UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Form 10-Q
(Mark One) |
þ
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QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 | |
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2005 | ||
OR | ||
o
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TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 | |
For the transition period from to |
Commission File Number 001-14429
SKECHERS U.S.A., INC.
Delaware | 95-4376145 | |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
228 MANHATTAN BEACH BLVD.
MANHATTAN BEACH, CALIFORNIA 90266
(Address of principal executive office, zip code)
REGISTRANTS TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (310) 318-3100
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 þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes þ No o
THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF CLASS A COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING AS OF MAY 2, 2005: 22,589,161.
THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF CLASS B COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING AS OF MAY 2, 2005: 16,981,189.
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SKECHERS U.S.A., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10-Q
INDEX
2
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SKECHERS U.S.A., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
March, 31 | December, 31 | |||||||
2005 | 2004 | |||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||
Current Assets: |
||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 139,019 | $ | 137,653 | ||||
Trade accounts receivable, less allowances of $7,251 in 2005 and $6,043 in 2004 |
150,490 | 120,463 | ||||||
Due from officers and employees |
330 | 346 | ||||||
Other receivables |
3,307 | 2,380 | ||||||
Total receivables |
154,127 | 123,189 | ||||||
Inventories |
130,709 | 149,757 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
7,141 | 10,139 | ||||||
Deferred tax assets |
3,865 | 3,865 | ||||||
Total current assets |
434,861 | 424,603 | ||||||
Property and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization |
80,227 | 82,564 | ||||||
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization |
1,502 | 1,641 | ||||||
Deferred tax assets |
4,906 | 4,906 | ||||||
Other assets, at cost |
4,492 | 4,939 | ||||||
TOTAL ASSETS |
$ | 525,988 | $ | 518,653 | ||||
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY |
||||||||
Current Liabilities: |
||||||||
Current installments of long-term borrowings |
$ | 7,144 | $ | 3,123 | ||||
Accounts payable |
89,719 | 93,694 | ||||||
Accrued expenses |
14,238 | 13,903 | ||||||
Total current liabilities |
111,101 | 110,720 | ||||||
4.50% convertible subordinated notes |
90,000 | 90,000 | ||||||
Long-term borrowings, excluding current installments |
18,134 | 23,038 | ||||||
Total liabilities |
219,235 | 223,758 | ||||||
Commitments and contingencies
|
||||||||
Stockholders equity: |
||||||||
Preferred Stock, $.001 par value; 10,000 authorized; none issued
and outstanding |
| | ||||||
Class A Common Stock, $.001 par value; 100,000 shares authorized; 22,534 and
22,234 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2005 and
December 31, 2004, respectively |
23 | 22 | ||||||
Class B Common Stock, $.001 par value; 60,000 shares authorized; 17,011 and
17,011 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2005 and
December 31, 2004, respectively |
17 | 17 | ||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
120,712 | 117,091 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income |
9,974 | 12,005 | ||||||
Retained earnings |
176,027 | 165,760 | ||||||
Total stockholders equity |
306,753 | 294,895 | ||||||
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY |
$ | 525,988 | $ | 518,653 | ||||
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
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SKECHERS U.S.A., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Three-Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2005 | 2004 | |||||||
Net sales |
$ | 246,219 | $ | 221,488 | ||||
Cost of sales |
145,039 | 131,781 | ||||||
Gross profit |
101,180 | 89,707 | ||||||
Royalty income, net |
340 | 1,388 | ||||||
101,520 | 91,095 | |||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||
Selling |
18,173 | 16,090 | ||||||
General and administrative |
66,330 | 61,041 | ||||||
84,503 | 77,131 | |||||||
Earnings from operations |
17,017 | 13,964 | ||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||
Interest income |
245 | 82 | ||||||
Interest expense |
(1,815 | ) | (2,119 | ) | ||||
Other, net |
1,551 | (66 | ) | |||||
(19 | ) | (2,103 | ) | |||||
Earnings before income taxes |
16,998 | 11,861 | ||||||
Income tax expense |
6,731 | 4,815 | ||||||
Net earnings |
$ | 10,267 | $ | 7,046 | ||||
Net earnings per share: |
||||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.26 | $ | 0.18 | ||||
Diluted |
$ | 0.25 | $ | 0.18 | ||||
Weighted average shares: |
||||||||
Basic |
39,386 | 38,130 | ||||||
Diluted |
44,317 | 42,448 | ||||||
Comprehensive income: |
||||||||
Net earnings |
$ | 10,267 | $ | 7,046 | ||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax |
(2,031 | ) | (248 | ) | ||||
Total comprehensive income |
$ | 8,236 | $ | 6,798 | ||||
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
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SKECHERS U.S.A., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Three-Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2005 | 2004 | |||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
||||||||
Net earnings |
$ | 10,267 | $ | 7,046 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash
provided by operating activities: |
||||||||
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment |
5,294 | 5,048 | ||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
192 | 191 | ||||||
Amortization of intangible assets |
140 | 115 | ||||||
Provision for bad debts and returns |
1,914 | 1,846 | ||||||
(Gain) Loss on disposal of equipment |
(11 | ) | 6 | |||||
(Increase) decrease in assets: |
||||||||
Receivables |
(33,793 | ) | (31,258 | ) | ||||
Inventories |
18,945 | 26,171 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
2,952 | 2,932 | ||||||
Other assets |
153 | 151 | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts payable |
(6,298 | ) | (13,511 | ) | ||||
Accrued expenses |
1,622 | 3,931 | ||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities |
1,377 | 2,668 | ||||||
Cash flows used in investing activities: |
||||||||
Capital expenditures |
(1,321 | ) | (1,330 | ) | ||||
Net cash used in investing activities |
(1,321 | ) | (1,330 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
||||||||
Net proceeds from the sales of stock through employee
stock purchase plan and the exercise of stock options |
2,275 | 1,579 | ||||||
Payments on long-term debt |
(943 | ) | (766 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided by financing activities |
1,332 | 813 | ||||||
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents |
1,388 | 2,151 | ||||||
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents |
(22 | ) | (65 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period |
137,653 | 113,479 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period |
$ | 139,019 | $ | 115,565 | ||||
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: |
||||||||
Cash paid during the period for: |
||||||||
Interest |
$ | 1,800 | $ | 974 | ||||
Income taxes |
4,154 | 172 | ||||||
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF NONCASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
The Company issued 59,203 and 93,692 shares of Class A common stock to the Companys 401k plan, with a value of $767,000 and $764,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
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SKECHERS U.S.A., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(1) GENERAL
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements of Skechers have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include certain footnotes and financial presentations normally required under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial reporting. The interim financial information is unaudited, but reflects all normal adjustments and accruals, which are, in the opinion of management, considered necessary to provide a fair presentation for the interim periods presented. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004.
The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire fiscal year ending December 31, 2005.
Reclassifications
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
(2) BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
Our operations are organized along our distribution channels and have the following three reportable segments domestic wholesale sales, international wholesale sales, and retail sales, which includes domestic and international retail sales. In addition, we report an All Other segment, which includes our e-commerce sales and other miscellaneous sales.
Domestic Wholesale The sale of footwear directly to department stores, specialty and independent retailers throughout the United States.
International Wholesale The sale of footwear directly to department stores, specialty and independent retailers in Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Ireland, Canada and the Benelux Region, and through distributors who sell our footwear to department stores and specialty retail stores across Eastern Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, the Middle East and Australia.
Retail We own and operate retail stores both domestically and, on a smaller scale, internationally through three integrated retail formats. Our three distinct retail formats are as follows:
| Concept Stores. Located in marquee street locations and high performing regional malls, concept stores promote awareness of the Skechers brand and showcase a broad assortment of in-season footwear styles. The products offered in our concept stores are full price, in season and typically attract fashion conscious consumers. |
| Factory Outlet Stores. Factory outlet stores are generally located in manufacturers outlet centers and provide opportunities to sell an assortment of in-season, discontinued and excess merchandise at lower price points. |
| Warehouse Outlet Stores. Freestanding warehouse outlet stores appeal to our most value conscious consumers and enable us to liquidate excess merchandise, discontinued lines and odd-size inventory in a cost-efficient manner. |
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Detailed segment information
is provided in note 13.
(3) REVENUE RECOGNITION
The Company recognizes revenue on wholesale sales when products are shipped and the customer takes title and assumes risk of loss, collection of relevant receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. Allowances for estimated returns, discounts, doubtful accounts and chargebacks are provided for when related revenue is recorded. Related costs paid to third-party shipping companies are recorded as a cost of sales.
The Company recognizes revenue from retail sales at the point of sale.
Net royalty income is earned from our licensing arrangements. Upon signing a new licensing agreement, we receive up-front fees, which are generally characterized as prepaid royalties. These fees are initially deferred and recognized as revenue as earned (i.e., as licensed sales are reported to the company). The first calculated royalty payment is based on actual sales of the licensed product. Typically, at each quarter end we receive correspondence from our licensees indicating what the actual sales for the period were. This information is used to calculate and accrue the related royalties based on the terms of the agreement.
(4) OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
The Company operates internationally through the following foreign subsidiaries: Skechers USA Ltd., located in the United Kingdom, with a functional currency of the British Pound; Skechers USA Canada, Inc., located in Canada, with a functional currency of the Canadian dollar; Skechers USA Iberia, SL, located in Spain, Skechers USA Deutschland, GmbH, located in Germany, Skechers USA France SAS, located in France, Skechers EDC SPRL, located in Belgium, Skechers USA Benelux BV, located in the Netherlands, Skechers USA Italia srl, located in Italy; all with a functional currency of the Euro. Additionally, one international subsidiary, Skechers S.a.r.l located in Switzerland, operates with a functional currency of the U.S. dollar. Resulting remeasurement gains and losses from this subsidiary are included in the determination of net earnings. Assets and liabilities of the foreign operations denominated in local currencies are translated at the rate of exchange at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at the weighted average rate of exchange during the period translation. The resulting translation adjustments along with the translation adjustments related to intercompany loans of a long-term investment nature are included in the translation adjustment in other comprehensive income.
(5) EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share represents net earnings divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share, in addition to the weighted average determined for basic earnings per share, includes potential common shares, if dilutive, which would arise from the exercise of stock options using the treasury stock method, and assumes the conversion of the Companys 4.50% Convertible Subordinated Notes for the entire period.
The following is a reconciliation of net earnings and weighted average common shares outstanding for purposes of calculating basic earnings per share (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Three-Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
Basic earnings per share | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Net earnings |
$ | 10,267 | $ | 7,046 | ||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding |
39,386 | 38,130 | ||||||
Basic earnings per share |
$ | 0.26 | $ | 0.18 |
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The following is a reconciliation of net earnings and weighted average common shares outstanding for purposes of calculating diluted earnings per share (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Three-Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
Diluted earnings per share | 2005 | 2004 | ||||||
Net earnings |
$ | 10,267 | $ | 7,046 | ||||
After tax effect of interest expense on
4.50% convertible subordinated notes |
612 | 601 | ||||||
Earnings for purposes of
computing diluted earnings per share |
$ | 10,879 | $ | 7,647 | ||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding |
39,386 | 38,130 | ||||||
Dilutive stock options |
1,465 | 852 | ||||||
Weighted average assuming conversion of
4.50% convertible subordinated notes |
3,466 | 3,466 | ||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding |
44,317 | 42,448 | ||||||
Diluted earnings per share |
$ | 0.25 | $ | 0.18 | ||||
Options to purchase 689,495 and 3,178,034 shares of common stock at prices ranging from $15.28 to $24.00 and $10.48 to $24.00 were outstanding at March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively, but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the options exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares and therefore their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
(6) STOCK COMPENSATION
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (SFAS 123), as amended. Under the provisions of SFAS 123, the Company has elected to continue to measure compensation cost for employees and nonemployee directors of the Company under the intrinsic value method of APB No. 25 and to comply with the pro forma disclosure requirements under SFAS 123. The Company applies the fair value techniques of SFAS 123 to measure compensation cost for options/warrants granted to nonemployees.
