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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2003
Commission file number: 000-21377
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC.
-----------------------------
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware 38-3306461
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(State of other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
40984 Concept Drive, Plymouth, MI 48170
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (734) 455-5400
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: NONE
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Title of each class
----------------------
Common Stock, $.01 par value
Rights Associated with Common Stock, par value $.01 per Share
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]
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer (as
defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2).
YES [ X ] NO [ ]
The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by
non-affiliates of the Registrant (based upon the closing price of the stock on
the NASDAQ National Market on December 19, 2003) was approximately
$395,434,674.00
12,027,150 shares of the Registrant's common stock, par value $.01 per share,
were outstanding as of December 19, 2003.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Certain sections of the Company's Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with
the Company's 2004 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in March 2004 are
incorporated by reference herein at Part III, Items 10 - 13.
2
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS.......................................................4
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES....................................................24
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.............................................24
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS...........25
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET PRICE OF THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS...................................26
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.......................................27
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.. ........................28
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET
RISK..........................................................33
ITEM 8. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY
DATA..........................................................34
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON
ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE...........................34
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.......................................34
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT.. .........35
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION........................................35
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
MANAGEMENT....................................................35
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS................35
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES. ......................36
PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND
REPORTS ON FORM 8-K...........................................37
3
PART I
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K constitute forward-looking
statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995 (the "Reform Act"). Forward-looking statements include all statements that
do not relate solely to historical or current facts, and can be identified by
the use of words such as "may", "believe", "will", "expect", "project",
"anticipate", "estimate", "plan" or "continue". These forward-looking statements
are based on the current plans and expectations of our management and are
subject to a number of uncertainties and risks that could significantly affect
our current plans and expectations, as well as future results of operations and
financial condition.
These factors include (among others):
o downturns in the machine tool, automotive, semiconductor and
electronics industries which may have, in the future, a material
adverse effect on sales and profitability of the Company;
o the ability of the Company's OEM-customers to incorporate its laser
products into their systems;
o the impact of exchange rate fluctuations, which may be significant
because a substantial portion of the Company's operations are located
overseas;
o the level of competition and the ability of the Company to compete in
the markets for its products;
o the Company's ability to develop new and enhanced products to meet
market demand or to adequately utilize its existing technology;
o third party infringement of the Company's proprietary technology or
third party claims against the Company for the infringement or
misappropriation of their proprietary rights;
o competing technologies that are similar to or that serve the same uses
as the Company's technology;
o the scope of patent protection that the Company is able to obtain or
maintain;
o the Company's ability to efficiently manage the risks associated with
its international operations; and
o the other risks described under "Business-Risk Factors".
In making these forward-looking statements, we claim the protection of the
safe-harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Reform Act. We do
not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect
actual results, changes in assumptions, or changes in other factors affecting
such forward-looking statements.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
COMPANY OVERVIEW AND HISTORY
Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc., founded in 1996, (herein also referred to as
"Rofin" or "RSTI" or the "Company" or "we", "us" or "our") is a leader in the
design, development, engineering, manufacture and marketing of laser-based
products, primarily used for cutting, welding and marking a wide range of
materials. Lasers are a non-contact technology for material processing which
have several advantages compared to conventional manufacturing tools that are
desirable in industrial applications. The Company's lasers all deliver a
high-quality beam at guaranteed power outputs and feature compact design, high
processing speed, flexibility, low operating and maintenance costs and easy
integration into the customer's production process. As a technological leader in
CO2, solid state lasers and diode lasers, the Company is able to meet a broad
range of its customers' material processing requirements.
Based on 2002 industry data, for laser products used for macro (cutting and
welding) and marking and micro (fine cutting and fine welding and perforating)
applications combined, the Company believes it has a worldwide market share
(based on sales volume) of approximately 16% and that it is among the largest
suppliers of laser products used
4
for marking applications worldwide. The Company has sold more than 20,000 laser
sources since 1975 and currently has over 2,500 active customers (including
multinational companies with multiple facilities purchasing from the Company).
During fiscal 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively, approximately 53%, 53%, and
48% of the Company's revenues related to sales of laser products for macro
applications and approximately 47%, 47%, and 52% related to sales of laser
products for marking and micro applications.
Through its global manufacturing, distribution and service network, the Company
provides a comprehensive range of laser sources and laser-based system solutions
to three principal target markets: the machine tool, automotive, and
semiconductor and electronics industries. The Company sells directly to
end-users and to original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs") (principally in the
machine tool industry) that integrate Rofin's laser sources with other system
components. Many of Rofin's customers are among the largest global participants
in their respective industries. During fiscal 2003, 2002, and 2001, 21%, 27%,
and 21%, respectively, of the Company's sales were in North America, 65%, 60%,
and 67%, respectively, were in Europe and 14%, 13% and 12%, respectively, were
in Asia. See the "Geographic Information" Note in the consolidated financial
statements for further information.
The financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K present the
historical financial information of Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. and its wholly
owned subsidiaries. These financial statements include the consolidated accounts
of Rofin-Sinar Inc. ("RS Inc.") and Rofin-Sinar Technologies Europe S.L.
("RSTE"). RSTE, a European holding company formed in 1999, owns 100% of
Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH ("RSL"), 80% of Dilas Diodenlaser GmbH ("Dilas"), 100% of
Rofin-Baasel Italiana S.r.l., 100% of Rofin-Baasel France S.A., 71% of
Rofin-Sinar UK Ltd., 100% of Rofin-Baasel UK Ltd., 100% of Rofin-Baasel Benelux
B.V., 100% of Rofin-Baasel Singapore Pte. Ltd., 100% of Rofin-Baasel Taiwan Ltd.
(formed on July 1, 2002), 100% of Rofin-Baasel Korea Co. Ltd. (formed on July
22, 2002), and 83% of Rofin-Baasel Espana S.L.("RBE").
The financial statements of RSL include the consolidated accounts of its 88%
owned subsidiary, Rofin-Baasel Japan Corporation (a Japanese corporation), its
100% owned subsidiary, Rasant-Alcotec Beschichtungstechnik GmbH ("Rasant"), its
100% owned subsidiary, Carl Baasel Lasertechnik GmbH & Co. KG ("CBL"), and its
100% owned subsidiary, CBL Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH.
The financial statements of CBL include the consolidated accounts of its wholly
owned subsidiaries, Rofin-Baasel Inc., Wegmann-Baasel Laser und elektrooptische
Geraete GmbH, and PMB Elektronik GmbH.
On May 10, 2000, the Company acquired 90.01% of the share capital of Carl Baasel
Lasertechnik GmbH ("Baasel Lasertech") through its wholly owned subsidiary, RSL,
for 44.3 million Euro ($40.2 million at the May 10, 2000 exchange rate) in cash.
Additionally, the Company refinanced 23.4 million Euro of the then outstanding
debt of Baasel Lasertech. In September 2001, Baasel Lasertech was transformed
into CBL, a limited partnership. Effective December 31, 2002, the remaining
shares of CBL were purchased by the Company through RSL in January 2003 for Euro
6.3 million ($6.2 million at the December 31, 2002 exchange rate) under an
option agreement between the Company and the former minority shareholder of CBL.
On February 28, 2001, the Company acquired 80% of the share capital of Z-Laser
S.A. through its wholly owned subsidiary Rofin-Baasel Espana, S.A., Barcelona,
Spain for $3.3 million in cash. At the end of June 2001, Z-Laser S.A. was merged
into Rofin-Baasel Espana S.L. As a result of this merger, the minority
shareholder owns 17% of the total stock of the new Spanish subsidiary.
On October 5, 2001, the Company sold the assets of its medical laser business
resulting in a gain of $0.7 million. As part of the proceeds from the sale, the
Company received marketable equity securities which were classified as trading
securities, under "other current assets and prepaid expenses" in the
accompanying balance sheet. During the twelve month period ended September 30,
2003, the Company sold these securities for a total amount of $1.2 million. For
the fiscal years ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, the Company recorded a
realized gain of $0.3 million and an unrealized loss of $0.2 million,
respectively.
On March 31, 2003 the Company acquired an additional 37% of the share capital of
Rofin-Marubeni Laser Corporation, Atsugi-shi, Japan, through its wholly owned
subsidiary RSL for $0.1 million in cash. The Company currently holds 88% of the
share capital. As of May 1, 2003 Rofin-Marubeni Laser Corporation, Japan was
renamed Rofin-Baasel Japan Corporation.
5
BUSINESS STRATEGY
The Company's business strategy is to maximize shareholder value by (i)
strengthening its position as a leading supplier to the global market for
cutting and welding applications (macro applications); (ii) capitalizing on its
leadership position in marking applications (marking applications); (iii)
extending its position in fine cutting, fine welding and perforating
applications (micro applications); (iv) growing its revenues by cross-selling
its various laser products to its existing large customer base; and (v)
enlarging its market coverage geographically and by developing new applications.
The Company believes that the major sources of its future growth will be the
following:
o Developing New Laser Products through Technological Innovation:
Product innovation in response to evolving customer needs for
increased output power, greater penetration and higher processing
speeds is a key component of the Company's strategy. The Company is
currently focusing its research and development activity on increasing
the output power of its CO2/diffusion-cooled Slab lasers and
modernizing its line of high-power fast flow CO2 lasers. The Company
is also further expanding its series of end-pumped solid state lasers
for marking and micro applications and is actively engaged
in the development of diode-pumped solid state lasers based on the
so-called "disc design". The Company's objective is that this new type
of solid state laser will be capable of performing heavy industrial
material processing applications, as well as fine cutting and fine
welding applications, more precisely than previously possible.
o Focusing on Cross-Selling to Existing Customers in Target Markets:
The Company intends to continue to focus its sales and marketing
activities on the machine tool, automotive and semiconductor and
electronics industries. The Company has targeted and will continue to
target these industries because they use advanced manufacturing
processes that require continuing investments to improve production
efficiency and because the Company has significant market presence in
these sectors. In addition, the Company has begun to focus on new
markets such as medical instruments and components for medical
instruments and the packaging industry. To exploit its opportunities
by developing new applications for existing laser technologies, the
Company intends, for example, to explore the potential for use of
high-power CO2 lasers in car body assembly by using its remote welding
systems concept in response to the interest shown by car manufacturers
in reducing their reliance on spot-welding guns. In addition, building
on the success of its laser marking of small integrated circuits, the
Company intends to develop new applications, such as fine-welding and
micro-soldering for the semiconductor and electronics industry. In the
packaging industry, the Company is seeking new opportunities for foil
perforation based on its extensive knowledge of paper perforation with
lasers. The Company is also developing a compact, low-priced version
of its laser marker to capture additional market share through sales
in the low-end marking market.
o Capitalizing on Global Presence to Attract New Customers: The Company
intends to capitalize on its customer base and the presence of its
manufacturing, sales and service operations in the three principal
geographic markets in which its customers operate (North America,
Europe and the Asia/Pacific region) to increase market share in its
existing industrial and geographic markets. The Company believes its
global manufacturing, distribution and service network allows it to be
more responsive to customers' needs and positions it to expand into
additional promising markets which offer high long-term potential for
growth.
o Offering Customized Solutions Based on Standard Platform: While the
Company offers a wide range of laser applications and develops
customized solutions for its customers, these applications and
solutions are built on a focused number of product families comprised
of standardized laser sources. For example, for its OEM customers in
the machine tool industry, the Company provides customized power
supply packaging services. For its marking customers, the Company
combines its standard laser marker with customized parts handling and
software. For its micro applications customers, the Company delivers
its standard laser sources in different customized packages. The
Company believes that this product strategy has contributed to
increases in product sales and intends to continue offering focused
customization services and pursuing its initiatives to standardize its
core products so as to lower its production costs and continue to
improve its profitability.
o Acquiring Complementary Business Operations or Products: Since 1997
the Company has completed five acquisitions, including its
acquisitions of Dilas (1997), assets of Palomar Technologies UK Ltd.
(1998), Rasant Alcotec GmbH (1999), Baasel Lasertech (2000), Z-Laser
S.A. (2001) and a majority interest in
6
Rofin-Marubeni Laser Corporation (Japan) (2003), and has successfully
integrated these acquired businesses into its existing operations.
Management believes that, collectively, these acquisitions have
contributed to the Company's worldwide expansion and consolidated the
Company's position in the fine cutting and fine welding and
perforating markets (micro applications). The Company will continue to
seek opportunities to make value-based acquisitions that complement
its business operations, broaden its product offerings, or provide
access to new geographical markets.
THE INDUSTRIAL LASER MARKET FOR MATERIAL PROCESSING
Over the past 30 years, lasers have revolutionized industrial manufacturing and
have been used increasingly to provide reliable, flexible, non-contact, compact
and high-speed alternatives to conventional technologies for processing various
kinds of metal and non-metal materials in a broad range of advanced
manufacturing applications. The industrial laser market is generally considered
to be made up of laser sources sold for industrial applications including
material processing, medical therapeutic, instrumentation, research,
telecommunications, optical storage, entertainment, image recording, inspection,
measurement and control, bar-code scanning and other end-uses.
LASER TECHNOLOGY
The term "laser" is an acronym for "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission
of Radiation". Lasers were first developed in the early 1960s in the United
States. A laser consists of an active lasing medium that gives off its own light
(radiation) when excited, an optical resonator with a partially-reflective
output mirror at one end, a fully-reflective rear mirror at the other that
permits the light to bounce back and forth between the mirrors through the
lasing medium, and an external energy source used to excite the lasing medium. A
laser works by causing the energy source to excite (pump) the lasing medium,
which converts the energy from the source into an emission consisting of
particles of light (photons). These photons stimulate the release of more
photons, as they are reflected between the two mirrors, which form the
resonator. The resulting build-up in the number of photons is emitted in the
form of a laser beam through an output port or "window". By changing the energy
and the lasing medium, different wavelengths and types of laser light can be
produced. The laser produces light from the lasing medium to achieve the desired
intensity, uniformity and wavelength through a series of reflective mirrors. The
heat generated by the excitation of the lasing medium is dissipated through a
cooling mechanism, which varies according to the type of laser technology.
Lasers are used for material processing because of the excellent focusability of
laser beams. When focused through lenses and mirrors, the energy density in the
focus spot is so high that metals and other materials can be melted and
vaporized. The principal factors that distinguish different types of lasers and
determine the particular laser suitable for a specific application are pulse
duration, wavelength, output power, spatial coherence and cost per watt of laser
power. The three principal types of laser technologies used for material
processing are CO2 lasers, solid state lasers and diode lasers.
CO2 lasers, which use CO2 gas as the lasing medium, are divided into high-power
(above 500 W) and low-power (below 500 W) applications. There are two methods
for CO2 excitation, radio frequency ("RF" or "HF") and direct current ("DC")
excitation. Most high-power CO2 lasers are based on gas flow, which is a
continuous supply of fresh laser gas flows through the laser cavity to create
the energy necessary for excitation. Due to their ability to generate
comparatively high levels of continuous wave ("CW") power, CO2 lasers are a
particularly attractive laser medium for material processing applications.
Material processing applications for CO2 laser sources vary according to the
power output and configuration of the laser system. The primary applications for
high power CO2 lasers are cutting and welding of metal. Low power CO2 lasers are
used principally for marking, cutting and engraving of non-metal materials.
While both low- and high-power CO2 lasers are used for cutting, the materials
they are used to process and their physical size can vary significantly.
Solid state lasers use flash lamps or laser diodes as the source of excitation
and are referred to as "flash-lamp pumped" or "diode pumped". The lasing medium
is a solid state Neodymium Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) crystal rod. The
Nd:YAG crystal rod and the flash lamps are positioned in a cavity, which is
either a gold or a ceramic reflector. The output power is determined by the size
of the rod and by the number of cavities within the laser resonator. Typical
output powers vary from 50 W to 6000 W. Solid state lasers can be run in either
a pulsed or continuous wave manner. Marking applications generally require
higher pulsing frequencies which are achieved by
7
inserting a Q-switch, which is a fast electro-optical shutter, into the laser
resonator, enabling frequencies to be switched up or down in multiples of 10 kHz
at a time. Recent development efforts in the area of solid state lasers have
focused on the so-called "disc-design". In the "disc design" the lasing medium
has the form of a thin crystal disc, which is excited by laser diodes in an
optical multipass configuration.
Diode lasers involve the production of laser light in a special semiconductor
structure on a Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) basis. A typical 10 mm long diode laser
bar contains approximately 25 single laser emitters. When mounted on a
specially-designed, highly-efficient heat sink, a diode bar is able to produce
up to 50 watts of laser output power. A single high power diode module consists
of: (1) a semiconductor wafer bar; (2) a micro channel cooling device, on which
the laser bar is mounted; and (3) a micro-lens system, which is mounted in front
of the laser bar and which collimates the laser beam in the high divergent
optical axis. Power can be increased by stacking several diode modules on top of
each other. Through optical combination of such stacks, output power in the
kilowatt range can be achieved. Diode lasers typically have larger spot
diameters when focused, and are typically used for surface treatment, soldering
and plastic welding.
THE COMPANY'S LASER PRODUCTS
The Company distinguishes itself from the majority of its competitors who
specialize in only one or two of the three principal laser technologies for
material processing by offering its customers CO2, solid state and diode laser
sources and solutions in a variety of configurations and options. As a
technological leader in CO2 lasers, solid state and diode lasers, the Company is
able to meet a broad range of its customers' cutting and welding requirements.
The Company's lasers all deliver a high-quality beam at guaranteed power outputs
and feature compact design, high processing speed, flexibility, low operating
and maintenance costs and easy integration into the customer's production
process. The Company's engineers and other technical experts work directly with
the customer in the Company's applications centers to develop and customize the
optimal solution for the customer's manufacturing requirements.
The Company currently offers a comprehensive range of laser products and related
services for three principal material processing applications:
o cutting and welding (macro applications);
o fine cutting and fine welding and perforating (micro applications);
and
o marking.
Besides offering laser systems for some specialized niche applications, the
Company works directly with its customers to develop and customize optimal
solutions for their unique manufacturing requirements. In developing its
laser-based solutions, the Company offers customers its expertise in:
o product development and manufacturing services based on more than 25
years of laser technology experience and applications know-how;
o application and process development, which means developing new
laser-based applications for manufacturing customers and assisting
them in integrating lasers into their production processes;
o system engineering, which means advising customers on machine design,
including tooling, automation and controls for customers in need of
"turn-key" solutions; and
o extensive after-sales support of its laser products, including
technical support, field service, maintenance and training programs,
and rapid spare parts delivery.
The following table sets forth the Company's net sales of laser products used
for macro applications and of laser products used for marking and micro
applications in fiscal 2003, 2002, and 2001:
September 30,
------------------------------------------
Product Category* 2003 2002 2001
- ----------------------------------- ----------- --------------- -----------
(in thousands)
8
Laser macro products $ 136,715 $ 117,341 $ 106,615
Laser marking and micro products 121,031 104,607 113,942
---------- ---------- ----------
$ 257,746 $ 221,948 $ 220,557
_____________
* For each product category, net sales includes sales of service (including
training, maintenance and repair) and spare parts.
