON INVESTMENT, IF ANY, WILL OCCUR ON THE SALE OF OUR STOCK BECAUSE WE DO NOT INTEND TO PAY DIVIDENDS. We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our capital stock. We currently intend to retain any future earnings for funding growth. Therefore, we do not expect to pay any dividends in the foreseeable future. In addition, the payment of cash dividends is restricted by financial covenants in our loan agreements. OUR OPERATING RESULTS ARE AFFECTED BY RISING INTEREST RATES SINCE MORE OF OUR CASH FLOW WILL BE NEEDED TO SERVICE OUR INDEBTEDNESS. The interest rate on our revolving credit facility fluctuates with market interest rates resulting in greater interest costs in times of rising interest rates. Consequently, our profitability is sensitive to changes in interest rates. OUR INSURANCE POLICIES MAY NOT COVER ALL OPERATING RISKS AND A CASUALTY LOSS BEYOND OUR COVERAGE COULD NEGATIVELY IMPACT OUR BUSINESS. Our operations are subject to all of the operating hazards and risks normally incidental to handling, storing and transporting CO2. As a compressed gas, CO2 is classified as a hazardous material. We maintain insurance policies in such amounts and with such coverages and deductibles that we believe are reasonable and prudent. We cannot assure you that our insurance will be adequate to protect us from all liabilities and expenses that may arise from claims for personal and property damage arising in the ordinary course of business or that current levels of insurance will be maintained or available at economical prices. If a significant liability claim is brought against us that is not covered by insurance, our business, financial condition, and results of operations and ability to service our indebtedness could be seriously harmed. OUR BUSINESS IS SUBJECT TO EXTENSIVE GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION, WHICH MAY INCREASE OUR COST OF DOING BUSINESS. IN ADDITION, FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE REGULATIONS MAY SUBJECT US TO FINES, PENALTIES AND/OR INJUNCTIONS THAT MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR OPERATING RESULTS. Our business is subject to federal and state laws and regulations adopted for the protection of the environment, the health and safety of our employees and users of our products and services. The transportation of bulk CO2 is subject to regulation by various federal, state and local agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation. These regulatory authorities have broad powers, and we are subject to regulatory and legislative changes that can affect the economics of our industry by requiring changes in operating practices or influencing the demand for and the cost of providing services. A significant increase in the cost of our operations could adversely affect our chances for profitability. 21 OUR OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS ARE ABLE TO EXERT SIGNIFICANT CONTROL OVER MATTERS REQUIRING SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL, WHICH MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT THE PRICE THAT INVESTORS ARE WILLING TO PAY FOR OUR COMMON STOCK. Executive officers, directors and entities affiliated with them beneficially own, in the aggregate, approximately 29% of our outstanding common shares (including common shares issuable upon conversion of preferred stock). These shareholders, if acting together, would be able to significantly influence all matters requiring approval by our shareholders, including the election of directors and the approval of significant corporate transactions, such as mergers or other business combination transactions. This concentration of ownership may also have the effect of delaying or preventing an acquisition or change in control of our company, which could have a material adverse effect on our common share price. OUR PREFERRED STOCK AND PROVISIONS OF OUR CHARTER AND FLORIDA LAW MAY NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE ABILITY OF A POTENTIAL BUYER TO PURCHASE ALL OR SOME OF OUR STOCK AT AN OTHERWISE ADVANTAGEOUS PRICE, WHICH MAY LIMIT THE PRICE INVESTORS ARE WILLING TO PAY FOR OUR COMMON STOCK. Our common shares are subordinate to all outstanding classes of preferred stock in the payment of dividends and other distributions on our stock, including distributions upon liquidation or dissolution of NuCo2. We have outstanding two series of preferred stock, the Series A 8% cumulative convertible preferred stock and the Series B 8% cumulative convertible preferred stock. Our board of directors has the authority to issue up to an additional 4,992,500 shares of preferred stock. If we designate or issue other series of preferred stock, it will create additional securities that will have dividend and liquidation preferences over the common shares. If we issue convertible preferred stock, a subsequent conversion may dilute the current shareholders' interest. Without any further vote or action on the part of the shareholders, our board of directors will have the authority to determine the price, rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions of the preferred stock. Although the issuance of preferred stock will provide us with flexibility in connection with possible acquisitions and other corporate purposes, the issuance of preferred stock may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire a majority of our outstanding voting stock. We are subject to several anti-takeover provisions that apply to a public corporation organized under Florida law. These provisions generally require that an "affiliated transaction" (certain transactions between a corporation and a holder of more than 10% of its outstanding voting securities) must be approved by a majority of disinterested directors or the holders of two-thirds of the voting shares not beneficially owned by an "interested shareholder." Additionally, "control shares" (shares acquired in excess of certain specified thresholds) acquired in specified control share acquisitions have voting rights only to the extent conferred by resolution approved by shareholders, excluding holders of shares defined as "interested shares." A Florida corporation may opt out of the Florida anti-takeover laws if its articles of incorporation or, depending on the provision in question, its bylaws so provide. We have not opted out of the provisions of the anti-takeover laws. Consequently, these laws could prohibit or delay a merger or other takeover or change of control and may discourage attempts by other companies to acquire us. FUTURE SALES OF SHARES MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR STOCK PRICE SINCE ANY INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF OUTSTANDING SHARES MAY HAVE A DILUTIVE EFFECT ON OUR STOCK. If our shareholders sell substantial amounts of our common shares in the public market, the market price of our common shares could fall. These sales could be due to shares issued upon exercise of outstanding options and warrants and upon conversion of preferred stock. These sales also might make it more difficult for us to sell equity or equity-related securities in the future at a time and price that we deem appropriate. We have outstanding options under our 1995 stock option plan, directors' stock option plan and options granted to directors to purchase an aggregate of 1,308,450 common shares at an average exercise price of $9.96 per share and outstanding warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,416,462 common shares at an average exercise price of $10.05 per share. In addition, we also have outstanding Series A 8% cumulative convertible preferred stock and Series B 8% cumulative convertible preferred stock that is convertible at $9.28 and $12.92 per share, respectively, into 641,803 and 205,342 common shares, respectively. 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. ----------------------------------------------------------- As discussed under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources" above, as of June 30, 2002, a total of $48.0 million was outstanding under the Amended Credit Facility with interest at 3.5% above LIBOR (5.355% to 5.42875% at June 30, 2002). Based upon $48.0 million outstanding under the Amended Credit Facility at June 30, 2002, our annual interest cost under the Amended Credit Facility would increase by approximately $0.5 million for each 1% increase in LIBOR. In order to reduce our exposure to increases in LIBOR, and consequently to increases in interest payments, we entered into an interest rate swap transaction (the "Swap") in the amount of $12.5 million (the "Notional Amount") which terminates on September 28, 2003. 22 Pursuant to the Swap, we pay a fixed interest rate of 5.23% per annum and receive a LIBOR-based floating rate. The effect of the Swap is to neutralize any changes in LIBOR on the Notional Amount. If the LIBOR based rate decreases below 5.23% during the period the Swap is in effect, interest payments by us on the Notional Amount will be greater than if we had not entered into the Swap, since by exchanging LIBOR for a fixed interest rate, we would not benefit from falling interest rates on LIBOR, a variable interest rate. We do not enter into speculative derivative transactions or leveraged swap transactions. 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. -------------------------------------------- See page F-1. 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. ----------------------------------------------------------- Not applicable. 