The Black-Scholes option valuation model prescribed by SFAS 123 was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Option valuation methods require the input of subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility. Using the Black-Scholes option valuation model, the estimated weighted average fair value of options granted during 2002, 2003 and 2004 were $5.04 per share, $4.95 per share and $5.39 per share, respectively.
In connection with the exercise of options, the Company realized tax benefits of $0.6 million and $0.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively, which have been credited to additional paid-in-capital.
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The following table illustrates the effects on net earnings had compensation cost for the Companys stock option plans and its stock purchase plans been determined based on the estimated fair value at the grant dates for awards under those plans consistent with the fair value method of SFAS 123 utilizing the Black-Scholes option-pricing model in each period (in thousands):
Three-Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2005 | 2004 | |||||||
Net earnings, as reported |
$ | 10,267 | $ | 7,046 | ||||
Deduct total stock-based employee compensation
expense under fair value-based method for all
awards, net of related tax effects |
(493 | ) | (1,520 | ) | ||||
Pro forma net earnings for basic pro
forma earnings per share |
9,774 | 5,526 | ||||||
Add back interest on 4.50% debentures, net of tax |
612 | 601 | ||||||
Pro forma net earnings for diluted pro forma
earnings per share |
$ | 10,386 | $ | 6,127 | ||||
Pro forma net earnings per share: |
||||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.25 | $ | 0.14 | ||||
Diluted |
0.23 | 0.14 |
Pro forma basic net earnings per share represents net pro forma earnings divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Pro forma diluted earnings per share, in addition to the weighted average determined for pro forma basic earnings per share, includes the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents which would arise from the exercise of stock options using the treasury stock method, and assumes the conversion of the Companys 4.50% Convertible Subordinated Notes for the period outstanding since their issuance in April 2002, if their effects are dilutive.
(7) INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The Company complies with SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, which eliminates the requirement to amortize goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, requiring instead that those assets be measured for impairment at least annually, and more often when events indicate that impairment exists. Intangible assets with finite lives will continue to be amortized over their useful lives ranging from 510 years, generally on a straight-line basis. Intangible assets, all subject to amortization, as of March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004 are as follows (in thousands):
March 31, 2005 | December 31, 2004 | |||||||
Intellectual property |
$ | 1,250 | $ | 1,250 | ||||
Other intangibles |
1,000 | 1,000 | ||||||
Trademarks |
1,050 | 1,050 | ||||||
Less accumulated amortization |
(1,798 | ) | (1,659 | ) | ||||
Total Intangible Assets |
$ | 1,502 | $ | 1,641 | ||||
(8) OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE), NET
Other income (expense), net at March 31, 2005 and 2004 is summarized as follows (in thousands):
Three-Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2005 | 2004 | |||||||
Gain (loss) on foreign exchange. |
$ | (91 | ) | $ | (66 | ) | ||
Legal settlements |
1,642 | | ||||||
Total other income, net |
$ | 1,551 | $ | (66 | ) | |||
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(9) INCOME TAXES
The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2005 was 39.6%. Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2005 was $6.7 million compared to $4.8 million for the same period in 2005. The tax provision was computed using the effective tax rates applicable to each of the domestic and international taxable jurisdictions. The rate for the three months ended March 31, 2005 is lower than the expected domestic rate of approximately 40%, due to our non-U.S. subsidiary earnings in lower tax rate jurisdictions and our reinvestment of undistributed earnings from our non-U.S. subsidiaries, thereby indefinitely postponing their remittance to the United States Internal Revenue Service. As such, the Company did not provide for deferred income taxes on accumulated undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries.
(10) SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
The Company has available a secured line of credit, as amended on December 31, 2004, permitting borrowings up to $150.0 million based upon eligible accounts receivable and inventories. Borrowings bear interest at the prime rate (5.75% at March 31, 2005) minus 0.50%, and the agreement expires on December 31, 2005. The agreement provides for the issuance of letters of credit up to a maximum of $30.0 million. Under the agreement, available borrowings are reduced by 50% of the first million dollars of outstanding guarantees and 75% of outstanding guarantees that exceed $1 million dollars. Outstanding letters of credit and guarantees at March 31, 2005 were $4.9 million. Available borrowings under the line of credit at March 31, 2005 were $146.6 million, and no amounts were outstanding at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004. We pay an unused line of credit fee of .25% annually. The agreement provides the following financial covenants should the loan balance exceed 60% of all eligible accounts, as defined; that stockholders equity shall not decrease by more than 20% in any given calendar quarter; a tangible net worth be maintained as defined in the agreement; and limits the payment of dividends if in default of any provision of the agreement. The loan balance did not exceed 60% of all eligible accounts; hence the financial covenants were not applicable at March 31, 2005.
(11) LITIGATION
On December 2, 2002, a class action complaint entitled OMAR QUINONES v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed in the Superior Court for the State of California for the County of Orange (Case No. 02CC00353). The complaint, as amended, alleges overtime and related violations of the California Labor Code on behalf of managers of Skechers retail stores and seeks, inter alia, damages and restitution, as well as injunctive and declaratory relief. On February 25, 2003, another related class action complaint entitled MYRNA CORTEZ v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed in the Superior Court for the State of California for the County of Los Angeles (Case No. BC290932), asserting similar claims and seeking similar relief on behalf of assistant managers. On July 7, 2004, a third class action complaint entitled MYRNA CORTEZ et al. v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed in the Superior Court for the State of California for the County of Los Angeles (Case No. BC318101). The complaint alleges wage violations of the California Labor Code and unfair business practices relating to deductions for uniforms on behalf of employees of Skechers retail stores and seeks, inter alia, damages and civil penalties, as well as injunctive relief. On December 20, 2004, the parties agreed to a preliminary settlement that fully resolves all claims brought by the plaintiffs in each of the three lawsuits. Under the terms of the preliminary settlement, which is still subject to court approval, Skechers will pay a potential maximum settlement amount of $1.8 million, which was recorded to other expense in the consolidated statement of operations during the fourth quarter of 2004, to cover claims made by eligible class members, plaintiff attorneys fees and costs, and costs of a third-party administrator.
On March 25, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned HARVEY SOLOMON v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-2094 DDP). On April 2, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned CHARLES ZIMMER v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-2296 PA). On April 15, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned MARTIN H. SIEGEL v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No 03-2645 RMT). On May 6, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned ADAM D. SAPHIER v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was served on Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-3011 FMC). On May 9, 2003, a shareholders securities class action complaint captioned LARRY L. ERICKSON v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was served on Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-3101 SJO). Each of these class action complaints alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of persons who purchased publicly traded securities of Skechers between April 3, 2002 and December 9, 2002. In July 2003, the court in these federal securities class actions, all pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, ordered the cases consolidated and a consolidated complaint to be filed and served. On September 25, 2003, the plaintiffs
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filed a consolidated complaint entitled In re SKECHERS USA, Inc. Securities Litigation, Case No. CV-03-2094-PA in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, consolidating all of the federal securities actions above. The complaint names as defendants Skechers and certain officers and directors and alleges violations of the federal securities laws and breach of fiduciary duty on behalf of persons who purchased publicly traded securities of Skechers between April 3, 2002 and December 9, 2002. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, interest, attorneys fees and injunctive and equitable relief. Skechers moved to dismiss the consolidated complaint in its entirety. On May 10, 2004, the court granted Skechers motion to dismiss with leave for plaintiffs to amend the complaint. On August 9, 2004, plaintiffs filed a first amended consolidated complaint for violations of the federal securities laws. The allegations and relief sought were virtually identical to the original consolidated complaint. Skechers has moved to dismiss the first amended consolidated complaint and the motion was set for hearing on December 6, 2004. On March 21, 2005, the court granted the motion to dismiss the first amended consolidated complaint with leave for plaintiffs to amend one final time. On April 7, 2005, plaintiffs elected to stand on the first amended consolidated complaint and requested entry of judgment so that an appeal from the courts ruling could be taken. On April 26, 2005, the court entered judgment in favor of Skechers and the individual defendants, and on May 3, 2005, plaintiffs filed an appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Discovery did not commence in the underlying action. While it is too early to predict the outcome of the appeal and any subsequent litigation, Skechers believes the suit is without merit and intends to vigorously defend against the claims.
On April 3, 2003, a shareholder derivative complaint captioned BRADFORD MITCHELL v. JEFFREY GREENBERG et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County (Case No. BC 293317). On April 3, 2003, a shareholder derivative complaint captioned GEORGIA MANOLAS v. JEFFREY GREENBERG et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County (Case No. BC293388). On April 8, 2003, a shareholder derivative complaint captioned JEFF GRAVITTER v. ROBERT Y. GREENBERG was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County (Case No. BC293561). Each of these class action complaints included allegations of violations of California Corporation Code § 25402 and breach of fiduciary duty. On August 29, 2003, the plaintiffs in these state derivative actions filed a consolidated complaint entitled In re SKECHERS USA, Inc. Derivative Litigation, Case No. BC-293317, in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County, consolidating all of the state derivative actions above. The complaint alleges violations of California Corporation Code §25402, breaches of fiduciary duty, waste of corporate assets and unjust enrichment. The complaint sought compensatory damages, treble damages, disgorgement of profits, imposition of a constructive trust, equitable and injunctive relief, and costs. The matter has now been settled in principle and a settlement stipulation between the parties has been signed. The settlement is still subject to court approval. The settlement will not have a material adverse effect on Skechers financial condition or results of operations as such amount will be paid by the Companys insurance carrier.
On March 1, 2005, Travis Greenfield filed a lawsuit against Skechers in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles, TRAVIS GREENFIELD v. SKECHERS U.S.A., ROBERT GREENBERG et. al. (Case No. BC 329605). The complaint alleges wrongful termination in violation of public policy and wrongful termination/discrimination in violation of California Government Code §12940 for both gender discrimination and sexual orientation discrimination. The complaint sought economic damages, compensatory damages, punitive and exemplary damages, interest and attorneys fees. Skechers plans on defending the allegations vigorously and believes the claims are without merit. The matter has now been settled and the settlement will not have a material adverse effect on Skechers financial condition or results of operations. The settlement has been accrued in the accompanying financial statements.
On April 20, 2005, a complaint captioned MINNETONKA MOCCASIN CO. v. SKECHERS USA, INC. was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota. The complaint alleges claims for trademark infringement, deceptive trade practices, unfair competition and fraud. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, attorneys fees, and injunctive and equitable relief. While it is too early to predict the outcome of the litigation, the Company believes the suit is without merit and intends to vigorously defend the suit.
Skechers occasionally becomes involved in litigation arising from the normal course of business and we are unable to determine the extent of any liability that may arise. Other than the foregoing, we have no reason to believe that any liability with respect to pending legal actions, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our companys consolidated financial statements or results of operations.
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(12) STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY
During the three months ended March 31, 2005, no shares of Class B common stock were converted to Class A common stock. During the three months ended March 31, 2004, certain class B stockholders converted 1,115,372 shares of Class B common stock into an equivalent number of Class A common stock.
(13) SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC REPORTING INFORMATION
In accordance with the requirement of SFAS 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information, the Companys reportable business segments and respective accounting policies of the segments are the same as described in note 2. We have three reportable segments domestic wholesale sales, international wholesale sales, and retail sales, which includes domestic and international retail. In addition, we report an All Other segment, which includes our e-commerce sales and other miscellaneous sales. Our international wholesale distribution channel does not have similar economic characteristics as our domestic wholesale segment since the margins, customer base, and distribution channels are different. In addition, each of our retail store formats, Concept, Factory Outlet, and Warehouse Outlet stores, has a different (i) mix of product offerings, (ii) price points, (iii) gross margins, (iv) demographics of the store location, and (v) physical store size and layout. Management evaluates segment performance based primarily on net sales and gross margins.