The laser sources sold by the Company consist of a laser head (containing the
lasing medium, resonator, source of excitation, resonator mirrors and cooling
mechanism), power supply, and microcontroller (for control and monitoring). For
a more detailed discussion of the components of a laser source, see "Laser
Technology". Products are offered in different configurations and utilize
different design principles according to the desired application.
The following table sets forth the Company's product categories by principal
markets and principal applications:
PRODUCT CATEGORY PRINCIPAL MARKETS PRINCIPAL APPLICATIONS
Laser macro products Machine tool Cutting and welding of metals
Automotive Cutting and welding of metals
Laser micro products Dental and jewelry Spot welding
Paper Perforating of cigarette tip paper
Laser marking products Semiconductor and electronics Marking of integrated circuits
Automotive Marking of labels and car instruments
LASER PRODUCTS FOR CUTTING AND WELDING - MACRO
- ----------------------------------------------
The Company's business strategy for its macro laser business is to grow its
revenues by:
o increasing its market share in its existing CO2 laser market through
increased sales of its low and high power diffusion-cooled
Slab-lasers;
o developing diffusion cooled Slab-lasers with higher output power to
achieve higher welding depths and faster speeds and thereby widen
their potential usage;
o further developing the remote welding system concept;
o continuing ongoing product engineering for its diode-pumped, rod type
solid state lasers to further penetrate the market; and
o focusing on the development of a diode-pumped, solid state disc laser
for precise material processing and further increase of the output
power of this laser type for heavy automotive applications.
The Company's family of CO2 laser products for macro applications, and their
principal markets and applications, are discussed below.
9
MODE OF PRINCIPAL
LASER SERIES POWER RANGE EXCITATION MARKETS APPLICATIONS
------------ --------------- ------------------ -------------- ------------------
DC Slab Series 1.0 kW - 5.0 kW High Frequency Machine tool Cutting and welding
HF / RF Series 4.0 kW - 8.0 kW High Frequency Automotive Welding
TR Series 2.0 kW - 12.0 kW Direct Current Machine tool Cutting and welding
SC Series 100 W - 300 W High Frequency Machine tool Cutting and marking
The Company believes that it is the only laser manufacturer of diffusion cooled,
Slab-based lasers in the high-power range. In the DC Slab Series laser design, a
radio-frequency excited gas discharge occurs between two water-cooled electrodes
that have a large surface area that permits maximum heat dissipation. The core
diffusion-cooled technology is protected by two patents, and the Company has
exclusive license rights to this technology on a worldwide basis for power
levels above 500 watts for material processing applications. The Company's
current focus with respect to its Slab Series lasers is on continuing to both
increase power output and further reduce manufacturing costs in order to achieve
more attractive pricing. Principal markets for the Slab Series lasers are the
machine tool and automotive industries.
The Company's HF Series lasers combine proven cross-flow design principles with
modern high-frequency discharge excitation technology. The Company ships this
product predominantly to customers in the automotive industry, and their
sub-suppliers, in the United States and Europe, where it has been used in a
significant number of welding applications, including transmissions, tailored
blanks, steel tubes and many other car parts and components. The RF Series uses
the fast-axial flow technology from the Company's TR Series in combination with
radio-frequency excitation and is especially designed for thick metal cutting.
The Company's TR Series fast-axial flow CO2 laser is used for both cutting and
welding applications. In the fast-axial flow principle, the gas discharge occurs
in a tube in the same direction as the resonator, through which the laser gas
mixture flows at a high speed. TR Series products are used primarily by the
machine tool industry.
The Company's SC Series diffusion-cooled CO2 lasers are developed and produced
by Rofin-Sinar UK Ltd. The SC Series are sealed-off lasers, which are also based
on the Slab laser principle used for the DC Slab Series. The lasers are used for
cutting and marking applications. Principal markets are the machine tool and
packaging industries.
The Company's family of solid-state laser products for macro applications, and
their principal markets, are discussed below.
MODE OF PRINCIPAL
LASER SERIES POWER RANGE EXCITATION MARKETS APPLICATIONS
------------ --------------- ------------------ -------------- ------------------
DY Series 550 W - 6.0 kW Laser Diodes Automotive Cutting and welding
Rofin's DY Series of continuous wave solid-state lasers are designed exclusively
for use with flexible fiber-optic beam delivery systems, making them
particularly well-suited for integration into complex production systems for
cutting and welding applications. The key competitive advantages of the DY
Series lasers are the fact that they are diode-pumped and that they are designed
to allow multiple power output configurations. These configurations include
continuous-wave, pulsed and power ramping modes, which allows Rofin to address a
wide range of customer applications. Power ramping is particularly suited for
achieving smooth welds and avoiding cracks during the welding process. In
addition, several features of the DY Series laser such as the simple modular
resonator design, easily accessed power supply and PC-based controller equipped
with a modem, which allows communication with a remote service center, are
designed for easy maintenance. The diode pumping technology is characterized by
high beam quality and high efficiency. These lasers are used principally in the
automotive industry.
The Company's family of diode laser products for welding, soldering and surface
treatment applications, and their principal markets, are discussed below.
10
MODE OF PRINCIPAL
LASER SERIES POWER RANGE EXCITATION MARKETS APPLICATIONS
------------ --------------- ------------------ -------------- ------------------
Diode Lasers 10 W - 6.0 kW Direct Current Electronics Soldering
Machine tool Surface hardening
The Company's diode lasers are designed to meet the requirements of a wide range
of welding, soldering, and surface treatment applications. The Company's
high-power laser diodes can be stacked into arrays achieving output powers in
the multiple kilowatt range. In addition to their use in the automotive, machine
tool and electronics markets, these lasers are also sold into the medical device
and research markets. Additionally, laser diodes are sold as components both
internally and externally.
LASER PRODUCTS FOR MARKING APPLICATIONS - MARKING
The Company entered the laser-marking business in 1989 when it acquired Laser
Optronic GmbH from Coherent General Inc. and designed and introduced the
"PowerLine" laser marker. Since then the Company has developed a broad line of
leading laser markers that deliver optimal marking quality and speed on a wide
range of materials. Rofin's advanced design and manufacturing capabilities in
fiberoptic beam delivery systems allow it to offer flexible laser marking
systems and easy laser integration for complex production processes, without
compromising marking quality, contrast or speed.
Rofin builds its own solid state laser sources and utilizes its own proprietary
marking software, Visual Laser Marker and LaserCAD, that enable it to tailor its
marking solutions to a customer's unique requirements. Rofin's in-house software
engineering group works with customers, particularly in the automotive and
semiconductor industries, that have enterprise-wide computer networks linking
production facilities in disparate geographic locations and that desire
customized network interface solutions. The Company's laser marking products
also incorporate high value-added software that enable them to efficiently
interface with a customer's computers and support a broad range of network
communications protocols.
The Company believes that the following factors have contributed to the growth
that it has experienced in the laser marking business:
o the Company's ability to tailor its laser marking solutions to the
customer's requirements;
o the Company's expertise in solid state laser beam power, mode
structure and high frequency switching capability, which provides
optimal marking quality (in terms of marking contrast and speed) on a
wide variety of materials;
o the Company's expertise in the design and manufacture of fiberoptic
beam delivery systems, which allows it to offer flexible laser
marking systems and easy laser integration for complex production
processes, without compromising marking quality, contrast or speed;
and
o the Company's proprietary software, Visual Laser Marker and LaserCAD
software, and other know-how that enable its laser marking products to
interface with a customer's computers and support a broad range of
network communications software.
The Company's business strategy for its laser marking business is four-fold:
o to expand its position in the worldwide laser marking market, with a
particular focus on the automotive and semiconductor and electronics
industries;
o to capitalize on its installed base of CO2 and Nd:YAG laser customers,
primarily in the automotive industry, and to cross-sell its marking
products to these same customers;
11
o to widen the product range and sales coverage of its Vectorscan
product, which produces laser marking on the moving object
("on-the-fly") of consumer goods by synchronizing object speed and
galvo-head movement; and
o to develop a compact, stand-alone laser marker targeted at the low-end
portion of the laser marking market.
The Company's family of laser marking products is as follows:
MODE OF PRINCIPAL
LASER SERIES POWER RANGE EXCITATION MARKETS APPLICATIONS
------------ --------------- ------------------ -------------- ------------------
PowerLine 10 W - 130 W Flash Lamp or Laser Semiconductor Integrated circuits
StarMark Series Diodes and electronics marking
CombiLine 10 W - 130 W n.a. Automotive Label marking
StarMark Systems
MultiScan 100 W High Frequency Packaging Consumer goods
Vectorscan marking
PowerLine/StarMark Series - The Company's standard PowerLine and StarMark laser
marking products consist of a CO2 or solid-state laser in the range of 10 watts
to 130 watts, a galvo-head, a personal computer with state-of-the-art processor,
and Rofin's proprietary Visual Laser Marker and LaserCAD software. The modular
design of the PowerLine and StarMark markers enable customers to order the most
suitable configuration for their production processes or systems (e.g.,
OEM-customers may order the laser head, power supply, and laser cooling assembly
plates as subassemblies without the cabinet for easier integration into the
handling system specified by the end-user). The PowerLine and StarMark
solid-state lasers incorporate either a dual or single lamp ceramic cavity
design using "long-life" lamps or diode modules, both of which result in higher
output power (and therefore higher marking speeds), higher energy efficiency
(and therefore reduced operating costs), high beam quality (and therefore
constant and reliable marking quality), and longer service intervals. The
Company's proprietary Visual Laser Marker and LaserCAD software provides
operators with a user-friendly desktop publishing environment that allows them
to manipulate fonts, import graphics, preview marking and control all laser
parameters and job programs. Special options and accessories include a
double-marking head allowing marking speeds of up to 1,200 characters per second
in certain applications (most notably marking of integrated circuits), as well
as beam-switching and -splitting options for marking of products in multiple
production lines using a single laser. Their main application, among a wide
variety of possible applications, is the marking of plastics and smart cards in
the semiconductor and electronics industries.
CombiLine/StarMark Systems - Built on a modular design, the CombiLine and
StarMark Systems consist of a PowerLine or StarMark laser marker that can be
combined with a variety of parts handling systems developed by the Company,
including: motor-driven positioning tables, foil handling systems for marking
labels, conveyor belts and pick-and-place systems. These allow the CombiLine and
StarMark Systems to be customized as a turn-key system.
MultiScan and Vectorscan - These Dot Matrix and Vectorscanning markers utilize a
100 watt sealed-off CO2 laser (SC Series) and feature the ability to mark
components that are moving at high speeds. The principal market is the packaging
industry.
LASER PRODUCTS FOR FINE CUTTING, FINE WELDING AND PERFORATING APPLICATIONS -
MICRO
After the acquisition of Baasel Lasertech the Company formed a separate sales
and marketing group focused on micro applications. This group markets and sells
a broad range of laser products, including lamp-pumped pulsed solid state lasers
for various spot welding and fine cutting applications, CO2 Slab lasers for
perforating applications, Q-switched solid state lasers for surface structuring
and diode lasers for soldering and plastic welding applications. Relying on its
many years of experience in perforating cigarette paper, the Company is pursuing
new perforating applications in the packaging industry.
The Company's business strategy for its micro applications business is to:
12
o further increase its share of the manual spot welding market
in the jewelry and dental industries and develop customers in other
industries that use a similar product and technology for industrial
applications, such as tool repair;
o focus on manufacturers of medical instruments and components for
medical instruments using the Company's installed base of laser stent
cutting systems in this industry;
o increase its sales of perforating systems to the packaging industry
for applications like easy-tear and special perforated foils for food
packaging that allow the transfer of air and keep moisture in packaged
goods; and
o develop a new market for plastic welding applications.
The Company's family of laser products for micro applications is as follows:
MODE OF PRINCIPAL
LASER SERIES POWER RANGE EXCITATION MARKETS APPLICATIONS
------------ --------------- ------------------ -------------- ------------------
StarWeld Series 20 W - 500 W Flash Lamp Dental, Jewelry Spot welding
StarCut Series 150 W - 300 W Flash Lamp Medical Fine cutting
PerfoLas Systems n.a. n.a. Paper Perforating
StarShape Systems n.a. n.a. Packaging Perforating
StarWeld Series - Rofin's standard StarWeld laser products consist of pulsed
solid-state lasers in the range of 20 watts to 500 watts. Although the StarWeld
Series has a wide variety of possible applications, their main application is
the fine-welding of jewelry and dental parts. Principal markets for these lasers
are medical devices and the jewelry industry.
StarCut Series - Rofin's StarCut laser products use pulsed solid-state lasers in
the range of 150 watts to 300 watts. Their main application is the fine cutting
of medical devices and integrated circuits. Principal markets for these lasers
are medical devices and the semiconductor and electronics industries.
PerfoLas Systems - The PerfoLas Systems consist of a high-power CO2 laser and a
specially designed beam delivery and paper handling system that includes a laser
beam splitter (PerfoLas Multiplexer) which allows customers to drill more than
500,000 holes per second into paper or foils. The main application for these
lasers is perforation of cigarette tip paper.
StarShape Systems - The StarShape Systems consist of a CO2 or solid-state laser
in combination with a galvo scanning head and is used for precise cutting,
drilling, and surface structuring.
APPLICATIONS DEVELOPMENT
In addition to manufacturing and selling laser sources for macro applications
(cutting and welding) and marking and micro applications, Rofin operates
application centers in eight countries where it develops laser-based solutions
for customers seeking alternatives to conventional manufacturing techniques.
Rofin's applications development group embodies the Company's laser technology
experience and expertise gained in over 25 years of operating history in a broad
range of industrial markets. To adapt to customers' needs, from time to time the
Company acts as a systems integrator at the request of the customer and
integrates its laser sources with other machine components selected by the
Company to deliver a complete laser system to the end-user. Typically, this
occurs with a customer that does not have its own in-house engineering resources
and wishes to take advantage of the Company's laser processing expertise and
comprehensive range of services. Many new applications, such as welding of
tailored blanks, metal tubes and diamond-tipped saw blades, were pioneered in
the Company's applications centers and have generated multiple laser orders for
the Company over the years. Revenues derived from application development are
not a significant component of total revenues. Applications development is
generally a support service to the sales and marketing function and is performed
to customize the laser to the particular needs of the customer. The Company
currently has 20 employees in applications development.
13
MARKETS AND CUSTOMERS
Rofin sells its laser products and laser-based system solutions to a wide range
of industries. Our three principal markets are the machine tool, automotive, and
semiconductor and electronics industries. The following table sets forth the
allocation of the Company's total sales among our principal markets:
Fiscal Years
--------------------------------------------------
Principal Market 2003 2002 2001 Primary Applications
- ----------------------------- --------------- --------------- -------------- ---------------------
Machine Tool 34% 38% 32% Cutting
Automotive 13% 18% 10% Welding and component
marking
Semiconductor and Electronics 13% 9% 16% Marking of integrated
--------------- --------------- --------------- circuits and smart cards
60% 65% 58%
The remaining 40%, 35%, and 42%, respectively, of laser sales in fiscal 2003,
2002, and 2001 were attributable to customers in a wide variety of other
industries including aerospace, consumer goods, medical device manufacturers,
job shops, jewelry, universities and institutes. No one customer accounted for
over 10% of total sales in any of these periods.
SALES, MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION
Rofin sells its products in approximately 35 countries to OEMs, systems
integrators and industrial end-users who have in-house engineering resources
capable of integrating Rofin's products into their own production systems.
Lasers for cutting applications are marketed and sold principally to OEMs in the
machine tool industry who sell laser cutting machines incorporating Rofin;s
products without any substantial involvement by Rofin. Lasers for welding
applications are marketed and sold both to systems integrators and to end-users.
Laser marking products are marketed and sold directly to end-users and to OEMs
for integration into their handling systems (mainly for integrated circuit and
smart card marking applications). Laser micro products are marketed and sold
directly to end-users and to OEM customers (mainly for jewelry and dental
applications). In the case of both welding lasers and laser marking products,
the end-user is significantly involved in the selection of the laser component
and will often specify to the OEM that it desires a Rofin laser. In these cases,
Rofin's application engineers work directly with the end-user to optimize the
application's performance and demonstrate the advantages of the Company's
products.
Rofin has approximately 100 direct sales engineers operating in 24 countries, of
which approximately 30 employees are dedicated to marketing lasers for macro
applications and approximately 70 are dedicated to marketing laser marking and
micro applications. Rofin sales engineers work either in a well-defined
geographic territory or are dedicated to specific industries or applications. In
addition, Rofin has 14 independent representatives marketing the Company's laser
products in Australia, Brazil, Denmark, Finland, India, Israel, Mexico, the
People's Republic of China, the Philippines, Poland, Singapore, South Africa,
Sweden and Thailand. These independent representatives provide Rofin with sales
leads and opportunities, but do not distribute Rofin's products. All sales and
delivery of product are conducted by the Company. Eight of the independent
representative agreements are on an exclusive basis, with the other six on a
non-exclusive basis. These agreements provide for a standard percentage of the
net sales price to be paid as commissions to the representatives. The duration
of the agreements is usually one year (with an automatic one-year extension) and
a six month cancellation clause.
Rofin directs its worldwide sales and marketing of lasers for macro applications
from its offices in Hamburg (Germany) and of laser diode components from Mainz
(Germany). Worldwide sales and marketing of laser marking products is directed
from Rofin's offices in Gunding-Munich (Germany) and, for laser micro products,
from Starnberg, (Germany). In Europe, Rofin also maintains sales and service
offices in Belgium, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland and the
United Kingdom.
14
U.S. sales of Rofin's macro and micro laser products are managed out of the
Company's Plymouth, Michigan facility and marking products are managed out of
its Boxborough, Massachusetts facility. The Company also maintains a sales
office in Tempe, Arizona to support the expansion of Rofin's laser marking
business in the North American market.
The Company maintains sales and service offices in Japan, Singapore, South Korea
and Taiwan to cover the Asia/Pacific region. Over the next five years, the
Company expects demand for industrial lasers to increase in the Asia/Pacific
region. The Company believes that the geographic market with the greatest
long-term potential over the next 10 to 15 years is China, principally due to
the expansion of domestic automobile and semiconductor and electronic production
in that country. The Company has a technology license agreement with the Nanjing
Electric Laser Center, or NELC, under which NELC manufactures CO2 laser sources
for sale in the Chinese market.