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant. --------------------------------------------------- The information required by Item 10 is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than October 28, 2002 pursuant to Regulation 14A. 11. Executive Compensation. ----------------------- The information required by Item 11 is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than October 28, 2002 pursuant to Regulation 14A. 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management. -------------------------------------------------------------- The information required by Item 12 is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than October 28, 2002 pursuant to Regulation 14A. 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions. ---------------------------------------------- The information required by Item 13 is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than October 28, 2002 pursuant to Regulation 14A. 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K. ----------------------------------------------------------------- (a) The following documents are filed as part of this report. 23 (1) Financial statements. See Index to Financial Statements which appears on page F-1 herein. (2) Financial Statement Schedules II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts. (3) Exhibits: Exhibit No. Exhibit ----------- ------- 3.1 -- Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company. (2) 3.2 -- Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, dated December 18, 1995. (3) 3.3 -- Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, dated December 17, 1996. (3) 3.4 -- Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, dated May 10, 2000. (5) 3.5 -- Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, dated November 1, 2001. (8) 3.6 -- Bylaws of the Company. (2) 10.1 -- 1995 Stock Option Plan. (5) 10.2 -- Directors' Stock Option Plan. (2) 10.3 -- Second Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement ("Credit Agreement"), dated as of September 24, 2001, by and among the Company, SunTrust Bank ("SunTrust"), the other banks signatory to the Credit Agreement, SunTrust in its capacity as Administrative Agent, as Issuing Bank and as Swing Line Lender, Heller Financial, Inc., in its capacity as Syndication Agent and BNP Paribas, in its capacity as Documentation Agent. (7) 10.4 -- First Amendment and Waiver to Second Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of May 10, 2002, by and among the Company, SunTrust Bank, Heller Financial, Inc. and BNP Paribas. (9) 10.5 -- Second Amendment and Waiver to Second Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of September 27, 2002, by and among the Company, SunTrust Bank, Heller Financial, Inc., and BNP Paribas. (1) 10.6 -- Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement ("Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement"), dated as of October 31, 1997 between the Company, the Subsidiary Grantors and the Investors. (3) 10.7 -- Amendment No. 1 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of November 14, 1997. (3) 10.8 -- Amendment No. 2 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of June 30, 1998. (3) 10.9 -- Amendment No. 3 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of May 4, 1999. (4) 10.10 -- Amendment No. 4 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of January 14, 2000. (5) 24 10.11 -- Amendment No. 5 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of May 12, 2000. (5) 10.12 -- Amendment No. 6 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of December 5, 2000. (6) 10.13 -- Amendment No. 7 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of September 24, 2001. (7) 10.14 -- Amendment No. 8 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of May 10, 2002. (9) 10.15 -- Amendment No. 9 to Senior Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of September 27, 2002. (1) 10.16 -- Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 15, 2000, by and between the Company and Chase Capital Investments, L.P. (5) 10.17 -- Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2001, by and between the Company and Paribas North America, Inc. (8) 10.18 -- Warrant Agreement ("Warrant Agreement") dated as of October 31, 1997 among the Company and the Initial Holders. (3) 10.19 -- Amendment No. 1 to Warrant Agreement dated as of November 14, 1997. (3) 10.20 -- Amendment No. 2 to Warrant Agreement dated as of May 4, 1999. (4) 10.21 -- Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 7, 2000 by and between The BOC Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation and the Company. (6) 10.22 -- Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 22, 2002, by and between the Company and the purchasers named therein. (1) 10.23 -- Registration Right Agreement, dated as of August 22, 2002, by and between the Company and the selling shareholders named therein. (10) 10.24 -- Employment Agreement between the Company and Michael DeDomenico, dated as of June 2, 2000. (5) 10.25 -- Employment Agreement between the Company and Gregg F. Stewart, dated as of May 3, 2001. (7) 10.26 -- Employment Agreement between the Company and Louis Romano, dated as of February 15, 2002. (1) 10.27 -- Employment Agreement between the Company and William Scott Wade, dated as of May 13, 2002. (1) 23 -- Consent of Margolin, Winer & Evens LLP to the incorporation by reference to the Company's Registration Statements on Form S-8 (Nos. 333-06705, 333- 30042 and 333-89096) and Form S-3 (No. 333-99201) of the independent auditors' report included herein. (1) 99.1 -- Certification of Chief Executive Officer, dated September 30, 2002. (1) 99.2 -- Certification of Chief Financial Officer, dated September 30, 2002. (1) (b) Reports on Form 8-K ------------------- None. 25 - --------------------------- (1) Included herein. (2) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, filed with the Commission on November 7, 1995 (Commission File No. 33-99078), as amended. (3) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 1998. (4) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 1999. (5) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2000. (6) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2000. (7) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2001. (8) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2001. (9) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2002. (10) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on From S-3, filed with the Commission on September 5, 2002 (Commission File No. 333-99201). 26 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 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. NUCO2 INC. Dated: September 30, 2002 /s/ Michael E. DeDomenico ------------------------- Michael E. DeDomenico Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. Signature Title Date --------- ----- ---- /s/ Craig L. Burr Director September 30, 2002 - ----------------------- Craig L. Burr /s/ Michael E. DeDomenico Director, September 30, 2002 - ------------------------- Chief Executive Officer Michael E. DeDomenico /s/ Robert L. Frome Director September 30, 2002 - ------------------------ Robert L. Frome /s/ Daniel Raynor Director September 30, 2002 - ----------------- Daniel Raynor Director -------------- John Walsh /s/ Richard D. Waters, Jr. Director September 30, 2002 - -------------------------- Richard D. Waters, Jr. /s/ John E. Wilson Director September 30, 2002 - ------------------------ John E. Wilson /s/ Gregg F. Stewart Chief Financial Officer September 30, 2002 - -------------------- Gregg F. Stewart 27 NUCO2 INC. a Florida corporation CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER Section 302 Certification I, Michael E. DeDomenico, certify that: (1) I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of NuCo2 Inc., a Florida corporation (the "registrant"); (2) Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report; (3) Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report; Date: September 30, 2002 By: /s/ Michael E. DeDomenico ------------------------- Michael E. DeDomenico Chief Executive Officer NUCO2 INC. a Florida corporation CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER Section 302 Certification I, Gregg F. Stewart, certify that: (1) I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of NuCo2 Inc., a Florida corporation (the "registrant"); (2) Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report; (3) Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report; Date: September 30, 2002 By: /s/ Gregg F. Stewart -------------------------------- Gregg F. Stewart Chief Financial Officer INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Page No. -------- NUCO2 INC. Independent Auditors' Report ........................................................................ F-2 Consolidated Financial Statements: Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2002 and 2001..................................... F-3 Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Fiscal Years Ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000 .................................................................................... F-4 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the Fiscal Years Ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000............................................................................ F-5 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Fiscal Years Ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000 .................................................................................... F-6 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements........................................................... F-8 Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for the Fiscal Years Ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000 ............................................................................ F-21 F-1 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT To the Board of Directors and Shareholders NuCo2 Inc. Stuart, Florida We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of NuCo2 Inc. as of June 30, 2002 and 2001, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended June 30, 2002. We have also audited the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index. These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. 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, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of NuCo2 Inc. as of June 30, 2002 and 2001, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended June 30, 2002 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth herein. MARGOLIN, WINER & EVENS LLP Garden City, New York September 9, 2002, except for Notes 5 and 6, as to which the date is September 27, 2002 F-2 NUCO2 INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands, except share amounts) ASSETS June 30, ---------------- 2002 2001* ---------- ------------- Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,562 $ 626 Trade accounts receivable; net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,085 and $2,506, respectively 7,171 7,746 Inventories 235 199 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,966 1,218 --------- --------- Total current assets 10,934 9,789 --------- --------- Property and equipment, net 95,084 100,370 --------- --------- Other assets: Goodwill, net 19,222 19,222 Deferred financing costs, net 2,524 2,079 Customer lists, net 281 1,046 Restrictive covenants, net 1,282 1,672 Deferred lease acquisition costs, net 2,991 3,426 Other assets 320 412 --------- --------- 26,620 27,857 --------- --------- Total assets $ 132,638 $ 138,016 ========= ========= LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt $ 40 $ 36 Accounts payable 3,512 2,958 Accrued expenses 2,304 2,939 Accrued interest 1,479 1,343 Accrued payroll 897 880 Other current liabilities 371 413 --------- --------- Total current liabilities 8,603 8,569 Long-term debt, excluding current maturities 48,254 48,144 Subordinated debt 39,366 39,166 Customer deposits 2,644 2,689 --------- --------- Total liabilities 98,867 98,568 --------- --------- Commitments and contingencies Redeemable preferred stock 8,552 5,466 --------- --------- Shareholders' equity: Preferred stock; no par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding 7,500 shares at June 30, 2002 and issued and outstanding 5,000 shares at June 30, 2001 -- -- Common stock; par value $.001 per share; 30,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding 8,969,059 shares at June 30, 2002 and 8,651,125 at June 30, 2001 9 9 Additional paid-in capital 78,584 76,290 Accumulated deficit (52,945) (41,974) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (429) (343) --------- --------- Total shareholders' equity 25,219 33,982 --------- --------- Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 132,638 $ 138,016 ========= ========= *Restated to conform to current year's classifications. See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-3 NUCO2 INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Years Ended June 30, ---------------------------------- 2002 2001* 2000* -------- -------- ---------- Net sales $ 72,312 $ 67,633 $ 57,951 -------- -------- -------- Costs and expenses: Cost of products sold 35,491 33,177 28,565 Selling, general and administrative expenses 17,614 17,368 12,352 Depreciation and amortization 16,319 17,475 15,501 Loss on asset disposal 4,661 4,891 901 -------- -------- -------- 74,085 72,911 57,319 -------- -------- -------- Operating (loss) income (1,773) (5,278) 632 Interest expense, net 8,402 10,207 10,015 -------- -------- -------- (Loss) before extraordinary item (10,175) (15,485) (9,383) Extraordinary item - (loss) on extinguishment of debt (796) -- -- -------- -------- -------- Net (loss) $(10,971) $(15,485) $ (9,383) ======== ======== ======== Basic and diluted earnings per common share (Loss) before extraordinary item $ (1.23) $ (2.01) $ (1.30) Extraordinary item, extinguishment of debt (0.09) -- -- -------- -------- -------- Net (loss) $ (1.32) $ (2.01) $ (1.30) ======== ======== ======== Weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding Basic and diluted 8,742 7,926 7,238 ======== ======== ======== *Restated to conform to current year's classifications. See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-4 NUCO2 INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (In thousands, except share amounts) Accumulated Total Other Share- Additional Accumulated Comprehensive holders' Paid-In Deficit Loss Equity Common Stock Capital ------- ---- ------ ----------------------- ------------ Shares Amount ------ ------ Balance, June 30, 1999 7,216,664 $ 7 $ 64,832 $ (17,106) $ -- $ 47,733 Net (loss) -- -- -- (9,383) -- (9,383) Issuance of 5,000 shares of redeemable preferred stock -- -- (65) -- -- (65) Redeemable preferred stock dividend -- -- (50) -- -- (50) Issuance of 966 shares of common stock - exercise of options 966 -- 5 -- -- 5 Issuance of 57,385 shares of common stock - exercise of warrants 57,385 -- -- -- -- -- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Balance, June 30, 2000 7,275,015 7 64,722 (26,489) -- 38,240 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Comprehensive (loss): Net (loss) -- -- -- (15,485) -- (15,485) Other comprehensive expense: Interest rate swap transaction -- -- -- -- (343) (343) ---------- Total comprehensive (loss) (15,828) Redeemable preferred stock dividend -- -- (416) -- -- (416) Issuance of 1,111,111 shares of common stock 1,111,111 1 9,918 -- -- 9,919 Issuance of 264,999 shares of common stock- exercise of options 264,999 1 2,066 -- -- 2,067 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Balance, June 30, 2001 8,651,125 9 76,290 (41,974) (343) 33,982 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Comprehensive (loss): Net (loss) -- -- -- (10,971) -- (10,971) Other comprehensive expense: Interest rate swap transaction -- -- -- -- (86) (86) ---------- Total comprehensive (loss) (11,057) Redeemable preferred stock dividend -- -- (586) -- -- (586) Issuance of 65,574 shares of common stock - exercise of warrants 65,574 -- 436 -- -- 436 Issuance of 252,360 shares of common stock - exercise of options 252,360 -- 2,444 -- -- 2,444 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Balance, June 30, 2002 8,969,059 $ 9 $ 78,584 $ (52,945) $ (429) $ 25,219 ========== ========== ========== ========== ========== ========== See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-5 NUCO2 INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (In thousands) Years Ended June 30, -------------------- 2002 2001* 2000 ------- ------- -------- Cash flows from operating activities: Net (loss) $(10,971) $(15,485) $ (9,383) Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment 12,604 12,349 10,841 Amortization of other assets 3,715 5,126 4,660 Amortization of original issue discount 201 197 220 Loss on asset disposal 4,661 4,891 901 Loss on extinguishment of debt 796 -- -- Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Decrease (increase) in: Trade accounts receivable 575 1,116 (2,094) Inventories (36) 23 (8) Prepaid expenses and other current assets (747) (306) (319) Increase (decrease) in: Accounts payable 714 (5,562) 1,418 Accrued expenses (634) 2,356 (165) Accrued payroll 17 504 (168) Accrued interest 51 (485) 11 Other current liabilities (43) 151 218 Customer deposits (45) 338 427 -------- -------- -------- Net cash provided by operating activities 10,858 5,213 6,559 -------- -------- -------- Cash flows from investing activities: Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment 91 31 63 Purchase of property and equipment (11,675) (10,509) (19,162) Increase in restrictive covenants (160) (80) -- Acquisition of businesses -- (36) -- Increase in deferred lease acquisition costs (928) (1,164) (1,610) (Increase) decrease in other assets (145) (3) 15 -------- -------- -------- Net cash used in investing activities $(12,817) $(11,761) $(20,694) -------- -------- -------- *Restated to conform to current year's classifications. See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-6 NUCO2 INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in thousands) (Continued) Years Ended June 30, -------------------- 2002 2001* 2000 -------- ------- -------- Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from issuance of common stock $ -- $ 9,919 $ -- Proceeds from issuance of redeemable preferred stock 2,500 -- 4,935 Net proceeds from issuance of long-term debt and subordinated debt 50,000 5,900 9,500 Repayment of long-term debt (49,887) (10,833) (99) Increase in deferred financing costs (2,598) (158) (1,506) Exercise of options and warrants 2,880 2,067 5 -------- -------- -------- Net cash provided by financing activities 2,895 6,895 12,835 -------- -------- -------- Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 936 347 (1,300) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 