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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] Annual report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1997 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 2-18868
KNAPE & VOGT MANUFACTURING COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Michigan 38-0722920
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
2700 Oak Industrial Drive, N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49505
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(616) 459-3311
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
None None
Securities Registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, par value $2.00 per share
(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. [X]
The aggregate market value of voting stock held by nonaffiliates of the
registrant was $94,771,723 as of September 5, 1997.
Number of shares outstanding of each class of common stock as of September 5,
1997: 3,464,399 shares of Common Stock, par value $2.00 per share, and 2,437,180
shares of Class B Common Stock, par value $2.00 per share.
Documents incorporated by reference. Certain portions of the Registrant's Proxy
Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on October 17, 1997,
are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Report.
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PART I
ITEM 1--BUSINESS
Item 1(a)--General Development of Business
The Company is engaged primarily in the design, manufacture, and marketing
of storage products, which serve the consumer, contract builder, hardware, and
original equipment manufacturer markets. The Company was incorporated in
Michigan in 1906, reorganized in Delaware in 1961, and reorganized in Michigan
in 1985. The Company's main plant and corporate offices are located at 2700 Oak
Industrial Drive, N.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505, and its telephone number
is (616) 459-3311. Unless otherwise noted or indicated by the context, the term
"Company" includes Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company, its predecessors and its
subsidiaries.
During fiscal 1997, the Company completed the restructuring plan that was
announced in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1996. Components of the restructuring
plan and their resolution included the following:
The shift of wood production from Modar, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to
Hirsh, in Skokie, Illinois, was completed during January 1997.
The Modar facility was sold on March 28, 1997.
The transfer of redundant manufacturing operations at KV Canada to the
corporate headquarters in Grand Rapids, was accomplished by May 1,
1997.
The early retirement program to salaried employees at the Grand Rapids
location was implemented in the first quarter of fiscal 1997.
In August of 1996, the Company announced its decision to sell Roll-it, the
Company's store fixture operation located in Quebec, because it did not fit
within the Company's core business strengths. The Company has been seeking a
buyer for Roll-it and, in the third quarter of fiscal 1997, engaged an
investment banking firm to act as a broker in the sale. As of July 31, 1997,
several groups have expressed an interest in acquiring Roll-it, have signed
confidentiality agreements, and have received a confidential investment
memorandum. Those groups continuing to have an interest visited Roll-it in
August 1997. Although it is difficult to predict, the Company expects to sell
Roll-it during fiscal 1998.
Item 1(b)--Financial Information About Industry Segments
The Company believes that a dominant portion of the Company's operations
(more than 95%) is in a single industry segment--the design, manufacture, and
marketing of storage products. Accordingly, no separate industry segment
information is presented.
Item 1(c)--Narrative Description of Business
Products, Services, Markets, and Methods of Distribution. The Company's
storage products include a complete line of decorative and utility wall shelving
systems and free-standing steel shelving systems. Drawer slides manufactured by
the Company include precision, Euro-style and utility slides. Precision drawer
slides use ball bearings, and Euro-style and utility drawer slides use rollers.
The Company manufactures many different hardware products such as closet rods,
kitchen storage products and various fixtures.
Approximately 45% of the Company's sales were to the consumer market and
55% of the Company's sales were to original equipment manufacturers and
specialty distributors.
While the Company does not maintain precise sales records by product
category, management believes that the approximate sales of the Company's major
product groups during the last three fiscal years were as follows:
-2-
Year Ended June 30
Class of Products 1997 1996 1995
- ----------------- ---------------------------------------
(dollars in millions)
Sales Sales Sales
Shelving Systems $ 82.0 $ 79.5 $ 80.8
Drawer Slides 62.3 52.4 52.0
Hardware 29.3 28.1 30.0
Furniture Components 3.0 3.0 5.4
------- ------- ------
Total $176.6 $163.0 $168.2
===== ===== =====
New Product and Capital Spending Information. Drawer slide sales are
expected to increase in fiscal 1998 with the introduction of precision slides
for the metal office furniture market. Capital spending should remain at
approximately the same level as in fiscal 1997, when capital spending was $7.8
million.
Sources and Availability of Raw Materials. Most of the Company's storage
products are produced primarily from steel or wood. During the past fiscal year,
the Company experienced no difficulty in obtaining these raw materials.
Patents, Licenses, Etc. Patents, trademarks, licenses, franchises, or
concessions do not play an important part in the Company's business.
Seasonal Nature of Business. The business of the Company is not seasonal.
Working Capital Practices. The Company does not believe that it, or the
industry in general, has any special practices or special conditions affecting
working capital items that are significant for an understanding of the Company's
business.
Importance of Limited Number of Customers. The Company estimates that at
present it has over 5,000 active customers with approximately 35,000 outlets, of
which the five largest customers account for less than 16% of sales and no one
of which accounts for more than 6% of sales. The Company does not believe that
its business is dependent upon any single or small number of customers, the loss
of which would have a materially adverse effect upon the Company.
Backlog of Orders. The Company does not believe that information concerning
backlog is material to an understanding of its business.
Government Contracts. The Company does not believe that any portion of its
business is subject to renegotiation of profits or termination of contracts or
subcontracts at the election of the government.
Competition. All aspects of the business in which the Company is engaged
are highly competitive. Competition is based upon price, service and quality. In
the various markets served by the Company, it competes with a number of
manufacturers that have significantly greater resources and sales, including
several conglomerate corporations, and with numerous smaller companies. While
the Company is not aware of any reliable statistics that are available to enable
the Company to accurately determine its relative position in the industry,
either overall or with respect to any particular product or market, the Company
believes that it is one of the three leading manufacturers of its type of
shelving systems in North America and that it is one of the four leading
manufacturers of drawer slides in North America.
Research, Design and Development. Approximately $1,373,000 was spent during
the last fiscal year in the development of new products and in the improvement
of existing products; approximately $1,223,000 was spent in fiscal 1996 and
$1,038,000 in fiscal 1995 for the same purposes. The amount of research and
development expenditures are determined by specific identification of the costs,
which are expensed as incurred.
Environmental Matters. The Company does not believe that existing
environmental regulations will have any material effect upon the capital
expenditures, earnings, and competitive position of the Company.
-3-
Employees. At June 30, 1997, the Company employed approximately 1,100
persons. None of the Company's employees are represented by collective
bargaining agents except the hourly employees at The Hirsh Company, who are
represented by the International Association of Bridge, Structural and
Ornamental Iron Workers.
Item 1(d)--Information About Foreign Operations
The Company's Canadian operation accounted for approximately 9% of
consolidated sales. Approximately 5% of consolidated net sales were derived from
export shipments from the Company's United States operations to customers in
other foreign countries. The Company does not know of any particular risks
attendant thereto, except that fluctuating exchange rates between the United
States and Canadian currencies and other factors beyond the control of the
Company, such as tariff and foreign economic policies, may affect future results
of such business. Reference is made to Notes 3 and 13 of the Notes to the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements contained herein for the fiscal year
ended June 30, 1997, for a presentation of additional information concerning the
Company's foreign operations.
ITEM 2--PROPERTIES
The Company owned or leased the following offices and manufacturing
facilities as of June 30, 1997:
Location Description Interest
Grand Rapids, Executive offices and manufacturing facilities; Owned
Michigan 444,000 sq. ft. on 41 acres.
Sparks, Nevada Warehouse; 76,000 sq. ft. Leased
Skokie, Illinois Manufacturing facility and offices; Leased
298,000 sq. ft. on 12 acres.
Muncie, Indiana Manufacturing facilities and office; Owned
98,000 sq. ft. on 12 acres.
Muncie, Indiana Warehouse; 23,000 sq. ft. Leased
Etobicoke, Ontario Manufacturing facility and office; Owned
78,000 sq. ft. on 3 acres
Lachine, Quebec Manufacturing facility and office; Leased
151,000 sq. ft. on 9 acres
The facilities indicated are owned in fee by the Company and are subject to no
material encumbrances. The Company believes that its facilities are generally
adequate for its operations and are maintained in a state of good repair. The
Company believes it is in compliance with all applicable state and federal air
and water pollution control laws. During the five years ended June 30, 1997 the
Company spent approximately $35,200,000 for expansion, modernization and
improvements of its facilities and equipment.