All costs and expenses of the Company are analyzed on an aggregate basis, and these costs are not allocated to the Companys segments. The vast majority of the Companys capital expenditures related to the retail operations, both domestically and internationally. Net sales, gross margins and identifiable assets for the domestic wholesale segment, international wholesale, retail, and the All Other segment on a combined basis were as follows (in thousands):
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, 2005 | March 31, 2004 | |||||||
Net sales |
||||||||
Domestic wholesale |
$ | 154,552 | $ | 140,353 | ||||
International wholesale |
47,401 | 40,602 | ||||||
Retail |
43,026 | 39,251 | ||||||
All other |
1,240 | 1,282 | ||||||
Total |
$ | 246,219 | $ | 221,488 | ||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, 2005 | March 31, 2004 | |||||||
Gross Profit |
||||||||
Domestic wholesale |
$ | 55,479 | $ | 52,800 | ||||
International wholesale |
19,655 | 14,944 | ||||||
Retail |
25,425 | 21,277 | ||||||
All other |
621 | 686 | ||||||
Total |
$ | 101,180 | $ | 89,707 | ||||
March 31, 2005 | December 31, 2004 | |||||||
Identifiable Assets |
||||||||
Domestic wholesale |
$ | 362,148 | $ | 355,628 | ||||
International wholesale |
93,679 | 95,879 | ||||||
Retail |
70,011 | 66,084 | ||||||
All other |
150 | 1,062 | ||||||
Total |
$ | 525,988 | $ | 518,653 | ||||
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Geographic Information
The following summarizes our operations in different geographic areas for the period indicated (in thousands):
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, 2005 | March 31, 2004 | |||||||
Net Sales (1) |
||||||||
North America (2) |
$ | 200,198 | $ | 182,121 | ||||
Europe |
46,021 | 39,367 | ||||||
Total |
$ | 246,219 | $ | 221.488 | ||||
March 31, 2005 | December 31, 2004 | |||||||
Identifiable Assets |
||||||||
North America (2) |
$ | 426,975 | $ | 418,937 | ||||
Europe |
99,013 | 99,716 | ||||||
Total |
$ | 525,988 | $ | 518,653 | ||||
(1) | The Company has subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Canada, and the Netherlands that generate net sales within those respective countries and in some cases the neighboring regions. The Company also has a subsidiary in Switzerland that generates net sales to that region in addition to net sales to our distributors located in numerous non-European countries. Net sales are attributable to geographic regions based on the location of the Company subsidiary. | |
(2) | The Companys North American operations are in the United States and Canada. |
(14) BUSINESS AND CREDIT CONCENTRATIONS
The Company operates in the footwear industry and generates most of its sales in the United States, although its products are sold into various foreign countries, the footwear industry is impacted by the general economy. Changes in the marketplace may significantly affect managements estimates and the Companys performance. Management performs regular evaluations concerning the ability of customers to satisfy their obligations and provides for estimated doubtful accounts. Domestic accounts receivable, which generally do not require collateral from customers, amounted to $114.3 million and $88.2 million before allowances for bad debts and sales returns, and chargebacks at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively. Foreign accounts receivable, which generally are collateralized by letters of credit, amounted to $43.4 million and $38.3 million before allowance for bad debts, sales returns, and chargebacks at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively. International net sales amounted to $46.0 million and $39.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The Company provided for potential credit losses of $1.9 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, which did not significantly differ from managements expectations.
Net sales to customers in North America exceeded 80% of total net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004. Assets located outside North America consist primarily of cash, accounts receivable, inventory, property and equipment, and other assets and totaled $99.0 million and $99.7 million at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively.
The Companys net sales to its five largest customers accounted for approximately 24.8% and 26.0% of total net sales as of March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. No customer accounted for more than 10% of our net sales during the quarters ended March 31, 2005 and March 31, 2004, respectively.
The Companys top five manufacturers produced approximately 62.6% and 62.7% of its total purchases for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and March 31, 2004, respectively. One manufacturer accounted for 27.5% and 26.1% of total purchases for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and March 31, 2004, respectively. A second manufacturer accounted for 15.3% and 14.3% of total purchases for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and March 31, 2004, respectively.
Most of the Companys products are produced in China. The Companys operations are subject to the customary risks of doing business abroad, including, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, custom duties and related fees, various import controls and other monetary barriers, restrictions on the transfer of funds, labor unrest and strikes and, in certain parts of the
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world, political instability. The Company believes it has acted to reduce these risks by diversifying manufacturing among various factories. To date, these risk factors have not had a material adverse impact on the Companys operations.
ITEM 2. | MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this document.
This quarterly report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements with regards to our revenues, earnings, spending, margins, cash flow, orders, inventory, products, actions, plans, strategies and objectives. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or simply state future results, performance or achievements, and may contain the words believe, anticipate, expect, estimate, intend, plan, project, will be, will continue, will result, could, may, might, or any variations of such words with similar meanings. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those which are managements current expectations or forecasts. Such information is subject to the risk that such expectations or forecasts, or the assumptions underlying such expectations or forecasts, become inaccurate.
The risks and uncertainties are detailed from time to time in reports filed by our company with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including reports on Forms 8-K, 10-Q, and 10-K, and include, among others, the following: international, national and local general economic, political and market conditions; intense competition among sellers of footwear for consumers; changes in fashion trends and consumer demands; popularity of particular designs and categories of products; the level of sales during the spring, back-to-school and holiday selling seasons; the ability to anticipate, identify, interpret or forecast changes in fashion trends, consumer demand for our products and the various market factors described above; the ability of our company to maintain its brand image; the ability to sustain, manage and forecast our companys growth and inventories; the ability to secure and protect trademarks, patents and other intellectual property; the loss of any significant customers, decreased demand by industry retailers and cancellation of order commitments; potential disruptions in manufacturing related to overseas sourcing and concentration of production in China, including, without limitation, difficulties associated with electrical shortages or work stoppages that may lead to production delays; increased costs of freight and transportation to meet delivery deadlines; business disruptions due to energy shortages or natural disasters such as an earthquake due to the location of our domestic warehouse, headquarters and a substantial number of our retail stores; changes in business strategy or development plans; the ability to obtain additional capital to fund operations, finance growth and service debt obligations; the ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; compliance with recent corporate governance legislation including the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002; the disruption, expense and potential liability associated with existing or unanticipated future litigation; and other factors referenced or incorporated by reference in this report and other reports filed with the SEC.
The risks included here are not exhaustive. Other sections of this report may include additional factors that could adversely impact our business and financial performance. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risk factors emerge from time to time and we cannot predict all such risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all such risk factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Investors should also be aware that while we do, from time to time, communicate with securities analysts, we do not disclose any material non-public information or other confidential commercial information to them. Accordingly, individuals should not assume that we agree with any statement or report issued by any analyst, regardless of the content of the report. Thus, to the extent that reports issued by securities analysts contain any projections, forecasts or opinions, such reports are not our responsibility.
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
We have three reportable segments domestic wholesale sales, international wholesale sales, and retail sales, which includes domestic and international retail sales. In addition, we report an All Other segment, which includes our e-commerce sales. We evaluate segment performance based primarily on net sales and gross margins. The largest portion of our revenue is derived from the domestic wholesale segment. Domestic wholesale segment net sales comprised 62.8% and 63.4% of total net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. During the quarter ended March 31, 2005, we saw continued strong acceptance for our recently launched Marc Ecko Footwear and 310 Motoring lines, and
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we saw the strongest improvement in our mens Sport line led by updates to Energy and Stamina styles and our womens Active line led by fresh Bikers and Rhythms styles. In addition, during the quarter we signed two new footwear licensing agreements for which product is expected to be available in late 2005 or early 2006.
We currently have 112 domestic retail stores and 11 international retail stores, and we believe that we have established our presence in most major retail markets. As such, during 2004, we modified our wholesale and retail expansion strategies and decided to curtail our retail expansion, and therefore, we did not open any new stores while closing two stores in the three months ended March 31, 2005. As we see our retail business becoming more profitable, we will selectively open new stores in key locations with the goal of profitably building brand awareness in certain markets. We currently have plans to open an additional seven to ten domestic retail stores in 2005. In addition, we currently believe that we have sufficiently developed our international direct selling efforts; therefore, we currently anticipate only opening one international store in Canada during the second quarter of 2005. Instead, we will focus on (i) enhancing the efficiency of our international operations, (ii) increasing our customer base, (iii) increasing the product count within each customer and (iv) tailoring our product offerings currently available to our international customers to increase demand for our product. Further, we periodically review all of our stores for impairment, and we carefully review our under-performing stores and may consider the non-renewal of leases upon completion of the current term of the applicable lease.
Our retail sales achieve higher gross margins as a percentage of net sales than wholesale sales. Cost of sales includes the cost of footwear purchased from our manufacturers, duties, quota costs, inbound freight (including ocean, air and freight from the dock to our distribution centers), brokers fees, and storage costs. As such, our gross margins may not be comparable to some of our competitors since we include expenses related to our distribution network in general and administrative expenses, whereas some of our competitors include expenses of this type in the line item cost of sales.
Selling expenses. Selling expense consist primarily of the following accounts: sales representative sample costs, sales commissions, trade shows, advertising and promotional costs, which may include television and ad production costs, and costs associated with catalog production and distribution.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses consist primarily of the following accounts: salaries, wages and related taxes and various overhead costs associated with our corporate staff, domestic and international retail operations, non-selling related costs of our international operations, costs associated with our domestic and European distribution centers, professional fees related to both legal and accounting, insurance, and depreciation and amortization. In addition, expenses related to our distribution network, including the functions of purchasing, receiving, inspecting, allocating, warehousing and packaging our products, were $19.4 million and $17.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. Our distribution network-related costs are included in general and administrative expenses and are not allocated to segments.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth for the periods indicated, selected information from the Companys results of operations (in thousands) as a percentage of net sales:
Three-Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||||||||||
2005 | 2004 | |||||||||||||||
Net sales |
$ | 246,219 | 100.0 | % | $ | 221,488 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
Cost of sales |
145,039 | 58.9 | 131,781 | 59.5 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit |
101,180 | 41.1 | 89,707 | 40.5 | ||||||||||||
Royalty income, net |
340 | 0.1 | 1,388 | 0.6 | ||||||||||||
101,520 | 41.2 | 91,095 | 41.1 | |||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||
Selling |
18,173 | 7.4 | 16,090 | 7.3 | ||||||||||||
General and administrative |
66,330 | 26.9 | 61,041 | 27.6 | ||||||||||||
84,503 | 34.3 | 77,131 | 34.9 | |||||||||||||
Earnings from operations |
17,017 | 6.9 | 13,964 | 6.2 | ||||||||||||
Interest expense, net |
(1,570 | ) | (0.6 | ) | (2,037 | ) | (0.8 | ) | ||||||||
Other, net |
1,551 | 0.6 | (66 | ) | | |||||||||||
Earnings before income taxes |
16,998 | 6.9 | 11,861 | 5.4 | ||||||||||||
Income taxes |
6,731 | 2.7 | 4,815 | 2.2 | ||||||||||||
Net earnings |
$ | 10,267 | 4.2 | % | $ | 7,046 | 3.2 | % | ||||||||
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Net sales
Net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2005 were $246.2 million, an increase of $24.7 million or 11.2% over net sales of $221.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2004. The increase in net sales was primarily due to acceptance of our new designs and styles of our in-season product, growth within the retail segment from positive comparative store sales increases (stores opened for at least one year), and sales increases from our subsidiaries in Canada, Germany, Italy, Benelux, and Spain. Our domestic wholesale net sales increased $14.2 million to $154.6 million during the three months ended March 31, 2005, from $140.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2004. The average selling price per pair within the domestic wholesale segment increased to $16.58 per pair during the three months ended March 31, 2005, a 2.5% increase from $16.17 per pair in the same period last year. The increase in domestic wholesale segment net sales came on a 7.0% unit sales volume increase to 9.3 million pairs from 8.7 million pairs in 2004. The increase in average selling price per pair was due to stronger sales of in-line merchandise and lower levels of markdown and closeout merchandise. The higher level of net sales was attributable to our efforts beginning in 2004 to redevelop many of our existing lines, our focus on updating proven styles as well as developing new styles, and the launch of three new brands.