626 279 1,579 -------- -------- -------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $ 1,562 $ 626 $ 279 ======== ======== ======== Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Cash paid during the year for: Interest $ 8,066 $ 10,497 $ 9,788 ======== ======== ======== Income taxes $ -- $ -- $ -- ======== ======== ======== Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities: In 2002, 2001 and 2000, the Company increased the carrying amount of the redeemable preferred stock by $586, $416 and $50, respectively, for dividends that have not been paid and accordingly reduced additional paid-in capital by a like amount. In 2001, the Company transferred the net realizable value of certain fixed assets held for sale in the amount of $237 to other assets. In 2001, the Company entered into a restrictive covenant agreement with a former executive officer in the amount of $480. At June 30, 2002 and 2001, the unpaid portion of the agreement totaled $240 and $400, respectively, and is included in accounts payable. *Restated to conform to current year's classifications. See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-7 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (a) Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of NuCo2 Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, NuCo2 Acquisition Corp. which was formed during the year ended June 30, 1998 to acquire the stock of Koch Compressed Gases, Inc. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. (b) Description of Business The Company is a supplier of bulk CO2 dispensing systems to customers in the food, beverage, lodging and recreational industries in the United States. (c) Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. (d) Inventories Inventories, consisting primarily of carbon dioxide gas, are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the first-in, first-out method. (e) Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost. The Company does not depreciate bulk systems held for installation until the systems are in service and leased to customers. Upon installation, the systems, component parts and direct costs associated with the installation are transferred to the leased equipment account. These direct costs are associated with successful placements of such systems with customers under noncancelable contracts and which would not be incurred by the Company but for a successful placement. Upon early service termination, the unamortized portion of direct costs associated with the installation are expensed. Depreciation and amortization is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets or the lease terms for leasehold improvements, whichever is shorter. The depreciable lives of property and equipment are as follows: Estimated Life -------------- Leased equipment 5-20 years Equipment and cylinders 3-20 years Vehicles 3-5 years Computer equipment 3-7 years Office furniture and fixtures 5-7 years Leasehold improvements lease term (f) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill, net of accumulated amortization of $5,006, represents the cost in excess of the fair value of the tangible and identifiable intangible net assets of businesses acquired and, prior to July 1, 2001, was amortized on a straight-line basis over 20 years. Effective July 1, 2001, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Under this new standard, goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are no longer amortized but are subject to annual impairment tests. Other intangible assets with finite lives will continue to be amortized on a straight-line basis over the periods of expected benefit. The Company's other intangible assets consist of customer lists and restrictive covenants principally acquired in connection with asset acquisitions. Customer lists are being amortized over five years, the average life of customer leases, and restrictive covenants are being amortized over their contractual lives which range from thirty to one hundred and twenty months. F-8 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) (g) Deferred Financing Cost, Net Financing costs are being amortized on a straight-line method over the term of the related indebtedness, ranging from seventeen to eighty-four months. Accumulated amortization of financing costs was $2,314 and $3,153 at June 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. (h) Deferred Lease Acquisition Costs, Net Deferred lease acquisition costs, net, consist of commissions associated with the acquisition of new leases and are being amortized over the life of the related leases, generally five to six years on a straight-line method. Accumulated amortization of deferred lease acquisition costs was $4,687 and $3,713 at June 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Upon early service termination, the unamortized portion of deferred lease acquisition costs are expensed. (i) Revenue Recognition The Company earns its revenues from the leasing of CO2 systems and related gas sales. The Company, as lessor, recognizes revenue from leasing of CO2 systems on a straight-line basis over the life of the related leases. The majority of CO2 system leases generally include payments for leasing of equipment and a continuous supply of CO2 until usage reaches a pre-determined maximum annual level, beyond which the customer pays for CO2 on a per pound basis. Other CO2 and gas sales are recorded upon delivery to the customer. (j) Income Taxes Income taxes are accounted for under Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. Statement No. 109 requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Under Statement No. 109, the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. (k) Net Loss Per Common Share Net loss per common share is presented in accordance with SFAS No. 128, "Earnings per Share." Basic earnings per common share are computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share incorporate the incremental shares issuable upon the assumed exercise of stock options and warrants to the extent they are not anti-dilutive. F-9 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) (l) 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. Estimates used when accounting for items such as allowances for doubtful accounts, depreciation and amortization periods, valuation of long-lived assets and income taxes are regarded by management as being particularly significant. These estimates and assumptions are evaluated on an on-going basis and may require adjustment in the near term. Actual results could differ from those estimates. (m) Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets, other than goodwill, consist of property and equipment, customer lists, and restrictive covenants. Long-lived assets being retained for use by the Company are tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying values may not be recoverable by comparing the carrying value of the assets with the estimated future undiscounted cash flows that are directly associated with and that are expected to arise as a direct result of the use and eventual disposition of the asset. Impairment losses are recognized only if the carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable and exceeds its fair value. The impairment loss would be calculated as the difference between asset carrying values and the fair value of the asset with fair value generally estimated based on the present value of the estimated future net cash flows. Long-lived assets to be disposed of by abandonment continue to be classified as held and used until they cease to be used. If the Company commits to a plan to abandon a long-lived asset before the end of its previously estimated useful life, depreciation estimates are revised to reflect the use of the asset over its shortened useful life. Long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale that meet certain criteria are classified as held for sale and are reported at the lower of their carrying amounts or fair values less cost to sell. (n) Employee Benefit Plan On June 1, 1996, the Company adopted a deferred compensation plan under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, which covers all eligible employees. Under the provisions of the plan, eligible employees may defer a percentage of their compensation subject to the Internal Revenue Service limits. Contributions to the plan are made only by employees. (o) Recent Accounting Pronouncements In July 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141, "Business Combinations" ("SFAS 141"), and SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" ("SFAS 142"). SFAS 141 requires all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001 to be accounted for using the purchase method. Under SFAS 142, goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are no longer amortized but are reviewed annually (or more frequently if impairment indicators arise) for impairment. Separable intangible assets that are not deemed to have indefinite lives will continue to be amortized over their useful lives. The Company adopted this statement in the first quarter of fiscal 2002, resulting in no goodwill amortization expense in fiscal 2002. Accumulated amortization of goodwill was $5,006 at June 30, 2002 and 2001. In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets" ("SFAS 144"). This statement addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment of long-lived assets and for long-lived assets to be disposed of. SFAS 