CUSTOMER SERVICE, REPLACEMENT PARTS AND COMPONENTS
During fiscal 2003, 2002, and 2001, approximately 33%, 31%, and 29%,
respectively, of the Company's revenues were generated from sales of after-sale
services, replacement parts and components for laser products. The Company
believes that a high level of customer support is necessary to successfully
develop and maintain long-term relationships with its OEM and end-user
customers. This close relationship is maintained as customers' needs change and
evolve.
Recognizing the importance of its existing and growing installed multinational
customer base, the Company has expanded its local service and support platform
into new geographic regions. Rofin has 263 customer service personnel. The
Company's field service and in-house technical support personnel receive ongoing
training with respect to the Company's laser products, maintenance procedures,
laser-operating techniques and processing technology. Most of the Company's OEM
customers also provide customer service and support to end-users.
Many of Rofin's laser products are operated 24 hours a day in high speed,
quality-oriented manufacturing operations. Accordingly, the Company provides
24-hour, year-round service support to its customers in the United States,
Germany, and the majority of other countries in which it operates. The Company
plans to continue adopting similar service support elsewhere. In addition,
eight-hour response time is provided to certain key customers. This support
includes field service personnel who reside in close proximity to the Company's
installed base. The Company provides customers with process diagnostic and
verification techniques, as well as specialized training in the operation and
maintenance of its systems. The Company also offers regularly scheduled and
intensive training programs and customized maintenance contracts for its
customers.
Of Rofin's 263 customer service personnel, approximately 175 employees operate
in the field in 50 countries. Field service personnel are also involved in the
installation of the Company's systems.
Rofin's approach to the sale of replacement parts is closely linked to the
Company's strategic focus on rapid customer response. The Company provides
around-the-clock order entry and provides same or next day delivery of parts
worldwide in order to minimize disruption to customers' manufacturing
operations. Rofin typically provides a minimum one-year warranty for its
products with warranty extensions negotiated on a case-by-case basis. It agrees
to after-sales service and parts supply up to a period of 10 years, if requested
by a customer. The Company's growing base of installed laser sources and
laser-based systems is expected to continue to generate a stable source of parts
and service sales.
COMPETITION
Laser Products for Cutting and Welding - Macro
The market for laser macro products and systems is fragmented and includes a
large number of competitors, many of which are small or privately owned or which
compete with Rofin on a limited geographic, industry-specific or
application-specific basis. The Company also competes in certain target markets
with competitors that are part of large industrial groups and have access to
substantially greater financial and other resources than Rofin. Competition
among laser manufacturers is also based on attracting and retaining qualified
engineering and technical
15
personnel. The overall competitive position of the Company will depend upon a
number of factors, including product performance and reliability, price,
customer support, manufacturing quality, the compatibility of its products with
existing laser systems, and the continued development of products utilizing the
technologies of diode lasers and diode pumped solid-state lasers.
Rofin believes it is among the top three suppliers of laser sources in the
worldwide market for macro applications. Companies such as Trumpf, Fanuc and PRC
(for high-power CO2 lasers), Excel/Synrad and Coherent (for low-power CO2
lasers), Trumpf (for solid-state lasers) and Optopower and Jenoptik (for diode
lasers and laser diodes) compete in certain of the markets in which Rofin
operates. However, in the Company's opinion, none of these companies competes in
all of the industries, applications and geographic markets currently served by
Rofin. We believe that only Trumpf has a product range and worldwide presence
similar to that of the Company. The Company believes that it has a competitive
advantage over these companies due to its exclusive access (for material
applications of 500 watts and above) to the patented diffusion cooling
technology incorporated in its CO2 Slab lasers. See "Intellectual Property".
Laser Marking and Micro Products
Significant competitive factors in the laser marking and micro market include
system performance and flexibility, cost, the size of each manufacturer's
installed base, capability for customer support, and breadth of product line.
Because many of the components required to develop and produce a laser product
for marking and micro applications are commercially available, barriers to entry
into this market are low and the Company expects new competitive products to
enter this market. The Company believes that its product range for marking and
micro applications will compete favorably in this market primarily due to the
performance and price characteristics of such products.
The Company's laser marking products compete with conventional ink-based and
acid-etching technologies, as well as with laser mask-marking. The Company's
micro products compete with conventional welding, etching and spark erosion
technologies. The Company believes that its principal competitors in the laser
marking and micro market include Trumpf, GSI Lumonics, Unitek Miyachi, Lasag and
Excel/Control Laser.
Rofin also competes with manufacturers of conventional non-laser products in
applications such as welding, drilling, soldering, cutting and marking. The
Company believes that as manufacturing industries continue to modernize, seek to
reduce production costs and require more precise and flexible production, the
features of laser-based systems will become more desirable than systems
incorporating conventional material processing techniques and processes. The
increased acceptance of these laser applications by industrial users will be
enhanced by laser product line expansion to include lower and higher power CO2
lasers, advancements in fiber-optic beam delivery systems, improvements in
reliability, and the introduction of lower and higher power diode lasers and
diode pumped solid-state lasers capable of performing heavy industrial material
processing and marking and micro applications.
MANUFACTURING AND ASSEMBLY
Rofin manufactures and tests its high-power CO2 and solid-state laser macro
products at its Hamburg (Germany), Aschheim-Munich (Germany), Plymouth,
Michigan, Atsugi-shi (Japan) and Kingston upon Hull (UK) facilities. The
Company's laser marking products are manufactured and tested at its facilities
in Gunding-Munich (Germany), Starnberg (Germany), Singapore and Boxborough,
Massachusetts. Rofin's micro application products are manufactured and tested in
Starnberg (Germany). The Company's diode laser products are manufactured and
tested at its Mainz (Germany) facility. The Company's low-power CO2 laser
products are manufactured and tested in Kingston upon Hull (UK). Coating of
Rofin's Slab laser electrodes is performed at the Overath (Germany) facility.
Given the competitive nature of the laser business, the Company focuses
substantial efforts on maintaining and enhancing the efficiency and quality of
its manufacturing operations. The Company utilizes just-in-time and cell-based
manufacturing techniques to reduce manufacturing cycle times and inventory
levels, thus enabling it to offer on-time delivery and high-quality products to
its customers.
16
Rofin's in-house manufacturing includes only those manufacturing operations that
are critical to achieve quality standards or protect intellectual property.
These manufacturing activities consist primarily of product development, testing
of components and subassemblies (some of which are supplied from within the
Company and others of which are supplied by third party vendors and then
integrated into the Company's finished products), assembly and final testing of
the completed product, as well as proprietary software design and
hardware/software integration. Although the Company minimizes the number of
suppliers and component types wherever practicable it has at least two sources
of supply for key items. The Company has a qualifying program for its vendors
and generally seeks to build long-term relationships with such vendors. The
Company purchases certain major components from single suppliers. The Company
estimates that 22% of its revenues are from the sale of products that require
specialized components currently available from single sources. The Company has
written agreements with such suppliers and has not had material delays in
supplies from these sources. The Company believes that it could, if necessary,
purchase such components from alternative sources, within four to six months,
following appropriate qualification of such new vendors.
Rofin is committed to meeting internationally recognized manufacturing
standards. Its Hamburg, Gunding-Munich, Starnberg, and Mainz facilities are ISO
9001 certified. In addition the following facilities are ISO 9002 certified:
Pamplona (Spain), Milan (Italy) and Paris (France).
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
During fiscal 2003, 2002, and 2001, Rofin's net spending on research and
development was $18.1 million, $13.2 million, and $14.8 million, respectively.
In addition, the Company received funding under German government and European
Union grants totaling $0.9 million, $1.1 million, and $1.2 million, in fiscal
2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. Rofin has approximately 141 employees
engaged in product research and development.
Rofin's research and development activities are directed at meeting customers'
manufacturing needs and application processes. Core competencies include CO2 gas
lasers, solid-state lasers, diode lasers, precision optics, electronic power
supplies, fiber optics, beam delivery, control interfaces, software programming
and systems integration. The Company strives for customer-driven development
activities and promotes the use of alliances with key customers and joint
development programs in a wide range of its target markets.
The Company's research and development activities are carried out in seven
centers in Hamburg, Aschheim-Munich, Gunding-Munich, Starnberg and Mainz (all
Germany), Kingston upon Hull (UK), and Plymouth, Michigan (USA) and are
centrally coordinated and managed. Rofin maintains close working relationships
with the leading industrial, government and university research laboratories in
Germany, including the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology in Aachen, the
Institute for "Technische Physik" of the German Space and Aerospace Research
Center in Stuttgart, the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Science in Dresden,
the Laser Center in Hanover, and elsewhere around the world, including the
University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom. These relationships include
funding of research, joint development programs, personnel exchange programs,
and licensing of patents developed at these institutes.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Rofin owns intellectual property, which includes patents, proprietary software,
technical know-how and expertise, designs, process techniques and inventions.
While policies and procedures are in place to protect critical intellectual
property rights, Rofin believes that its success depends to a larger extent on
the innovative skills, know-how, technical competence and abilities of Rofin's
personnel. The Company is also a worldwide licensee of two U.S. patents and
their corresponding foreign counterparts, which expire in 2007 and 2009,
respectively. These licenses are exclusive for industrial material processing
applications of 500 watts and above for the diffusion-cooled technology used in
the Company's Slab Series CO2 lasers and non-exclusive for applications below
500 watts. In Rofin's view, the technology protected by these two patents
represents a significant step forward in industrial laser technology for
material processing and is an important source of Rofin's current revenues and
future growth and profitability.
17
Rofin protects its intellectual property in a number of ways including, in
certain circumstances, patents. Rofin has sought patent protection primarily in
the United States, Europe and Japan. Rofin currently holds 93 separate patents
for inventions relating to lasers, processes and power supplies with expiration
dates ranging from 2004 to 2022. In addition, 42 patent applications have been
filed and are under review by the relevant patent authorities. Rofin requires
its employees and certain of its customers, suppliers, representatives, agents
and consultants to enter into confidentiality agreements to further safeguard
Rofin's intellectual property.
Rofin, from time to time, receives notices from third parties alleging
infringement of such parties' patent or other intellectual property rights by
Rofin's products. While these notices are common in the laser industry and Rofin
has in the past been able to develop non-infringing technology or license
necessary patents or technology on commercially reasonable terms, Rofin cannot
assure that it would in the future prevail in any litigation seeking damages or
expenses from Rofin or to enjoin Rofin from selling its products on the basis of
such alleged infringement. Nor can Rofin assure that it would be able to develop
any non-infringing technology or to license any valid and infringed patents on
commercially reasonable terms. In the event any third party made a valid claim
against Rofin or its customers and a license were not made available to Rofin on
commercially reasonable terms, Rofin would be adversely affected.
In September 2003, a claim brought by a competitor at the European Patent Office
("EPO") in July 1996 challenging one of the patents licensed exclusively by
Rofin covering certain aspects of its diffusion-cooled CO2 Slab laser was
settled. In August 2002, Rofin settled a claim brought by a competitor against
Rofin-Baasel Inc. and Baasel Lasertech in U.S. federal courts for alleged
infringement of a U.S. patent concerning a method of marking semiconductor
material.
From time to time, Rofin files notices of opposition to certain patents on laser
technologies held by others, including academic institutions and competitors of
Rofin, which the Company believes could inhibit its ability to develop products
in this area.
ORDER BACKLOG
The Company's order backlog was $59.0 million, $46.4 million, and $53.0 million,
as of September 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. The Company's order
backlog, which contains relatively little service, training and spare parts,
represents approximately three months of laser shipments. The increase in the
Company's order backlog from September 30, 2002 to September 30, 2003 was
attributable to higher orders for markers from the semiconductor and electronics
industries in Europe and Asia and higher macro laser orders from the machine
tool industry. The fluctuation of the U.S. dollar in fiscal 2003 had a favorable
effect of approximately $6.8 million on year-to-year order backlog. The decrease
in the Company's order backlog from September 30, 2001 to September 30, 2002,
was primarily attributable to a high sales volume during the fourth quarter of
fiscal 2002. The fluctuation of the U.S. dollar in fiscal 2002 had a favorable
effect of approximately $1.2 million on year-to-year order backlog.
An order is entered into backlog by Rofin when a purchase order with an assigned
delivery date has been received. Delivery schedules range from one week to six
months, depending on the size, complexity and availability of the product or
system ordered, although typical delivery dates for laser source products range
between 8-16 weeks from the date an order is placed. Although there is a risk
that customers may cancel or delay delivery of their orders, orders for standard
non-customized lasers can typically be allocated to other customers without
significant additional costs. The Company also manages this risk by establishing
the right to charge a cancellation fee that covers any material and
developmental costs incurred prior to the order being cancelled. Enforcement of
this right is dependent on many factors including, but not limited to, the
customer's requested length of delay, the number of other outstanding orders
with the same customer and the ability to quickly convert the canceled order to
another sale. The Company's backlog on any particular date is not necessarily
indicative of actual sales for any future period.
The Company anticipates shipping the present backlog during fiscal 2004.
18
EMPLOYEES
At September 30, 2003, Rofin had 1,194 full-time employees, of which 799 were in
Germany, 119 in the United States, 32 in France, 43 in Italy, 105 in the United
Kingdom, 23 in Spain, 8 in the Netherlands, 18 in Singapore, 9 in Korea, 11 in
Taiwan, and 27 in Japan, whereas at September 30, 2002, Rofin had 1,192
full-time employees, of which 800 were in Germany, 157 in the United States, 31
in France, 42 in Italy, 83 in the United Kingdom, 16 in Spain, 8 in the
Netherlands, 17 in Singapore, 5 in Korea, 7 in Taiwan, and 26 in Japan. The
average number of employees for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2003 was
1,202.
While the Company's employees are not covered by collective bargaining
agreements and the Company has never experienced a work stoppage, slowdown or
strike, the Company's employees at its Hamburg and Starnberg facilities are each
represented by a nine-person works council and in Gunding-Munich by a
seven-person works council. Additionally, Hamburg and Gunding-Munich are
represented by a four-person central works council. Matters relating to
compensation, benefits and work rules are negotiated and resolved between
management and the works council for the relevant location. The Company
considers its relations with its employees to be good.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
The majority of the Company's laser products sold in the United States are
classified as Class IV Laser Products under applicable rules and regulations of
the Center for Devices and Radiological Health ("CDRH") of the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration. The same classification system is applied in the European
markets. Safety rules are formulated with "Deutsche Industrie Norm" (i.e.,
German Industrial Standards) or ISO standards, which are internationally
harmonized.
CDRH regulations generally require a self-certification procedure pursuant to
which a manufacturer must file with the CDRH with respect to each product
incorporating a laser device, periodic reporting of sales and purchases and
compliance with product labeling standards. The Company's laser products for
macro, micro and laser marking applications can result in injury to human tissue
if directed at an individual or otherwise misused.
The Company believes that its laser products for macro, micro and marking
applications are in substantial compliance with all applicable laws for the
manufacture of laser devices.
RISK FACTORS
DOWNTURNS IN THE INDUSTRY, PARTICULARLY IN THE MACHINE TOOL, AUTOMOTIVE,
SEMICONDUCTOR AND ELECTRONICS INDUSTRIES, MAY HAVE, IN THE FUTURE, A MATERIAL
ADVERSE EFFECT ON OUR SALES AND PROFITABILITY.
Our business depends substantially upon capital expenditures particularly by
manufacturers in the machine tool, automotive and semiconductor and electronics
industries. We estimate that approximately 60% of our laser sales during fiscal
2003 were to these three industry markets. These industries are cyclical and
have historically experienced periods of oversupply, resulting in significantly
reduced demand for capital equipment, including the products manufactured and
marketed by us. For the foreseeable future, our operations will continue to
depend upon capital expenditures in these industries, which, in turn, depend
upon the market demand for their products. Decreased demand from manufacturers
in these industries, for example, during a downturn, may lead to decreased
demand for our products. Although such decreased demand would reduce our sales,
we may not be able to reduce expenses quickly, due in part to the need for
continual investment in research and development and the need to maintain
extensive ongoing customer service and support capability. Although we order
materials for assembly in response to firm orders, the lead time for assembly
and delivery of some of our products creates a risk that we may incur
expenditures or purchase inventories for products which we cannot sell.
Accordingly, any downturn or slowdown in the machine tool, automotive,
semiconductor and electronics industries could have a material adverse effect on
our financial condition and results of operations.
19
A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF OUR SALES ARE OVERSEAS AND OUR RESULTS ARE THEREFORE
SUBJECT TO THE IMPACT OF EXCHANGE RATE FLUCTUATIONS.
Although we report our results in U.S. dollars, approximately 75% of our current
sales are denominated in other currencies, including the Euro, British pound,
Singapore dollar, Japanese yen, Korean won and Taiwanese NT dollar. The
fluctuation of the Euro, and the other functional currencies, against the U.S.
dollar has had the effect of increasing and decreasing (as applicable) reported
net sales as well as cost of goods sold and gross margin and selling, general
and administrative expenses denominated in such foreign currencies when
translated into U.S. dollars as compared to prior periods. Our subsidiaries
will, from time to time, pay dividends in their respective functional
currencies, thus presenting another area of potential currency exposure in the
future.
We also face transaction risk from fluctuations in exchange rates between the
various currencies in which we do business. We believe that a certain portion of
the transaction risk of our operations in multiple currencies is mitigated by
our hedging activities, utilizing forward exchange contracts and forward
exchange options. We also continue to borrow in each operating subsidiary's
functional currency to reduce exposure to exchange gains and losses. However,
there can be no assurance that changes in currency exchange rates will not have
a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of
operations.
OUR INABILITY TO MANAGE THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH OUR INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS
COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR BUSINESS.
Our products are currently marketed in approximately 35 countries, with Germany,
the rest of Europe, the United States and the Asia/Pacific region being our
principal markets. Our operations and sales in our principal markets are subject
to risks inherent in international business activities, including:
o the general political and economic conditions in each such country or
region;
o overlap of differing tax structures;
o management of an organization spread over various jurisdictions; and
o unexpected changes in regulatory requirements and compliance with a
variety of foreign laws and regulations, such as import and export
licensing requirements and trade restrictions.
OUR FAILURE TO MANAGE THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH OUR INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
OPERATIONS COULD HAVE A MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT ON OUR SALES AND PROFITABILITY.
Our profitability may be adversely affected by economic slowdowns in the United
States, Europe, or the Asia/Pacific region. A recession in these economies could
trigger a decline in laser sales to the machine tool, automotive, or
semicondutor/electronics industries, and any related weaknesses in their
respective currencies could adversely affect consumer demand for our products,
the U.S. dollar value of our foreign currency denominated sales, and ultimately
our consolidated results of operations.
WE DEPEND ON THE ABILITY OF OUR OEM-CUSTOMERS TO INCORPORATE OUR LASER PRODUCTS
INTO THEIR SYSTEMS.
