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1
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[x] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 1997
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM to
--------------- ----------
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 1-11727
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 73-1493906
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
8801 SOUTH YALE AVENUE, SUITE 310, TULSA, OKLAHOMA 74137
(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)
(918) 492-7272
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of class Name of each exchange on
which registered
Common Units New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes X No
----- -----
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]
The aggregate market value as of October 14, 1997, of the registrant's Common
Units held by nonaffiliates of the registrant, based on the reported closing
price of such units on the New York Stock Exchange on such date, was
approximately $107,486,000.
At October 14, 1997, the registrant had units outstanding as follows:
Heritage Propane Partners, L.P. 4,512,085 Common Units
3,702,943 Subordinated Units
Documents Incorporated by Reference: None
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HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P.
1997 FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
PAGE
----
ITEM 1. BUSINESS..................................................................................1
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES................................................................................7
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.........................................................................8
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.......................................8
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S UNITS AND RELATED
UNITHOLDER MATTERS......................................................8
ITEM 6. SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA..........................................9
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.....................................11
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA...............................................17
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON
ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.....................................17
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT........................................17
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION....................................................................19
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
AND MANAGEMENT..........................................................23
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS............................................24
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND
REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.....................................................24
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PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
BUSINESS OF HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P.
Heritage Propane Partners, L.P., (the "Master Limited Partnership" or
the "MLP"), a publicly traded Delaware limited partnership, was formed in April
of 1996. The MLP's activities are conducted through its subsidiary, Heritage
Operating, L.P. (the "Operating Partnership" or the "OLP"). The MLP, with a 99%
limited partner interest, is the sole limited partner of the Operating
Partnership. The MLP and the OLP are together referred to herein as the
"Partnership". The Operating Partnership accounts for nearly all of the MLP's
consolidated assets, sales and operating earnings. The MLP's consolidated
earnings also reflect interest expense related to $120 million of 8.55% Senior
Secured Notes issued by the MLP in June, 1996.
BUSINESS OF HERITAGE OPERATING, L.P.
The Operating Partnership, a Delaware limited partnership, was formed
in April of 1996, to acquire, own and operate the propane business and assets
of Heritage Holdings, Inc. (the "Company", "Heritage", and "General Partner").
The Company has retained a 1% general partner interest in the MLP and also
holds a 1.0101% general partner interest in the Operating Partnership,
representing a 2% general partner interest in the Partnership on a combined
basis. As General Partner of the Partnership, the Company performs all
management functions required for the Partnership.
GENERAL
The Partnership is a Delaware limited partnership formed to acquire,
own and operate the propane business and assets of Heritage. Heritage serves as
the general partner of the Partnership. The Partnership believes it is the
seventh largest retail marketer of propane in the United States, serving more
than 220,000 active residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural
customers from 132 district locations in 23 states. The Partnership's
operations have been concentrated in large part in the western and southeastern
regions of the United States, with expansion into the northeastern United
States in the last year.
The business of the Partnership, starting with the formation of
Heritage in 1989, has grown primarily through acquisitions of retail propane
operations and, to a lesser extent, through internal growth. Through August 31,
1997, 40 acquisitions had been completed for an aggregate purchase price of
approximately $179 million. Volumes of propane sold to retail customers almost
doubled from 63.2 million gallons for the fiscal year ended August 31, 1992 to
125.6 million gallons for the fiscal year ended August 31, 1997. Since August
31, 1997, the Partnership has acquired another propane company.