ITEM 3--LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
As of the date hereof, the Company has no material pending legal
proceedings other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to the Company's
business.
-4-
ITEM 4--SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth
quarter of the fiscal year ended June 30, 1997.
ADDITIONAL ITEM--EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The executive officers of the Company were, at June 30, 1997, as follows:
Year First Elected
Name Age Positions and Offices Held an Executive Officer
Allan E. Perry 57 Director, President and Chief 1978
Executive Officer
Richard C. Simkins 54 Director, Executive V.P., C.F.O., 1985
Secretary and Treasurer
Michael G. Van Rooy 44 Vice President - Manufacturing 1994
John W. Vogus 35 Vice President - Sales & Marketing 1997
Anthony R. Taylor 54 President of Knape & Vogt Canada 1978
Carman D. Hepburn 49 Vice President - Sales and Marketing 1985
of Knape & Vogt Canada
Mr. Perry was named President and Chief Executive Officer in April 1996.
Mr. Perry joined the Company in 1978 as General Manager of Modar, Inc. and has
held a variety of senior level management positions.
Mr. Simkins was named Executive Vice President and C.F.O. in April 1996.
Mr. Simkins has been Secretary of the Company since July 1992 and Treasurer
since October 1987. Mr. Simkins joined the Company in 1970 in the finance
department and has held a variety of management positions.
Mr. Van Rooy has been the Vice President - Manufacturing since December
1993. Mr. Van Rooy joined the Company in 1985 in the engineering department and
has held a variety of management positions.
Mr. Vogus was named Vice President - Sales and Marketing in June of 1997.
Mr. Vogus joined the Company in March 1993 as Director of Marketing.
Mr. Taylor has been President of Knape & Vogt Canada since January 1994.
Mr. Taylor joined the Company in 1974 in the finance department and has held a
variety of management positions.
Mr. Hepburn has been Vice President - Sales and Marketing at Knape & Vogt
Canada since November 1985. Mr. Hepburn joined the Company in May 1969 in the
sales department and has held a variety of management positions.
All terms of office are on an annual basis and will expire on October 17,
1997.
-5-
PART II
ITEM 5--MARKET PRICE OF AND DIVIDENDS ON THE REGISTRANT'S
COMMON STOCK AND RELATED SECURITY HOLDER MATTERS
Market Price. The Company's Common Stock is traded on the NASDAQ National
Market under the ticker symbol KNAP. Stock price quotations can be found in
major daily newspapers (listed KnapeV) and in the Wall Street Journal (listed
KnapeVogt). As of September 5, 1997, there were approximately 3,200 shareholders
of the Company's Common Stock and Class B Common Stock.
1997 Bid Price 1996 Bid Price
---------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------
Quarter High Low High Low
- ----------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------- -------------------
First $16.88 $12.25 $18.25 $15.00
Second $17.63 $14.25 $19.50 $12.75
Third $18.50 $15.50 $17.88 $13.25
Fourth $17.00 $14.75 $17.50 $13.25
Dividends. The Company paid per share dividends on its shares of Common
Stock and Class B Common Stock in the following amounts during the last two
fiscal years.
Per Share Dividends
Year Ended June 30, 1997 Common Stock Class B Common Stock
- ------------------------ ------------ --------------------
First Quarter $.165 $.15
Second Quarter $.165 $.15
Third Quarter $.165 $.15
Fourth Quarter $.165 $.15
Per Share Dividends
Year Ended June 30, 1996 Common Stock Class B Common Stock
- ------------------------ ------------ --------------------
First Quarter $.165 $.15
Second Quarter $.165 $.15
Third Quarter $.165 $.15
Fourth Quarter $.165 $.15
The Company expects to continue to pay dividends quarterly during the
fiscal year ending June 30, 1998. The Board of directors has declared a $.165
per share dividend on shares of the Company's Common Stock and $.15 per share
dividend on shares of its Class B Common Stock, payable September 12, 1997, to
shareholders of record on September 5, 1997.
-6-
ITEM 6--SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
For the Year Ended 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales.............................................$176,630,294 $163,012,030 $168,190,969 $145,504,536 $114,010,930
Cost of sales......................................... 133,081,765 124,408,648 (a) 127,296,470 107,701,337 81,483,000
Operating expenses (excluding interest expense)....... 28,972,779 31,211,332 (a) 26,983,142 25,043,151 20,796,203
Interest expense...................................... 1,986,522 2,253,992 2,471,652 1,426,328 771,012
Income from continuing operations before taxes........ 12,589,228 5,138,058 (a) 11,439,705 11,333,720 10,960,715
Income taxes.......................................... 4,264,000 2,035,000 (a) 3,849,000 4,020,000 3,871,000
Income from continuing operations..................... 8,325,228 3,103,058 (a) 7,590,705 7,313,720 7,089,715
Income (loss) from discontinued operation............. (471,624) (3,037,926)(a) 654,433 842,556 (1,571,583)(b)
Net income............................................ 7,853,604 65,132 (a) 8,245,138 8,156,276 5,518,132
Earnings per share from continuing operations......... 1.41 0.53 (a) 1.29 1.24 1.21
Earnings per share from discontinued operation........ (0.08) (0.52)(a) 0.11 0.15 (0.27)(b)
Earnings per share.................................... 1.33 0.01 (a) 1.40 1.39 0.94
Dividends paid........................................ 3,738,138 3,727,321 3,722,814 3,373,493 3,360,108
Dividend payout, percent of income from
continuing operations............................. 45% 120% 49% 46% 47%
Dividends per share--common........................... 0.66 0.66 0.66 0.60 0.60
Dividends per share--Class B common .................. 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.545 0.545
Percentage of pre-tax income from continuing
operations to sales............................... 7.1% 3.2% 6.8% 7.8% 9.6%
Capital expenditures.................................. 7,763,482 8,032,779 4,181,472 3,837,249 11,366,533
Depreciation.......................................... $6,542,750 $6,190,031 $5,876,391 $5,250,453 $3,945,043
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At Year-End
Working capital....................................... $39,266,034 $ 39,535,991 $ 45,796,753 $ 39,572,003 $33,264,343
Ratio of current assets to current liabilities........ 4.2 4.0 5.8 3.4 5.0
Net property and equipment............................ 48,586,802 50,381,608 48,698,785 50,395,355 45,325,109
Total assets.......................................... 125,741,698 129,225,159 131,433,714 133,655,919 95,173,490
Total debt............................................ 29,000,000 35,000,000 35,800,000 40,000,000 12,750,000
Debt to equity, percent............................... 39% 51% 49% 59% 20%
Stockholders' equity.................................. 73,460,498 69,173,750 72,713,836 67,973,890 63,875,962
Restated weighted average shares outstanding.......... 5,894,709 5,883,227 5,890,931 5,877,959 5,856,952
Stockholders' equity per share........................ $12.46 $11.76 $12.34 $11.56 $10.91
Number of employees................................... 1,061 1,084 1,136 1,137 968
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) 1996 figures include an inventory liquidation of $863,000 recorded in
cost of sales, a restructuring charge of $3,496,000 recorded in
operating expenses, and an income tax benefit of $1,534,000, for an
after-tax effect of $2,825,000, or $0.48 per share. The 1996 figures
also include an after-tax charge of $2,700,000 to recognize the
estimated loss on the sale of Roll-it, the Company's discontinued
store fixture operation.
(b) 1993 figures include the expense of restructuring the Roll-it
operation of $1,529,000 recorded in operating expenses and an income
tax benefit of $566,000, for an after-tax effect of $963,000, or
$0.16 per share.
-7-
ITEM 7--MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis provides information which management
believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of the Company's
financial condition and results of operations. The discussion should be read in
conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and footnotes.