Our retail segment net sales increased $3.7 million to $43.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005, a 9.4% increase over sales of $39.3 million for the same period in 2004. The increase in retail sales was due to positive comparable store sales in our concept stores and our factory and warehouse outlet stores. During the quarter, we realized double digit comparable store sales increases in many of our domestic and international retail stores ranging from an increase of 12.3% in our domestic concept stores comparable sales to an increase of 2.3% in our domestic warehouse outlet stores comparable sales. We closed two domestic concept stores and we did not open any stores during the three months ended March 31, 2005. Our international retail sales increased 18.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2005 compared to the same period last year, due to increased comparable sales and favorable currency translation adjustments.
Our international wholesale segment sales were $47.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005, compared to $40.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2004. Our international wholesale sales consist of direct subsidiary sales those we make to department stores and specialty retailers and sales to our distributors who in turn sell to department stores and specialty retailers in various international regions where we do not sell direct. The increase in international wholesale sales was primarily due to increased direct subsidiary sales which were partially offset by reduced distributor sales. Our international direct subsidiary sales increased $8.3 million to $31.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005, a 35.2% increase over sales of $23.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2004. The increase in direct subsidiary sales was primarily due to increased sales in Canada, Germany, Italy, Benelux, and Spain.
Our e-commerce sales were $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 compared to sales of $1.3 million for the same period in 2004. Our e-commerce sales made up less than 1% of our consolidated net sales in both the three months ended March 31, 2005 and March 31, 2004.
We currently anticipate that net sales for the three months ending June 30, 2005, will be in the range of $245 million to $255 million.
Gross profit
Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2005 increased $11.5 million to $101.2 million as compared to $89.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2004. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales, or gross margin, increased to 41.1% for the three months ended March 31, 2005, compared to 40.5% for the same three months in 2004. The gross margin increase was the result of increased retail and international wholesale margins as well as a higher percentage of international wholesale sales through our foreign subsidiaries partially offset by reduced domestic wholesale margins. Domestic wholesale gross margins decreased to 35.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2005, compared to 37.6% for the same period last year. Domestic wholesale gross profit increased $2.7 million, or 5.1%, to $55.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 compared to $52.8 million in the same period in 2004. We realized higher margins within our Womens Active, Boys, and Mens Sport lines during the first three months of 2005 as compared to the same period last year.
Gross profit for our retail segment increased $4.1 million, or 19.3%, to $25.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 as compared to $21.3 million for the same period last year. This increase in gross profit was due to increased margins and positive comparable store sales. Gross margins increased to 59.1% for the three months ended March 31, 2005
16
as compared to 54.2% for the same period in 2004. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to a larger portion of our retail sales coming from our higher margin concept stores as well as acceptance of our new designs and styles.
Gross profit for our international wholesale segment for the three months ended March 31, 2005 was $19.7 million compared to $14.9 million for the same period in 2004. Gross margin was 41.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2005 compared to 36.8% for the same period in 2004. The increase in gross margins for our international wholesale sales was primarily due a higher proportion of higher margin direct sales through our foreign subsidiaries. International wholesale sales through our foreign subsidiaries achieve higher gross margins than our international wholesale sales through our foreign distributors. Gross margins for our foreign direct subsidiary sales increased to 44.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2005 compared to 41.1% for the same period last year. Gross margins for our foreign distributor sales increased to 35.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2005 compared to 30.8% for the same period in 2004.
Our cost of sales includes the cost of footwear purchased from our manufacturers, duties, quota costs, inbound freight (including ocean, air and freight from the dock to our distribution centers), brokers fees and storage costs. Because we include expenses related to our distribution network in general and administrative expenses while some of our competitors may include expenses of this type in cost of sales, our gross margins may not be comparable, and we may report higher gross margins than some of our competitors in part for this reason.
Licensing
During the three months ended March 31, 2005, we recognized net licensing royalties of $0.3 million compared to $1.4 million during the same period in 2004. The decrease in licensing royalties was primarily the result of $0.2 million lower royalties associated with our licensing agreement for Skechers Kids apparel with Kids Headquarters and $0.7 million royalty payments made by us associated with our licensing agreement with Marc Ecko Footwear. We expect that our licensing revenue could be offset by increased royalty payments associated with our license agreement with Marc Ecko Footwear.
Selling expenses
Selling expenses increased by 13.0% to $18.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005, from $16.1 million for the same period in 2004. As a percentage of net sales, selling expenses were 7.4% and 7.3% for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The increase in selling expenses was primarily due to increased advertising expenses of $1.6 million relating to international advertising and promotional costs and increased trade show expenses of $1.3 million due to the addition of our new lines, partially offset by decreased sales representative samples of $1.3 million. The higher sample costs in the prior year were associated with developing styles for new and existing product lines of which several are now current product offerings.
We currently anticipate that tradeshow expenses for the three months ending June 30, 2005 will be lower than those incurred during the three months ended March 31, 2005 because the largest tradeshows that we exhibit at, WSA in Las Vegas and GDS in Germany, take place during the first quarter. We anticipate our advertising and related expenses to remain below our historic range of 8 to 10% of sales as we continue to focus on spending our advertising dollars more efficiently.
General and administrative expenses
General and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2005 were $66.3 million, an increase of $5.3 million or 8.7%, compared to $61.0 million for the same period in 2004. General and administrative expenses as a percent of sales decreased to 26.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2005 from 27.6% for the same period last year. The increase in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to increased salaries and wages of $2.6 million, higher warehouse and transportation costs of $1.0 million, higher temporary help of $0.9 million, and increased taxes and licenses of $0.8 million. The increase in salaries and wages, payroll costs, and temporary help related to supporting three new product lines and increased sales volume. Expenses related to our distribution network, including the functions of purchasing, receiving, inspecting, allocating, warehousing and packaging our products totaled $19.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 as compared to $17.1 million for the same period last year.
We continue to review our cost structure to develop efficiencies within our operations; however, we believe that our current cost structure is consistent with our anticipated sales levels in 2005.
17
Interest expense
Net interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2005 decreased $0.4 million to $1.6 million compared to net interest expense of $2.0 million for the same period in 2004. Interest expense is derived from our convertible notes, mortgages on our distribution center, and our corporate office located in Manhattan Beach, California, our capital lease obligations and interest on amounts owed to our foreign manufacturers. The reduction in interest expense is due to the amortized reduction of our long-term debt and capital leases.
Other income (expense)
Other income, net increased $1.7 million to $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005, compared to $0.1 million other expense, net for the same period in 2004. The increase in other income was due to the settlement of various lawsuits for $1.6 million during the three months ended March 31, 2005.
Income taxes
The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2005 was 39.6% compared to 40.6% for the same period in 2004. Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2005 was $6.7 million compared to $4.8 million for the same period in 2004. The tax provision was computed using the effective tax rates applicable to each of our domestic and international taxable jurisdictions. The rate for the three months ended March 31, 2005 is lower than the expected domestic rate of approximately 40%, due to our non-U.S. subsidiary earnings in lower tax rate jurisdictions and our reinvestment of undistributed earnings from our non-U.S. subsidiaries, thereby indefinitely postponing their remittance to the United States Internal Revenue Service. As such, we did not provide for deferred income taxes on accumulated undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our working capital at March 31, 2005 was $323.8 million, an increase of $9.9 million from working capital of $313.9 million at December 31, 2004. Cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2005 were $139.0 million compared to $137.7 million at December 31, 2004. The increase in cash and cash equivalents during the three months ended March 31, 2005 was the result of positive operating cash flows due to our net earnings of $10.3 million, a significant reduction in our inventory of $19.0 million and an increase in cash from the exercise of stock options which was partially offset by increased receivable balances due to increased net sales.
During the three months ended March 31, 2005, our operating activities generated $1.4 million in net cash compared to cash provided by operating activities of $2.7 million for the same period in 2004. The decrease in our operating cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2005, when compared to the same period in 2004 was the result of increased accounts receivable levels due to higher sales which was partially offset by reduced inventory and increased earnings.
Net cash used by investing activities was $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005, compared to $1.3 million net cash used during the three months ended March 31, 2004. Capital expenditures primarily consisted of store remodeling and information technology hardware. We currently have plans to open an additional seven to ten domestic retail stores in 2005, and one international store in Canada during the second quarter of 2005. We anticipate that our capital expenditures for 2005 will be approximately $6.0 to $8.0 million primarily related to the opening of these new stores during 2005. We currently anticipate that our capital expenditure requirements will be funded through our operating cash flows or through our $150.0 million line of credit facility, which had no outstanding borrowings at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $1.3 million during the three months ended March 31, 2005, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $0.8 million during the same period in 2004. The increase in cash provided from financing activities was due to increased cash from the exercise of stock options, partially offset by a larger repayment of our long-term debt when compared to the same period in 2004.
In April 2002, we issued $90.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.50% Convertible Subordinated Notes due April 15, 2007. The notes are convertible into shares of our Class A Common Stock. Interest on the notes is paid semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 of each year. The notes are convertible at the option of the holder into shares of Class A Common Stock at a conversion rate of 38.5089 shares of Class A Common Stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes, which is equivalent to a conversion price of approximately $25.968 per share. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment. The notes may be converted at any time on or before the close of business on the maturity date, unless the notes have been previously
18
redeemed or repurchased; provided, however, that if a note is called for redemption or repurchase, the holder will be entitled to convert the notes at any time before the close of business on the date immediately preceding the date fixed for redemption or repurchase, as the case may be. The notes are unsecured and subordinated to our present and future senior debt. The notes are also structurally subordinated in right of payment to all indebtedness and other liabilities of our subsidiaries. The indenture does not restrict our incurrence of indebtedness, including senior debt, or our subsidiaries incurrence of indebtedness. The indenture provides for various non-financial covenants and cross default provisions, as defined in the agreement, with which we were in compliant at March 31, 2005. Net proceeds from the sale of the notes were $86.2 million. The refinancing of our short-term borrowings with long-term capital was done to provide us with long-term debt for the future growth of the business.
In addition to our $90.0 million of Convertible Subordinated Notes referred to above, we have additional long-term debt of $25.3 million outstanding at March 31, 2005. This long-term debt consists of the following at March 31, 2005:
| Note payable for $7.5 million for one of our distribution center warehouses located in Ontario, CA, which is secured by the property. | |||
| Note payable for $10.1 million for one of our administrative offices located in Manhattan Beach, CA, which is secured by the property. | |||
| Capital lease liability for $6.3 million for material handling equipment at one of our U.S. distribution center warehouses, which is secured by the equipment. | |||
| Capital lease liability for $1.4 million for material handling equipment at our European distribution center, which is secured by the equipment. |
Some of the above debt agreements may contain certain non-financial covenants, financial covenants and/or cross default provisions, as the case may be, as defined within each of the respective loan documents. At March 31, 2005, we were in compliance with all of the covenants related to our long-term debt.