144 supercedes SFAS Statement No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of." However, SFAS 144 retains the fundamental provisions of Statement No. 121 for (a) recognition and measurement of the impairment of long-lived assets to be held and used and (b) measurement of long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale. SFAS 144 was early adopted by the Company during the year ended June 30, 2002. In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, "Rescission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections" ("SFAS 145"). Among other things, SFAS 145 rescinds the provisions of SFAS No. 4 that require companies to classify certain gains and losses from debt extinguishments as extraordinary items. The provisions of SFAS 145 related to classification of debt extinguishments are effective for fiscal years beginning after May 15, 2002. Gains and losses from extinguishment of debt will be classified as extraordinary items only if they meet the criteria in APB Opinion No. 30; otherwise such costs will be classified within income from operations. The Company intends to adopt SFAS 145 during the first quarter of fiscal 2003. The Company is currently reviewing whether or not the fiscal 2002 extraordinary item will have to be reclassified. In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities" ("SFAS 146") which addresses financial accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities and nullifies EITF Issue No. 94-3 "Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring)." The principal difference between SFAS 146 and EITF 94-3 relates to SFAS 146's requirements for recognition of a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity. SFAS 146 requires that a liability be recognized when the liability is incurred. Under EITF 94-3, a liability for an exit cost was recognized at the date of an entity's commitment to an exit plan. SFAS 146 also establishes that fair value is the objective for initial measurement of the liability. The provisions of SFAS 146 are effective for exit or disposal activities that are initiated after December 31, 2002, but early application is encouraged. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS 146 to have a material impact on its financial statements or results of operations. F-10 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Note 2 - Property and Equipment, Net Property and equipment, net consists of the following: June 30, -------- 2002 2001 ---- ---- Leased equipment $119,773 $116,233 Equipment and cylinders 15,357 14,478 Tanks held for installation 4,868 3,980 Vehicles 325 325 Computer equipment 3,897 3,392 Office furniture and fixtures 1,406 1,390 Leasehold improvements 1,674 1,636 -------- -------- 147,300 141,434 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 52,216 41,064 -------- -------- $ 95,084 $100,370 ======== ======== Capitalized component parts and direct costs associated with installation of equipment leased to others included in leased equipment was $32,406 and $29,385 at June 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Accumulated depreciation and amortization of these costs was $18,258 and $14,143 at June 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Upon early service termination, the Company writes off the remaining net book value of direct costs associated with the installation of equipment. Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment was $12,604, $12,349 and $10,841 for the years ended June 30, 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively. In June 2001, the Company adopted a plan to discontinue installation of 50 and 100 pound tanks and to dispose of the 50 and 100 pound tanks held for installation. The Company's supply of uninstalled 50 and 100 pound tanks was written down to $163, their estimated net realizable value, and a loss of $1,155 was reflected in the statement of operations within the caption, loss on asset disposal. These tanks were disposed of in fiscal 2002. During fiscal 2002, an additional loss in the amount of $1,125 was recognized relating to 50 and 100 pound tanks that were removed from service during the year. Management continued to review the recoverability of the remaining 50 and 100 pound tanks in service and in June 2002, adopted a plan to replace all 50 and 100 pound tanks in service at customers over a three to four year period. The Company's decision to replace these small tanks was based on an evaluation of undiscounted cash flows, contribution to fixed depot overhead, pricing and targeted margins. As a result of the Company's decision, the remaining 50 and 100 pound tanks were written down to their estimated net realizable value and a loss on impairment of $1,809 was recorded in June 2002. As of June 30, 2002, the net book value of the installed 50 and 100 pound tanks totaled $2,765, which will be depreciated over the remaining period of time that they are expected to be utilized. Note 3 - Goodwill The Company adopted SFAS 142 as of July 1, 2001, resulting in no goodwill amortization expense in the year ended June 30, 2002. Under the new standard, goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are no longer amortized but are subject to annual impairment tests. The Company completed the transitional and annual impairment tests required by SFAS 142 and was not required to recognize an impairment of goodwill. The Company recorded goodwill amortization expense of $1,212 in each of the years ended June 30, 2001 and 2000. If the guidance of the statement had been applied retroactively, prior year results would have been different than previously reported. A reconciliation of net income as reported to adjusted net income for the exclusion of goodwill amortization is as follows: F-11 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Fiscal Year Ended June 30, -------------------------- 2001 2000 ---- ---- Reported net (loss) $ (15,485) $ (9,383) Add goodwill amortization 1,212 1,212 ---------- --------- Adjusted net (loss) $ (14,273) $ (8,171) ========== ========= Reported basic and diluted (loss) per share $ (2.01) $ (1.30) Add goodwill amortization .15 .17 ---------- --------- Adjusted basic and diluted (loss) per share $ (1.86) $ (1.13) ========== ========= Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended June 30, 2002, of the Company's single operating segment is as follows: Balance July 1, 2001 $19,222 Goodwill acquired during the period - ------- Balance June 30, 2002 $19,222 ======= Information regarding the Company's other intangible assets is as follows: Carrying Accumulated Amount Amortization Net ------ ------------ --- As of June 30, 2002: Restrictive Covenants $3,110 $1,828 $1,282 Customer Lists 5,370 5,089 281 ------ ------ ------ Total $8,480 $6,917 $1,563 ====== ====== ====== As of June 30, 2001: Restrictive Covenants $3,110 $1,438 $1,672 Customer Lists 5,370 4,324 1,046 ------ ------ ------ Total $8,480 $5,762 $2,718 ====== ====== ====== Amortization expense for other intangible assets was $1,155, $1,235 and $1,390 for the years ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. There were no adjustments or changes in amortization periods of other intangible assets as a result of the initial application of SFAS 142. Estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years is $559, $304, $279, $226 and $161, for fiscal years ended June 30, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively. Note 4 - Leases The Company leases equipment to its customers generally pursuant to five-year or six-year non-cancelable operating leases which expire on varying dates through June 2008. At June 30, 2002, future minimum rentals due from customers which includes, where applicable, a continuous supply of CO2 (see Note 1(i)), are approximately as follows: F-12 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Year Ending June 30, 2003 $ 40,182 2004 32,854 2005 28,648 2006 20,312 2007 11,731 Thereafter 4,950 ------------------ $ 138,677 ================== Note 5 - Long-Term Debt Long-term debt consists of the following: June 30, 2002 2001 ---- ---- Note payable to bank under credit facility. Drawings at June 30, 2002 are at LIBOR rates plus 3.50% (5.355% to 5.42875%). Drawings at June 30, 2001 are at LIBOR rates plus 3.25% (7.055% to 7.2813%). $ 48,000 $ 47,850 Various notes payable 294 330 --------- --------- 48,294 48,180 Less current maturities of long-term debt 40 36 --------- --------- Long-term debt, excluding current maturities $ 48,254 $ 48,144 ========= ========= In September 2001, the Company entered into a $60.0 million second amended and restated revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks ("Amended Credit Facility"). Pursuant to the Amended Credit Facility, the Company may request, at any time absent a default, that the Amended Credit Facility be increased by an additional $15.0 million to a total of $75.0 million. This new facility replaced the Company's prior facility, which was due to expire in May 2002. The Amended Credit Facility contains interest rates and an unused commitment fee based on a pricing grid calculated quarterly on total debt to annualized EBITDA (as defined). The Company is entitled to select the Base Rate or LIBOR, plus applicable margin, for principal drawings under the Amended Credit Facility. The applicable LIBOR margin pursuant to the pricing grid currently ranges from 2.50% to 4.75%, the applicable unused commitment fee pursuant to the pricing grid ranges from .375% to .50% and the