Our net sales depend in part upon the ability of our OEM-customers to develop
and sell systems that incorporate our laser products. Adverse economic
conditions, large inventory positions, limited marketing resources and other
factors affecting these OEM-customers could have a substantial impact upon our
financial results. No assurances can be given that our OEM-customers will not
experience financial or other difficulties that could adversely affect their
operations and, in turn, our financial condition or results of operations.
WE EXPERIENCED IN THE PAST, AND EXPECT TO EXPERIENCE IN THE FUTURE, FLUCTUATIONS
IN OUR QUARTERLY RESULTS. THESE FLUCTUATIONS MAY INCREASE THE VOLATILITY OF OUR
STOCK PRICE.
20
We have experienced and expect to continue to experience some fluctuations in
our quarterly results. We believe that fluctuations in quarterly results may
cause the market prices of our common stock, on the NASDAQ National Market and
the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, to fluctuate, perhaps substantially. Factors which
may have an influence on the Company's operating results in a particular quarter
include:
o the timing of the receipt of orders from major customers;
o product mix;
o competitive pricing pressures;
o the relative proportions of domestic and international sales;
o our ability to design, manufacture and introduce new products on a
cost-effective and timely basis;
o the delayed effect of incurrence of expenses to develop and improve
marketing and service capabilities;
o foreign currency fluctuations;
o ability of our suppliers to produce and deliver components and parts,
including sole or limited source components, in a timely manner, in
the quantity desired and at the prices we have budgeted;
o our ability to control expenses; and
o costs related to acquisitions of businesses.
These and other factors make it difficult for us to release precise predictions
regarding the results and the development of our business.
In addition, our backlog at any given time is not necessarily indicative of
actual sales for any succeeding period. As our delivery schedule typically
ranges from one week to six months, our sales will often reflect orders shipped
in the same quarter that they are received. Moreover, customers may cancel or
reschedule shipments, and production difficulties could delay shipments.
Accordingly, the Company's results of operations are subject to significant
fluctuations from quarter to quarter. See also "Business-Order Backlog."
Other factors that we believe may cause the market price of our common stock to
fluctuate, perhaps substantially, include announcements of new products,
technologies or customers by us or our competitors, developments with respect to
intellectual property and shortfalls in our operations relative to analysts'
expectations. In addition, in recent years, the stock market in general, and the
shares of technology companies in particular, have experienced wide price
fluctuations. These broad market and industry fluctuations, particularly in the
semiconductor and electronics and automotive industries, may adversely affect
the market prices of our common stock on the NASDAQ and the Frankfurt Stock
Exchange.
THE MARKETS FOR OUR PRODUCTS ARE HIGHLY COMPETITIVE AND INCREASED COMPETITION
COULD INCREASE OUR COSTS, REDUCE OUR SALES OR CAUSE US TO LOSE MARKET SHARE.
The laser industry is characterized by significant price and technical
competition. Our current and proposed laser products for macro and marking and
micro applications compete with those of several well-established companies,
some of which are larger and have substantially greater financial, managerial
and technical resources, more extensive distribution and service networks and
larger installed customer bases than us.
We believe that competition will be particularly intense in the CO2, diode laser
and solid-state laser markets, as many companies have committed significant
research and development resources to pursue opportunities in these markets.
There can be no assurance that we will successfully differentiate our current
and proposed products from the products of our competitors or that the market
place will consider our products to be superior to competing products. Because
many of the components required to develop and produce a laser-based marking
system are commercially available, barriers to entry into this market are
relatively low, and we expect new competitive product entries in this market. To
maintain our competitive position in these markets, we believe that we will be
required to continue a high level of investment in engineering, research and
development, marketing and customer service and
21
support. There can be no assurance that we will have sufficient resources to
continue to make these investments, that we will be able to make the
technological advances necessary to maintain our competitive position, or that
our products will receive market acceptance. See also "Business-Competition."
OUR FUTURE GROWTH AND COMPETITIVENESS DEPEND UPON OUR ABILITY TO DEVELOP NEW AND
ENHANCED PRODUCTS TO MEET MARKET DEMAND AND TO INCREASE OUR MARKET SHARE FOR
LASER MARKING AND MICRO PRODUCTS.
If we are to increase our laser sales in the near term, these sales will have to
come through increases in market share for our existing products, through the
development of new products, or through the acquisition of competitors or their
products. To date, a substantial portion of our revenues has been derived from
sales of high-powered CO2 laser sources, solid-state laser sources and diode
lasers. In order to increase market demand for these products, we will need to
devote substantial resources to:
o broadening our CO2 laser product range;
o increasing the output power of our CO2 laser sources, diode lasers and
diode pumped, solid-state laser products; and
o continuing to reduce the manufacturing costs of our product range to
achieve more attractive pricing.
A large part of our growth strategy depends upon being able to increase
substantially our worldwide market share for laser marking and micro products.
Our future success depends on our ability to anticipate our customers' needs and
develop products that address those needs. Our ability to control costs is
limited by our need to invest in research and development. If we are unable to
implement our strategy to develop new and enhanced products, our business,
operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected. No
assurance can be given that we will successfully implement our business strategy
or that any of the newly developed or enhanced products will achieve market
acceptance or not be rendered obsolete or uncompetitive by products of other
companies. See also "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations" and "Business - The Company's Laser Products".
IF WE LOSE OUR KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL, WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SUCCESSFULLY
MANAGE OUR BUSINESS OR ACHIEVE OUR OBJECTIVES.
Our future success depends in large part upon the leadership and performance of
our executive management team, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief
Financial Officer, and key employees at the operating level. These key employees
include technical, sales and support personnel for our operations on a worldwide
basis. If we lose the services of one or more of our executive officers or key
employees, or if one or more of them decides to join a competitor or otherwise
compete directly or indirectly with us, we may not be able to successfully
manage our business or achieve our business objectives. If we lose the services
of any of our key employees at the operating or regional level, we may not be
able to replace them with similarly qualified personnel, which could harm our
business.
WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SUCCESSFULLY ACQUIRE NEW OPERATIONS OR INTEGRATE FUTURE
ACQUISITIONS, WHICH COULD CAUSE OUR BUSINESS TO SUFFER.
One of the ways in which we seek to grow our company is through strategic
acquisitions of companies with complementary operations or products. We may be
unable to successfully complete potential strategic acquisitions if we cannot
reach agreement on acceptable terms or for other reasons. Future acquisitions
may require us to obtain additional debt or equity financing, which may not be
available on terms acceptable to us, if at all. In connection with future
acquisitions, we may assume the liabilities of the companies we acquire. Any
debt that we incur to pay for future acquisition could contain covenants that
restrict the manner in which we operate our business. Any new equity securities
that we issue for this purpose would be dilutive to our existing stockholders.
If we buy a company or a division of a company, we may experience difficulty
integrating that company or division's personnel and operations, which could
negatively affect our operating results.
22
In addition:
o the key personnel of the acquired company may decide not to work for
us;
o we may experience additional financial and accounting challenges and
complexities in areas such as tax planning, treasury management and
financial reporting;
o we may be held liable for risks and liabilities (including for
environmental-related costs) as a result of our acquisitions, some of
which we may not discover during our due diligence;
o our ongoing business may be disrupted or receive insufficient
management attention; and
o we may not be able to realize the cost savings or other financial
benefits we anticipated.
WE DEPEND ON LIMITED SOURCE SUPPLIERS THAT COULD CAUSE SUBSTANTIAL MANUFACTURING
DELAYS AND INCREASE OUR COSTS IF A DISRUPTION IN SUPPLY OCCURS.
We estimate that 22% of our revenues are derived from sales of products that
require specialized components only available from single sources. We also rely
on a limited number of independent contractors to manufacture subassemblies for
some of our products. There can be no assurance that, in the future, our current
or alternative sources will be able to meet all of our demands on a timely
basis. If one or more of our suppliers or subcontractors experiences
difficulties that result in a reduction or interruption in supply to us, or if
they fail to meet any of our manufacturing requirements, our business could be
harmed until we are able to secure alternative sources, if any. If we are unable
to find necessary parts or components on commercially reasonable terms, we could
be required to reengineer our products to accommodate available substitutions
which would increase our costs and/or have a material adverse effect on
manufacturing schedules, product performance and market acceptance.
OUR FAILURE TO PROTECT OUR PROPRIETARY TECHNOLOGY OR TO AVOID LITIGATION FOR
INFRINGEMENT OR MISAPPROPRIATION OF PROPRIETARY RIGHTS OF THIRD PARTIES COULD
RESULT IN A LOSS OF REVENUES AND PROFITS.
From time to time, we receive notices from third parties alleging infringement
of such parties' patent or other proprietary rights by our products. While these
notices are common in the laser industry and we have in the past been able to
develop non-infringing technology or license necessary patents or technology on
commercially reasonable terms, there can be no assurance that we would in the
future prevail in any litigation seeking damages or expenses from us or to
enjoin us from selling its products on the basis of such alleged infringement,
or that we would be able to develop any non-infringing technology or license any
valid and infringed patents on commercially reasonable terms. In the event any
third party made a valid claim against us or our customers and a license was not
made available to us on commercially reasonable terms, we would be adversely
affected.
Our future success depends in part upon our intellectual property rights,
including trade secrets, know-how and continuing technological innovation. There
can be no assurance that the steps taken by us to protect our intellectual
property rights will be adequate to prevent misappropriation or that others will
not develop competitive technologies or products.
We currently hold 93 United States and foreign patents on our laser sources,
with expiration dates ranging from 2004 to 2022. We have also obtained licenses
under certain patents covering lasers and related technology incorporated into
our products. Of particular importance is the license of two patents related
to the sales of our Slab Series CO2 lasers, which we estimate to account for
approximately 22% of our revenue. In addition, 42 patent applications have been
filed and are under review by the patent authorities. There can be no assurance
that other companies are not investigating or developing other technologies that
are similar to ours, that any patents will issue from any application filed by
us or that, if patents do issue, the claims allowed will be sufficiently broad
to deter or prohibit others from marketing similar products. In addition, there
can be no assurance that any patents issued to us will not be challenged,
invalidated or circumvented, or that the rights thereunder will provide a
competitive advantage to us. See also "Business-Intellectual Property".
23
ANY DEFECTS IN OUR PRODUCTS OR CUSTOMER PROBLEMS ARISING FROM THE USE OF OUR
PRODUCTS MAY SERIOUSLY HARM OUR BUSINESS AND REPUTATION.
Our laser products are technologically complex and may contain known and
undetected errors or performance problems. In addition, performance problems can
also be caused by the improper installation of our products by a
customer. These errors or performance problems could result in customer
dissatisfaction, which could harm our sales or customer relationships. In
addition, these problems may cause us to incur significant warranty and repair
costs and divert the attention of our engineering personnel from our product
development efforts.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company's manufacturing facilities include the following:
Owned or Size
Location of Facility Leased (sq. ft.) Primary Activity
- -------------------------- --------------- ----------- ----------------------------------
Hamburg, Germany Owned* 142,547 CO2 lasers, solid-state lasers
Starnberg, Germany Leased 89,017 Laser marking and micro products,
power supplies
Gunding-Munich, Germany Leased 65,302 Solid-state lasers, laser marking
products
Plymouth, Michigan Leased 52,128 CO2 lasers
Kingston upon Hull,
United Kingdom Leased 48,485 Low-power CO2 lasers
Aschheim-Munich, Germany Leased 23,080 CO2 lasers
Boxborough, Massachusetts Leased 22,000 Laser marking products
Mainz, Germany Leased 29,332 Diode lasers & components
Overath, Germany Leased 14,447 Coating of materials
Sakai Atsugi-shi, Japan Leased 9,763 CO2 lasers
Pamplona, Spain Owned 7,532 Laser marking systems
Singapore Leased 6,026 Laser marking products
___________
* The facility is owned by RSL; the real property on which the facility is
located is leased by RSL under a 99-year lease.
The Kingston upon Hull, United Kingdom facility lease expires in 2007. The
Gunding-Munich (Germany) facility lease expires in 2005 and 2007, with an
optional yearly notice of termination. The leases on its Japanese facilities in
Atsugi-shi expire in 2004 with a renewal option for three years. The Mainz
(Germany) facility lease expires in 2010 and the Overath (Germany) facility
leases expire in 2008. The Singapore facility lease expires in 2006, with a
renewal option for three years. The Starnberg (Germany) main facility is leased
until 2017 from a member of the Company's board of directors and includes a
clause to terminate the lease contract within a two-year notice period during
the contract period. The Aschheim-Munich (Germany) facility lease expires in
2010, with a renewal option until 2015. The leases on its U.S. facilities in
Boxborough, Massachusetts and Plymouth, Michigan expire in 2006 and 2012,
respectively.
The Company maintains sales, administration and research and development
facilities at each of the Hamburg, Aschheim-Munich, Starnberg, Gunding-Munich,
Mainz, Kingston upon Hull and Plymouth locations. The Company also maintains
sales and service offices worldwide, all of which are leased, with the exception
of the Pamplona property which is owned.
The Company believes that its existing facilities are adequate to meet its
currently projected needs for the next 12 months and that suitable additional or
alternative space would be available, if necessary, in the future on
commercially reasonable terms.
24
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company has been and is likely to be involved from time to time in
litigation involving its intellectual property and ordinary routine litigation
arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company is not aware of any
material legal proceedings currently existing or pending against it.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
There were no matters submitted to a vote of the security holders during the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2003.
25
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET PRICE OF THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The Company's common stock is traded on the NASDAQ National Market and also on
the Prime Standard Segment of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, under the symbol
RSTI and international securities identification number (ISIN) US7750431022,
respectively. The table below sets forth the high and low sales prices of the
Company's common stock for each quarter ended during the last two fiscal years
as reported by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.:
Common Trade Prices
-------------------------------
Quarter ended High Low
---------------------- ---------- ------------
December 31, 2001 $ 10.15 $ 7.10
March 31, 2002 $ 11.01 $ 8.20
June 30, 2002 $ 10.65 $ 8.77
September 30, 2002 $ 9.51 $ 6.30
December 31, 2002 $ 8.82 $ 5.18
March 31, 2003 $ 11.45 $ 7.32
June 30, 2003 $ 17.32 $ 10.87
September 30, 2003 $ 27.21 $ 13.32
At December 19, 2003, the Company had 13 holders of record of its common stock
and 12,027,150 shares outstanding. The Company has not paid dividends on its
common stock and does not anticipate paying dividends in the foreseeable future.
26
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table set forth selected consolidated financial data for the five
fiscal years ended September 30, 2003. The information sets forth below should
be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes
thereto filed as part of this Annual Report.
Year ended September 30,
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001 2000 1999
----------- ------------ ---------- --------- ---------
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
STATEMENT OF OPERATION DATA:
Net sales $257,746 $221,948 $220,557 $171,187 $124,024
Cost of goods sold 161,465 143,128 138,408 109,702 82,230
Gross profit 96,281 78,820 82,149 61,485 41,794
SG&A expenses 51,282 46,401 41,841 29,593 23,706
R&D expenses 18,060 13,249 14,798 12,953 11,808
Amortization expense 1,654 3,762 3,653 1,701 341
Special charge -- -- 700 -- --
Income from operations 25,285 15,408 21,157 17,238 5,939
Net interest expense (income) 3,249 3,407 3,328 637 (702)
Income before income taxes 24,727 12,385 18,177 16,079 6,875
Net tax expense 9,422 7,384 10,962 8,202 3,242
Net income 15,305 5,001 7,215 7,877 3,633
Net income per common
share - Basic 1.31 0.43 0.62 0.68 0.32
Net income per common
share - Diluted 1.29 0.43 0.62 0.68 0.32
Shares used in computing net
income per share - Basic 11,640 11,552 11,547 11,538 11,527
Shares used in computing net
income per share - Diluted 11,863 11,592 11,601 11,622 11,527
OPERATING DATA (as percentage of sales):
Gross profit 37.4% 35.5% 37.2% 35.9% 33.7%
SG&A expenses 19.9% 20.9% 19.0% 17.3% 19.4%
R&D expenses 7.0% 6.0% 6.7% 7.6% 9.5%
Income from operations 9.8% 6.9% 9.6% 10.1% 4.8%
Income before income taxes 9.6% 5.6% 8.2% 9.4% 5.5%
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Working capital $98,759 $81,661 $65,407 $62,648 $73,734
Total assets 291,486 240,815 227,304 218,414 147,213
Line of credit and loans 68,833 63,135 64,312 74,921 27,271
Stockholders' equity 140,586 108,418 99,051 90,719 90,676
27
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
OVERVIEW
Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. is a leader in the design, development,
engineering, manufacture and marketing of laser-based products, primarily used
for cutting, welding and marking a wide range of materials.
During fiscal year 2003, 53% of revenues related to sales for macro applications
and approximately 47% related to sales of laser products for marking and micro
applications.
On May 10, 2000, the Company acquired 90.01% of the share capital of Carl Baasel
Lasertechnik GmbH ("Baasel Lasertech") through its wholly owned subsidiary
Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH, Hamburg (Germany). In September 2001 Baasel Lasertech
was transformed into Carl Baasel Lasertechnik GmbH & Co. KG ("CBL"), a limited
partnership. The Company and the minority shareholder of CBL were party to an
option agreement for the remaining share of capital held by the minority
shareholder for a fixed price of Euro 6.3 million, which along with accumulated
interest of $0.4 million, was accrued for in accounts payable to related party
as of September 30, 2002. Accordingly, the accompanying financial statements
present CBL as if it was 100% owned. Effective December 31, 2002, the minority
shareholder resigned from the limited partnership and the remaining shares of
CBL were purchased by RSL during fiscal 2003 for the fixed price of Euro 6.3
million ($6.2 million at the December 31, 2002 exchange rate).
On February 28, 2001, the Company acquired 80% of the share capital of Z-Laser
S.A. through its wholly owned subsidiary Rofin-Baasel Espana, S.A., Barcelona,
Spain for $3.3 million in cash. At the end of June 2001, Z-Laser S.A. was merged
into Rofin-Baasel Espana S.L. As a result of this merger, the minority
shareholder owns 17% of the total stock of the new Spanish subsidiary.
On October 5, 2001, the Company sold the assets of its medical laser business
resulting in a gain of $0.7 million. As part of the proceeds from the sale, the
Company received marketable equity securities which have been classified as
trading securities, under "other current assets and prepaid expenses" in the
accompanying balance sheet. During the twelve month period ended September 30,
2003 the Company sold the above mentioned securities for a total amount of $1.2
million. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, the Company
recorded a realized gain of $0.3 million and an unrealized loss of $0.2 million,
respectively.
On March 31, 2003, the Company acquired an additional 37% of the share capital
of Rofin-Marubeni Laser Corporation, Atsugi-shi, Japan, through its wholly owned
subsidiary Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH, Hamburg (Germany) for $0.1 million in cash.
The Company subsequently holds 88% of the share capital. As of May 1, 2003,
Rofin-Marubeni Laser Corporation, Japan was renamed Rofin-Baasel Japan
Corporation.