Results of Operations
The table below sets forth certain items in the Consolidated Statements of
Income from continuing operations as a percentage of net sales:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Net sales.................................... 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Cost of sales................................ 75.3 76.3 75.7
------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Gross profit............................... 24.7 23.7 24.3
Selling and administrative expenses.......... 16.1 16.8 15.9
Restructuring and impairment of assets....... .3 2.1 ----
------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Operating income........................... 8.3 4.8 8.4
Interest expense............................. 1.1 1.4 1.5
Other expense................................ .1 .2 .1
------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Income from continuing operations before
income taxes............................. 7.1 3.2 6.8
Income taxes - continuing operations......... 2.4 1.3 2.3
------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Income from continuing operations.......... 4.7% 1.9% 4.5%
- --------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Fiscal 1997 compared with fiscal 1996
Net sales in fiscal 1997 increased $13.6 million to a record $176.6
million, or 8.4%, over fiscal 1996 sales of $163.0 million. The increase in
sales was due to an increase in unit volumes. Drawer slide sales led this
increase with a $9.9 million improvement. The majority of this increase was due
to precision drawer slide sales continuing their rapid growth. Euro-style and
utility slide sales were also improved over fiscal 1996. Drawer slide sales are
expected to continue to increase in fiscal 1998 with the introduction of
precision slides for the metal office furniture market. Shelving system sales
increased by $2.5 million primarily due to an increase in wall-attached
shelving. The increase in wall-attached shelving sales is primarily attributable
to the addition of two significant customers in the middle of fiscal 1997. With
a full year of sales to these customers, the Company anticipates that sales from
the wall- attached shelving portion of the shelving system product line will
continue to grow in fiscal 1998. Sales from the free-standing shelving portion
of the shelving system product line may decline in fiscal 1998 due to the
announcement that two major home centers will merge and the subsequent
consolidation of some store locations. Hardware sales increased in fiscal 1997
by $1.2 million over fiscal 1996 levels led by the Feeny kitchen and bath
product line. Hardware sales are forecasted to have a small increase in fiscal
1998 due to the continued expansion of the Feeny retail program. There was no
change in furniture component sales in fiscal 1997, and with the sale of Modar,
this product line has been eliminated.
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 24.7% in fiscal 1997,
compared to 23.7% in fiscal 1996. Gross profit in fiscal 1996 included an
$863,000 charge for liquidation of inventories to create additional
manufacturing and warehousing space. Without this charge, gross profit as a
percentage of net sales would have been 24.2 % in fiscal 1996. The improvement
in gross profit during fiscal 1997 was due to successful cost containment
efforts and higher sales levels which absorbed fixed overhead costs.
Selling and administrative expenses in fiscal 1997 decreased to 16.1% of
net sales from 16.8% in fiscal 1996. The decrease was due to expense controls
put into place during the fiscal year and the increase in sales.
-8-
During fiscal 1997, the sale of Modar was completed and resulted in an
additional restructuring and impairment of assets charge of $373,235 which
represents the difference between the original estimate and the actual loss from
the sale.
Other expenses in fiscal 1997 decreased by $381,571 compared to fiscal 1996
mainly due to a reduction in interest expense caused by lower debt levels.
The effective income tax rate was 33.9% in fiscal 1997 compared to 39.6% in
fiscal 1996. See note 9 to the consolidated financial statements for an
explanation of the effective income tax rate.
Income from continuing operations in fiscal 1997 was $8.3 million, or $1.41
per share, compared to $3.1 million, or $0.53 per share in fiscal 1996. Without
the $2.8 million charge for restructuring, impairment of assets and inventory
liquidations, the income from continuing operations would have been $5.9
million, or $1.01 per share in fiscal 1996.
The results of operations of Roll-it, net of income taxes, are presented as
a discontinued operation. In fiscal 1997, the after-tax loss from discontinued
operation was $0.5 million compared to $3.0 million in fiscal 1996. The final
1996 loss includes an estimated after-tax loss on the sale of Roll-it of $2.7
million.
The Company has been seeking a buyer for Roll-it and, in the third quarter
of fiscal 1997, engaged an investment banking firm to act as a broker in the
sale. As of July 31, 1997, several groups have expressed an interest in
acquiring Roll-it, have signed confidentiality agreements and have received a
confidential investment memorandum. Those groups continuing to have an interest
will visit Roll-it in August, 1997. Although it is difficult to predict, the
Company expects to sell Roll-it during fiscal 1998.
Fiscal 1996 compared with fiscal 1995
Net sales in fiscal 1996 decreased $5.2 million to $163.0 million, or 3.1%
less than fiscal 1995 sales of $168.2 million. Drawer slide sales increased $0.4
million with strong sales of precision drawer slides being offset by decreased
sales of utility drawer slides. Sales growth of precision slides came mostly
from new customers and increased unit sales with existing customers. Utility
slides decreased due to the discontinuation of the "Value Line" drawer slide
products. Shelving system sales decreased $1.3 million mainly due to lower sales
of the wall-attached shelving line, with relatively flat sales of free-standing
shelving systems. Hardware sales decreased $1.9 million primarily due to fewer
promotions of the Iron Horse product line by large retail customers. Furniture
component sales decreased $2.4 million as the Modar operation had reduced
volumes with the furniture component customers as it mainly produced
intercompany wood products.
Gross profit as a percentage of sales in fiscal 1996 was 23.7%, down from
24.3% in fiscal 1995. Without the $863,000 charge for liquidation of inventories
in fiscal 1996, gross profit as a percentage of sales would have been 24.2%
which is comparable to fiscal 1995.
Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales were 16.8% in
fiscal 1996 up from 15.9% in fiscal 1995. The increase was due to promotions for
new product introductions and the initiation of a retail program for Feeny
storage products. Co-op advertising and consumer product sales promotions also
contributed to higher selling expenses.
Income from continuing operations in fiscal 1996 was $3.1 million, or $0.53
per share, compared to $7.6 million, or $1.29 per share in fiscal 1995. A
significant amount of the reduction in income in fiscal 1996 was attributable to
a restructuring and impairment charge of $2.8 million. This charge resulted from
an announced restructuring plan in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1996 which
involved the shift of wood production from Modar to Hirsh and the subsequent
sale or closure of the Modar facility, the transfer of redundant manufacturing
operations performed at KV Canada to the corporate headquarters in Grand Rapids,
and an early retirement program to salaried employees at the Grand Rapids
location. As an additional part of the plan, the board of directors authorized
the liquidation of
-9-
slow moving inventory (as noted above) which created additional manufacturing
and warehousing space and enabled management to focus its energy and attention
on higher-margin, new and existing products.
Also, the Company announced in August of 1996 its decision to sell Roll-it,
the Company's store fixture operation, because it did not fall within the
Company's core business strengths. The Company recorded an after-tax charge of
$2.7 million in fiscal 1996 to cover the estimated loss from the sale and
reported Roll-it as a discontinued operation by segregating the net assets and
the operating results of the business. The after-tax loss from discontinued
operation in fiscal 1996 was $3.0 million which includes the $2.7 million charge
for the anticipated sale.
Liquidity And Capital Resources
The Company maintained a sound financial position during fiscal 1997. The
Company's ability to generate cash resulted in a reduction of long-term debt by
$6.0 million to $29.0 million at the end of fiscal 1997 from $35.0 million at
the end of fiscal 1996. The debt to equity ratio at the end of fiscal 1997 was
39% compared to 51% at the end of fiscal 1996. Net cash provided from operating
activities was the largest in three years in fiscal 1997 at $16.2 million.
Financial resources, including borrowing capacity and anticipated funds from
operations, are expected to be adequate to satisfy all short-term obligations
and the internal growth objectives of the Company.
Cash flows from operating activities generated $16.2 million in fiscal 1997
compared to $13.5 million in fiscal 1996. Cash flows in fiscal 1997 were
positively impacted by a decrease in inventories and an increase in net income.