applicable Base Rate margin pursuant to the pricing grid currently ranges from 1.50% to 3.75%. Interest only is payable periodically until the expiration of the Amended Credit Facility. The Amended Credit Facility is collateralized by substantially all of the Company's assets. Additionally, the Company is precluded from declaring or paying any cash dividends, except the Company may accrue and accumulate, but not pay, cash dividends on the Preferred Stock. The Company is also required to meet certain affirmative and negative covenants including, but not limited to, financial covenants. As of June 30, 2002, the Company was not in compliance with certain financial covenants. On September 27, 2002, the Amended Credit Facility was amended to adjust certain financial covenants for the quarter ended June 30, 2002 and prospectively, and the maturity was extended to November 17, 2003. As of June 30, 2002, a total of $48.0 million was outstanding pursuant to the Amended Credit Facility with interest at 3.50% above LIBOR (5.355% to 5.42875%). Effective July 1, 2000, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133 "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," which establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities. All derivatives, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are required to be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. For a derivative designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in other comprehensive income and are recognized in the income statement when the hedged item affects earnings. Ineffective portions of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recognized in earnings. The Company uses derivative instruments to manage exposure to interest rate risks. The Company's objectives for holding derivatives are to minimize the risks using the most effective methods to eliminate or reduce the impacts of this exposure. As of June 30, 2002, the Company was a party to a Swap with a notional amount of $12.5 million and a termination date of September 28, F-13 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2003. Under the Swap, the Company pays a fixed interest rate of 5.23% per annum and receives a LIBOR-based floating rate. The Swap, which is designated as a cash flow hedge, is deemed to be a highly effective transaction, and accordingly the loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of other comprehensive loss. For the years ended June 30, 2002 and 2001, the Company recorded losses of $86 and $343, respectively, representing the change in fair value of the Swap, as other comprehensive loss. The net derivative loss will be classified into earnings over the term of the underlying cash flow hedge. The aggregate maturities of long-term debt for each of the five years subsequent to June 30, 2002 are as follows: Year Ending June 30, 2003 $ 40 2004 48,044 2005 48 2006 52 2007 57 Thereafter 53 ------------ $ 48,294 ============ Note 6 - Subordinated Debt In October 1997, the Company issued $30.0 million of its 12% Senior Subordinated Promissory Notes ("Notes") with interest only payable semi-annually on April 30 and October 31, due October 31, 2004. The Notes were sold with detachable seven year warrants to purchase an aggregate of 655,738 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $16.40 per share. The effective interest rate on the Notes is 12.1% per annum after giving effect to the amortization of the original issue discount. The Company is required to meet certain affirmative and negative covenants. Additionally, NationsBanc Montgomery Securities, Inc., the placement agent, received a warrant to purchase an aggregate of 30,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.64 per share which expires on October 31, 2004. On May 4, 1999, the Company sold an additional $10.0 million of its 12% Senior Subordinated Promissory Notes ("Additional Notes"). Except for their October 31, 2005 maturity date, the Additional Notes are substantially identical to the Notes described above. The Additional Notes were sold with detachable 6-1/2 year warrants to purchase an aggregate of 372,892 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.65 per share. In connection with the sale of the Additional Notes, certain financial covenants governing the Notes and the Additional Notes were adjusted as of March 31, 1999 and prospectively, and the exercise price for 612,023 of the warrants issued in connection with the sale of the Notes was reduced to $6.65 per share, of which 65,574 were exercised and converted to shares of common stock during the year ended June 30, 2002. The effective interest rate on the Additional Notes is 13.57% per annum after giving effect to the amortization of the original issue discount. As of June 30, 2002, the Company was not in compliance with certain financial covenants under the Notes and Additional Notes. On September 27, 2002, concurrently with the amendment to the Amended Credit Facility, the Company amended the Notes and Additional Notes to adjust certain financial covenants for the quarter ended June 30, 2002 and prospectively. If the total net funded debt coverage ratio (as defined) exceeds the applicable ratio for each fiscal quarter ending on or after June 30, 2002, the interest rate on the Notes and Additional Notes will increase by an additional 75 basis points per annum up to a maximum of 14% per annum. Note 7 - Preferred Stock In May 2000, the Company sold 5,000 shares of its Series A 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, no par value (the "Series A Preferred Stock"), for $1,000 per share (the initial "Liquidation Preference"). Cumulative dividends are payable quarterly in arrears at the rate of 8% per annum on the Liquidation Preference, and, to the extent not paid in cash, are added to the Liquidation Preference. Shares of the Series A Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of common stock at any time at a current conversion price of $9.28 per share. In connection with the sale, costs in the amount of $65 were charged to paid-in capital. In November 2001, the Company sold 2,500 shares of its Series B 8% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, no par value (the "Series B Preferred Stock") for $1,000 per share (the initial "Liquidation Preference"). Cumulative dividends are payable quarterly in arrears at the rate of 8% per annum on the Liquidation F-14 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Preference, and, to the extent not paid in cash, are added to the Liquidation Preference. Shares of the Series B Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of common stock at any time at a current conversion price of $12.92 per share. During the fiscal years ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000, the carrying amount (and Liquidation Preferences) of the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock ("Preferred Stock") was increased by $586, $416 and $50, respectively, for dividends accrued. The Preferred Stock shall be mandatorily redeemed by the Company within 30 days after a Change in Control (as defined) of the Company (the date of such redemption being the "Mandatory Redemption Date") at an amount equal to the then effective Liquidation Preference plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon from the last dividend payment date to the Mandatory Redemption Date, plus if the Mandatory Redemption Date is on or prior to the fourth anniversary of the issuance of the Preferred Stock, the amount of any dividends that would have accrued and been payable on the Preferred Stock from the Mandatory Redemption Date through the fourth anniversary date. In addition, outstanding shares of Preferred Stock vote on an "as converted basis" with the holders of the common stock as a single class on all matters that the holders of the common stock are entitled to vote upon. Note 8 - Shareholders' Equity (a) Non-Qualified Stock Options and Warrants In June 1995, the Company granted a ten-year warrant to purchase 84,917 shares of Common Stock at $5.00 per share to the Company's then current lending institution in connection with a refinancing. On February 14, 2000, the lending institution exercised warrants to purchase 57,385 shares of Common Stock pursuant to the cashless exercise contained in the warrants. In connection with the cashless exercise, warrants to purchase 27,532 shares of Common Stock were cancelled. In May 1997, the Company granted a warrant to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock to BOC pursuant to the supply agreement (see Note 13). In December 2000, BOC purchased 1,111,111 shares of Common Stock for $9.00 per share. In addition, the warrant was reduced to 400,000 shares. On the date of issuance of the Common Stock, the closing price of the Common Stock on the Nasdaq National Market was $8.00 per share. The warrant is exercisable at an exercise price of $17.00 per share until April 30, 2007. In January 2001, the Company granted to each non-employee director options for 10,000 shares of Common Stock. An aggregate of 50,000 options were granted at an exercise price equal to the average closing price of the Common Stock on the Nasdaq National Market for the 20 trading days prior to January 2, 2001, or $7.82. All options vest in five equal installments commencing in January 2001, and have a ten-year term. As of June 30, 2001 and 2002, options for 10,000 and 20,000 shares, respectively, were exercisable. (b) Stock Option Plans The board