We believe that anticipated cash flows from operations, available borrowings under our revolving line of credit, cash on hand, proceeds from the issuance of the notes and our financing arrangements will be sufficient to provide us with the liquidity necessary to fund our anticipated working capital and capital requirements through 2005. However, in connection with our current strategies, we may incur significant working capital requirements and capital expenditures. Our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including, but not limited to, the levels at which we maintain inventory, the market acceptance of our footwear, the success of our international operations, the levels of promotion and advertising required to promote our footwear, the extent to which we invest in new product design and improvements to our existing product design and the number and timing of new store openings. To the extent that available funds are insufficient to fund our future activities, we may need to raise additional funds through public or private financing. We cannot be assured that additional financing will be available or that, if available, it can be obtained on terms favorable to our stockholders and us. Failure to obtain such financing could delay or prevent our planned expansion, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, if additional capital is raised through the sale of additional equity or convertible securities, dilution to our stockholders could occur.
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Disclosure about Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
The following table aggregates all material contractual obligations and commercial commitments as of March 31, 2005:
Payments Due by Period (In Thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Less than | One to | Three to | More Than | |||||||||||||||||
One | Three | Five | Five | |||||||||||||||||
Total | Year | Years | Years | Years | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Obligations (1) |
$ | 100,125 | $ | 4,050 | $ | 96,075 | | | ||||||||||||
Other Long Term Debt |
17,652 | 300 | 1,047 | $ | 845 | $ | 15,460 | |||||||||||||
Capital Lease Obligations |
7,626 | 2,283 | 5,343 | | | |||||||||||||||
Operating Lease Obligations (2) |
203,055 | 29,992 | 80,059 | 40,965 | 52,039 | |||||||||||||||
Purchase Obligations (3) |
163,875 | 163,875 | | | | |||||||||||||||
Minimum payments related to our
licensing arrangements |
14,920 | 3,500 | 5,820 | 5,600 | | |||||||||||||||
Financed insurance premiums |
525 | 525 | | | | |||||||||||||||
$ | 507,778 | $ | 204,525 | $ | 188,344 | $ | 47,410 | $ | 67,499 | |||||||||||
(1) | The long-term debt consists of our 4.50% convertible notes receivable due April 15, 2007 and related interest payments due in April and October of each year unless converted into our Class A common stock as provided for in the indenture agreement. | |
(2) | Operating lease commitments consists primarily of real property leases for our retail stores, corporate offices and distribution centers. These leases frequently include options that permit us to extend beyond the terms of the initial fixed term. Payments for these lease terms are provided for by cash flows generated from operations or, if needed, by our $150.0 million secured line of credit, for which no amounts were outstanding at March 31, 2005. | |
(3) | Purchase obligations includes the following (i) purchase orders for the purchase footwear of $45.9 million that may be cancelable in certain instances given the timing of cancellation, (ii) outstanding letters credit of $4.9 million and (iii) open purchase commitments with our foreign manufacturers for $113.1 million. We currently expect to fund these commitments with cash flows from operations. |
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND USE OF ESTIMATES
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, sales and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
We believe the following critical accounting estimates are affected by more significant judgments used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements: revenue recognition, promotional items, valuation allowances, inventory reserves, valuation of intangible and long-lived assets, litigation reserves, valuations of deferred income taxes, cooperative arrangements and foreign currency translation.
Revenue Recognition. We derive income from the sale of footwear and royalties earned from licensing the Skechers brand. A significant portion of our revenue is recognized upon shipment of footwear. Domestically, goods are shipped directly from our domestic distribution center in Ontario, California, and revenue is recognized upon shipment from the distribution center (FOB shipping point). For our international wholesale accounts, product is shipped direct from our distribution center in Liege, Belgium, and revenue is recognized upon shipment from the distribution center. For our distributor sales, the goods are delivered directly from the independent factories to our distributors freight forwarders on a Free Named Carrier (FCA) basis, and revenue is recognized upon receipt of a freight cargo receipt. In all of the above cases, each of the following has been met prior to revenue recognition: title has passed, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the price is fixed or determinable and collectibility is reasonably assured.
Royalty income is earned from our licensing arrangements. Upon signing a new licensing agreement, we receive up-front fees, which are generally characterized as prepaid royalties. These fees are initially deferred and recognized as revenue as
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earned (i.e. as licensed sales are reported to our company). The first calculated royalty payment is based on actual sales of the licensed product. Typically, at each quarter end we receive correspondence from our licensees indicating what the actual sales for the period were. This information is used to calculate and accrue the related royalties based on the terms of the agreement.
Promotional items. We typically provide for two types of promotional items, footwear and non-footwear. Promotional items are accounted for as follows:
| Footwear. Footwear products that are sold at a reduced price to our customers either through our wholesale or retail distribution channels and are recorded in net sales at the ultimate amount received/billed at the time of revenue recognition. Footwear given away as part of a promotion (i.e. seeding product to celebrities and editors, through promotions and events as well as charity related functions, etc.) is included in costs of sales. These amounts are immaterial in relation to our total cost of sales. Sales samples that are used by our sales personnel and distributors are charged to selling expense, at cost. The footwear that is given away is generally not given to any existing wholesale or retail customers. | |||
| Non-footwear. Non-footwear promotional items, such as concert promotions and give-aways at these events (i.e. key chains, t-shirts, etc.), are charged to advertising and promotions expense, which is included in selling expense. Such items are generally considered brand promotion. |
Allowance for bad debts, returns and customer chargebacks.
| Allowance for bad debts |
We insure selected customer account balances both greater than $200,000 and accepted by the insurance company. If insured customers do not pay, we are fully insured for non-payment that resulted from credit problems. We also provide a reserve against our receivables for estimated losses that may result from our customers inability to pay. To minimize the likelihood of uncollectibility, customers credit-worthiness is reviewed periodically based on external credit reporting services and our experience with the account, and it is adjusted accordingly. Should a customers account become past due, we generally place a hold on the account and discontinue further shipments to that customer, minimizing further risk of loss. We determine the amount of the reserve by analyzing known uncollectible accounts, aged receivables, economic conditions in the customers country or industry, historical losses and our customers credit-worthiness. Amounts later determined and specifically identified to be uncollectible are charged or written off against this reserve.
| Reserve for chargebacks, returns and allowances |
We reserve for potential disputed amounts or chargebacks with our customers. Our chargeback reserve is based on a collectibility percentage based on factors such as historical trend, current economic conditions, and nature of the chargeback receivables. We also reserve for potential sales returns and other allowances based on historical trends.
The likelihood of a material loss on an uncollectible account would be mainly dependent on deterioration in the overall economic conditions in a particular country or environment. Reserves are fully provided for all probable losses of this nature. For receivables that are not specifically identified as high risk, we provide a reserve based upon a percent of sales for the last two months. This percentage is based on our historical loss rate. A 1% change in this rate would not have a significant impact on our results of operations. Gross trade accounts receivable balance was $157.8 million and the allowance for bad debts, returns and customer chargebacks was $7.3 million at March 31, 2005.
Inventory reserves. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. We review our inventory on a regular basis for excess and slow moving inventory. Our review is based on inventory on hand, prior sales and our expected net realizable value. Our analysis includes a review of inventory quantities on hand at period end in relation to year-to-date sales and projections for sales in the near future. The net realizable value, or market value, is determined based on our estimate of sales prices of such inventory through off-price or discount store channels. A write-down of inventory is considered permanent and creates a new cost basis for those units. The likelihood of any material inventory write-down is dependent primarily on our expectation of future consumer demand for our product. A misinterpretation or misunderstanding of future consumer demand for our product or of the economy, or other failure to estimate correctly, could result in inventory valuation changes, either favorably or unfavorably, compared to the requirement determined to be appropriate as of the balance sheet date. At March 31, 2005, our gross inventory value was $131.9 million and our inventory reserve was $1.2 million.
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Valuation of long-lived assets. When circumstances warrant, we assess the impairment of long-lived assets that require us to make assumptions and judgments regarding the carrying value of these assets. The assets are considered to be impaired if we determine that the carrying value may not be recoverable based upon our assessment of the following events or changes in circumstances:
| the assets ability to continue to generate income; | |||
| any loss of legal ownership or title to the asset(s); | |||
| any significant changes in our strategic business objectives and utilization of the asset(s); or | |||
| the impact of significant negative industry or economic trends. |
If the assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment we recognize is the amount by which the carrying value of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. In addition, we base the useful lives and related amortization or depreciation expense on our estimate of the period that the assets will generate revenues or otherwise be used by us. If a change were to occur in any of the above-mentioned factors or estimates, the likelihood of a material change in our reported results would increase. In addition, we prepare a summary of store contribution from our domestic retail stores to assess potential impairment of the fixed assets and leasehold improvements. Stores with negative contribution opened in excess of twenty-four months are then reviewed in detail to determine if impairment exists.
Litigation reserves. Estimated amounts for claims that are probable and can be reasonably estimated are recorded as liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. The likelihood of a material change in these estimated reserves would depend on new claims as they may arise and the favorable or unfavorable outcome of the particular litigation. Both the amount and range of loss on a large portion of the remaining pending litigation is uncertain. As such, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate of the liability that could result from unfavorable outcomes in litigation. As additional information becomes available, we will assess the potential liability related to our pending litigation and revise our estimates. Such revisions in our estimates of the potential liability could materially impact our results of operations and financial position.
Valuation of deferred income taxes. We record a valuation allowance when necessary to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. The likelihood of a material change in our expected realization of our deferred tax assets depends on future taxable income and the effectiveness of our tax planning strategies amongst the various domestic and international tax jurisdictions in which we operate. We evaluate our projections of taxable income to determine the recoverability of our deferred tax assets and the need for a valuation allowance.
Cooperative arrangements. We do not have a formal cooperative advertising program and any activity is usually small. Any payments made or credits provided to our resellers are either charged against net sales, if the criteria of Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 01-9 has not been met, or charged to the line item caption selling expense when the applicable criteria has been met. Amounts that are charged as an expense in the line item caption selling expense are typically supported by an invoice or other supporting documentation from our customers that provide verifiable support of their expenditures, which may include third-party invoices for advertising-related costs, i.e. photo and catalog costs.
Foreign currency translation. Our international operations generally use their respective local currencies as their functional currency. In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation (SFAS 52), revenues and expenses from our international subsidiaries are translated using the monthly average exchange rates in effect for the period in which such revenues and expenses occur. International subsidiaries that use their local currency as their functional currency translate their assets and liabilities using current rates of exchange at the balance sheet date. The resulting translation gains and losses for such subsidiaries are included within accumulated other comprehensive income as a separate component of stockholders equity. One international subsidiary has a functional currency of the U.S. dollar. Resulting remeasurement gains and losses from this subsidiary are included in the determination of net earnings. A substantial portion of our intercompany loans are considered long-term investments and are included as a component of translation adjustment in other comprehensive income.
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RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
On December 16, 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Statement No. 123(R) (revised 2004), Share-Based Payment, which is a revision of FASB Statement No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. Statement 123(R) supersedes APB Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and amends FASB Statement No. 95, Statement of Cash Flows. Generally, the approach in Statement 123(R) is similar to the approach described in Statement 123. However, Statement 123(R) requires all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized in the income statement based on their fair values. Pro forma disclosure is no longer an alternative.
On April 14, 2005, the SEC announced a deferral of the effective date of Statement 123(R) for calendar year companies until the beginning of 2006. Early adoption will be permitted in periods in which financial statements have not yet been issued. We expect to adopt Statement 123(R) on January 1, 2006.