Inventories decreased by $4.4 million in fiscal 1997 due to the Company's
continuing focus on increasing inventory turns. Inventory turns in fiscal 1997
were increased to 6.4 from 5.3 in fiscal 1996. An increase to accounts
receivable and a decrease to accrued restructuring charges offset a portion of
the positive cash flows. Accounts receivable increased by $2.2 million due
primarily to the increase in sales volume. The restructuring program was
completed in fiscal 1997 and the restructuring accrual established in fiscal
1996 was fully utilized.
Investing activities used $5.9 million in fiscal 1997 compared to $9.3
million in fiscal 1996. Capital expenditures were $7.8 million in fiscal 1997
including approximately $3.3 million for additional equipment to manufacture
precision drawer slides for the wood furniture and metal office furniture
markets. Capital expenditures in fiscal 1998 are expected to remain at
approximately the same levels as in fiscal 1997. The sale of Modar in fiscal
1997 was the primary reason for the $3.0 million of cash generated from the
sales of property, plant and equipment.
Financing activities used $9.4 million in fiscal 1997, compared to $4.5
million in fiscal 1996. The Company reduced debt by $6.0 million in fiscal 1997
and declared cash dividends of $3.7 million. The Company believes that cash
flows from operations and funds available under an existing credit facility are
sufficient to fund working capital requirements, capital expenditures and
dividend payments in fiscal 1998. The Company will use long-term debt to the
point where financial flexibility is preserved and undue financial risk is not
incurred.
This report contains certain forward-looking statements which involve risks
and uncertainties. When used in this report, the words "believe," "anticipate,"
"think," "intend," "goal,""forecast," "expect" and similar expressions identify
forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and
uncertainties which would cause actual results to differ materially from those
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned
not to place undue reliance on those forward-looking statements which speak only
as of the date of this report.
ITEM 7A--QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES
ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company is not required to include disclosure with respect to this item
for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1997.
-10-
ITEM 8--FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Immediately following are the consolidated balance sheets of the Company
and its subsidiaries as of June 30, 1997, and the related consolidated
statements of income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three
years in the period ended June 30, 1997, the notes thereto, summary of
accounting policies, and the independent auditors' report.
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Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Sales .......................................... $ 176,630,294 $ 163,012,030 $ 168,190,969
Cost of Sales ...................................... 133,081,765 124,408,648 127,296,470
Gross Profit ....................................... 43,548,529 38,603,382 40,894,499
Expenses:
Selling and shipping ........................... 21,545,425 21,044,004 19,882,242
Administrative and general ..................... 6,890,905 6,394,013 6,922,412
Restructuring and impairment of assets (Note 2) 373,235 3,496,000 --
Total Expenses ..................................... 28,809,565 30,934,017 26,804,654
Operating Income ................................... 14,738,964 7,669,365 14,089,845
Other Expenses:
Interest ....................................... 1,986,522 2,253,992 2,471,652
Other, net ..................................... 163,214 277,315 178,488
Total Other Expenses ............................... 2,149,736 2,531,307 2,650,140
Income From Continuing Operations Before Income
Taxes .......................................... 12,589,228 5,138,058 11,439,705
Income Taxes-Continuing Operations (Note 9) ....... 4,264,000 2,035,000 3,849,000
Income From Continuing Operations .................. 8,325,228 3,103,058 7,590,705
Discontinued Operation, Net of Income
Taxes (Note 3)
Income (loss) from operations .................. (471,624 (337,926) 654,433
Estimated loss on sale ......................... -- (2,700,000) --
Total Discontinued Operation, Net of Income Taxes .. (471,624) (3,037,926) 654,433
Net Income ......................................... $7,853,604 $65,132 $8,245,138
Net Income Per Share (Notes 2, 3 and 11)
From continuing operations ..................... $1.41 $.53 $1.29
From discontinued operation .................... $(.08) $(.52) $.11
Total Net Income Per Share ......................... $1.33 $.01 $1.40
Dividends Per Share
Common stock ................................... $.66 $.66 $.66
Class B common stock ........................... $.60 $.60 $.60
5,894,709 5,883,227 5,890,931
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Note 11)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-12-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended June 30, 1997 1996
Assets:
Current Assets:
Cash and equivalents .......................................... $ 1,146,546 $ 244,271
Accounts receivable, less allowances of $525,000
and $563,000, respectively ................................ 24,991,341 22,763,645
Refundable income taxes ....................................... 1,578,681 1,860,191
Inventories (Note 4) .......................................... 18,629,454 23,016,541
Prepaid expenses .............................................. 3,686,042 3,058,021
Net current assets of discontinued operation (Note 3) ......... 1,462,089 1,790,740
Total Current Assets .............................................. 51,494,153 52,733,409
Property and Equipment:
Land and improvements ......................................... 1,874,420 1,981,144
Buildings ..................................................... 16,573,882 18,194,668
Machinery and equipment ....................................... 62,322,944 61,953,623
80,771,246 82,129,435
Less accumulated depreciation ................................. 32,184,444 31,747,827
Net Property and Equipment ........................................ 48,586,802 50,381,608
Net Property and Equipment of Discontinued Operation
(Note 3) ...................................................... 1,440,740 1,775,225
Goodwill, net ..................................................... 18,409,767 18,916,360
Other Assets ...................................................... 5,810,236 5,418,557
$125,741,698 $129,225,159
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
-13-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended June 30, 1997 1996
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable .......................................... $ 5,976,683 $ 4,825,372
Accruals:
Income taxes .......................................... 382,273 --
Taxes other than income ............................... 1,551,686 1,381,324
Compensation .......................................... 2,460,426 1,867,277
Retirement plan contributions ......................... 740,666 581,126
Restructuring costs (Note 2) .......................... -- 3,440,184
Miscellaneous ......................................... 1,116,385 1,102,135
Total Current Liabilities ..................................... 12,228,119 13,197,418
Supplemental Retirement Benefits (Notes 6 and 7) .............. 1,579,653 1,504,067
Long-Term Debt (Note 5) ....................................... 29,000,000 35,000,000
Deferred Lease Costs .......................................... 1,818,428 2,360,124
Deferred Income Taxes (Note 9) ................................ 7,655,000 7,989,800
Total Liabilities ............................................. 52,281,200 60,051,409
Commitments (Notes 6, 7 and 8)
Stockholders' Equity (Notes 10 and 11)
Stock:
Common, $2 par - 6,000,000 shares authorized; 3,465,664
and 3,327,918 issued .............................. 6,931,328 6,655,836
Class B common, $2 par - 4,000,000 shares authorized;
2,438,165 and 2,553,151 issued ................... 4,876,330 5,106,302
Preferred, 2,000,000 shares authorized and unissued ... -- --
Additional paid-in capital ................................ 33,340,541 33,080,087
Retained earnings ......................................... 29,658,277 25,542,811
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment ........ (1,345,978) (1,211,286)
Total Stockholders' Equity .................................... 73,460,498 69,173,750
$ 125,741,698 $ 129,225,159
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-14-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cumulative
foreign
Additional currency
Common paid-in Retained translation
stock capital earnings adjustment
Balance, July 1, 1994 $ 10,676,654 $ 23,899,422 $ 34,826,969 $ (1,429,155)
Net income for 1995 - - 8,245,138 -
Cash dividends - - (3,722,814) -
10% stock dividend (Note 11) 1,066,710 9,067,035 (10,144,293) -
Stock issued under stock option
plan (Note 10) 16,464 99,316 - -
Foreign currency
translation adjustment - - - 112,390
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, June 30, 1995 11,759,828 33,065,773 29,205,000 (1,316,765)
Net income for 1996 - - 65,132 -
Cash dividends - - (3,727,321) -
Stock issued under stock option
plan (Note 10) 2,310 14,314 - -
Foreign currency
translation adjustment - - - 105,479
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, June 30, 1996 11,762,138 33,080,087 25,542,811 (1,211,286)
Net income for 1997 - - 7,853,604 -
Cash dividends - - (3,738,138) -
Stock issued under stock option
plan (Note 10) 45,520 260,454 - -
Foreign currency
translation adjustment - - - (134,692)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, June 30, 1997 $ 11,807,658 $ 33,340,541 $ 29,658,277 $ (1,345,978)
===================================================================================================================
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-15-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
Operating Activities
Net income ..................................... $ 7,853,604 $ 65,132 $ 8,245,138
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation of fixed assets ............... 6,542,750 6,190,031 5,876,391
Amortization of other assets ............... 1,185,853 1,155,322 1,022,047
Increase (decrease) in deferred income taxes (334,800) (1,060,000) 1,339,000