Outlook
Management believes that the near term growth in the Company's macro business,
especially in North America, will be under continued pressure given the current
market environment for investment in capital goods. In the Company's marking and
micro business management sees some positive developments from the semiconductor
and electronics market. Our high power diode pumped solid state laser products,
which are sold primarily in our macro business, have experienced quality issues
in the past that have affected the performance of certain units in the field.
For this reason, based on available information and the Company's estimation of
what would be required to resolve the quality issues in the affected diode laser
products, the Company established a reserve of $0.3 million. In fiscal 2001 and
2002, the Company added $2.9 million to this reserve, of which $1.2 million was
in total utilized. In fiscal 2003, the Company utilized $1.8 million of this
reserve and added $2.2 million to increase the reserve to $2.4 million. The
Company believes this reserve is adequate to address the associated costs
(including an estimate of the related material, labor and transportation costs)
estimated to be incurred related to these products that have been sold prior to
September 30, 2003. The Company also believes that future profitability will not
be materially affected by
28
this issue due to the low business volume (5% of total sales) attributable to
these products in fiscal 2003. See "Warranty Reserves."
Critical Accounting Policies
The Company's significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1
of the consolidated financial statements. Certain of the accounting policies
require the application of significant judgment by management in selecting
appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature,
these judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
The Company records allowances for uncollectible customer accounts receivable
based on historical experience. Additionally, an allowance is made based on an
assessment of specific customers' financial condition and liquidity. If the
financial condition of the Company's customers were to deteriorate, additional
allowances may be required. No individual customer represents more than 10% of
total accounts receivable.
Inventory Valuation
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, after provisions for
excess and obsolete inventory salable at prices below cost. The valuation of
slow moving and obsolete inventories are provided based on current assessments
about historical experience and future product demand and production
requirements for the next twelve months. These factors are impacted by market
conditions, technology changes, and changes in strategic direction that are
uncertain, and require estimates and management judgment. Although we strive to
achieve a balance between market demands and risk of inventory excess or
obsolescence, it is possible that, should conditions change, additional
adjustments to inventory valuation may be needed.
Warranty Reserves
The Company provides reserves for the estimated costs of product warranties when
revenue is recognized. The Company relies upon historical experience,
expectation of future conditions, and its service data to estimate its warranty
reserve. The Company continuously monitors these data to ensure that the reserve
is sufficient. To the extent we experience increased warranty claim activity or
increased costs associated with servicing those claims (such costs may include
material, labor and travel costs), revisions to the estimated warranty liability
would be required. While such expenses have historically been within its
expectations, the Company cannot guarantee this will continue in the future.
Pension
The determination of the Company's obligation and expense for pension is
dependent on the selection of certain assumptions used by actuaries in
calculating those amounts. Assumptions are made about interest rates, expected
investment return on plan assets, total turnover rates, and rates of future
compensation increases. In addition, the Company's actuarial consultants use
subjective factors such as withdrawal rates and mortality rates to develop our
valuations. The Company generally reviews these assumptions at the beginning of
each fiscal year. The Company is required to consider current market conditions,
including changes in interest rates, in making these assumptions. The actuarial
assumptions that the Company may use may differ materially from actual results
due to changing market and economic conditions, higher or lower withdrawal rates
or longer or shorter life spans of participants. These differences may result in
a significant impact on the amount of pension benefits expense the Company has
recorded or may record.
The discount rate enables the Company to state expected future cash flows at a
present value on the measurement date. The Company has little latitude in
selecting this rate, and it must represent the market rate of high-quality fixed
income investments. A lower discount rate increases the present value of benefit
obligations and increases pension expense.
29
To determine the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, the Company
considers the current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and
expected returns on various categories of plan assets.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
For the periods indicated, the following table sets forth the percentage of net
sales represented by the respective line items in the Company's consolidated
statements of operations:
Fiscal Year Ended September 30,
---------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
------- ------- -------
Net sales 100% 100% 100%
Cost of goods sold 63% 64% 63%
Gross profit 37% 36% 37%
Selling, general and administrative expenses 20% 21% 19%
Research and development expenses 7% 6% 7%
Goodwill and intangibles amortization 0% 2% 1%
Income from operations 10% 7% 10%
Income before income taxes 10% 6% 8%
Net income 6% 2% 3%
FISCAL 2003 COMPARED TO FISCAL 2002
Net Sales - Net sales of $257.7 million represents an increase of $35.8 million,
or 16%, over the prior year. Net sales increased $41.4 million, or 25%, in
Europe/Asia and decreased $5.6 million, or 10%, in the United States, as
compared to the prior year. The U.S. dollar weakened against foreign currencies,
which had a favorable effect on net sales of $28.2 million. Net sales of laser
products for macro applications increased by 17% to $136.7 million, over the
prior year, primarily due to a result of higher macro laser shipments to the
machine tool industry. Net sales of lasers for marking and micro applications
increased by 16% to $121.0 million compared to fiscal 2002, mainly as a result
of slightly higher marking laser shipments to the semiconductor and electronics
industry and higher micro laser shipments to the dental and jewelry industries.
Gross Profit - The Company's gross profit of $96.3 million increased by $17.5
million, or 22%, over the prior year. As a percentage of sales gross profit
increased from 36% to 37%. The higher percentage margin in fiscal 2003 was
primarily a result of the overall change in the product mix and lower cost in
relation to our high powered solid state laser products. Gross profit was
favorably affected by $7.7 million in fiscal 2003 due to the weakening of the
U.S. dollar.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses - Selling, general and
administrative expenses increased $4.9 million, or 11%, to $51.3 million,
compared to fiscal 2002 primarily due to the implementation of a new computer
system within the German operations ($1.2 million) and severance expenses ($0.5
million). As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative
expenses decreased from 21% to 20%. Selling, general and administrative expenses
were unfavorably affected by $5.3 million in fiscal 2003 due to the weakening of
the U.S. dollar.
Research and Development - The Company spent net $18.1 million on research and
development, which represents an increase of $4.9 million, or 37%, over fiscal
2002 primarily due to ongoing research and development work mainly in the area
of diode pumped solid-state lasers. Gross research and development expenses for
fiscal 2003 and 2002 were $19.0 million and $14.3 million, respectively, and
were reduced by $0.9 million and $1.1 million of government grants during the
respective periods. The Company will continue to apply for, and expects to
continue receiving government grants towards research and development,
especially in Europe. Research and development expenses were unfavorably
affected by $2.5 million in fiscal 2003 due to the weakening of the U.S. dollar.
Income Tax Expense - Income tax expense of $9.4 million in fiscal 2003 and $7.4
million in fiscal 2002 represent effective tax rates of 38.1% and 59.6%,
respectively. The lower effective tax rate in 2003 is mainly due to a higher
earnings basis, the elimination of non-deductible goodwill amortization, and the
utilization of foreign tax credits.
30
Net Income - As a result of the foregoing factors, the Company's net income of
$15.3 million ($1.29 per diluted share) in fiscal 2003 increased by $10.3
million over the prior year's net income of $5.0 million ($0.43 per diluted
share). Currency translation decreased net income by $1.2 million, or 7%, of
fiscal 2003 net income.
FISCAL 2002 COMPARED TO FISCAL 2001
Net Sales - Net sales of $221.9 million represents an increase of $1.4 million,
or 0.6%, over the prior year. Net sales decreased $11.8 million, or 7%, in
Europe/Asia and increased $13.2 million, or 29%, in the United States, as
compared to the prior year. The U.S. dollar weakened against foreign currencies,
which had a favorable effect on net sales of $4.3 million. Net sales of laser
products for macro applications increased by 10% to $117.3 million, over the
prior year, primarily due to a result of higher macro laser shipments to the
machine tool industry. Net sales of lasers for marking and micro applications
decreased by 8% to $104.6 million compared to fiscal 2001, mainly as a result of
lower marking laser shipments to the semiconductor and electronics industry.
Gross Profit - The Company's gross profit of $78.8 million decreased by $3.3
million, or 4%, over the prior year. As a percentage of sales gross profit
decreased from 37% to 36%. The lower percentage margin in fiscal 2002 was
primarily a result of the overall change in product mix and higher than
anticipated costs in our laser diode related high-power laser products. Gross
profit was favorably affected by $0.4 million in fiscal 2002 due to the
weakening of the U.S. dollar.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses - Selling, general and
administrative expenses increased $4.6 million or 11% to $46.4 million, compared
to fiscal 2001 primarily due to additional legal expenses to settle the
outstanding patent infringement case ($2.3 million) and a write-off and an
increase in the allowance for bad debts ($1.1 million), as a result of some
large customers declaring bankruptcy in the current year. As a percentage of net
sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased from 19% to 21%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses were unfavorably affected by $0.9
million in fiscal 2002 due to the weakening of the U.S. dollar.
Research and Development - The Company spent net $13.2 million on research and
development, this represents a decrease of 10%, or $1.5 million, over fiscal
2001 primarily due to lower material costs and more man power spent on cost of
goods sold. Research and development spending is dependent on the latest
technology changes and product life cycles, which can significantly impact
spending volumes. Gross research and development expenses for fiscal 2002 and
2001 were $14.3 million and $16.0 million, respectively, and were reduced by
$1.1 million and $1.2 million of government grants during the respective
periods. The Company will continue to apply for, and expects to continue
receiving government grants toward research and development, especially in
Europe. Research and development expenses were unfavorably affected by $0.4
million in fiscal 2002 due to the weakening of the U.S. dollar.
Income Tax Expense - Income tax expense of $7.4 million in fiscal 2002 and $11.0
million in fiscal 2001 represent effective tax rates of 59.6% and 60.3%,
respectively. The effective tax rate exceeds the actual statutory rate (which
ranges from 30% to 46%) principally due to minority interest and other permanent
differences, non-deductible goodwill amortization and increases in the deferred
tax asset valuation allowance, offset by the effect of changes in the tax law in
the U.S.
Net Income - As a result of the foregoing factors, the Company's net income of
$5.0 million ($0.43 per diluted share) in fiscal 2002 decreased by $2.2 million
over the prior year's net income of $7.2 million ($0.62 per diluted share). As
an effect of currency translation, net income decreased by $1.2 million, or 19%,
of fiscal 2002 net income.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's primary sources of liquidity at September 30, 2003 were cash and
cash equivalents of $44.5 million, an annually renewable $25.0 million line of
credit with Deutsche Bank AG and several other lines of credit to support
foreign subsidiaries in their local currencies in an aggregate amount of $39.1
million (translated at the applicable exchange rate at September 30, 2003). As
of September 30, 2003, $12.6 million was outstanding under the Deutsche Bank
facility and $15.8 million under other lines of credit. Therefore, $35.7 million
is unused and
31
available under Rofin's lines of credit. There are no financial
covenants which would restrict the Company from drawing money under these lines
of credit.
Additionally, the Company has outstanding short-term and long-term debt with a
German bank, which was used to finance part of the acquisition, and to refinance
the existing debt, of Baasel Lasertech. At September 30, 2003, $40.4 million was
outstanding under this credit agreement.
Cash and cash equivalents increased by $24.2 million during fiscal 2003.
Approximately $25.9 million in cash and cash equivalents were provided by
operating activities, primarily as the result of net income and other non-cash
items, principally depreciation and amortization. Additionally, operating cash
flows were impacted due to an increase in accrued liabilities resulting from a
$6.1 million down payment for a technical license agreement, offset by a
decrease in accounts payable resulting from the payment made to purchase the
remaining shares of CBL.
Uses of cash from investing activities totaled $3.3 million for the year ended
September 30, 2003 and related primarily to various additions to property and
equipment in connection with the expansion of the Company's operations ($3.5
million) partially offset by the cash of proceeds from sale of fixed assets
($0.2 million).
Net cash used in financing activities totaled $1.1 million and was primarily
related to current period repayments of bank debt of $4.7 million and offset by
an increase in stockholders equity of $3.7 million related to the issuance of
additional common stock through the exercise of stock options.
Management believes that the cash flow from operations, along with existing cash
and cash equivalents and availability under our credit facilities and lines of
credit, will provide adequate resources to meet both its capital requirements
and operational needs on both a current and a long term basis in fiscal 2004.
The following table illustrates the Company's short and long-term contractual
obligations.
Payments due by period (in thousands)
-------------------------------------
Less than 1-3 3-5 More than
Contractual Obligations Total 1 Year Years Years 5 Years
- ----------------------- ----- --------- ----- ----- ---------
Long Term Debt Obligations $ 33,052 $ - $ 32,803 $ 249 $ --
Capital lease Obligations 259 142 109 8
Operating Lease Obligations 17,960 4,766 8,209 3,141 1,844
Purchase obligations 27,422 27,422 -- -- --
Other long-term liabilities
reflected on the registrant's -- -- -- -- --
Balance Sheet under GAAP 75 -- 49 26 --
-------------------------------------------------------
Total $ 78,768 $32,329 $41,171 $3,424 $1,844
=======================================================
Currency Exchange Rate Fluctuations
Although the Company reports its Consolidated Financial Statements in U.S.
dollars, approximately 75% of its sales are denominated in other currencies,
primarily Euro, British pound, Singapore dollar, Taiwanese dollar, Korean won
and Japanese yen. Net sales and costs and related assets and liabilities are
generally denominated in the functional currencies of the operations, thereby
serving to reduce the Company's exposure to exchange gains and losses.
Exchange differences upon translation from each operation's functional currency
to United States dollars are accumulated as a separate component of equity. The
currency translation adjustment component of shareholders' equity had the effect
of increasing total equity by $6.7 million at September 30, 2003 and decreasing
total equity by $6.2 million at September 30, 2002.
The fluctuation of the Euro and the other relevant functional currencies against
the U.S. dollar has had the effect of increasing or decreasing (as applicable)
reported net sales, as well as cost of goods sold and gross margin and
32
selling, general and administrative expenses, denominated in such foreign
currencies when translated into U.S. dollars as compared to prior periods.
The following table illustrates the effect of the changes in exchange rates on
the Company's fiscal 2003, 2002 and 2001 net sales, gross profit and income from
operations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal 2003 Fiscal 2002 Fiscal 2001
-------------------------- -------------------------- -----------------------
At 2002 At 2001 At 2000
Exchange Exchange Exchange
Actual Rates Actual Rates Actual Rates
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- ----------
(in millions)
Net sales $257.7 $ 229.5 $ 221.9 $ 217.6 $ 220.6 $ 234.7
Gross profit 96.3 88.5 78.8 78.4 82.1 86.4
Income from operation 25.3 25.3 15.4 16.3 21.2 21.9
Between fiscal 2003 and 2002, the Euro yearly average strengthened against the
U.S. dollar by approximately 15%. The impact of this strengthening was to
increase net sales and gross profit by $28.2 million and $7.8 million,
respectively, because approximately 75% of sales are denominated in other
currencies, primarily the Euro. However, because more than 75% of operating
expenses are also denominated in these other currencies, this same strengthening
of the Euro had the effect of increasing operating expenses, thereby having no
impact on income from operations.
Between fiscal 2002 and 2001, the Euro yearly average strengthened against the
U.S. dollar by approximately 4%. The impact of this strengthening was to
increase net sales and gross profit by $4.3 million and $0.4 million,
respectively, because approximately 67% of sales are denominated in other
currencies, primarily the Euro. However, because more than 67% of operating
expenses are also denominated in these other currencies, this same strengthening
of the Euro had the effect of increasing operating expenses and thereby
decreasing income from operations by $0.9 million.
Between fiscal 2000 and 2001, the Euro yearly average weakened against the U.S.
dollar by approximately 8%. The impact of this weakening was to decrease net
sales, gross profit and income from operations by $14.1 million, $4.3 million
and $0.7 million, respectively.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The following discussion about the Company's market risk disclosures involves
forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those
projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company is exposed to market
risk related to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates.
The Company does not use derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
Interest Rate Sensitivity
As of September 30, 2003, the Company maintained a cash equivalents portfolio of
$12.0 million, consisting mainly of taxable interest bearing securities and
demand deposits all with maturities of less than three months. If short-term
interest rates were to increase or decrease by 10%, there would be no material
impact on interest income due to the low level of interest rates in the current
year.
At September 30, 2003, the Company had $26.4 million of six months adjusted
interest rate debt, $18.1 million of annually adjusted interest rate debt and
$24.3 million of fixed rate debt of which $35.8 million is due in 2004, $28.4
million is due in 2005, $3.9 million is due in 2006 and $0.7 million in 2007. A
10% change in the variable interest rates of the Company's debt would result in
an increase or decrease in pre-tax interest expense of approximately $0.1
million.
33
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk
The Company enters into foreign currency forward contracts and forward exchange
options generally of less than one year duration to hedge a portion of its
foreign currency risk on sales transactions. At September 30, 2003, the
Company held Japanese yen forward contracts with notional amounts of Euro 1.2
million, Japanese yen forward contracts with notional amounts of $0.1 million
and Euro forward exchange options with notional amounts of $5.2 million. The
gains or losses resulting from a 10% change in currency exchange rates would not
be material. Additionally, the Company entered into a currency and interest swap
agreement of Swiss Franc to minimize the interest expense on long-term debt. As
of September 30, 2003, an amount of 17.2 million Swiss Franc (equivalent to
$13.5 million based on the exchange rate at September 30, 2003) was outstanding
under this swap agreement.
ITEM 8. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
See Item 14(a) for an index to the consolidated financial statements. No
supplementary financial information is required to be presented pursuant to Item
302(a) of Regulation S-K.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
The Company's chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded
that, as of September 30, 2003, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures
(as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended) were effective, based on the evaluation of these controls and
procedures required by Rule 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended.
34
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information required by this Item is included in the "Election of
Directors", "Directors and Executive Officers", "Section 16(a) Beneficial
Ownership Reporting Compliance", and "Committees of the Board of Directors;
Meetings and Compensation of Directors", sections of the Company's Proxy
Statement to be filed in connection with the Company''s 2004 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders to be held in March 2004, and is incorporated by reference herein.
The Registrant's Code of Ethics as defined in Item 406 of SEC Regulation S-K is
expected to be adopted by the Board of Directors at their next meeting to be
held January 2004.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this item is included in the "Executive Compensation
and Related Information" section of the Company's Proxy Statement to be filed in
connection with the Company's 2004 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in
March 2004, and is incorporated by reference herein.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information required by this item is included in the "Security Ownership of
Certain Beneficial Owners" and "Management" sections of the Company's proxy
statement to be filed in connection with the Company's 2004 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders to be held in March 2004, and is incorporated by reference herein.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information required by this Item is included in the "Compensation
Committee", "Interlocks and Insider Participation" and "Certain Transactions"
sections of the Company's Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the
Company's 2004 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in March 2004, and is
incorporated by reference herein.