Statement 123(R) permits public companies to adopt its requirements using one of two methods:
1. | A modified prospective method in which compensation cost is recognized beginning with the effective date (a) based on the requirements of Statement 123(R) for all share-based payments granted after the effective date and (b) based on the requirements of Statement 123 for all awards granted to employees prior to the effective date of Statement 123(R) that remain unvested on the effective date. | |||
2. | A modified retrospective method which includes the requirements of the modified prospective method described above, but also permits entities to restate based on the amounts previously recognized under Statement 123 for purposes of pro forma disclosures either (a) all prior periods presented or (b) prior interim periods of the year of adoption. |
We plan to adopt Statement 123 using the modified-prospective method. As permitted by Statement 123, we currently account for share-based payments to employees using Opinion 25s intrinsic value method and, as such, generally recognize no compensation cost for employee stock options. Accordingly, the adoption of Statement 123(R)s fair value method will have a significant impact on our results of operations, although it will have no impact on our overall financial position. The impact of adoption of Statement 123(R) cannot be predicted at this time because it will depend on levels of share-based payments granted in the future. Statement 123(R) also requires the benefits of tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation cost to be reported as a financing cash flow rather than as an operating cash flow as required under current literature. This requirement will reduce net operating cash flows and increase net financing cash flows in periods after adoption. While we cannot estimate what those amounts will be in the future (because they depend on, among other things, when employees exercise stock options), the amounts of operating cash flows recognized in prior periods for such excess tax deductions were $3.0 million, $0.8 million and $2.0 million in 2002, 2003 and 2004, respectively.
In November 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, Inventory Costs (SFAS 151), an amendment of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4. SFAS 151 clarifies the accounting for abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs and wasted material. SFAS 151 is effective for inventory costs incurred during fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. We are currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of SFAS 151 will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements but we do not expect it to have a material impact.
QUARTERLY RESULTS AND SEASONALITY
While sales of footwear products have historically been somewhat seasonal in nature with the strongest sales generally occurring in the second and third quarters, we believe that changes in our product offerings have somewhat mitigated the effect of this seasonality and, consequently, our sales are not necessarily as subjected to seasonal trends as that of our past or our competitors in the footwear industry.
We have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, variability in our net sales and operating results on a quarterly basis. Our domestic customers generally assume responsibility for scheduling pickup and delivery of purchased products. Any delay in scheduling or pickup which is beyond our control could materially negatively impact our net sales and results of operations for any given quarter. We believe the factors which influence this variability include (i) the timing of our introduction of new footwear products, (ii) the level of consumer acceptance of new and existing products, (iii) general economic and industry conditions that affect consumer spending and retail purchasing, (iv) the timing of the placement, cancellation or pickup of customer orders, (v) increases in the number of employees and overhead to support growth, (vi) the timing of expenditures in anticipation of increased sales and customer delivery requirements, (vii) the number and timing of
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our new retail store openings and (viii) actions by competitors. Due to these and other factors, the operating results for any particular quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full year.
INFLATION
We do not believe that the relatively moderate rates of inflation experienced in the United States over the last three years have had a significant effect on our sales or profitability. However, we cannot accurately predict the effect of inflation on future operating results. Although higher rates of inflation have been experienced in a number of foreign countries in which our products are manufactured, we do not believe that inflation has had a material effect on our sales or profitability. While we have been able to offset our foreign product cost increases by increasing prices or changing suppliers in the past, we cannot assure you that we will be able to continue to make such increases or changes in the future.
EXCHANGE RATES
Although we currently invoice most of our customers in U.S. Dollars, changes in the value of the U.S. Dollar versus the local currency in which our products are sold, along with economic and political conditions of such foreign countries, could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Purchase prices for our products may be impacted by fluctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the local currencies of the contract manufacturers, which may have the effect of increasing our cost of goods in the future. In addition, the weakening of an international customers local currency and banking market may negatively impact such customers ability to meet their payment obligations to us. We regularly monitor the credit worthiness of our international customers and make credit decisions based on both prior sales experience with such customers and their current financial performance, as well as overall economic conditions. While we currently believe that our international customers have the ability to meet all of their obligations to us, there can be no assurance that they will continue to be able to meet such obligations. During 2004 and 2005, exchange rate fluctuations did not have a material impact on our inventory costs. We do not engage in hedging activities with respect to such exchange rate risk.
RISK FACTORS
In addition to the other information in this quarterly report, the following factors should be considered in evaluating us and our business.
Our Future Success Depends On Our Ability To Respond To Changing Consumer Demands, And Identify And Interpret Fashion Trends And Successfully Market New Products.
The footwear industry is subject to rapidly changing consumer demands and fashion trends. Accordingly, we must identify and interpret fashion trends and respond in a timely manner. Demand for and market acceptance of new products are uncertain and achieving market acceptance for new products generally requires substantial product development and marketing efforts and expenditures. If we do not continue to meet changing consumer demands and develop successful styles in the future, our growth and profitability will be negatively impacted. We frequently make decisions about product designs and marketing expenditures several months in advance of the time when consumer acceptance can be determined. If we fail to anticipate, identify or react appropriately to changes in styles and trends or are not successful in marketing new products, we could experience excess inventories, higher than normal markdowns or an inability to profitably sell our products. Because of these risks, a number of companies in the footwear industry specifically, and others in the fashion and apparel industry in general, have experienced periods of rapid growth in revenues and earnings and thereafter periods of declining sales and losses, which in some cases have resulted in companies in these industries ceasing to do business. Similarly, these risks could have a severe negative effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
Our Business And The Success Of Our Products Could Be Harmed If We Are Unable To Maintain Our Brand Image.
Our success to date has been due in large part to the strength of our brand. If we are unable to timely and appropriately respond to changing consumer demand, our brand name and brand image may be impaired. Even if we react appropriately to changes in consumer preferences, consumers may consider our brand image to be outdated or associate our brand with styles of footwear that are no longer popular. In the past, several footwear companies including ours have experienced periods of rapid growth in revenues and earnings followed by periods of declining sales and losses. Our business may be similarly affected in the future.
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Our Business Could Be Harmed If We Fail To Maintain Proper Inventory Levels.
We place orders with our manufacturers for some of our products prior to the time we receive all of our customers orders. We do this to minimize purchasing costs, the time necessary to fill customer orders and the risk of non-delivery. We also maintain an inventory of certain products that we anticipate will be in greater demand. However, we may be unable to sell the products we have ordered in advance from manufacturers or that we have in our inventory. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand may result in inventory write-downs, and the sale of excess inventory at discounted prices could significantly impair our brand image and have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. Conversely, if we underestimate consumer demand for our products or if our manufacturers fail to supply the quality products that we require at the time we need them, we may experience inventory shortages. Inventory shortages might delay shipments to customers, negatively impact retailer and distributor relationships, and diminish brand loyalty.
We May Be Unable To Successfully Execute Our Growth Strategy Or Maintain Our Growth.
We have grown quickly since we started our business. Our ability to grow in the future depends upon, among other things, the continued success of our efforts to expand our footwear offerings and distribution channels. Our rate of growth has declined in recent periods and may continue to decline or we may not be profitable in future quarters or fiscal years. Furthermore, as our business becomes larger, we may not be able to effectively manage our growth. We anticipate that as our business grows, we will have to improve and enhance our overall financial and managerial controls, reporting systems and procedures. We may be unable to successfully implement our current growth strategy or other growth strategies or effectively manage our growth, any of which would negatively impair our net sales and earnings.
Our Business May Be Negatively Impacted As A Result Of Changes In The Economy.
Our business depends on the general economic environment and levels of consumer spending that affect not only the ultimate consumer, but also retailers, our primary direct customers. Purchases of footwear tend to decline in periods of recession or uncertainty regarding future economic prospects, when consumer spending, particularly on discretionary items, declines. During periods of recession or economic uncertainty, we may not be able to maintain or increase our sales to existing customers, make sales to new customers, open and operate new retail stores, maintain sales levels at our existing stores, maintain or increase our international operations on a profitable basis, or maintain or improve our earnings from operations as a percentage of net sales. As a result, our operating results may be adversely and materially affected by downward trends in the economy or the occurrence of events that adversely affect the economy in general. Furthermore, in anticipation of continued increases in net sales, we have significantly expanded our infrastructure and workforce to achieve economies of scale. Because these expenses are fixed in the short term, our operating results and margins will be adversely impacted if we do not continue to grow as anticipated. For example, due in large part to the slowdown in the global economy, our net sales for 2003 were lower than anticipated. This lower level of sales adversely affected our operating results for 2003 and could do so again in 2005 and beyond.
Economic, Political, Military Or Other Events In The United States Or In A Country Where We Make Significant Sales Or Have Significant Operations Could Interfere With Our Success Or Operations There And Harm Our Business.
We market and sell our products and services throughout the world. The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks disrupted commerce throughout the United States and other parts of the world. The continued threat of similar attacks throughout the world and the military action, or possible military action, taken by the United States and other nations, in Iraq or other countries may cause significant disruption to commerce throughout the world. To the extent that such disruptions further slow the global economy or, more particularly, result in delays or cancellations of purchase orders for our products, our business and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. We are unable to predict whether the threat of new attacks or the responses thereto will result in any long-term commercial disruptions or if such activities or responses will have a long-term material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
We Depend Upon A Relatively Small Group Of Customers For A Large Portion Of Our Sales.
During the three months ended March 31, 2005, our net sales to our five largest customers accounted for approximately 24.8% of total net sales. As of March 31, 2005, no customer accounted for more than 10% of our net trade accounts receivable. Although we have long-term relationships with many of our customers, our customers do not have a contractual obligation to purchase our products and we cannot be certain that we will be able to retain our existing major customers. Furthermore, the retail industry regularly experiences consolidation, contractions and closings. If there are further consolidations, contractions or closings in the future, we may lose customers or be unable to collect accounts receivable of
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major customers in excess of amounts that we have insured. If we lose a major customer, experience a significant decrease in sales to a major customer or are unable to collect the accounts receivable of a major customer in excess of amounts insured, our business could be harmed.
Our Operating Results Could Be Negatively Impacted If Our Sales Are Concentrated In Any One Style Or Group Of Styles.
If any one style or group of similar styles of our footwear were to represent a substantial portion of our net sales, we could be exposed to risk should consumer demand for such style or group of styles decrease in subsequent periods. We attempt to hedge this risk by offering a broad range of products, and no style comprised over 5% of our gross wholesale sales for the years ended December 31, 2003 or 2004. However, this may change in the future and fluctuations in sales of any given style that represents a significant portion of our future net sales could have a negative impact on our operating results.
We Rely On Independent Contract Manufacturers And, As A Result, Are Exposed To Potential Disruptions In Product Supply.
Our footwear products are currently manufactured by independent contract manufacturers. During the three months ended March 31, 2005, the top five manufacturers of our manufactured products produced approximately 62.6% of our total purchases. One manufacturer accounted for 27.5% of total purchases for the three months ended March 31, 2005 and the same manufacturer accounted for 28.2% of total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2004. A second manufacturer accounted for 15.3% of our total purchases during the three months ended March 31, 2005 and the same manufacturer accounted for 11.0% of total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2004. We do not have long-term contracts with manufacturers and we compete with other footwear companies for production facilities. We could experience difficulties with these manufacturers, including reductions in the availability of production capacity, failure to meet our quality control standards, failure to meet production deadlines or increased manufacturing costs. This could result in our customers canceling orders, refusing to accept deliveries or demanding reductions in purchase prices, any of which could have a negative impact on our cash flow and harm our business.
If our current manufacturers cease doing business with us, we could experience an interruption in the manufacture of our products. Although we believe that we could find alternative manufacturers, we may be unable to establish relationships with alternative manufacturers that will be as favorable as the relationships we have now. For example, new manufacturers may have higher prices, less favorable payment terms, lower manufacturing capacity, lower quality standards or higher lead times for delivery. If we are unable to provide products consistent with our standards or the manufacture of our footwear is delayed or becomes more expensive, our business would be harmed.
Our International Sales And Manufacturing Operations Are Subject To The Risks Of Doing Business Abroad, Which Could Affect Our Ability To Sell Or Manufacture Our Products In International Markets, Obtain Products From Foreign Suppliers Or Control The Costs Of Our Products.