Increase in supplemental retirement benefits 76,740 64,612 112,089
Decrease in deferred lease costs ........... (541,696) (524,966) (509,234)
Loss on sale of the discontinued operation . -- 3,866,000 --
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease (increase) in:
Accounts receivable ................. (2,248,856) 515,079 (40,221)
Refundable income taxes ............. 272,579 (1,627,737) (502,295)
Inventories ......................... 4,372,415 720,025 1,909,457
Net assets of discontinued operation 592,226 636,106 184,722
Prepaid expenses .................... (629,600) (160,535) (1,410,260)
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable .................... 1,158,861 289,679 (1,465,580)
Accrued restructuring costs ......... (3,440,184 3,440,184 --
Accruals ............................ 1,326,505) (83,555) (1,981,633)
Net cash provided by operating activities ...... 16,186,397 13,485,377 12,779,621
Investing Activities
Additions to property, plant and equipment ..... (7,763,482) (8,032,779) (4,181,472)
Sales of property, plant and equipment ......... 2,985,833 175,651 20,015
Payments for other assets ...................... (1,079,168) (1,471,438) (913,762)
Net cash used for investing activities ......... (5,856,817) (9,328,566) (5,075,219)
Financing Activities
Purchase of fractional shares .................. -- -- (10,548)
Cash dividends declared ........................ (3,738,138) (3,727,321) (3,722,814)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock ......... 305,974 16,624 115,780
Payments on long-term debt ..................... (6,000,000) (800,000) (4,200,000)
Net cash used for financing activities ......... (9,432,164) (4,510,697) (7,817,582)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash ............ 4,859 63,877 80,380
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Equivalents .... 902,275 (290,009) (32,800)
Cash and Equivalents, beginning of year ............ 244,271 534,280 567,080
Cash and Equivalents, end of year .................. $ 1,146,546 $ 244,271 $ 534,280
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
-16-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Summary of
Significant
Accounting
Policies
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Knape & Vogt
Manufacturing Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (Company). All material
intercompany balances, transactions and stockholdings have been eliminated in
consolidation.
Description of Business, Revenue Recognition and Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company designs, manufactures and distributes storage products including
decorative and utility shelving systems, drawer slides, home workshop items,
kitchen and closet storage products and cabinet hardware. On August 20, 1996,
the Company announced its decision to sell its store fixture operation and this
portion of the business is shown as a discontinued operation. The Company
primarily sells its products to hardware chains, home centers, specialty
distributors and original equipment manufacturers and recognizes revenue upon
shipment of products to customers. No single customer accounts for more than 10%
of consolidated sales. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations and
maintains reserves for potential credit losses.
Foreign Currency Translation
The accounts of the foreign subsidiary are translated into U.S. dollars in
accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 52.
Assets and liabilities are translated at year-end exchange rates. Income and
expense accounts are translated at average exchange rates in effect during the
year. Adjustments relating to the translation process are accumulated and
reported in the stockholders' equity section as a Cumulative Foreign Currency
Translation Adjustment.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying amounts of the Company's financial instruments, which consist of
cash, receivables, bank revolving credit agreement and accounts payable,
approximate their fair values.
-17-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash Equivalents
All highly liquid debt instruments with a maturity of three months or less when
purchased are classified as cash equivalents.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of FIFO (first-in, first-out) cost or
market.
Property, Equipment and Depreciation
Property and equipment are stated at cost after elimination of fully depreciated
items. For financial reporting purposes, depreciation is computed over the
estimated useful lives of the assets by the straight-line method. For income tax
purposes, accelerated depreciation methods and shorter useful lives are used.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the amount by which the cost of businesses purchased exceeds
the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is amortized over a period
of 40 years using the straight-line method. Accumulated amortization of goodwill
was $1,853,951 and $1,347,358 at June 30, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The
Company periodically reviews goodwill for impairment based upon undiscounted
operating income over the remaining life of the goodwill. While the estimates
are based on management's historical experience and assumptions regarding future
operations, the amounts the Company will ultimately realize could differ from
those used in the 1997 SFAS No. 121 analysis.
Deferred Lease Costs
Deferred lease costs arising from an acquisition represent the excess of actual
rent payments on an operating lease over the market rental rate at the
acquisition date. The deferred lease cost is being amortized over 38 months, the
remaining life of the lease.
-18-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Employee Retirement Plans
The Company has pension and profit-sharing plans covering substantially all
employees. The Company's policy is to fund pension costs for the plan in amounts
which equal or exceed the ERISA minimum requirements.
The Company has a supplemental retirement program for officers. The cost of the
supplemental program is actuarially determined and is accrued but not funded.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for certain income and expenses in different periods for
financial reporting and income tax purposes. The Company utilizes the liability
method to account for deferred income taxes by applying statutory tax rates in
effect at the balance sheet date to differences between the financial reporting
and tax bases of assets and liabilities. The resulting deferred tax liabilities
or assets are adjusted to reflect changes in tax laws or rates by means of
charges or credits to income tax expense.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Effective July 1, 1996, the Company adopted SFAS No. 121, Accounting for the
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. The new statement requires the Company to
review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be
recoverable. The Company's adoption of this statement did not have a material
impact
-19-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
on its financial position or results of operations for the year ended June 30,
1997.
Advertising
The Company expenses the costs of advertising as incurred. Advertising expense
was $422,000 in 1997, $553,000 in 1996, and $622,000 in 1995.
Earnings Per Share
Earnings per share are computed on the weighted average number of the combined
common and Class B common shares outstanding during each year. Earnings per
share is computed using the treasury stock method, under which the number of
shares outstanding reflects the assumed repurchase of shares of the Company's
common stock with the proceeds from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock
options.
In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS
No. 128, Earnings Per Share. The statement simplifies the standards for
computing earnings per share (EPS), and makes them comparable to international
EPS standards. The statement requires the presentation of both "basic" and
"diluted" EPS on the face of the income statement with a supplementary
reconciliation of the numerators and denominators used in the calculations. The
statement is effective for financial statements issued for periods ending after
December 15, 1997, including interim periods; earlier application is not
permitted. Had the statement been required to be implemented for the periods
presented, the effect on EPS would have been insignificant.
New Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted
In June 1997, the FASB issued two new disclosure standards. Results of
operations and financial position for the years presented will be unaffected by
implementation of these new standards.
SFAS No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income, establishes standards for
reporting and display of comprehensive income, its components and accumulated
balances. Comprehensive income is defined to include all changes in equity
except those resulting from
-20-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
investments by owners and distributions to owners. Among other disclosures, SFAS
No. 130 requires that all items that are required to be recognized under current
accounting standards as components of comprehensive income be reported in a
financial statement that is displayed with the same prominence as other
financial statements.
SFAS No. 131, Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related
Information, which supersedes SFAS No. 14, Financial Reporting for Segments of a
Business Enterprise, establishes standards for the way that public enterprises
report information about operating segments in annual financial statements and
requires reporting of selected information about operating segments in interim
financial statements issued to the public. It also establishes standards for
disclosures regarding products and servicing geographic areas and major
customers. SFAS No. 131 defines operating segments as components of an
enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is
evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to
allocate resources and in assessing performance.
Both of these new standards are effective for financial statements for periods
beginning after December 15, 1997, and require comparative information for
earlier years to be restated. Due to the recent issuance of these standards,
management has been unable to fully evaluate the impact, if any, they may have
on future financial statement disclosures.