The Company had sales to its minority shareholder in Japan amounting to $1,644,
$2,644 and $1,168 in fiscal years 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively.
The Company's sales to related parties have generally been on terms comparable
to those available in connection with sales to unaffiliated parties.
The main facility in Starnberg is rented under a 25 year operating lease from
the former minority shareholder of CBL, who is also a member of the board of
directors of the Company, and includes a clause to terminate the lease contract
within a two-year notice period during the contract period. The Company paid
rent expense of $538 and $446 to the former minority shareholder during fiscal
years 2003 and 2002, respectively.
The Company has accrued $1,055, at September 30, 2003 ($889 at September 30,
2002) for the option purchase prices for the minority interests in RBE, and $278
was accrued for accumulated interest on this obligation (see Note 1 to the
accompanying financial statements). These amounts are included in accounts
payable to related party in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The
corresponding interest on this obligation ($82 in 2003 and $81 in 2002) is
included in interest expense in the accompanying consolidated statement of
operations.
At September 30, 2002 the Company had accrued $6,186 for the option purchase
price for the minority interests in CBL and $165 for accumulated interest on
this obligation. Effective December 31, 2002, the minority shareholder resigned
from the limited partnership and the remaining shares of CBL were purchased in
January 2003 for the fixed price of Euro 6.3 million ($6.2 million at the
December 31, 2002 exchange rate).
Accounts payable to related party also includes short-term loans from the
minority shareholders of Dilas of $241 at September 30, 2003.
35
The Company believes that all transactions noted above have been executed on an
arms-length basis. Except for the foregoing, no director, officer, nominee
director, 5% holder of the Company's shares, or immediate family member,
associate or affiliate thereof, had any material interest, direct or indirect,
in any transaction since the beginning of fiscal 2002 or has any material
interest, direct or indirect, in any proposed transaction, having a value of
$60,000 or more.
Indebtedness of Officers and Directors
Since the beginning of fiscal 2002, there has been no indebtedness to the
Company by any director or officer or associates of any such person, other than
reimbursements for purchases, for ordinary travel and expense advances and for
other transactions in the ordinary course of business.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information set forth under "Independent Public Accountants--All Other Fees"
in the definitive form of the Company's Proxy Statement relating to the 2004
Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held in March 2004 is incorporated by
reference herein.
36
PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON
FORM 8-K
a. 1. Consolidated Financial Statements
The following financial statements are filed as part of this Annual
Report.
Independent Auditors' Report F-1
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2003 and 2002 F-2
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended
September 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001 F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity and
Comprehensive Income for the years ended
September 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001 F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended
September 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001 F-7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-8
2. Financial Statement Schedules
Independent Auditors' Report F-24
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts F-25
Schedules not listed above have been omitted because the matter or
conditions are not present or the information required to be set forth
therein is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements hereto.
3. Exhibits
The exhibits listed in the accompanying index to exhibits are filed or
incorporated by reference as part of this Annual Report.
37
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
- ------- ------------------------------------------------------------------
3.1 Certificate of Incorporation of the Company and Form of Certificate
of Amendment thereto (*)
3.2 By-Laws of the Company (**)
4.1 Form of Rights Agreement (*)
10.1 Form of Sale and Transfer Agreement between Siemens
Aktiengesellschaft and Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. (*)
10.2 Form of Sale and Transfer Agreement by and among Siemens Power
Corporation and Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. (*)
10.3 Form of Tax Allocation and Indemnification Agreement among
Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc., Rofin-Sinar, Inc., Siemens
Corporation and Siemens Power Corporation (*)
10.4 Joint Venture Agreement, dated as of May 27, 1992, by and among
Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH, Marubeni Corporation and Nippei Toyama
Corporation (*)
10.5 Cooperation Agreement, dated as of May 27, 1992, among Nippei
Toyama Corporation, Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH and Marubeni Corporation
(*)
10.6 Cooperation Agreement, dated as of May 27, 1992, among Rofin-Sinar
Laser GmbH, Marubeni Corporation and Nippei Toyama Corporation (*)
10.7 Inheritable Building Right (Erbbaurecht), dated as of March 1,
1990, between Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH and Lohss GmbH (in German,
English summary provided) (*)
10.8 Lease Agreement, dated August 10, 1990, between Josef and Maria
Kranz and Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH (in German, English summary
provided) (*)
10.9 Lease Agreement, dated June 14, 1989, between DR Group and
Rofin-Sinar, Incorporated (Mast Street property) (*)
10.10 Lease Agreement, dated March 25, 1993 between DR Group and
Rofin-Sinar, Incorporated (Plymouth Oaks Drive property) (*)
10.11 Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH Pension Plan (in German, English summary
provided) (*)
10.12 Form of 1996 Equity Incentive Plan (*)
10.13 Form of 1996 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan (*)
10.14 Deutsche Bank AG Commitment Letter dated August 22, 1996 (*)
10.15 Form of Employment Agreement, dated as of September 2, 1996, among
Peter Wirth, Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH and Rofin-Sinar Technologies
Inc. (in German, English summary provided) (*)
10.16 Form of Employment Agreement, dated as of September 2, 1996, among
Hinrich Martinen, Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH and Rofin-Sinar
Technologies Inc. (in German, English summary
38
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
- ------- ------------------------------------------------------------------
provided) (*)
10.17 Form of Employment Agreement, dated as of September 2, 1996, among
Gunther Braun, Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH and Rofin-Sinar Technologies
Inc. (in German, English summary provided) (***)
10.18 English Translation of Acquisition Agreement, dated as of April 29,
2000, by and between Mannesmann Demag Krauss-Maffei AG and
Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH (****)
10.19 English Translation of Option Agreement between Carl Baasel and
Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH (***)
10.20 Lease Agreement between Carl Baasel and Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH
(***)
10.21 2002 Equity Incentive Plan
11.1 Statement of Earnings per Share
21.1 List of Subsidiaries of the Registrant
23.1 Consent of Independent Auditors
31.1 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
32.1 Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer
32.2 Section 1350 Certification of Chief Financial Officer
___________________
(*) Incorporated by reference to the exhibits filed with the Company's
Registration Statement on
Form S-1 (File No. 333-09539) which was declared effective on
September 25, 1996.
(**) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit filed with the Company's
Quarterly Report for the period ended March 31, 1998.
(***) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit filed with the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on May 24, 2000.
(****) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit filed with the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K/a filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on January 18, 2001.
b. Reports on Form 8-K during the last quarter of the fiscal year covered by
this report
August 6, 2003-Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure-The Company furnished a
press release reporting financial results for the fiscal quarter ended
June 30, 2003 and held a public webcast in connection with the issuance of
the press release.
39
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.
Date: December 19, 2003 ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC.
By: /s/ Peter Wirth
Peter Wirth
Chairman of the Board, Chief
Executive Officer and President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities 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/ Peter Wirth Chairman of the Board of December 19, 2003
- ---------------------
Peter Wirth Directors, Chief Executive
Officer and President
/s/ Gunther Braun Executive Vice President, December 19, 2003
- ---------------------
Gunther Braun Finance and Administration,
Chief Financial Officer,
Principal Accounting Officer
and Director
/s/ William Hoover Director December 19, 2003
- ---------------------
William Hoover
/s/ Ralph Reins Director December 19, 2003
- ---------------------
Ralph Reins
/s/ Gary Willis Director December 19, 2003
- ---------------------
Gary Willis
/s/ Carl F. Baasel Director December 19, 2003
- ---------------------
Carl F. Baasel
/s/ Daniel Smoke Director December 19, 2003
- ---------------------
Daniel Smoke
40
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. and Subsidiaries
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Rofin-Sinar
Technologies Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2003 and 2002, and the
related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity and
comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year
period ended September 30, 2003. 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 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 financial position of Rofin-Sinar
Technologies Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2003 and 2002, and the
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the
three-year period ended September 30, 2003, in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
As discussed in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company
adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, "Goodwill and Other
Intangible Assets", effective October 1, 2002.
/s/KPMG LLP
Detroit, Michigan
November 1, 2003
F-1
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(dollars in thousands)
September 30,
---------------------------------
2003 2002
----------------- --------------
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 44,487 $ 20,312
Accounts receivable, trade 66,614 59,772
Less allowance for doubtful accounts (2,066) (1,498)
----------------- --------------
Trade accounts receivable, net 64,548 58,274
Accounts receivable from related party (note 12) 247 66
Other accounts receivable 997 2,093
Investment in marketable equity securities -- 829
Inventories (note 2) 86,738 74,290
Prepaid expenses 1,073 835
Deferred income tax assets - current (note 9) 6,419 7,193
================= ==============
Total current assets 204,509 163,892
Property and equipment, at cost (note 3) 57,520 48,667
Less accumulated depreciation (29,828) (23,978)
----------------- --------------
Property and equipment, net 27,692 24,689
Deferred income tax assets - noncurrent (note 9) 2,167 1,968
Goodwill, net (note 4) 48,058 41,053
Intangibles, net (note 4) 8,866 8,872
Other assets 194 341
----------------- ---------------
Total assets $ 291,486 $ 240,815
================= ==============
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Line of credit and short-term borrowings
(notes 6 and 7) $ 35,781 $ 22,544
Accounts payable, trade 12,476 12,798
Accounts payable to related party (note 12) 2,158 7,830
Income taxes payable (note 9) 6,980 5,699
Deferred income tax liabilities - current (note 9) 4,440 1,920
Accrued liabilities (note 5) 43,915 31,440
----------------- ---------------
Total current liabilities 105,750 82,231
Long-term debt (notes 6 and 7) 33,052 40,591
Pension obligations (note 10) 7,830 6,026
Deferred income tax liabilities - noncurrent (note 9) 2,320 2,036
Minority interests 1,756 1,218
Other long-term liabilities 192 295
----------------- ---------------
Total liabilities 150,900 132,397
Commitments and contingencies (note 8)
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, 5,000,000 shares authorized,
none issued or outstanding -- --
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares
authorized, 11,908,600 (11,551,800 at
September 30, 2002) shares issued
and outstanding 119 115
Additional paid-in capital 79,918 76,156
Retained earnings 54,666 39,361
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) 5,883 (7,214)
----------------- ----------------
F-2
Total stockholders' equity 140,586 108,418
----------------- ---------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 291,486 $ 240,815
================= ===============
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-3
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003, 2002 AND 2001
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
Years ended September 30,
-------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
---------------- -------------- -------------
Net sales $ 257,746 $ 221,948 $ 220,557
Cost of goods sold 161,465 143,128 138,408
---------------- -------------- -------------
Gross profit 96,281 78,820 82,149
---------------- -------------- -------------
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 51,282 46,401 41,841
Research and development expenses 18,060 13,249 14,798
Goodwill and intangibles amortization 1,654 3,762 3,653
Special charges (note 1(a)) -- -- 700
---------------- -------------- -------------
Income from operations 25,285 15,408 21,157
Other expense (income):
Interest, net (note 12) 3,249 3,407 3,328
Minority interest 709 772 688
Foreign currency gains (3,139) (526) (1,369)
Miscellaneous (261) (630) 333
---------------- -------------- -------------
Total other expense (income), net 558 3,023 2,980
---------------- -------------- -------------
Income before income taxes 24,727 12,385 18,177
Income tax expense (note 9) 9,422 7,384 10,962
---------------- -------------- -------------
Net income $ 15,305 $ 5,001 $ 7,215
================ ============== =============
Net income per share (note 11):
Basic $ 1.31 $ 0.43 $ 0.62
Diluted $ 1.29 $ 0.43 $ 0.62
================ ============== =============
Weighted average shares used in computing
net income per share (note 11):
Basic 11,639,898 11,551,800 11,546,500
Diluted 11,863,094 11,591,505 11,600,648
================ ============== =============
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-4
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003, 2002, AND 2001
(dollars in thousands)
Accumulated
Common Additional Other Total
Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive Stockholders'
Par Value Capital Earnings Income (loss) Equity
------------ ------------ ----------- ---------------- -----------------
BALANCES at September 30, 2000 $ 115 $ 76,049 $ 27,145 $ (12,590) $ 90,719
Comprehensive income:
Cumulative effect of change in
Accounting principle (188) (188)
Fair value of interest swap agreement -- -- -- (783) (783)
Foreign currency translation adjustment -- -- -- 2,014 2,014
Net income -- -- 7,215 -- 7,215
Total comprehensive income 8,258
Common stock issued in connection with
stock incentive plans -- 74 -- -- 74
------------ ------------ ----------- ---------------- -----------------
BALANCES at September 30, 2001 $ 115 $ 76,123 $ 34,360 $ (11,547) $ 99,051
Comprehensive income:
Fair value of interest swap agreement -- -- -- (80) (80)
Foreign currency translation adjustment -- -- -- 4,413 4,413
Net income -- -- 5,001 -- 5,001
Total comprehensive income 9,334
Common stock issued in connection with
stock incentive plans -- 33 -- -- 33
------------ ------------ ----------- ---------------- -----------------
BALANCES at September 30, 2002 $ 115 $ 76,156 $ 39,361 (7,214) $ 108,418
============ ============ =========== ================ =================
F-5
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(CONTINUED)
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003, 2002, AND 2001
(dollars in thousands)
Accumulated
Common Additional Other Total
Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive Stockholders'
Par Value Capital Earnings Income (loss) Equity
------------ ------------ ----------- ---------------- -----------------
BALANCES at September 30, 2002 $ 115 $ 76,156 $ 39,361 (7,214) $ 108,418
Comprehensive income:
Fair value of interest swap agreement -- -- -- 204 204
Foreign currency translation adjustment -- -- -- 12,893 12,893
Net income -- -- 15,305 -- 15,305
---------
Total comprehensive income 28,402
Common stock issued in connection with
stock incentive plans 4 3,762 -- -- 3,766
------------ ------------ ----------- ---------------- -----------------
BALANCES at September 30, 2003 $ 119 $ 79,918 $ 54,666 $ 5,883 $ 140,586
============ ============ =========== ================ =================
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-6
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003, 2002 AND 2001
(dollars in thousands)
Years ended September 30,
-------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
---------------- -------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income $ 15,305 $ 5,001 $ 7,215
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided by (used in)
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 5,888 7,496 7,186
Issuance of restricted stock 27 27 43
Provision for doubtful accounts. 282 (635) (7)
Unrealized loss from securities -- 181 --
Exchange rate gains (3,371) (933) (1,005)
Loss on disposal of property and equipment 251 99 127
Gain on sale of medical business -- (718) --
Deferred income taxes 2,511 1,618 858
Increase in minority interest 709 772 688
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Trade accounts receivable 2,872 909 (2,795)
Other accounts receivable 1,427 556 194
Inventories (366) 313 (11,293)
Prepaid expenses and other 700 212 (472)
Accounts payable (9,143) 1,262 2,371
Income taxes payable 78 1,055 456
Accrued liabilities and pension obligations 8,688 (1,060) 5,555
---------------- -------------- -------------
Net cash provided by operating
activities 25,858 16,155 9,121
---------------- -------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Additions to property and equipment (3,499) (4,547) (4,685)
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment 157 143 105
Proceeds from the sale of business -- 938 --
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired -- -- (2,565)
---------------- -------------- -------------
Net cash used in investing activities (3,342) (3,466) (7,145)
---------------- -------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Borrowings from bank 3,576 5,503 48,538
Repayments to bank (8,249) (10,834) (65,743)
Payment to subsidiary's minority shareholders (141) (435) (608)
Issuance of common stock 3,739 6 43
---------------- -------------- -------------
Net cash used in financing activities (1,075) (5,760) (17,770)
---------------- -------------- -------------
Effect of foreign currency translation on cash 2,734 (104) 308
---------------- -------------- -------------
Net increase (decrease)
in cash and cash equivalents 24,175 6,825 (15,486)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 20,312 13,487 28,973
---------------- -------------- -------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 44,487 $ 20,312 $ 13,487
================ ============== =============
Cash paid during the year for interest $ 4,143 $ 3,105 $ 3,924
================ ============== =============
Cash paid during the year for income taxes $ 5,920 $ 1,468 $ 5,412
================ ============== =============
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-7
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001
(dollars in thousands)
1. SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(a) Description of the Company and Business
The primary business of Rofin is to develop, manufacture and market industrial
lasers and supplies used for material processing applications. The majority of
the Company's customers are in the machine tool, automotive, semiconductor and
electronics industries and are located in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
For the years ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, Rofin generated approximately
67% and 69%, respectively of its revenues from the sale of lasers and laser
systems and approximately 33% and 31%, respectively, from aftermarket support
for the Company's existing laser products and from its components business.
The accompanying financial statements present the historical financial
information of Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. ("Rofin" or "RSTI" or "the
Company") and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Rofin consists of Rofin-Sinar Inc.
("RS Inc.") and Rofin-Sinar Technologies Europe S.L. ("RSTE"). RSTE, a European
holding company formed in 1999 owns 100% of Rofin-Sinar Laser GmbH ("RSL"), 80%
of Dilas Diodenlaser GmbH ("Dilas"), 100% of Rofin-Baasel Italiana S.r.l., 100%
of Rofin-Baasel France S.A., 71% of Rofin-Sinar UK Ltd., 100% of Rofin-Baasel UK
Ltd., 100% of Rofin-Baasel Benelux B.V., 100% of Rofin-Baasel Singapore Pte.
Ltd., 83% of Rofin-Baasel Espana S.L.("RBE"), 100% of Rofin-Baasel Taiwan
Ltd.(formed on July 1, 2002) and 100% of Rofin-Baasel Korea Co., Ltd. (formed on
July 22, 2002).
RSL includes the consolidated accounts of its 88% owned subsidiary Rofin-Baasel
Japan Corp. (a Japanese corporation), its 100% owned subsidiaries Rasant-Alcotec
Beschichtungstechnik GmbH ("Rasant"); CBL Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH; and its
100% owned subsidiary Carl Baasel Lasertechnik GmbH & Co. KG. ("CBL").
CBL includes the consolidated accounts of its wholly owned subsidiaries
Rofin-Baasel Inc. ("RB Inc"), Wegmann-Baasel Laser und elektrooptische Geraete
GmbH, and PMB Elektronik GmbH.
All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in
consolidation.
On June 22, 2001, the shares of the common stock of Rofin-Sinar Technologies,
Inc. were admitted to the regulated market (Geregelter Markt) with trading on
the Prime Standard segment of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in Germany. The
Company incurred approximately $0.7 million in expenses related to obtaining
this additional listing, which is included in "special charges" in the
accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.
(b) Acquisitions and Dispositions
On March 31, 2003, the Company acquired an additional 37% of the share capital
of Rofin-Marubeni Laser Corporation, Atsugi-shi, Japan, through its wholly owned
subsidiary RSL for $0.1 million in cash. RSL subsequently holds 88% of the share
capital. As of May 1, 2003, Rofin-Marubeni Laser Corporation, Japan was renamed
Rofin-Baasel Japan Corporation.