Substantially all of our net sales during the three months ended March 31, 2005 were derived from sales of footwear manufactured in foreign countries, with most manufactured in China and, to a lesser extent, in Italy, Vietnam and Brazil. We also sell our footwear in several foreign countries and plan to increase our international sales efforts as part of our growth strategy. Foreign manufacturing and sales are subject to a number of risks, including:
| political and social unrest, including our military presence in Iraq; | |||
| changing economic conditions; | |||
| currency exchange rate fluctuations; | |||
| international political tension and terrorism; | |||
| work stoppages; | |||
| electrical shortages; | |||
| transportation delays; | |||
| loss or damage to products in transit; |
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| expropriation; | |||
| nationalization; | |||
| the imposition of tariffs and trade duties both international and domestically; | |||
| import and export controls and other non-tariff barriers; | |||
| exposure to different legal standards (particularly with respect to intellectual property); | |||
| compliance with foreign laws; and | |||
| changes in domestic and foreign governmental policies. |
In particular, because most of our products are manufactured in China, adverse change in trade or political relations with China or political instability in China would severely interfere with the manufacture of our products and would materially adversely affect our operations. Also electrical shortages may extend the production time necessary to produce our orders, and there may be circumstances in the future where we may have to incur premium freight charges to expedite product to our customers. If we incur a significant amount of premium charges to airfreight product for our customers, our gross profit will be negatively affected if we are unable to collect those charges.
In addition, if we, or our foreign manufacturers, violate United States or foreign laws or regulations, we may be subject to extra duties, significant monetary penalties, the seizure and the forfeiture of the products we are attempting to import or the loss of our import privileges. Possible violations of United States or foreign laws or regulations could include inadequate record keeping of our imported products, misstatements or errors as to the origin, quota category, classification, marketing or valuation of our imported products, fraudulent visas or labor violations. The effects of these factors could render our conduct of business in a particular country undesirable or impractical and have a negative impact on our operating results.
Our Business Could Be Harmed If Our Contract Manufacturers, Suppliers Or Licensees Violate Labor Or Other Laws.
We require our independent contract manufacturers, suppliers and licensees to operate in compliance with applicable United States and foreign laws and regulations. Manufacturers are required to certify that neither convicted, forced or indentured labor (as defined under United States law) nor child labor (as defined by the manufacturers country) is used in the production process, that compensation is paid in accordance with local law and that their factories are in compliance with local safety regulations. Although we promote ethical business practices and our sourcing personnel periodically visit and monitor the operations of our independent contract manufacturers, suppliers and licensees, we do not control them or their labor practices. If one of our independent contract manufacturers, suppliers or licensees violates labor or other laws or diverges from those labor practices generally accepted as ethical in the United States, it could result in adverse publicity for us, damage our reputation in the United States or render our conduct of business in a particular foreign country undesirable or impractical, any of which could harm our business.
Our Strategies Involve A Number Of Risks That Could Prevent Or Delay Any Successful Opening Of New Stores As Well As Impact The Performance Of Our Existing Stores.
Our ability to open and operate new stores successfully depends on many factors, including, among others, our ability to:
| identify suitable store locations, the availability of which is outside of our control; | |||
| negotiate acceptable lease terms, including desired tenant improvement allowances; | |||
| source sufficient levels of inventory to meet the needs of new stores; | |||
| hire, train and retain store personnel; | |||
| successfully integrate new stores into our existing operations; and | |||
| satisfy the fashion preferences in new geographic areas. |
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In addition, some or a substantial number of new stores could be opened in regions of the United States in which we currently have few or no stores. Any expansion into new markets may present competitive, merchandising and distribution challenges that are different from those currently encountered in our existing markets. Any of these challenges could adversely affect our business and results of operations. In addition, to the extent that any new store openings are in existing markets, we may experience reduced net sales volumes in existing stores in those markets.
Many Of Our Retail Stores Depend Heavily On The Customer Traffic Generated By Shopping And Factory Outlet Malls Or By Tourism.
Many of our concept stores are located in shopping malls and some of our factory outlet stores are located in manufacturers outlet malls where we depend on obtaining prominent locations in the malls and the overall success of the malls to generate customer traffic. We cannot control the development of new malls, the availability or cost of appropriate locations within existing or new malls or the success of individual malls. Some of our concept stores occupy street locations that are heavily dependent on customer traffic generated by tourism. Any substantial decrease in tourism resulting from our military presence in Iraq, a downturn in the economy or otherwise, is likely to adversely affect sales in our existing stores, particularly those with street locations. The effects of these factors could hinder our ability to open retail stores in new markets or reduce sales of particular existing stores, which could negatively affect our operating results.
Our Quarterly Revenues And Operating Results Fluctuate As A Result Of A Variety Of Factors, Including Seasonal Fluctuations In Demand For Footwear, Delivery Date Delays And Potential Fluctuations In Our Annualized Tax Rate, Which May Result In Volatility Of Our Stock Price.
Our quarterly revenues and operating results have varied significantly in the past and can be expected to fluctuate in the future due to a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. For example, sales of footwear products have historically been somewhat seasonal in nature with the strongest sales generally occurring in the second and third quarters. Delays in scheduling or pickup of purchased products by our domestic customers could negatively impact our net sales and results of operations for any given quarter. Also, our annualized tax rate is based on projections of our domestic and international operating results for the year, which we review and revise as necessary at the end of each quarter, and it is highly sensitive to fluctuations in projected international earnings. Any quarterly fluctuations in our annualized tax rate that may occur could have a material impact on our quarterly operating results. As a result of these specific and other general factors, our operating results will likely vary from quarter to quarter and the results for any particular quarter may not be necessarily indicative of results for the full year. Any shortfall in revenues or net income from levels expected by securities analysts and investors could cause a decrease in the trading price of our Class A common shares.
We Face Intense Competition, Including Competition From Companies With Significantly Greater Resources Than Ours, And If We Are Unable To Compete Effectively With These Companies, Our Market Share May Decline And Our Business Could Be Harmed.
We face intense competition in the footwear industry from other established companies. A number of our competitors have significantly greater financial, technological, engineering, manufacturing, marketing and distribution resources than we do. Their greater capabilities in these areas may enable them to better withstand periodic downturns in the footwear industry, compete more effectively on the basis of price and production and more quickly develop new products. In addition, new companies may enter the markets in which we compete, further increasing competition in the footwear industry.
We believe that our ability to compete successfully depends on a number of factors, including the style and quality of our products and the strength of our brand name, as well as many factors beyond our control. We may not be able to compete successfully in the future, and increased competition may result in price reductions, reduced profit margins, loss of market share and an inability to generate cash flows that are sufficient to maintain or expand our development and marketing of new products, which would adversely impact the trading price of our Class A common shares.
Obtaining Additional Capital To Fund Our Operations And Finance Our Growth Could Make It Difficult For Us To Service Our Debt Obligations.
If our working capital needs exceed our current expectations, we may need to raise additional capital through public or private equity offerings or debt financings. If we cannot raise needed funds on acceptable terms, we may not be able to successfully execute our growth strategy, take advantage of future opportunities or respond to competitive pressures or unanticipated requirements. To the extent we raise additional capital by issuing debt, it may become difficult for us to meet debt service obligations. To the extent we raise additional capital by issuing equity securities, our stockholders may
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experience substantial dilution. Also, any new equity securities may have greater rights, preferences or privileges than our existing Class A common shares.
We Depend On Key Personnel To Manage Our Business Effectively In A Rapidly Changing Market, And If We Are Unable To Retain Existing Personnel, Our Business Could Be Harmed.
Our future success depends upon the continued services of Robert Greenberg, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Michael Greenberg, President, and David Weinberg, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. The loss of the services of any of these individuals or any other key employee could harm us. Our future success also depends on our ability to identify, attract and retain additional qualified personnel. Competition for employees in our industry is intense and we may not be successful in attracting and retaining such personnel.
The Disruption, Expense And Potential Liability Associated With Existing And Unanticipated Future Litigation Against Us Could Have A Material Adverse Effect On Our Business, Results Of Operations And Financial Condition.
We are subject to various legal proceedings and threatened legal proceedings from time to time as part of our business. We are not currently a party to any legal proceedings or aware of any threatened legal proceedings, the adverse outcome of which, individually or in the aggregate, we believe would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition. However, any unanticipated litigation in the future, regardless of its merits, could significantly divert managements attention from our operations and result in substantial legal fees to us. Further, there can be no assurance that any actions that have been or will be brought against us will be resolved in our favor or, if significant monetary judgments are rendered against us, that we will have the ability to pay such judgments. Such disruptions, legal fees and any losses resulting from these claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Our Trademarks, Design Patents And Other Intellectual Property Rights May Not Be Adequately Protected Outside The United States.
We believe that our trademarks, design patents and other proprietary rights are important to our success and our competitive position. We devote substantial resources to the establishment and protection of our trademarks and design patents on a worldwide basis. In the course of our international expansion, we have, however, experienced conflicts with various third parties that have acquired or claimed ownership rights in certain trademarks similar to ours or have otherwise contested our rights to our trademarks. We have in the past successfully resolved these conflicts through both legal action and negotiated settlements, none of which we believe has had a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations. Nevertheless, we cannot assure you that the actions we have taken to establish and protect our trademarks and other proprietary rights outside the United States will be adequate to prevent imitation of our products by others or to prevent others from seeking to block sales of our products as a violation of the trademarks and proprietary rights of others. Also, we cannot assure you that others will not assert rights in, or ownership of, trademarks, designs and other proprietary rights of ours or that we will be able to successfully resolve these types of conflicts to our satisfaction. In addition, the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United States. We may face significant expenses and liability in connection with the protection of our intellectual property rights outside the United States, and if we are unable to successfully protect our rights or resolve intellectual property conflicts with others, our business or financial condition may be adversely affected.
Our Ability To Compete Could Be Jeopardized If We Are Unable To Protect Our Intellectual Property Rights Or If We Are Sued For Intellectual Property Infringement.
We use trademarks on nearly all of our products and believe that having distinctive marks that are readily identifiable is an important factor in creating a market for our goods, in identifying us and in distinguishing our goods from the goods of others. We consider our Skechers®, S in Shield Design® and Performance-S Shifted Design® trademarks to be among our most valuable assets and we have registered these trademarks in many countries. In addition, we own many other trademarks, which we utilize in marketing our products. We continue to vigorously protect our trademarks against infringement. We also have a number of design patents and a limited number of utility patents covering components and features used in various shoes. We believe that our success depends primarily upon skills in design, research and development, production and marketing rather than upon our patent position. However, we have followed a policy of filing applications for United States and foreign patents on designs and technologies that we deem valuable.
We believe that our patents and trademarks are generally sufficient to permit us to carry on our business as presently conducted. We cannot, however, know whether we will be able to secure patents or trademark protection for our intellectual property in the future or that protection will be adequate for future products. Further, we face the risk of ineffective protection
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of intellectual property rights in the countries where we source and distribute our products. We have been sued for patent and trademark infringement and cannot be sure that our activities do not and will not infringe on the proprietary rights of others. If we are compelled to prosecute infringing parties, defend our intellectual property or defend ourselves from intellectual property claims made by others, we may face significant expenses and liability and necessary management attention to such matters, which could negatively impact our business or financial condition.
Natural Disasters Or A Decline In Economic Conditions In California Could Increase Our Operating Expenses Or Adversely Affect Our Sales Revenue.
A substantial portion of our operations are located in California, including 40 of our retail stores, our headquarters in Manhattan Beach and our domestic distribution center in Ontario. Because a significant portion of our net sales is derived from sales in California, a decline in the economic conditions in California, whether or not such decline spreads beyond California, could materially adversely affect our business. Furthermore, a natural disaster or other catastrophic event, such as an earthquake affecting California, could significantly disrupt our business. We may be more susceptible to these issues than our competitors whose operations are not as concentrated in California.
One Principal Stockholder Is Able To Control Substantially All Matters Requiring A Vote Of Our Stockholders And His Interests May Differ From The Interests Of Our Other Stockholders.