The Partnership believes that its competitive strengths include: (i)
management's experience in identifying, evaluating and completing acquisitions,
(ii) operations that are focused in areas experiencing higher-than-average
population growth, (iii) a low cost overhead structure and (iv) a decentralized
operating structure and entrepreneurial workforce. These competitive strengths
have enabled the Partnership to achieve levels of EBITDA per retail propane
gallon that the Partnership believes are among the highest of any publicly
traded propane partnership. The Partnership believes that as a result of its
geographic diversity and district-level incentive compensation program, the
Partnership has been able to reduce the effect of adverse weather conditions on
EBITDA, including those experienced by Heritage during the warmer-than-normal
winter of 1994-1995 and 1996-1997. The Partnership believes that its
concentration in higher-than-average population growth areas provides it with a
strong economic foundation for expansion through acquisitions and internal
growth. The Partnership does not believe that it is significantly more
vulnerable than its competitors to displacement by natural gas distribution
systems because the majority of the Partnership's areas of operations are rural
and their population growth tends to open business opportunities for the
Partnership in more remote locations on their peripheries.
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BUSINESS STRATEGY
The Partnership's strategy is to expand its operations and increase
its retail market share in order to increase the funds available for
distribution to its Unitholders. The three critical elements to this strategy
are described below.
Acquisitions. Acquisitions will be the principal means of growth for
the Partnership, as the retail propane industry is mature and overall demand
for propane is expected to experience limited growth in the foreseeable future.
The Partnership believes that the fragmented nature of the propane industry
provides significant opportunities for growth through acquisition. Industry
sources indicate that there are over 8,000 retail propane operations, of which
the 10 largest comprise approximately 35% of industry sales. The Partnership
follows a disciplined acquisition strategy that concentrates on companies (i)
in geographic areas experiencing higher-than-average population growth, (ii)
with a high percentage of sales to residential customers, (iii) with local
reputations for quality service and (iv) with a high percentage of tank
ownership. In addition, unlike many of its competitors, the Partnership
attempts to capitalize on the reputations of the companies it acquires by
maintaining local brand names, billing practices and employees, thereby
creating a sense of continuity and minimizing customer loss. The Partnership
believes that this strategy has helped to make it an attractive buyer for many
acquisition candidates from the seller's viewpoint.
Through August 31, 1997, 40 acquisitions had been completed for an
aggregate purchase price of approximately $179 million. The Partnership has
completed an additional acquisition since that time. Of these companies
acquired, 11 represent "core acquisitions" with multiple plants in a specific
geographic area, with the balance representing "blend-in companies" which
operate in an existing region. The Partnership will focus on acquisition
candidates in its existing areas of operations, but will consider core
acquisitions in other higher-than-average population growth areas in order to
further reduce the impact on the Partnership's operations of adverse weather
patterns in any one region. While the Partnership is currently evaluating
numerous acquisition candidates, there can be no assurance that the Partnership
will identify attractive acquisition candidates in the future, that the
Partnership will be able to acquire such businesses on economically acceptable
terms, that any acquisition will not be dilutive to earnings and distributions
or that any additional debt incurred to finance an acquisition will not affect
the ability of the Partnership to make distributions to Unitholders.
In order to facilitate the Partnership acquisition strategy, the
Operating Partnership entered into the Bank Credit Facility. The Bank Credit
Facility consists of the $35.0 million Acquisition Facility to be used for
acquisitions and improvements and the $15.0 million Working Capital Facility to
be used for working capital and other general partnership purposes. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations--Description of Indebtedness." The Partnership also has the ability
to fund acquisitions through the issuance of additional partnership interests.
Internal Growth. In addition to pursuing expansion through
acquisitions, the Partnership has aggressively focused on internal growth at
its existing district locations. The Partnership believes that, by
concentrating its operations in areas experiencing higher-than-average
population growth, it is well positioned to achieve internal growth by adding
new customers. The Partnership also believes that its decentralized structure,
in which operational decisions are made at the district and regional level,
together with a bonus system that allocates a significant portion of a
district's EBITDA in excess of budget to district employees, has fostered an
entrepreneurial environment that has allowed the Partnership to achieve its
high rates of internal growth. The Partnership believes that its rate of
internal growth exceeds the average growth rate in the industry.