On October 5, 2001, the Company sold the assets of its medical laser business
resulting in a gain of $0.7 million. As part of the proceeds from the sale, the
Company received marketable equity securities, which have been classified as
trading securities. During the fiscal year ending September 30, 2003 the Company
sold the above mentioned securities for a total amount of $1.2 million. The
Company recorded realized gains of $0.3 million during fiscal year 2003 and an
unrealized loss of $0.2 million during fiscal year 2002 related to such
securities.
F-8
On February 28, 2001, the Company acquired 80% of the share capital of Z-Laser
S.A. through its wholly owned subsidiary Rofin-Baasel Espana, S.A., Barcelona,
Spain for $3.3 million in cash. At the end of June 2001, Z-Laser S.A. was merged
into RBE. As a result of this merger, the minority shareholder owns 17% of the
total stock of the new Spanish subsidiary. The Company and the minority
shareholder are parties to a put/call option agreement for the remaining 17% of
share capital held by the minority shareholder for a fixed price of 0.9 million
Euro ($889) (see note 12). Accordingly, the accompanying financial statements
present RBE as if it was 100% owned.
On May 10, 2000, the Company acquired 90.01% of the share capital of Carl Baasel
Lasertechnik GmbH ("Baasel Lasertech") through its wholly owned subsidiary RSL
for 44.3 million Euro ($40.2 million, at the May 10, 2000 exchange rate) in
cash. Additionally, RSTI refinanced 23.4 million Euro of the then outstanding
debt of Baasel Lasertech. In September 2001, Baasel Lasertech was transformed
into CBL, a limited partnership. The Company and the minority shareholder of CBL
were parties to an option agreement for the remaining share of capital held by
the minority shareholder for a fixed price of 6.3 million Euro ($6,186) (see
note 12). Accordingly, the accompanying financial statements present CBL as if
it was 100% owned. Effective December 31, 2002, the minority shareholder
resigned from the limited partnership. The remaining shares of CBL were
purchased by RSL during 2003 for the fixed price of 6.3 million Euro ($6.2
million at the December 31, 2002 exchange rate).
(c) Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents consist of liquid instruments with an original maturity of
three months or less as well as taxable and tax-exempt variable rate demand
obligations, which are redeemable upon a five day minimum notice. Interest
income was $422, $365, and $1,112 for the years ended September 30, 2003, 2002,
and 2001, respectively, and was offset by interest expense in the accompanying
consolidated statements of operations.
(d) Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, after provisions for
excess and obsolete inventory salable at prices below cost. Costs are determined
using the first in, first out and weighted average cost methods.
The Company writes down inventory for estimated obsolescence or unmarketable
inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the
estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market
conditions. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected
by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required.
(e) Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated over their estimated
useful lives, except for leasehold improvements, which are amortized over the
lesser of their estimated useful lives or the term of the lease. The methods of
depreciation are straight line for financial reporting purposes and accelerated
for income tax purposes. Depreciable lives for financial reporting purposes are
as follows:
Useful Lives
---------------
Buildings 40 Years
Machinery and equipment 3-10 Years
Furniture and fixtures 3-10 Years
Computers and software 3-4 Years
Leasehold improvements 3-15 Years
The Company reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes
in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be
recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a
comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future undiscounted net cash
flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be
impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the
carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be
disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less
costs to sell.
F-9
(f) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
On October 1, 2002, we adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB")
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 142, "Goodwill and
Other Intangibles". Under SFAS No. 142, goodwill is no longer subject to
amortization, but will be subject to an annual impairment test. Intangible
assets that are not deemed to have an indefinite life will continue to be
amortized over their useful lives.
SFAS No. 142 requires that goodwill be tested on an annual basis, at minimum,
for potential impairment at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is
defined as the lowest level of an entity that is a business and that can be
distinguished, physically and operationally and for internal reporting purposes,
from other activities, operations, and assets of the entity. A reporting unit
can be no higher than a reportable operating segment and would generally be
lower than that level of reporting. The Company identified three reporting
units: the German reporting unit; the United States reporting unit; and the
reporting unit for the rest of the world.
Under SFAS No. 142, the fair value of each reporting unit is compared to its
carrying amount. If the carrying value is below the fair value assessment, there
will be no impairment loss. If the fair value is below the carrying value, then
the company is required to perform an additional test to determine the impaired
fair value of the goodwill and its carrying amount.
The Company completed the initial and annual goodwill impairment testing
required by SFAS No. 142 and determined that the fair value of each reporting
unit exceeds its carrying value and accordingly, the second step of the
impairment test was not required to be performed.
Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 142, goodwill was amortized on a straight line
basis over 15 years. The amount of goodwill impairment, if any, was measured
based on projected discounted future operating cash flows compared to the
unamortized goodwill balance.
(g) Revenue Recognition and Accounts Receivable Valuation
We recognize revenue in accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101,
"Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements" (SAB 101). Accordingly, revenue is
recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has
been delivered, the price is fixed or determinable and collection is probable.
Terms under these arrangements are generally free on board ("FOB") shipping
point, or ("EXW")ex works factory, at which time legal title passes from the
company to the customer. Therefore, delivery is generally considered to have
occurred upon shipment. In certain circumstances customers may negotiate
different terms. In these situations, delivery is considered to have occurred
once legal title has passed from the Company to the customer. This may be at
delivery to the customers destination or acceptance by our customer. Our
products typically include a one-year warranty and the estimated cost of product
warranty claims is accrued at the time the sale is recognized, based on
historical experience.
Our sales to end-user customers and resellers typically do not have customer
acceptance provisions and only certain of our original equipment manufacturers
(OEMs) customer sales have customer acceptance provisions. Customer acceptance
is generally limited to performance under our published product specifications.
For the few product sales that have customer acceptance provisions because of
higher than published specifications, (1) the products are tested and accepted
by the customer at our site or by the customer's acceptance of the results of
our testing program prior to shipment to the customer, or (2) the revenue is
deferred until customer acceptance occurs.
The vast majority of our sales are made to OEMs, resellers and end-users in the
industrial market. Sales made to OEMs and resellers in the industrial market do
not require installation of the products by us, as installation is performed by
the customer and are not subject to other post-delivery obligations. For
end-users, where we have agreed to perform installation or provide training we
defer revenue related to installation services until installation is completed.
We defer revenue on training services until these services are provided.
F-10
The Company records allowances for uncollectible customer accounts receivable
based on historical experience. Additionally, an allowance is made based on an
assessment of specific customers' financial condition and liquidity. If the
financial condition of the Company's customers were to deteriorate, additional
allowances may be required.
(h) Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred
tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences
attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of
existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating
loss tax carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using
enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which
those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect
on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period
that includes the enactment date. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax
assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some
portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
(i) Accounting for Warranties
The Company issues a standard warranty of one year for parts and labor on lasers
that are sold. Additionally, extended warranties are negotiated on a
contract-by-contract basis. The Company provides for estimated warranty costs as
products are shipped.
The Company's estimate of costs to fulfill its warranty obligations is based on
historical experience and expectation of future conditions. To the extent the
Company experiences increased warranty claim activity or increased costs
associated with servicing those claims, revisions to the estimated warranty
liability would be required.
(j) Foreign Currency Translation
The assets and liabilities of the Company's operations outside the United States
are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect on the balance
sheet date, and revenues and expenses are translated using a weighted average
exchange rate during the period. Gains or losses resulting from translating
foreign currency financial statements are recorded as a separate component of
stockholders' equity. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency
transactions are included in net income.
(k) Net Earnings per Share (EPS)
Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of
common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential
dilution from common stock equivalents (stock options).
(l) Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income consists of net income, foreign currency translation
adjustments and fair value of interest rate swap agreements and is presented in
the consolidated statements of stockholders' equity and comprehensive income.
Accumulated other comprehensive income is comprised of the following:
September 30,
-----------------------------
2003 2002
------------ -------------
Foreign currency translation adjustment $ 6,730 $ ( 6,163)
Fair value of interest swap agreements
(net of tax effect of $499 in 2003
and $634 in 2002) ( 847) ( 1,051)
------------- -------------
Total accumulated other comprehensive
income/(loss) $ 5,883 $ ( 7,214)
============= =============
F-11
(m) Research and Development Expenses
Research and development costs are expensed when incurred and are net of German
government and European grants of $936, $1,077, and $1,221 received for the
years ended September 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. The Company has no
future obligations under such grants.
(n) Financial Instruments
The fair value of financial instruments, consisting principally of cash,
accounts receivable, accounts payable, and line of credits, approximate carrying
value due to the short-term nature of such instruments. The fair value of
long-term debt approximates the carrying value due to the variable based
interest on such debt.
(o) Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage funding costs and
exposures arising from fluctuations in interest rates. These derivative
financial instruments consist primarily of interest rate swaps. The Company does
not use derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133, "Accounting for
Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities and SFAS No. 138",
"Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activity, an
Amendment of SFAS 133." require that all derivative instruments be recorded on
the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at their respective
fair values and that changes in the derivative instruments' fair value be
recognized in earnings. On the date the derivative contract is entered into, the
Company designates the derivative as a hedge of the variability of cash flows to
be paid related to a recognized liability ("cash flow" hedge). Changes in the
fair value of a derivative that is highly effective and that is designated and
qualifies as a cash-flow hedge are recorded in other comprehensive income, until
earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the designated hedged
item.
Interest differentials resulting from interest rate swap agreements designated
as hedges of the Company's financial liabilities are recorded on an accrual
basis as an adjustment to interest expense.
From time to time, the Company enters into foreign currency forward contracts
and forward exchange options generally of less than one year duration to hedge a
portion of its sales transactions denominated in foreign currencies. At
September 30, 2003, the Company held Japanese yen forward contracts with
notional amounts of Euro 1.2 million, Japanese yen forward contracts with
notional amounts of $0.1 million and Euro forward exchange options with notional
amounts of $5.2 million.
The Company manages exposure to counterparty credit risk by entering into
derivative financial instruments with highly rated institutions that can be
expected to fully perform under the terms of such agreements.
(p) Use of Estimates
Management of the Company make a number of estimates and assumptions relating to
the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets
and liabilities to prepare these financial statements in conformity with
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the
valuation allowances for receivables and inventories, warranty liabilities; and
assets and obligations related to employee benefits. Actual results could differ
from these estimates.
(q) Stock Incentive Plans
The Company applies the intrinsic-value-based method of accounting prescribed by
Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees, to account for its fixed-plan stock options. Under this method,
compensation expense is recorded on the date of grant only if the current market
price of the underlying stock exceeded the exercise price. SFAS No. 123,
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, established accounting and disclosure
requirements using a fair-value-based method of accounting for stock-based
F-12
employee compensation plans. As allowed by SFAS No. 123, the Company has elected
to continue to apply the intrinsic-value-based method of accounting described
above, and has adopted only the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123.
The Company follows Accounting Principles Board Opinion 25, "Accounting for
Stock Issued to Employees", to account for stock options. No compensation cost
is recognized because the option exercise price is equal to the market price of
the underlying stock on the date of grant. Had compensation cost for these
plans, as prescribed by SFAS 123, been determined based on the Black-Scholes
value at the grant dates for awards, pro forma net income and earnings per share
would have been:
Year ended September 30,
-----------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
------------- ------------ ------------
Net income - as reported $ 15,305 $ 5,001 $ 7,215
------------- ------------ ------------
Add back:
Stock based compensation expense
Included in reported net income -- -- --
------------- ------------ ------------
Deduct:
Stock based compensation expense
Determined under fair value method (594) (461) (510)
------------- ------------ ------------
Pro forma net income $14,711 $ 4,540 $ 6,705
Basic earnings per share:
As reported $1.31 $0.43 $0.62
Pro forma $1.26 $0.39 $0.58
Diluted earnings per share:
As reported $1.29 $0.43 $0.62
Pro forma $1.24 $0.39 $0.58
------------- ------------ ------------
The following assumptions were used in the determination of pro-forma
compensation cost under the provisions of SFAS 123:
2003 2002 2001 2001
Grant Grant Grant Grant
(262,000 (273,000 (215,000 (30,000
Shares) Shares) Shares) Shares)
------- ----------- -------- --------
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $ 4.54 $ 4.31 $ 5.25 $7.67
Expected Life 5 Years 5 Years 5 Years 5 Years
Volatility 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0%
Risk-Free Interest Rate 4.7% 4.7% 5.7% 6.1%
Dividend Yield 0% 0% 0% 0%
Annual Forfeiture Rate 1.9% 1.0% 2.8% 2.8%
(r) Shipping and Handling Costs
The Company accounts for shipping and handling costs in accordance with the
Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue No. 00-10, "Accounting for Shipping and
Handling Fees and Costs" (EITF No. 00-10). In accordance with EITF No. 00-10,
revenue received from shipping and handling fees is reflected in net sales.
2. INVENTORIES
Inventories are summarized as follows:
September 30,
-----------------------
2003 2002
----------- ----------
Finished goods $ 12,809 $ 11,188
Work in progress 25,793 20,255
F-13
Raw materials and supplies 24,717 20,169
Demo inventory 6,585 6,548
Service parts 16,834 16,130
----------- ---------
Total inventories $ 86,738 $ 74,290
=========== ==========
3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment include the following:
September 30,
-----------------------
2003 2002
----------- ----------
Buildings $ 22,530 $ 18,985
Technical machinery and equipment 14,356 11,626
Furniture and fixtures 11,042 8,975
Computers and software 5,302 5,189
Leasehold improvements 4,290 3,892
-------- --------
Total property and equipment, at cost $ 57,520 $ 48,667
========== ==========
4. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The following sets forth a reconciliation of net income and earnings per share
information for the years ended September 30, 2002, and 2001 adjusted for the
non-amortization provisions of SFAS No. 142:
2002 2001
----------- -----------
Net income - as reported $5,001 $7,215
Add back:
Goodwill amortization
(net of tax) 3,121 3,034
----------- -----------
Adjusted net income $8,122 $ 10,249
=========== ===========
Basic earnings per share:
Reported net income $0.43 $0.62
Goodwill amortization 0.27 0.27
----------- ----------
Adjusted net income $0.70 $0.89
=========== ==========
Diluted earnings per share:
Reported net income $0.43 $0.62
Goodwill amortization 0.27 0.26
----------- ----------
Adjusted net income $0.70 $0.88
=========== ==========
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended September 30,
2003 and 2002 are as follows:
Germany United States Rest of World Total
-------- ------------- ------------- --------
Balance as of September 30, 2002 $ 28,802 $ 2,197 $ 10,054 $ 41,053
Currency exchange difference 4,764 413 1,828 7,005
-------- ------------- ------------- --------
Balance as of September 30, 2003 $ 33,566 $ 2,610 $ 11,882 $ 48,058
======== ============= ============= ========
The carrying value of other intangible assets are as follows:
September 30, 2003 September 30, 2002
-------------------------------- ---------------------------
Gross Carrying Accumulated Gross Accumulated
Amount Amortization Carrying Amortization
-------------- ------------ ------------
F-14
Amount
---------
Amortized Intangible Assets:
Patents $5,279 $1,192 $4,448 $706
Customer base 6,952 2,370 5,858 931
Other 622 425 419 216
-------------- ------------ ---------- ------------
Total $ 12,853 $3,987 $ 10,725 $1,853
============== ============ ========== ============
The amortization for customer base is calculated on a straight-line basis over 7
years. For patents the amortization is based on the maturity of the patent which
is between 5 to 18 years.
Amortization expense for the years ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 were $1.7
million and $0.7 million, respectively. At September 30, 2003, estimated
amortization expense for the next five fiscal years based on the average
exchange rates as of September 30, 2003, are as follows:
2004 $ 1.6 million
2005 1.6 million
2006 1.6 million
2007 1.1 million
2008 0.4 million
5. ACCRUED LIABILITIES
Accrued liabilities are comprised of the following:
September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
-------------- --------------
Employee compensation $ 11,896 $9,039
Warranty reserves 10,528 10,036
Other taxes payable 267 289
Customer deposits 12,875 3,202
Other 8,349 8,874
------------- --------------
Total accrued liabilities $ 43,915 $ 31,440
============= ==============
The Company provides for the estimated costs of product warranties when revenue
is recognized. The estimate of costs to fulfill our warranty obligations is
based on historical experience and expectation of future conditions. The change
in warranty reserves for the years ended September 30, 2003 is as follows:
Balance at September 30, 2002 $ 10,036
Additional accruals for warranties during the period 8,400
Usage during the period (9177)
Currency translation 1,269
-----------
Balance at September 30, 2003 $ 10,528
===========
6. LINE OF CREDIT
The Company maintains a $25,000 annually renewable line of credit with Deutsche
Bank AG to support its working capital needs. As of September 30, 2003 and 2002,
$12,600 and $12,703, respectively, were outstanding under this loan facility as
a result of borrowings by RSL, Rofin-Baasel Japan Corp., Rofin-Baasel Italiana
S.r.L., Rasant, Rofin-Sinar UK Ltd. and Rofin-Baasel Singapore Pte. Ltd. at an
average fixed interest rate of 3.2% for fiscal 2003 and 3.5% for fiscal 2002.
In addition, the Company's non-U.S. subsidiaries have several lines of credit,
which allow them to borrow in the applicable local currency. At September 30,
2003 and 2002, direct borrowings under these agreements totaled $5,546 and
$5,286, respectively. The remaining unused portion of the lines of credit, at
September 30, 2003, was
F-15
$21,232, in aggregate. Fixed interest rates vary from 1.1% up to 4.9%, depending
upon the country and usage of the available credit.
The short-term portion of the refinancing of the acquisition of CBL and its
existing debt ($17,632) is included in the caption "line of credit and
short-term borrowings" (see note 7) in the accompanying consolidated balance
sheet.
7. LONG-TERM DEBT
Dilas and RSL maintain additional long-term credit facilities of $8,900,
which expire in 2005, of $2,000, which expire in 2007 and of $1,200
which expire in 2008. Rasant maintains a long-term credit facility of $0.2
million that expires in 2009. As of September 30, 2003, $10,274 was borrowed
against such facilities at an average interest rate of 4.4%. As of September 30,
2002, $6,156 was borrowed against such facilities at an average interest rate of
4.6%.
On December 15, 2000, the Company refinanced its existing credit facilities for
the financing of the acquisition and the assumption of the debt of CBL. As of
September 30, 2003, two separate notes aggregating $40,410 were outstanding
under these credit facilities, bearing interest at the six-month Euribor rate.
Maturities of these loans are as follows: $17,632 in 2004, $20,071 in 2005 and
$2,707 in 2006. Based on the above maturities, $17,632 has been included in the
caption "line of credit and short-term borrowings" in the accompanying
consolidated balance sheet (see note 6).