of directors adopted the 1995 Option Plan (the "1995 Plan"). Under the 1995 Plan, the Company has reserved 1,950,000 shares of Common Stock for employees of the Company. Under the terms of the 1995 Plan, options granted may be either incentive stock options or non-qualified stock options, or both. The exercise price of incentive options shall be at least equal to 100% of the fair market value of the Company's Common Stock at the date of the grant, and the exercise price of non-qualified stock options issued to employees may not be less than 75% of the fair market value of the Company's Common Stock at the date of the grant. The maximum term for all options is ten years. Options granted to date vest in equal installments from one to five years. As of June 30, 2000, 2001 and 2002 options for 481,808 581,499 and 503,072 shares, were exercisable, respectively. The weighted-average fair value per share of options granted during the years ended June 30, 2000, 2001 and 2002 were $3.06, $4.30 and $4.78, respectively. As of June 30, 2002, the weighted-average remaining life of the options was 7.77 years. F-15 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) The following table summarizes the transactions pursuant to the 1995 Plan. Weighted-Average Shares Exercise Price Exercise Price ------ -------------- --------------- Outstanding at June 30, 1999 804,226 $5.50-$11.28 $ 9.32 Granted 315,000 $6.75-$7.50 $ 6.79 Expired or canceled 26,526 $5.50-$11.25 $ 9.85 Exercised 966 $ 5.50 $ 5.50 --------- ------------- --------- Outstanding at June 30, 2000 1,091,734 $5.50-$11.28 $ 8.58 Granted 372,000 $6.19-$11.95 $ 10.39 Expired or canceled 30,400 $5.50-$11.25 $ 6.95 Exercised 262,999 $5.50-$11.25 $ 7.79 --------- ------------- --------- Outstanding at June 30, 2001 1,170,335 $5.50-$11.95 $ 9.38 Granted 429,100 $10.55-$12.55 $ 12.15 Expired or canceled 184,625 $5.50-$12.40 $ 10.55 Exercised 252,360 $5.50-$11.28 $ 9.69 --------- ------------- --------- Outstanding at June 30, 2002 1,162,450 $5.50-$12.55 $ 10.15 ========= ============= ========= The board of directors of the Company adopted the Directors' Stock Option Plan (the "Directors' Plan"). Under the Directors' Plan, each non-employee director will receive options for 6,000 shares of Common Stock on the date of his or her first election to the board of directors. In addition, on the third anniversary of each director's first election to the Board, and on each three year anniversary thereafter, each non-employee director will receive an additional option to purchase 6,000 shares of Common Stock. The exercise price per share for all options granted under the Directors' Plan will be equal to the fair market value of the Common Stock as of the date of grant. All options vest in three equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant. The maximum term for all options is ten years. As of June 30, 2000, 2001 and 2002 options for 16,000 shares, 22,000 shares and 34,000 shares were exercisable, respectively. The weighted-average fair value per share of options granted during the years ended June 30, 2000, 2001 and 2002 were $2.37, $3.87 and $3.55, respectively. As of June 30, 2002, the weighted-average remaining life of the options was 7.44 years. Weighted-Average Shares Exercise Price Exercise Price ------ -------------- -------------- Outstanding at June 30, 1999 30,000 $6.06-$12.50 $ 8.63 Granted 6,000 $ 7.00 $ 7.00 Expired or canceled 4,000 $ 8.94 $ 8.94 ------ ------------ --------- Outstanding at June 30, 2000 32,000 $6.06-$12.50 $ 8.28 Granted 24,000 $7.13-$13.25 $ 8.97 Canceled 6,000 $ 7.75 $ 7.75 Exercised 2,000 $ 8.94 $ 8.94 ------ ------------ --------- Outstanding at June 30, 2001 48,000 $6.06-$13.25 $ 8.66 Granted 12,000 $11.00-$11.20 $ 11.10 ------ ------------ --------- Outstanding at June 30, 2002 60,000 $6.06-$13.25 $ 9.15 ====== ============ ========= Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, defines a fair value based method of accounting for stock options. The Statement allows an entity to continue to measure cost using the accounting method prescribed by APB Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and to make pro forma disclosures of net income and earnings per share as if the fair value based method of accounting had been applied. The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions used for grants in fiscal 2000, 2001 and 2002; expected volatility of 39% to 40%, risk-free interest rate of 3.7% to 6.6%, expected dividend yield of 0% and expected lives of one to five years. The Company presents the following pro forma disclosures for employee stock options: F-16 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Years Ended June 30, -------------------- 2002 2001 2000 ---- ---- ---- Net (loss) available to common shareholders $(12,456) $(16,387) $ (9,766) Net (loss) per common share $ (1.43) $ (2.07) $ (1.35) ======== ======== ======== Weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding 8,742 7,926 7,238 ======== ======== ======== The pro forma adjustment for stock based compensation costs under SFAS 123 for the years ending 2000, 2001 and 2002 is approximately $333, $486 and $899, respectively. No stock based compensation was recognized in the financial statements pursuant to APB Opinion No. 25. Note 9 - Earnings per Share Basic (loss) per common share has been computed by dividing the net (loss), after giving effect to preferred stock dividends, by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Common equivalent shares for stock options and warrants are calculated pursuant to the treasury stock method. During the years ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000, the Company excluded the equivalent of 671,155, 411,238 and 438,131 shares of common stock in the computation of loss per share as these options and warrants to purchase common stock were anti-dilutive. Additionally, options and warrants to purchase 400,000 shares, 43,715 shares, and 159,064 shares for $17.00 per share, $16.40 per share, and $12.27-$14.64 per share, respectively, were outstanding during all or a portion of the year ended June 30, 2002, options and warrants to purchase 400,000 shares, 43,715 shares, and 36,000 shares for $17.00 per share, $16.40 per share, and $13.25-$14.64 per share, respectively, were outstanding during all or a portion of the year ended June 30, 2001, and options and warrants to purchase 1,000,000 shares and 43,715 shares for $17.00 per share and $16.40 per share, respectively, were outstanding during the year ended June 30, 2000, but were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because the options and warrants exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares. Also, not included in the computation of diluted EPS for the years ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000, were 841,609, 577,191 and 533,262 shares, respectively, of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of 7,500 shares of Convertible Preferred Stock because the effect would be anti-dilutive. Years Ended June 30, -------------------- 2002 2001 2000 ---- ---- ---- Net (loss) $(10,971) $(15,485) $ (9,383) Preferred stock dividends (586) (416) (50) -------- -------- -------- Net (loss) available for common shareholders $(11,557) $(15,901) $ (9,433) ======== ======== ======== Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock 8,742 7,926 7,238 ======== ======== ======== Net (loss) per share - basic and diluted $ (1.32) $ (2.01) $ (1.30) ======== ======== ======== Note 10 - Income Taxes The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows: June 30, -------- 2002 2001 ---- ---- Deferred tax assets: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 1,080 $ 877 Amortization expense 933 822 Other 5 17 Net operating loss carryforwards 36,716 30,275 -------- -------- Total gross deferred tax assets 38,734 31,991 Less valuation allowance (18,845) (14,487) -------- -------- Net deferred tax assets 19,889 17,504 -------- -------- Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation expense (19,889) (17,504) -------- -------- Total gross deferred tax liabilities (19,889) (17,504) -------- -------- Net deferred taxes $ -- $ -- ======== ======== F-17 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) At June 30, 2002, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards for Federal income tax purposes of approximately $105.0 million, which are available to offset future Federal taxable income, if any, in varying amounts through June 2022. The net change in the total valuation allowance for the years ended June 30, 2002 and 2001 was an increase of $4,358 and $4,691, respectively. Note 11 - Lease Commitments The Company leases office equipment, trucks and warehouse/depot and office facilities under operating leases that expire at various dates through March 2011. Primarily all of the leases contain renewal options and escalations for real estate taxes, common charges, etc. Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases (that have initial noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year) are as follows: Year Ending June 30, 2003 $ 4,027 2004 2,639 2005 1,898 2006 1,308 2007 762 Thereafter 1,125 ------------ $ 11,759 ============ Total rental costs under non-cancelable operating leases were approximately $5,130, $4,856 and $4,670 in 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. Note 12 - Concentration of Credit and Business Risks The Company's business activity is with customers located within the United States. For each of the years ended June 30, 2002, 2001 and 2000 the Company's sales to customers in the food and beverage industry were approximately 99%. There were no customers that accounted for greater than 2% of total sales for each of the three years ended June 30, 2002, nor were there any customers that accounted for greater than 5% of total accounts receivable at June 30, 2002 or 2001. The Company purchases new bulk CO2 systems from the two major manufacturers of such systems. The inability of either of both of these manufacturers to deliver new systems to the Company could cause a delay in the Company's ability to fulfill the demand for its services and a possible loss of sales, which could adversely affect operating results. Note 13 - Commitments and Contingencies In May 1997, the Company entered into an exclusive ten-year carbon dioxide supply agreement with The BOC Group, Inc. ("BOC") (See Note 8). The agreement ensures readily available high quality CO2 as well as relatively stable liquid carbon dioxide prices. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company purchases virtually all of its liquid CO2 requirements from BOC. The agreement contains annual adjustments over the prior contract year for an increase or decrease in the Producer Price Index for Chemical and Allied Products ("PPI") or the average percentage increase in the selling price of bulk merchant carbon dioxide purchased by BOC's large, multi-location beverage customers in the United States. The Company is a defendant in legal actions which arise in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, the outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations. Note 14 - Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments. (a) Cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable The carrying amounts approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. F-18 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) (b) Long-term and subordinated debt The fair value of the Company's long-term and subordinated debt has been estimated based on the current rates offered to the Company for debt of the same remaining maturities. The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company's financial instruments are as follows: June 30, -------- 2002 2001 ---- ---- Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,562 $ 626 Accounts receivable 7,171 7,746 Accounts payable 3,512 2,958 Long-term debt, including current maturities 48,294 48,180 Subordinated debt 39,366 39,166 Note 15 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- 2002 2001 2002 2001 2002 2001 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- (Restated) (Restated) (Restated) Net sales $ 18,089 $ 16,113 $ 18,607 $ 16,432 $ 17,743 $ 17,028 $ 17,873 $ 18,060 Gross profit (b) 9,275 8,100 9,626 8,378 8,781 8,997 9,139 8,981 Net (loss) (c)(d) (1,913) (2,392) (789) (2,329) (1,812) (1,799) (6,457) (8,965) Basic and diluted earnings per common share Net (loss) (a) $ (0.23) $ (0.34) $ (0.11) $ (0.32) $ (0.23) $ (0.23) $ (0.74) $ (1.07) (a) Per common share amounts for the quarters have each been calculated separately. Accordingly, quarterly amounts may not add to total year earnings per share because of differences in the average common shares outstanding during each period. (b) Gross profit as presented herein, for each of the quarters of the year ended June 30, 2001, differs from that previously reported in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2001 due to the reclassification during the year ended June 30, 2002 of certain depot expenses. Previously, depot telephone, recruiting and postage expenses were included in selling, general and administrative expenses; presently, such expenses are reported as components of costs of sales. The effect of the reclassification was to decrease the gross profit by $84, $88, $85 and $90 for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th quarters of the year ended June 30, 2001, respectively. (c) During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001, the Company's management continued to monitor and evaluate the collectibility and potential impairment of its assets, in particular, accounts receivable and certain fixed assets. In connection therewith, an additional allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,692 and reserves and write-downs on fixed assets of $3,926 were recorded in the fourth quarter. The potential uncollectibility of certain accounts receivable and the related increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts came to light as a result of the Company having experienced several problems in the billing (specifically due to inaccurate address information on customers) and cash application areas. Management believes that the factors that gave rise to this situation have been addressed to prevent a reoccurrence of the problem in the future. The reserves and write-downs on fixed assets were primarily due to the Company's decision, reached during the fourth quarter of 2001, to focus on the placement of larger tanks on a prospective basis (Note 2) and a more conservative approach of immediately removing tanks upon service termination, compared to the prior practice of leaving a tank in place when prospects for a new customer at the same location appeared likely, in an effort to enhance asset control and utilization. Additionally, the Company recorded $466 in recruiting expense, moving expense and severance pay in connection with its new management team. It is management's opinion that these adjustments were properly recorded in the fourth quarter of 2001 based upon facts and circumstances that became available in that period. (d) During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company's management continued to monitor and evaluate the collectibility and potential impairment of its accounts receivable and certain fixed assets. In connection therewith, an additional allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,862 and write-downs of fixed assets of $1,809 were recorded in the fourth quarter. The potential uncollectibility of certain accounts receivable and the related increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts came to light as a result of the Company having experienced several problems relating to unusually high closure rates among independent operators who have gone out of business in recent periods due to unfavorable economic conditions. F-19 NUCO2 INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) The write-downs of fixed assets were due to the Company's decision, reached during the fourth quarter of 2002, to replace all 50 and 100 pound tanks in service at customer locations over a three to four year period (Note 2). It is management's opinion that these adjustments are properly recorded in the fourth quarter based upon facts and circumstances that became available in that period. (e) Net loss as presented herein, for each of the first three quarters of the year ended June 30, 2002, differs from that previously reported in the Company's Forms 10-Q due to year-end adjustments relating to depreciation of property and equipment, the recording of amortization of customer lists and loss on asset disposals. Depreciation expense was adjusted to correct an error that resulted from a faulty computer software upgrade. The customer list amortization adjustment resulted from the determination that the decision to reclassify customer lists into goodwill at the time of initial adoption of SFAS 142 was inappropriate. The loss on asset disposals related to the 50 and 100 pound tanks that were removed from service during the year, but which were not written off until year-end. The effect of the adjustments on each of the first three quarters was as follows: 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter ----------- ----------- ----------- Net (loss) originally reported $(1,407) $ (478) $(1,004) Adjustments: Depreciation of property and equipment - - (320) Amortization of customer lists (210) (202) (194) Loss on asset disposal (296) (109) (294) --------- ----------- ------- Net (loss) as adjusted $(1,913) $ (789) $(1,812) ========= =========== ======= Basic and diluted earnings per common share Net (loss) originally reported $ (0.18) $(0.07) $(0.13) Adjustments (0.05) (0.04) (0.10) --------- ------- ------- Net (loss) as adjusted $ (0.23) $(0.11) $(0.23) ========= ======= ======= F-20 Note 16 - Subsequent Event On August 22, 2002, the Company completed the private placement of 1,663,846 shares of its common stock to 24 accredited investors at a price of $9.75 per share realizing net cash proceeds of approximately $15.1 million after expenses. Pursuant to the requirements of the Amended Credit Facility, the Company used the proceeds to pay down outstanding debt under the Amended Credit Facility. NUCO2 INC. Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts In Thousands Column B Column C - Additions Column D Column E -------- -------------------- -------- -------- Balance at Charge to beginning of costs and Charged to Balance at of period expenses other accounts Deductions end of period --------- -------- -------------- ---------- ------------- Year ended June 30, 2000 Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 558 $ 445 $ -- $ 381 $ 622 Year ended June 30, 2001 Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 622 $3,061 $ -- $1,177 $2,506 Year ended June 30, 2002 Allowance for doubtful accounts $2,506 $2,753 $ -- $2,174 $3,085 F-21