Low Cost, Decentralized Operations. The Partnership focuses on
controlling costs at the corporate and district levels. While the Partnership
has realized certain economies of scale as a result of its acquisitions, it
attributes its low overhead primarily to its decentralized structure. By
delegating all customer billing and collection activities to the district
level, the Partnership has been able to operate without a large corporate
staff. Of the Partnership's 847 full-time employees as of August 31, 1997, only
39, or approximately 4%, were general and administrative. In addition, the
Partnership plant bonus system encourages district employees at all levels to
control costs and expand revenues.
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As a result of the implementation of the strategy described
above, the Partnership has achieved the retail sales volumes per fiscal year
set forth below:
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Retail Propane Gallons Sold (in millions) 37.5 48.2 63.2 73.4 79.7 98.3 118.2 125.6
INDUSTRY BACKGROUND AND COMPETITION
Propane, a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum
refining, is a clean-burning energy source recognized for its transportability
and ease of use relative to alternative forms of stand-alone energy sources.
Retail propane use falls into three broad categories: (i) residential
applications, (ii) industrial, commercial, and agricultural applications and
(iii) other retail applications, including motor fuel sales. Residential
customers use propane primarily for space and water heating. Industrial
customers use propane primarily as fuel for forklifts and stationary engines,
to fire furnaces, as a cutting gas, in mining operations and in other process
applications. Commercial customers, such as restaurants, motels, laundries and
commercial buildings, use propane in a variety of applications, including
cooking, heating and drying. In the agricultural market, propane is primarily
used for tobacco curing, crop drying, poultry brooding and weed control. Other
retail uses include motor fuel for cars and trucks, outdoor cooking and other
recreational uses, propane resales and sales to state and local governments. In
its wholesale operations, the Partnership sells propane principally to large
industrial end-users and other propane distributors.
Propane is extracted from natural gas or oil wellhead gas at
processing plants or separated from crude oil during the refining process.
Propane is normally transported and stored in a liquid state under moderate
pressure or refrigeration for ease of handling in shipping and distribution.
When the pressure is released or the temperature is increased, it is usable as
a flammable gas. Propane is colorless and odorless: an odorant is added to
allow its detection. Like natural gas, propane is a clean burning fuel and is
considered an environmentally preferred energy source.
Based upon information provided by the Energy Information Agency,
Propane accounts for approximately three to four percent of household energy
consumption in the United States. Propane competes primarily with natural gas,
electricity and fuel oil as an energy source, principally on the basis of
price, availability and portability. Propane is more expensive than natural gas
on an equivalent BTU basis in locations served by natural gas, but serves as an
alternative to natural gas in rural and suburban areas where natural gas is
unavailable or portability of product is required. Historically, the expansion
of natural gas into traditional propane markets has been inhibited by the
capital costs required to expand pipeline and retail distribution systems.
Although the extension of natural gas pipelines tends to displace propane
distribution in areas affected, the Partnership believes that new opportunities
for propane sales arise as more geographically remote neighborhoods are
developed. Propane is generally less expensive to use than electricity for
space heating, water heating, clothes drying and cooking. Due to the current
diversity of location of the Partnership's operations, fuel oil has not been a
significant competitor.
In addition to competing with alternative energy sources, the
Partnership competes with other companies engaged in the retail propane
distribution business. Competition in the propane industry is highly fragmented
and generally occurs on a local basis with other large full-service multi-state
propane marketers, thousands of smaller local independent marketers and farm
cooperatives. Based on industry publications, the Partnership believes that the
domestic retail market for propane is approximately 9.5 billion gallons
annually, that the 10 largest retailers, including the Partnership, account for
less than 35% of the total retail sales of propane in the United States, and
that no single marketer has a greater than 10% share of the total retail market
in the United States. Most of the Partnership's retail distribution branches
compete with five or more marketers or distributors. Each retail distribution
outlet operates in its own competitive environment because retail marketers
tend to locate in close proximity to customers. The typical retail distribution
outlet generally has an effective marketing radius of approximately 50 miles
although in certain rural areas the marketing radius may be extended by a
satellite location.