The Company has entered into certain swap arrangements and an interest rate cap
to hedge the risk of changes in future cash flows due to the variable rate basis
of the long-term debt and to reduce the Company's overall cost of borrowing. At
September 30, 2003, the following swap arrangements were outstanding: $12,408
notional amount converted to a variable rate of six-month United States dollar
LIBOR; $14,938 notional amount converted to a fixed rate of 6.73%; and $13,518
notional amount subject to a Swiss Franc cross-currency swap agreement based on
six-month Swiss Franc LIBOR. The interest rate cap limits a notional amount of
$1.2 million to a maximum interest rate of 3%.
8. LEASE COMMITMENTS
The Company leases operating facilities and equipment under operating leases,
which expire at various dates through 2017 (see note 12). The lease agreements
require payment of real estate taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses by the
Company.
Minimum lease payments for future fiscal years under non-cancelable operating
leases as of September 30, 2003 are:
Fiscal Year Ending September 30, Total
------------------------------------------------ -----------
2004 $4,766
2005 3,882
2006 2,855
2007 1,472
2008 and thereafter 4,985
Rent expense charged to operations for the years ended September 30, 2003, 2002,
and 2001, approximated $5,183, $3,959, and $3,373, respectively.
9. INCOME TAXES
Income before income taxes is attributable to the following geographic regions:
Years ended September 30,
-----------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
---------------- ------------------ ----------------
United States $ 2,898 $ 1,170 $ (515)
F-16
Germany 16,341 8,830 15,512
France 260 98 800
Italy 1,053 593 646
Japan 113 330 361
United Kingdom 2,443 1,078 848
Other 1,619 286 525
---------------- ------------------ ----------------
Total income before income taxes $ 24,727 $ 12,385 $ 18,177
================ ================== ================
Income tax expense is comprised of the following amounts:
Years ended September 30,
-----------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
---------------- ------------------ ---------------
Current:
United States $ (58) $ (4) $ 34
Foreign 7,022 5,770 10,071
---------------- ------------------ ----------------
Total current 6,964 5,766 10,104
---------------- ------------------ ----------------
Deferred:
United States 614 392 795
Foreign 1,844 1,226 63
---------------- ------------------ ----------------
Total deferred 2,458 1,618 858
---------------- ------------------ ----------------
Total income tax expense$ 9,422 $ 7,384 $10,962
================ ================== ================
Statutory tax rates in the U.S., U.K., Italy, France, Spain, the Netherlands,
Singapore and Japan approximate 34%, 30%, 38.25%, 34.33%, 35%, 34.5%, 22% and
41.55%, respectively. Generally, in Germany retained corporate income is subject
to a municipal trade tax (which approximates 17%), which is deductible for
federal corporate income tax purposes, a federal corporate income tax of 25% and
a surcharge of 5.5% on the federal corporate income tax amount. In September
2002 the German government enacted the Flood Victim Solidarity Law which
increased the base rate of German federal corporation taxation from 25% to 26.5%
for fiscal year ending September 30, 2003 only. In 2001 and prior years, German
corporate tax law applied the imputation system with regard to the taxation of
the income of a corporation (such as RSL, WBL and Dilas).
The difference between actual income tax expense and the amount computed by
applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 34% is as follows:
Years ended September 30,
-----------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
---------------- ------------------ ---------------
Computed "expected" tax expense $ 8,407 $ 4,211 $6,180
Difference between U.S. and foreign statutory rates 659 588 1,612
Non-deductible goodwill amortization -- 661 928
Utilization of foreign tax credits (1,102) (370) --
Minority interest and other permanent differences 390 1,183 599
Change in tax law -- (486) --
Adjustment of valuation allowance 771 489 1,268
Adjustment of prior-year tax estimates (208) 248 22
Other 505 860 353
---------------- ----------------- ---------------
Actual tax expense $ 9,422 $ 7,384 $10,962
================ ================= ===============
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to the net deferred tax
assets are as follows:
September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
-------------- --------------
Deferred tax assets:
Foreign
Net operating loss carryforwards $ 186 $ 199
Pension accrual 571 390
F-17
Inventory 1,714 2,198
Other 201 264
-------------- --------------
Total Foreign 2,672 3,051
United States:
Net operating loss carryforwards 4,117 3,995
Property & equipment 57 48
Warranty accrual 639 565
Inventory 2,128 2,429
Allowance for bad debt 213 175
Pension accrual 199 161
Other 1,223 1,885
-------------- --------------
Total United States 8,576 9,258
Gross deferred tax assets 11,248 12,309
Less: Valuation allowance ( 4,396) ( 3,625)
-------------- --------------
Net deferred tax assets 6,852 8,684
-------------- --------------
September 30,
-------------------------------
2003 2002
-------------- --------------
Deferred tax liabilities:
Foreign:
Property & equipment (2,050) (1,621)
Accrued liabilities (67) (26)
Allowance for bad debt (--) (239)
Valuation of accounts payable (2,553) (946)
Other (356) (647)
-------------- --------------
Total Foreign (5,026) (3,479)
-------------- --------------
Net deferred income tax assets $ 1,826 $ 5,205
============== ==============
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers
whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax
assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is
dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in
which those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the
scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income,
and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Based upon the level of
historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the
periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it
is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these
deductible differences, net of the existing valuation allowances at September
30, 2003. At September 30, 2003, the Company had established a valuation
allowance related to net operating loss carryforwards at RB Inc. due to
uncertainty regarding RB Inc.'s ability to generate future taxable income
required to utilize these carryforwards. The valuation allowance increased in
fiscal 2003 by $771 due to increases in the net operating loss carryforward.
At September 30, 2003, the Company has net operating loss carryforwards
available of $9,510 in the United States (which expire as follows: $2,515 in
2005; $1,342 in 2006; $1,289 in 2020; $747 in 2021; $2,502 in 2022 and $1,115 in
2023) and $553 in Germany and $122 in other European and Asian countries (which
have no expiration date). The annual utilization by the Company of its U.S. net
operating loss carryforwards will be subject to certain annual limitations under
Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code.
The Company has not recorded deferred income taxes applicable to undistributed
earnings of its foreign subsidiaries' operations as all such earnings are deemed
to be indefinitely reinvested in those operations.
10. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
The Company has defined benefit pension plans for the RSL and RS Inc. employees.
The Company's U.S. plan began in fiscal 1995 and is funded. As is the normal
practice with German companies, the German pension plan is unfunded. Any new
employees, hired after the acquisition of CBL, are not eligible for the RSL
pension plan.
F-18
The following table sets forth the funded status of the plans at the balance
sheet dates:
September 30,
------------------------------
2003 2002
-------------- -------------
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 8,561 $ 7,575
Service cost 589 613
Interest cost 551 487
Actuarial (gains) and losses 354 (362)
Foreign exchange rate changes 1,115 350
Benefits paid (154) (102)
------------- -------------
Benefit obligation at end of year 11,016 8,561
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 2,103 2,067
Actual return on plan assets 420 (165)
Employer contributions 400 279
Benefits paid (79) (78)
------------- -------------
Fair value of plan assets at end of year 2,844 2,103
------------- -------------
Funded status (8,172) (6,458)
Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain) 191 218
Unrecognized prior service cost 151 214
------------- -------------
Accrued benefit cost $(7,830) $(6,026)
============= =============
Discount rate:
United States 6.5% 7.0%
Foreign 5.5% 5.7%
Expected return on plan assets -
United States only 7.0% 7.5%
Rate of compensation increase
United States 3.0% 4.0%
Foreign 2.0% 2.0%
The following table sets forth the components of net periodic benefit cost for
the respective fiscal years:
Years ended September 30,
------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
------------ ------------- -----------
Service cost $ 589 $ 613 $ 551
Interest cost 551 487 451
Expected return on plan assets (156) (166) (209)
Amortization of prior service cost 63 63 63
Recognized net actuarial loss -- -- (35)
------------ ------------- -----------
Net periodic benefit cost $1,047 $ 997 $ 821
============ ============= ===========
RS Inc. and Rofin-Baasel Inc. have 401(k) plans for the benefit of all eligible
U.S. employees, as defined by the plan. Participating employees may contribute
up to 16% of their qualified annual compensation. The Companies match 50% of the
first 5 to 6% of the employees' compensation contributed as a salary deferral.
Company contributions for the years ended September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001 were
$163, $149, and $130, respectively.
11. NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE
The calculation of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for
each period is as follows:
Years ended September 30,
------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
------------ ------------- -----------
F-19
Weighted average number of shares for BASIC net
income per common share 11,639,898 11,551,800 11,546,500
Potential additional shares due to outstanding
dilutive stock options 223,196 39,705 54,148
---------- ------------- -----------
Weighted average number of shares for DILUTED
net income per common share 11,863,094 11,591,505 11,600,648
=========== ============= ===========
Excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS for the year ended September 30,
2003, were 141,000 outstanding stock options. These could potentially dilute
future EPS calculations but were not included in the current period because
their effect on earnings per share would be anti-dilutive.
12. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Company had sales to its minority shareholder in Japan amounting to $1,644,
$2,644 and $1,168 in fiscal years 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively and the
amounts outstanding related to those sales is listed as accounts receivable
related party in the consolidated balance sheet.
The Company's sales to related parties have generally been on terms comparable
to those available in connection with sales to unaffiliated parties.
The main facility in Starnberg is rented under a 25 year operating lease from
the former minority shareholder of CBL, who is also a member of the board of
directors of the Company, and includes a clause to terminate the lease contract
within a two-year notice period during the contract period. The Company paid
rent expense of $538 and $446 to the former minority shareholder during fiscal
years 2003 and 2002, respectively.
The Company has accrued $1,055, at September 30, 2003 ($889 at September 30,
2002) for the option purchase price for the minority interest in RBE, and $278
was accrued for accumulated interest on these obligation, (see note 1). This
amount is included in accounts payable to related party in the accompanying
consolidated balance sheet. The corresponding interest on this obligation ($82
in 2003 and $81 in 2002) is included in interest expense in the accompanying
consolidated statement of operations.
At September 30, 2002 the Company has accrued $6,186 for the option purchase
price for the minority interest in CBL and $165 was accrued for accumulated
interest on this obligation. Effective December 31, 2002 the minority
shareholder resigned from the limited partnership and the remaining shares of
CBL were purchased during fiscal 2003 for the fixed price of Euro 6.3 million
($6.2 million at the December 31, 2002 exchange rate).
Accounts payable to related party also includes short-term loans from the
minority shareholders of Dilas of $241 at September 30, 2003.
13. GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
The Company manages its business under geographic regions that are aggregated
together as one segment in the global industrial laser industry. Sales from
these regions have similar long-term financial performance and economic
characteristics. The products from these regions utilize similar manufacturing
processes and use similar production equipment, which may be interchanged from
group to group. The Company distributes, sells and services final product to the
same type of customers from both regions.
Assets, revenues and income before taxes, by geographic region are summarized
below:
ASSETS September 30,
---------------------------------
2003 2002
--------------- ---------------
United States $ 53,061 $ 48,686
Germany 223,413 188,862
Other 113,238 97,548
Intercompany eliminations (98,226) (94,281)
--------------- ---------------
F-20
Total assets $ 291,486 $ 240,815
================== ==================
REVENUES TOTAL BUSINESS
Years ended September 30,
----------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
----------- ------------ ------------
United States $ 57,282 $ 63,167 $ 50,418
Germany 218,920 187,511 192,362
Other 76,965 62,590 60,650
Intercompany eliminations (95,421) (91,320) (82,873)
----------- ------------ -------------
$ 257,746 $ 221,948 $ 220,557
=========== ============ =============
INTERCOMPANY REVENUES
Years ended September 30,
----------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
----------- ------------ ------------
United States $ 4,071 $ 4,322 $ 4,767
Germany 76,533 76,835 67,835
Other 14,817 10,163 10,271
Intercompany eliminations ( 95,421) ( 91,320) ( 82,873)
---------- ----------- -------------
$ -- $ -- $ --
=========== ============= =============
EXTERNAL REVENUES
Years ended September 30,
----------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
----------- ------------ ------------
United States $ 53,211 $ 58,845 $ 45,651
Germany 142,387 110,676 124,527
Other 62,148 52,427 50,379
----------- ------------ ------------
$ 257,746 $ 221,948 $ 220,557
=========== ============ ============
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
Years ended September 30,
----------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001
----------- ------------ ------------
United States $ 2,898 $ 1,170 $ (515)
Germany 16,341 8,830 15,512
Other 5,488 2,385 3,180
----------- ------------ ------------
$ 24,727 $ 12,385 $ 18,177
=========== ============ ============
14. SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)
The following represents the Company's quarterly results (millions of dollars,
except per share amounts):
Quarters ended
------------------------------------------------
Dec. 31, March 31, June 30, Sept. 30,
2002 2003 2003 2003
-------- -------- -------- ------------
Net sales $ 58.1 $ 61.1 $ 64.5 $ 74.1
Gross profit 22.4 23.2 23.6 27.0
F-21
Net income 3.5 3.4 3.6 4.9
Net income per share -
Basic 0.30 0.29 0.31 0.41
Net income per share -
Diluted 0.30 0.29 0.30 0.39
Quarters ended
------------------------------------------------
Dec. 31, March 31, June 30, Sept. 30,
2001 2002 2002 2002
-------- -------- -------- ------------
Net sales $ 48.7 $ 53.3 $ 55.6 $ 64.2
Gross profit 17.8 20.2 17.9 22.9
Net income 0.3 1.1 1.3 2.3
Net income per share - Basic 0.02 0.10 0.11 0.20
Net income per share -
Diluted 0.02 0.10 0.11 0.20
15. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS
Directors' Plan
The Company has reserved 100,000 shares of common stock for the Directors' Plan,
which covers non-employee members of the Board of Directors. Under this plan
each member of the Board of Directors who is not an employee of the Company and
who is elected or continues as a member of the Board of Directors is entitled to
receive an initial grant of 1,500 shares of common stock and thereafter an
annual grant of 1,500 shares of common stock. The Directors' Plan also provides
that non-employee directors aged 65 or older, upon their appointment or election
to the Board of Directors, will receive, in lieu of such initial and annual
grants of shares of common stock, 7,500 shares of restricted stock which shall
vest in five equal installments on the date of grant and each of the following
four anniversaries thereof. Prior to vesting, no shares of restricted stock may
be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, encumbered or otherwise disposed of,
subject to certain exceptions. The Company records compensation expense based on
the fair market value of the common stock, as determined by the closing price at
the date of issuance. The Directors' Plan will continue in effect until the
earlier of ten years from the date of the first grant or the termination of the
Directors' Plan by the Board of Directors. A total of 20,000 shares are issued
and outstanding under the plan at September 30, 2003.
Equity Incentive Plan
The Company maintains an Equity Incentive Plan, whereby incentive and
non-qualified stock options, restricted stock and performance shares may be
granted to officers and other key employees to purchase a specified number of
shares of common stock at a price not less than the fair market value on the
date of grant. The term of the Equity Incentive Plan continues through 2011.
There were no incentive stock options, restricted stock or performance shares
granted in fiscal 2003, 2002 or 2001. Non-qualified stock options were granted
to officers and other key employees in fiscal 2003, 2002 and 2001. Options
generally vest over five years and will expire not later than ten years after
the date on which they are granted.
The balance of outstanding stock options for the three year periods ended
September 30, 2003, and all options activity for the periods then ended are as
follows:
Price per Share
------------------------------------
Weighted
Number of Shares Price Range Average
---------------- --------------- ----------------
Outstanding at September 30, 2000 604,800 $7 3/8 - 16 7/8 $ 11 1/19
---------------- --------------- ----------------
Granted 30,000 $15
Granted 215,000 $10 3/8
Exercised (3,800)
Forfeited (6,500)
---------------- --------------- ----------------
Outstanding at September 30, 2001 839,500 $7 3/8 - 16 7/8 $ 11 1/37
---------------- --------------- ----------------
F-22
Price per Share
--------------------------------------
Weighted
Number of Shares Price Range Average
------------------ ------------------- -----------------
Granted 273,000 $ 8 3/4
Exercised (800)
Forfeited (9,600)
------------------ ------------------- -----------------
Outstanding at September 30, 2002 1,102,100 $7 3/8 - 16 7/8 $ 10 1/2
------------------ ------------------- -----------------
Granted 262,000 $ 9 4/5
Exercised (353,800)
Forfeited (10,700)
------------------ ------------------- -----------------
Outstanding at September 30, 2003 999,600 $7 3/8 - 16 7/8 $ 10 2/7
------------------ ------------------- -----------------
------------------ ------------------- -----------------
Outstanding Options Exercisable Options
- ------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
Remaining Life Weighted Weighted
Shares (years) Average Price Shares Average Price
- ------- -------------- ------------- -------- -------------
51,000 3 $ 9 1/2 51,000 $ 9 1/2
121,000 4 $16 7/8 121,000 $16 7/8
16,800 5 $ 9 3/8 10,000 $ 9 3/8
11,140 6 $ 7 3/8 51,400 $ 7 3/8
8,000 6 $12 5/8 -- $12 5/8
12,000 7 $15 -- $15
164,600 7 $10 3/8 41,600 $10 3/8
252,800 9 $ 8 3/4 36,000 $ 8 3/4
262,000 10 $ 9 4/5 -- $ 9 4/5
F-23
Independent Auditors' Report
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. and Subsidiaries:
On November 1, 2003, we reported on the consolidated balance sheets of
Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc. and Subsidiaries as of September 30, 2003 and
2002, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders'
equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the years in the
three-year period ended September 30, 2003, which are included in the Annual
Report on Form 10-K. In connection with our audits of the aforementioned
consolidated financial statements, we also audited the related financial
statement schedule in the Annual Report on Form 10-K. This financial statement
schedule, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts, is the responsibility of the
Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on this
financial statement schedule based on our audit.
In our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation
to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents
fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
/s/KPMG LLP
Detroit, Michigan
November 1, 2003
F-24
ROFIN-SINAR TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts - Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Years ended September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001
(dollars in thousands)
Balance at Charged to
Beginning of Acquired Costs and Balance at End of
Period Reserve Expenses Deductions Period
------------ -------- ---------- ---------- -----------------
September 30, 2001 $ 1,957 $ 448 $ (198) $ (174) $ 2,033
September 30, 2002 $ 2,033 $ -- $ (635) $ 100 $ 1,498
September 30, 2003 $ 1,498 $ -- $ 282 $ 286 $ 2,066
F-25
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
Exhibit No. Exhibit
- ----------- -----------------------------------------------------------------
10.21 2002 Equity Incentive Plan
11.1 Computation of Earnings Per Share Table
21.1 List of Subsidiaries of the Registrant
23.1 Consent of Independent Auditors
31.1 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
32.1 Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer
32.2 Section 1350 Certification of Chief Financial Officer
F-26