As of March 31, 2005, Robert Greenberg, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, beneficially owned 73.7% of our outstanding Class B common shares and members of Mr. Greenbergs immediate family beneficially owned the remainder of our outstanding Class B common shares. The holders of Class A common shares and Class B common shares have identical rights except that holders of Class A common shares are entitled to one vote per share while holders of Class B common shares are entitled to ten votes per share on all matters submitted to a vote of our stockholders. As a result, as of March 31, 2005, Mr. Greenberg held approximately 65.1% of the aggregate number of votes eligible to be cast by our stockholders, and together with shares held by other members of his immediate family, held approximately 88.4% of the aggregate number of votes eligible to be cast by our stockholders. Therefore, Mr. Greenberg is able to control substantially all matters requiring approval by our stockholders. Matters that require the approval of our stockholders include the election of directors and the approval of mergers or other business combination transactions. Mr. Greenberg also has control over our management and affairs. As a result of such control, certain transactions are not possible without the approval of Mr. Greenberg, including, proxy contests, tender offers, open market purchase programs or other transactions that can give our stockholders the opportunity to realize a premium over the then-prevailing market prices for their shares of our Class A common shares. The differential in the voting rights may adversely affect the value of our Class A common shares to the extent that investors or any potential future purchaser view the superior voting rights of our Class B common shares to have value.
Our Charter Documents And Delaware Law May Inhibit A Takeover, Which May Cause A Decline In The Value Of Our Stock.
Provisions of Delaware law, our certificate of incorporation or our bylaws could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if closing such a transaction would be beneficial to our stockholders. Mr. Greenbergs substantial beneficial ownership position, together with the authorization of Preferred Stock, the disparate voting rights between the Class A common shares and Class B common shares, the classification of the Board of Directors and the lack of cumulative voting in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control, may discourage bids for our Class A common shares at a premium over the market price of the Class A common shares and may adversely affect the market price of the Class A common shares.
We Are Still Exposed To Potential Risks From Recent Legislation Requiring Public Companies To Evaluate Controls Under Section 404 Of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act Of 2002.
We are subject to various regulatory requirements, including the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. We, like all other public companies, are incurring additional expenses and, to a lesser extent, diverting managements time in an effort to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Beginning with the annual report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, our management is required under Section 404 to furnish a report regarding its internal controls over financial reporting. We have implemented processes documenting and evaluating our system of internal controls. If, in the future, management identifies one or more material weaknesses, or our external auditors are unable to attest that our managements report is fairly stated or to express an opinion on the effectiveness of our internal controls, this could result in a loss of investor confidence in our financial reports, have an adverse effect on our stock price and/or subject us to sanctions or investigation by regulatory authorities.
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We do not hold any derivative securities that require fair value presentation per FASB Statement No. 133.
Market risk is the potential loss arising from the adverse changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. Changes in interest rates and changes in foreign currency exchange rates have and will have an impact on our results of operations.
Interest rate fluctuations. At March 31, 2005, no amounts were outstanding that were subject to changes in interest rates; however, the interest rate charged on our line of credit facility is based on the prime rate of interest, and changes in the prime rate of interest will have an effect on the interest charged on outstanding balances. No amounts are currently outstanding.
Foreign exchange rate fluctuations. We face market risk to the extent that changes in foreign currency exchange rates affect our non-U.S. dollar functional currency foreign subsidiarys revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities. In addition, changes in foreign exchange rates may affect the value of our inventory commitments. Also, inventory purchases of our products may be impacted by fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the local currencies of the contract manufacturers, which could have the effect of increasing the cost of goods sold in the future. We manage these risks by primarily denominating these purchases and commitments in U.S. dollars. We do not engage in hedging activities with respect to such exchange rate risks.
Assets and liabilities outside the United States are located in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, Canada, Belgium and the Netherlands. Our investments in foreign subsidiaries with a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar are generally considered long-term. Accordingly, we do not hedge these net investments. During the quarter ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, the fluctuation of foreign currencies resulted in cumulative foreign currency translation losses of $2.0 million and $0.2 million, respectively, that are deferred and recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders equity. A 2% reduction in each of these exchange rates at March 31, 2005 would have reduced the values of our net investments by approximately $2.0 million.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Attached as exhibits to this quarterly report on Form 10-Q are certifications of our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), which are required in accordance with Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). This Controls and Procedures section includes information concerning the controls and controls evaluation referred to in the certifications.
EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
The term disclosure controls and procedures refers to the controls and procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within required time periods. We have established disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to Skechers and its consolidated subsidiaries is made known to the officers who certify our financial reports, as well as other members of senior management and the Board of Directors, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report on Form 10-Q, we carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO and CFO, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Exchange Act. Based upon that evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely alerting them to material information related to our company that is required to be included in our periodic reports filed with the SEC under the Exchange Act.
CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2005 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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INHERENT LIMITATIONS ON EFFECTIVENESS OF CONTROLS
Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls or our internal control over financial reporting will prevent or detect all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control systems objectives will be met. The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Further, because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Controls can also be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Projections of any evaluation of controls effectiveness to future periods are subject to risks. Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with policies or procedures. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
On December 2, 2002, a class action complaint entitled OMAR QUINONES v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed in the Superior Court for the State of California for the County of Orange (Case No. 02CC00353). The complaint, as amended, alleges overtime and related violations of the California Labor Code on behalf of managers of Skechers retail stores and seeks, inter alia, damages and restitution, as well as injunctive and declaratory relief. On February 25, 2003, another related class action complaint entitled MYRNA CORTEZ v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed in the Superior Court for the State of California for the County of Los Angeles (Case No. BC290932), asserting similar claims and seeking similar relief on behalf of assistant managers. On July 7, 2004, a third class action complaint entitled MYRNA CORTEZ et al. v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed in the Superior Court for the State of California for the County of Los Angeles (Case No. BC318101). The complaint alleges wage violations of the California Labor Code and unfair business practices relating to deductions for uniforms on behalf of employees of Skechers retail stores and seeks, inter alia, damages and civil penalties, as well as injunctive relief. On December 20, 2004, the parties agreed to a preliminary settlement that fully resolves all claims brought by the plaintiffs in each of the three lawsuits. Under the terms of the preliminary settlement, which is still subject to court approval, Skechers will pay a potential maximum settlement amount of $1.8 million, which was recorded to other expense in the consolidated statement of operations during the fourth quarter of 2004, to cover claims made by eligible class members, plaintiff attorneys fees and costs, and costs of a third-party administrator.
On March 25, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned HARVEY SOLOMON v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-2094 DDP). On April 2, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned CHARLES ZIMMER v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-2296 PA). On April 15, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned MARTIN H. SIEGEL v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No 03-2645 RMT). On May 6, 2003, a shareholder securities class action complaint captioned ADAM D. SAPHIER v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was served on Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-3011 FMC). On May 9, 2003, a shareholders securities class action complaint captioned LARRY L. ERICKSON v. SKECHERS USA, INC. et al. was served on Skechers and certain of its officers and directors in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 03-3101 SJO). Each of these class action complaints alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of persons who purchased publicly traded securities of Skechers between April 3, 2002 and December 9, 2002. In July 2003, the court in these federal securities class actions, all pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, ordered the cases consolidated and a consolidated complaint to be filed and served. On September 25, 2003, the plaintiffs filed a consolidated complaint entitled In re SKECHERS USA, Inc. Securities Litigation, Case No. CV-03-2094-PA in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, consolidating all of the federal securities actions above. The complaint names as defendants Skechers and certain officers and directors and alleges violations of the federal securities laws and breach of fiduciary duty on behalf of persons who purchased publicly traded securities of Skechers between April 3, 2002 and December 9, 2002. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, interest, attorneys fees and injunctive and equitable relief. Skechers moved to dismiss the consolidated complaint in its entirety. On May 10, 2004, the court granted Skechers motion to dismiss with leave for plaintiffs to amend the complaint. On August 9, 2004, plaintiffs filed a first amended consolidated complaint for violations of the federal securities laws. The allegations and relief sought were virtually identical to the original consolidated complaint. Skechers has moved to dismiss the first amended consolidated complaint and the motion was set for hearing on December 6, 2004. On March 21, 2005, the court granted the motion to dismiss the first amended consolidated complaint with leave for plaintiffs to amend one final time. On April 7, 2005, plaintiffs elected to stand on the first amended consolidated complaint and requested entry of judgment so that an appeal from the courts ruling could be taken. On April 26, 2005, the court entered judgment in favor of Skechers and the individual defendants, and on May 3, 2005, plaintiffs filed an appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Discovery did not commence in the underlying action. While it is too early to predict the outcome of the appeal and any subsequent litigation, Skechers believes the suit is without merit and intends to vigorously defend against the claims.
On April 3, 2003, a shareholder derivative complaint captioned BRADFORD MITCHELL v. JEFFREY GREENBERG et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County (Case No. BC 293317). On April 3, 2003, a shareholder derivative complaint captioned GEORGIA MANOLAS v.
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JEFFREY GREENBERG et al. was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County (Case No. BC293388). On April 8, 2003, a shareholder derivative complaint captioned JEFF GRAVITTER v. ROBERT Y. GREENBERG was filed against Skechers and certain of its officers in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County (Case No. BC293561). Each of these class action complaints included allegations of violations of California Corporation Code § 25402 and breach of fiduciary duty. On August 29, 2003, the plaintiffs in these state derivative actions filed a consolidated complaint entitled In re SKECHERS USA, Inc. Derivative Litigation, Case No. BC-293317, in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County, consolidating all of the state derivative actions above. The complaint alleges violations of California Corporation Code §25402, breaches of fiduciary duty, waste of corporate assets and unjust enrichment. The complaint sought compensatory damages, treble damages, disgorgement of profits, imposition of a constructive trust, equitable and injunctive relief, and costs. The matter has now been settled in principle and a settlement stipulation between the parties has been signed. The settlement is still subject to court approval. The settlement will not have a material adverse effect on Skechers financial condition or results of operations as such amount will be paid by the Companys insurance carrier.
On March 1, 2005, Travis Greenfield filed a lawsuit against Skechers in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles, TRAVIS GREENFIELD v. SKECHERS U.S.A., ROBERT GREENBERG et. al. (Case No. BC 329605). The complaint alleges wrongful termination in violation of public policy and wrongful termination/discrimination in violation of California Government Code §12940 for both gender discrimination and sexual orientation discrimination. The complaint sought economic damages, compensatory damages, punitive and exemplary damages, interest and attorneys fees. Skechers plans on defending the allegations vigorously and believes the claims are without merit. The matter has now been settled and the settlement will not have a material adverse effect on Skechers financial condition or results of operations. The settlement has been accrued in the accompanying financial statements.
On April 20, 2005, a complaint captioned MINNETONKA MOCCASIN CO. v. SKECHERS USA, INC. was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota. The complaint alleges claims for trademark infringement, deceptive trade practices, unfair competition and fraud. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, attorneys fees, and injunctive and equitable relief. While it is too early to predict the outcome of the litigation, the Company believes the suit is without merit and intends to vigorously defend the suit.
Skechers occasionally becomes involved in litigation arising from the normal course of business and we are unable to determine the extent of any liability that may arise. Other than the foregoing, we have no reason to believe that any liability with respect to pending legal actions, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our companys consolidated financial statements or results of operations.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
Exhibit | ||
Number | Description | |
31.1
|
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. | |
31.2
|
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. | |
32.1
|
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. *** |
*** | In accordance with Item 601(b)(32)(ii) of Regulation S-K, this exhibit shall not be deemed filed for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Date: May 10, 2005 | SKECHERS, U.S.A., INC. | |||||
By: | /S/ DAVID WEINBERG | |||||
David Weinberg | ||||||
Executive Vice President and | ||||||
Chief Financial Officer | ||||||
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
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