2. Restructuring and
Impairment of
Assets
On June 24, 1996, the board of directors of the Company approved a restructuring
plan designed to improve operating efficiencies. The plan involved the shift of
wood production from Modar to Hirsh and the subsequent sale or closure of the
Modar facility, the transfer of redundant manufacturing operations performed at
Knape & Vogt Canada to the corporate headquarters in Grand Rapids, and an early
retirement program to salaried employees at the Grand Rapids location. The
restructuring and impairment charge of $3,496,000 primarily related to severance
and employee benefit costs ($1,635,000), the write-down of assets to be disposed
of to their fair market value ($1,509,000) and other costs ($352,000). As an
additional part of the plan, which was reported as part of costs of sales, the
board of directors authorized the liquidation of $863,000 of slow moving
inventories in order to create additional manufacturing
-21-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
and warehousing space. After an income tax benefit of $1,534,000, these actions
reduced fiscal year 1996 earnings by $2,825,000 or $.48 per share. The
restructuring accrual established in fiscal 1996 was fully utilized in the
current year.
During 1997, the sale of Modar was completed and resulted in an additional
impairment charge of $373,235 which represents the difference between the
original estimate and the actual loss from the sale. After a related income tax
benefit of $127,000, fiscal year 1997 earnings were reduced by $246,235 or $.04
per share.
3. Discontinued
Operation
On August 20, 1996, the Company announced its decision to sell the Roll-it
division of Knape & Vogt Canada Inc. (Roll-it), the Company's store fixture
operation. The Company has been seeking a buyer for Roll-it and has engaged in
the firm of J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, Inc. to assist in the sale. At the end
of July 1997, several interested buyers have signed confidentiality agreements
with the Company. Although it is difficult to predict, the Company expects to
sell Roll-it during fiscal year 1998. Roll-it is reported as a discontinued
operation, and the consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to
segregate the net assets and operating results of the business.
The estimated loss recorded during fiscal 1996 on the sale of Roll-it was $3.9
million, which included a reduction in asset values of $3.6 million and a
provision for anticipated closing costs and operating losses until disposal of
$.3 million. The loss was reported net of an income tax benefit of $1.2 million,
for an after-tax loss of $2.7 million.
During the third quarter of fiscal year 1997, the Company recorded an additional
loss of $714,582, which is an adjustment to the estimated provision for
operating losses of Roll-it through fiscal year 1997. The loss has been reported
net of an income tax benefit of $242,958, for an after-tax loss of $471,624 or
$.08 per share from discontinued operation. The adjustment was necessary as it
became evident in the third quarter that Roll-it's sales for the year would be
less than the level forecasted in recording the original estimated provision for
operating losses through fiscal year 1997. The lower than expected sales is
primarily attributable to less than forecasted orders from Roll- it's major
customer. Income or loss attributable to Roll-it's operations
-22-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
beyond fiscal year 1997 through the date of the sale will be reflected as
incurred in each reporting period.
The loss on the sale of Roll-it of $3.9 million was based on estimates of the
proceeds expected to be realized on the sale of the store fixture operation. The
amounts the Company will ultimately realize could differ materially in the near
term from the amounts assumed in arriving at the loss on disposal of the
discontinued operation. Summary operating results of the discontinued operation
(in thousands) are as follows:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------ ------------- -------------- -------------
Revenues............................ $ 10,531 $ 13,540 $14,851
Costs and expenses.................. 11,237 13,990 13,823
------------- -------------- -------------
Income (loss) before taxes.......... (706) (450) 1,028
Income tax expense (benefit) (234) (112) 374
------------- -------------- -------------
Net income (loss)................... $ (472) $ (338) $ 654
==================================== ============= ============== =============
At June 30, 1997, net assets of the discontinued operation of approximately $2.9
million consisted of $1.5 million of current assets, deductions for an allowance
for the estimated loss on disposal, current liabilities and $1.4 million of
equipment.
4. Inventories
Inventories are summarized as follows:
June 30, 1997 1996
Finished products $ 11,219,379 $ 13,189,032
Work in process 1,950,391 2,665,754
Raw materials and supplies 5,459,684 7,161,755
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 18,629,454 $ 23,016,541
============================================================================
5. Long-Term Debt
At June 30, 1997 and 1996, long-term debt consisted of borrowings under an
unsecured revolving credit agreement which provides for loans up to $47,500,000
with interest between 40 and 50 basis points above the federal funds rate
depending on the Company's interest coverage ratio (averaging 6% for the month
ended June 30, 1997). There was a $29,000,000 balance outstanding under the
revolving credit agreement at June 30, 1997. The agreement contains certain
covenants which the Company is in compliance with at June 30, 1997. The
revolving credit agreement is required to be repaid by November
-23-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1, 1999. Annually, the Company may request that the maturity of the revolving
credit agreement be extended by another year.
6. Retirement Plans
The Company has several noncontributory defined benefit pension plans and
defined contribution plans covering substantially all of its employees. The
defined benefit plans provide benefits based on the participants' years of
service. The Company's funding policy for defined benefit plans is to make
annual contributions which equal or exceed regulatory requirements. The
Company's board of directors annually approves contributions to defined
contribution plans. The pension and profit-sharing plans hold a combined total
of 304,425 shares of the Company's class B common stock with a market value of
$4,870,800 and $4,794,694 at June 30, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Dividends
paid to the plans totaled $182,655 for the years ended June 30, 1997 and 1996.
The Company also has a supplemental retirement program for designated officers
of the Company which also includes death and disability benefits.
The cost of retirement benefits is as follows:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
Discretionary profit-sharing $ 685,564 $ 585,965 $ 576,558
Pension 309,415 261,781 301,349
Supplemental retirement 199,700 193,960 158,442
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$1,194,679 $1,041,706 $1,036,349
============================================================================
Net periodic cost for the pension plans included the following components:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
Service cost - benefits earned
during the period $ 276,718 $ 280,075 $ 251,503
Interest cost on projected
benefit
obligation 847,333 737,433 726,789
Actual return on plan assets (1,504,890) (1,208,193) (930,192)
Net deferral and amortization of
unrecognized amounts 715,578 452,466 253,249
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net periodic pension cost $ 334,739 $ 261,781 $ 301,349
============================================================================
-24-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The weighted average discount rate used in determining the actuarial present
value of the projected benefit obligation of the pension plans was 8.5% at June
30, 1997 and 1996. The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets was
8.5%.
The funded status of the pension plans is as follows:
June 30, 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Actuarial present value of benefit
obligations:
Accumulated and projected benefit
obligation, vested benefits of
$10,280,087 and $9,149,228 $ 10,681,208 $ 9,248,880
Plan assets at fair value, primarily equity
securities and fixed income funds 11,794,363 10,183,1055
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plan assets in excess of projected benefit
obligations 1,113,155 934,225
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unrecognized net obligations:
Unrecognized net (gain) loss (248,149) 292,637
Unrecognized prior service cost 1,421,142 910,955
Unrecognized transition net assets,
being recognized over 13.4 years (348,100) (402,500)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unrecognized net obligations 824,893 801,092
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prepaid pension cost included in other
assets $ 1,938,048 $ 1,735,317
==========================================================================
7. Postretirement
Health
Care Benefits
The Company maintains a defined benefit postretirement plan for substantially
all employees which provides certain health care benefits. Eligibility and
benefits are based on age and years of service. On July 1, 1992, the Company
adopted SFAS No. 106, Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other
Than Pensions, on a prospective basis. The transition obligation represents the
difference between the Company's July 1, 1992, accrued postretirement benefit
costs prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 106 and the Plan's unfunded liability as
of that date and is being amortized over 20 years. During fiscal year 1994, the
Company revised the eligibility definition for benefits. This reduced the
liability as of July 1, 1993, by $916,457. This decrease in the liability is
being amortized over 17 years, the average remaining service period of the
active employees.
-25
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The components of net periodic postretirement benefit cost are as follows:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
Service cost - benefits earned during
the year $ 86,588 $ 82,461 $ 107,493
Interest cost on projected benefit
obligation 138,498 126,329 144,266
Amortization of transition
liability over 20 years 93,861 93,861 93,861
Amortization of prior service costs (57,279) (57,279) (57,279)
Amortization of unrecognized net loss 24,412 18,415 37,162
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net postretirement health care cost $ 286,080 $ 263,787 $ 325,503
============================================================================
A reconciliation of the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation to the
liability recognized in the consolidated balance sheets is as follows:
June 30, 1997 1996
Accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation:
Active participants $ 931,487 $ 828,891
Retirees 769,823 704,498
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,701,310 1,533,389
Unrecognized transition obligation (1,407,902) (1,501,763)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
293,408 31,626
Unrecognized net loss (467,660) (443,795)
Unrecognized prior service cost 687,341 744,620
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Postretirement health care liability $ 513,089 $ 332,451
============================================================================
The actuarial calculation assumes a health care inflation rate of 9.25% in 1997
and grades down uniformly to 6.5% in 2002 and remains level thereafter. The
health care cost trend rate has an effect on the amounts reported. Increasing
the health care inflation rate by 1% would increase the June 30, 1997,
accumulated postretirement benefit obligation by $158,392, and the 1997 net
postretirement health care cost by $25,502. The discount rate used in
determining the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was 8.5%. The
Company's postretirement health care plans are not funded. Prior to 1993, the
cost of providing postretirement benefits was expensed as incurred.
-26-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Lease Commitments
The Company is leasing certain real property and equipment under noncancelable
agreements which expire at various dates through 2001. Annual minimum rental
payments required under operating leases are as follows:
Year ending June 30,
1998 $ 1,508,670
1999 1,518,319
2000 1,425,038
2001 217,462
- ---------------------------------------------------
$ 4,669,489
===================================================
Rent expense under all operating leases was approximately $1,991,000,
$2,076,000, and $2,070,000 in 1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively. 9. Income
Taxes The components of income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes
consist of:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
United States $12,028,340 $ 5,603,192 $ 10,708,095
Foreign 560,888 (465,134) 731,610
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from continuing
operations before
income taxes $12,589,228 $ 5,138,058 $ 11,439,705
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations consists of:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current:
United States $ 4,558,800 $ 3,189,000 $ 2,298,000
Foreign (115,000) (152,000) 129,000
State and local 155,000 58,000 83,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current 4,598,800 3,095,000 2,510,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred:
United States (546,800) (1,159,000) 1,208,000
Foreign 287,000 14,000 121,000
State and local (75,000) 85,000 10,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred (334,800) (1,060,000) 1,339,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income tax expense $ 4,264,000 $ 2,035,000 $ 3,849,000
============================================================================
-27-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The difference between the federal statutory tax rate and the effective tax rate
on continuing operations is as follows:
Year ended June 30 1997 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Income from continuing operations 34% 34% 34%
Foreign earnings taxed at different
rates 1 (3) 2
State and local income taxes 1 3 1
Tax credits and other (2) (1) (3)
Tax bracket change -- 7 --
------------ ------------- ------------
Income tax expense 34% 40% 34%
======================================= ============ ============= ============
The sources of the net deferred income tax liability are as follows:
June 30, 1996 1995
Property and equipment $ 9,475,000 $ 9,742,000
Pension accrual 756,000 569,000
Net operating loss carryforward expiring
through 2008 (1,308,000) (1,228,000)
Stock basis of Canadian subsidiary (1,105,000) (717,000)
Other (163,000) (376,200)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 7,655,000 $ 7,989,800
============================================================================
The Company has not provided for United States income taxes on undistributed
earnings of foreign subsidiaries. Earnings are being reinvested, the remittance
of which has been indefinitely postponed. In the event these earnings were
remitted to the Company, foreign tax credits would be used to offset a
substantial portion of the United States income taxes.
10. Stock Option
Plan
The 1987 Stock Option Plan grants key employees of the Company options to
purchase shares of common stock. Options were granted at or above the market
price of the Company's common stock on the date of the grant, are exercisable
from that date and terminate ten years from the grant date. The plan, as amended
in October 1994 and in October 1991, authorized a total of 300,000 shares to be
available for issuance under the plan.
-28-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Transactions are as follows:
Weighted Weighted
average average
exercise exercise
June 30 1997 price 1996 price
- ------------------------ ------------ --------------- ------------ -----------
Options outstanding,
beginning of year 172,740 $ 15.57 129,945 $ 15.75
Granted 50,000 15.50 45,000 15.00
Exercised (22,760) 15.50 (1,155) 15.00
Forfeited (29,643) 15.50 (1,050) 15.00
------------ --------------- ------------ ---------
Options outstanding
and exercisable, end
of year 170,337 $ 15.55 172,740 $ 15.57
------------ --------------- ------------ ---------
Options available for
grant, end of year 26,610 46,967
Weighted average
fair value of options
granted during the
year $ 4.92 $ 5.24
======================== ============ =============== ============ ===========
The Company accounts for its stock option plans in accordance with APB Opinion
25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees. Since the exercise price of the
Company's employee stock options equals the market price of the underlying stock
on the date of the grant, no compensation cost is recognized under APB Opinion
25. In accordance with SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,
the Company is required to provide pro forma information regarding net income
and earnings per share as if compensation costs for the Company's stock option
plan had been determined using a fair value based estimate. The Company uses the
Black- Scholes option-pricing model to determine the fair value of each option
at the grant date with the following weighted average assumptions:
1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------- --------------- ---------------
Dividend per share $0.66 $0.66
Expected Volatility 0.3592 0.3939
Rick-free interest rate 6.5% 5.5%
Expected lives 9.3 9.6
============================================= =============== ===============
-29-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under the accounting provisions of SFAS No. 123, the Company's net income and
earnings per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated
below:
1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------- -------------- --------------
Net income:
As reported $7,853,604 $65,132
Pro forma 7,680,684 (80,992)
Earnings per share:
As reported 1.33 .01
Pro forma 1.30 (.01)
=============================================== ============== ==============
11. Stockholders'
Equity
On August 19, 1994, the board of directors declared a 10% stock dividend of the
Company's common stock and Class B common stock. Applicable share and per share
data have been restated to reflect the 10% stock dividend.
The Company has three classes of stock, common stock, Class B common stock and
unissued preferred stock. Each share of common stock entitles the holder thereof
to one vote on all matters submitted to the shareholders. Each share of Class B
common stock entitles the holder to ten votes on all such matters, except that
the holders of common stock are entitled to elect, voting separately as a class,
at least one quarter of the Company's directors to be elected at each meeting
held for the election of directors. In all other instances, holders of common
stock and Class B common stock vote together, except for matters affecting the
powers, preferences or rights of the respective classes or as otherwise required
under the Michigan Business Corporation Act. With respect to dividend rights,
each share of common stock is entitled to cash dividends at least ten percent
(10%) higher than those payable on each share of Class B common stock. Class B
common stock is subject to certain restrictions on transfer, but is convertible
into common stock on a share-for-share basis at anytime.
12. Supplemental Cash
Flow Information
Total interest paid during the years ended June 30, 1997, 1996, and 1995, was
$2,025,599, $2,245,136, and $2,452,649, respectively.
Total income taxes paid during the years ended June 30, 1997, 1996, and 1995,
were $4,324,000, $2,540,139, and $3,375,972, respectively.
-30-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Foreign Operations
The Company has operations in the United States and Canada as follows:
Year ended June 30, 1997 1996 1995
Net sales:
United States $ 160,771,052 $ 147,691,899 $ 151,261,132
Canada 15,859,242 15,320,131 16,929,837
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 176,630,294 $ 163,012,030 $ 168,190,969
============================================================================
Operating income:
United States $ 14,216,340 $ 8,178,485 $ 13,412,124
Canada 522,624 (509,120) 677,721
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 14,738,964 $ 7,669,365 $ 14,089,845
============================================================================
Total assets:
United States $ 114,615,831 $ 116,460,936 $ 115,120,879
Canada 11,125,867 12,764,223 16,312,835
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 125,741,698 $ 129,225,159 $ 131,433,714
============================================================================
-31-
Independent Auditors' Report
Board of Directors
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company
Grand Rapids, Michigan
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Knape & Vogt
Manufacturing Company and subsidiaries as of June 30, 1997 and 1996, and the
related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity and cash flows
for each of the three years in the period ended June 30, 1997. These
consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated
financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits
provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Knape & Vogt
Manufacturing Company and subsidiaries at June 30, 1997 and 1996, and the
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in
the period ended June 30, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
/s/ BDO Seidman, LLP
BDO Seidman, LLP
Grand Rapids, Michigan
August 8, 1997
-32-
ITEM 9--DISAGREEMENTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
No changes in, or disagreements with, the Company's accountants occurred,
requiring disclosure under Item 304 of Regulation S-K.
PART III
ITEM 10--DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
Directors of Registrant. Information relating to directors and director
nominees of the Company, contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement
for its Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held October 17, 1997, and filed
pursuant to Regulation 14A, is incorporated herein by reference.
Executive Officers of Registrant. Information relating to the executive
officers of the Company is included in Part I of this Form 10-K.
ITEM 11--EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information under the captions "Summary Compensation Table," "Option
Grants in Last Fiscal Year," and "Aggregated Stock Option Exercises in Fiscal
1997 and Year End Option Values," is incorporated herein by reference from the
Company's definitive Proxy Statement for the Company's Annual Meeting of
Shareholders to be held October 17, 1997, filed pursuant to Regulation 14A.
ITEM 12--SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information under the captions "Voting Securities and Principal
Shareholders" and "Directors and Nominees" is incorporated herein by reference
from the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for the Company's Annual Meeting
of Shareholders to be held October 17, 1997, filed pursuant to Regulation 14A.
ITEM 13--CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information under the caption "Directors and Nominees" is incorporated
herein by reference from the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for the
Company's Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held October 17, 1997, filed
pursuant to Regulation 14A.
PART IV
ITEM 14--EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) (1) Financial Statements
The following financial statements and schedules, all of which are set
forth in Item 8, are filed as part of this report.
Page Number in
10-K Report
Consolidated Statements of Income........................................12
Consolidated Balance Sheets..............................................13
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity..........................15
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows....................................16
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...............................17
Independent Auditors' Report.............................................32
-33-
(2) Financial Statement Schedule
The following financial statement schedule and related Independent
Auditors' Report on such schedule are included in this Form 10-K on the pages
noted.
Page Number in
10-K Report
Independent Auditors' Report on such schedule............................35
Schedule II -- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves............36
All other schedules are not submitted because they are not applicable or
not required, or because the required information is included in the financial
statements or notes thereto.
(3) Exhibits
Reference is made to the Exhibit Index which is found on page 39 of this
Form 10-K Annual Report.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the fourth quarter of the year
ended June 30, 1997.
-34-
Independent Auditors' Report on Schedule
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company
Grand Rapids, Michigan
The audits referred to in our report dated August 8, 1997, relating to the
consolidated financial statements of Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company which is
contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, included the audit of the financial
statement schedule listed in the accompanying table of contents. This financial
statement schedule is the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on this financial statement schedule
based upon our audits.
In our opinion, the financial statement schedule presents fairly, in all
material respects, the information set forth therein.
/s/ BDO Seidman, LLP
BDO Seidman, LLP
Grand Rapids, Michigan
September 23, 1997
-35-
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company and Subsidiaries
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E
Balance Charged to Balance
beginning costs and end of
Description of period expenses(1) Deductions(1) period
Year ended June 30, 1997:
Allowances deducted from
assets:
Accounts receivable for:
Doubtful accounts $340,000 $318,000 $390,000 $268,000
Cash discounts 223,000 34,000 - 257,000
$563,000 $352,000 $390,000 $525,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year ended June 30, 1996
Allowances deducted from
assets:
Accounts receivable for:
Doubtful accounts $ 338,000 $ 593,000 $ 591,000 $ 340,000
Cash discounts 216,000 7,000 - 223,000
$ 554,000 $ 600,000 $ 591,000 $ 563,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year ended June 30, 1995
Allowances deducted from
assets:
Accounts receivable for:
Doubtful accounts $ 582,500 $ 145,000 $ 389,500 $338,000
Cash discounts 216,000 - - 216,000
- ---------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ---------------- ----------------
$798,500 $ 145,000 $ 389,500 $554,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Write-off of doubtful accounts and collections on accounts previously
written off, including reduction in allowance balance.
-36-
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.
KNAPE & VOGT MANUFACTURING COMPANY
By /s/ Allen E. Perry
Allan E. Perry, President and Chief
Executive Officer
Date: September 26, 1997
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below on September 26, 1997, by the following persons on
behalf of the registrant in the capacities indicated. Each director or officer
of the registrant, whose signature appears below, hereby appoints Richard C.
Simkins as his attorney-in-fact, to sign in his name and on his behalf, as a
director or officer of the registrant, and to file with the Commission any and
all amendments to this Report on Form 10-K.
/s/ Allan E. Perry /s/ Richard C. Simkins
Allan E. Perry, Chief Executive Officer Richard C. Simkins, Principal
and Director Financial and Accounting
Officer and Director
/s/ William R. Dutmers
Mary Rita Cuddohy, Director William R. Dutmers, Director
/s/ John E. Fallon
John E. Fallon, Director Michael J. Kregor, Director
/s/ Herbert F. Knape /s/ Raymond E. Knape
Herbert F. Knape, Director Raymond E. Knape, Director
/s/ Richard S. Knape
Richard S. Knape, Director
-37-
KNAPE & VOGT MANUFACTURING COMPANY
ANNUAL REPORT - FORM 10-K
EXHIBIT INDEX
3(a) Certificate of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, and the
Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company, which was filed as
Exhibit 3(a) of the Registrant's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal
year ended June 30, 1987, is incorporated by reference.
3(b) Bylaws, filed as Exhibit 3(b) of the Registrant's Form 10-K Annual
Report for the fiscal year June 30, 1987, is incorporated by reference.
10(a) Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, which was filed as Exhibit 10
of the Registrant's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended
June 30, 1981, is incorporated by reference.
10(b) Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company 1987 Stock Option Plan, effective
October 16, 1987, which was filed as Exhibit I to Registrant's
definitive Proxy Statement dated September 23, 1987, is incorporated by
reference.
10(c) Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company Employees' Retirement Savings Plan
(July 1, 1989 Restatement), as amended, which was filed as Exhibit 99
to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Reg. No. 33-88212),
is incorporated by reference.
10(d) Loan agreement with Old Kent Bank dated November 29, 1993, as amended,
which was filed as Exhibit 10(d) to the Registrant's Form 10-K Annual
Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996, is incorporated by
reference.
21 Subsidiaries of Registrant.
23 Consent of BDO Seidman, LLP, independent public accountants.
24 Power of Attorney (Included on page 37).
27 Financial Data Schedule
-38-
EXHIBIT 21
SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES OF KNAPE & VOGT MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Knape & Vogt Canada, Inc. (organized under the laws of Ontario, Canada)
Feeny Manufacturing Company (organized under the laws of Michigan)
The Hirsh Company (organized under the laws of Illinois)
-39-
EXHIBIT 23
Consent of Independent Certified Public Accountants
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference of our reports dated August
8, 1997 , relating to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of
Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company, appearing in that Corporation's annual
report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 1997, in that corporation's
previously filed Form S-8 Registration Statements (file numbers 33-20227,
33-43704, 33-88206 and 33-88212).
/s/ BDO Seidman, LLP
BDO Seidman, LLP
Grand Rapids, Michigan
September 23, 1997
-40-