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The ability to compete effectively further depends on the reliability
of service, responsiveness to customers and the ability to maintain competitive
prices. The Partnership believes that its safety programs, policies and
procedures are more comprehensive than many of its smaller, independent
competitors and give it a competitive advantage over such retailers. The
Partnership also believes that its service capabilities and customer
responsiveness differentiate it from many of these smaller competitors. The
Partnership's employees are on call 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week for emergency
repairs and deliveries.
The wholesale propane business is highly competitive. For fiscal 1997,
the Partnership's domestic wholesale operations (excluding M-P Oils
Partnership) accounted for 14.6% of total volumes but less than 2% of its
gross profit. While the Partnership does not emphasize wholesale operations, it
believes that limited wholesale activities enhance its ability to supply its
retail operations.
PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND MARKETING
The Partnership distributes propane through a nationwide retail
distribution network consisting of 132 district locations in 23 states. The
Partnership's operations are concentrated in large part in the western and
southeastern regions of the United States, with recent expansion into the
northeastern part of the United States. The Partnership's serves more than
220,000 active customers. Historically, approximately two-thirds of the
Partnership's retail propane volume and in excess of 80% of its EBITDA are
attributable to sales during the six-month peak heating season from October
through March, as many customers use propane for heating purposes.
Consequently, sales and operating profits are concentrated in the Partnership's
first and second fiscal quarters. Cash flows from operations, however, are
greatest during the second and third fiscal quarters when customers pay for
propane purchased during the six-month peak season. To the extent necessary,
the Partnership will reserve cash from these periods for distribution to
Unitholders during the warmer seasons.
Typically, district locations are found in suburban and rural areas
where natural gas is not readily available. Generally, such locations consist
of a one to two acre parcel of land, an office, a small warehouse and service
facility, a dispenser and one or more 18,000 to 30,000 gallon storage tanks.
Propane is generally transported from refineries, pipeline terminals, leased
storage facilities and coastal terminals by rail or truck transports to the
Partnership's district locations where it is unloaded into the storage tanks.
In order to make a retail delivery of propane to a customer, a bobtail truck is
loaded with propane from the storage tank. Propane is then pumped from the
bobtail truck, which generally holds 2,500 to 3,000 gallons of propane, into a
stationary storage tank on the customer's premises. The capacity of these
customer tanks ranges from approximately 100 gallons to 1,200 gallons, with a
typical tank having a capacity of 100 to 300 gallons in milder climates and
from 500 to 1,000 gallons in colder climates. The Partnership also delivers
propane to retail customers in portable cylinders, which typically have a
capacity of 5 to 35 gallons. When these cylinders are delivered to customers,
empty cylinders are picked up for refilling at the Partnership's distribution
locations or are refilled in place. The Partnership also delivers propane to
certain other bulk end users of propane in tractor trailers known as
transports, which typically have an average capacity of approximately 10,500
gallons. End users receiving transport deliveries include industrial customers,
large-scale heating accounts, mining operations, and large agricultural
accounts which use propane for crop drying.
The Partnership encourages its customers to implement a regular
delivery schedule by, in some cases, charging extra for non-scheduled
deliveries. Many of the Partnership's residential customers receive their
propane supply pursuant to an automatic delivery system which eliminates the
customer's need to make an affirmative purchase decision and allows for more
efficient route scheduling and maximization of volumes delivered. From its
district locations, the Partnership also sells, installs and services equipment
related to its propane distribution business, including heating and cooking
appliances.
Propane use falls into three broad categories: (i) residential
applications, (ii) industrial, commercial and agricultural applications and
(iii) other retail applications, including motor fuel sales. Approximately
85.4% of the domestic gallons sold by the Partnership in fiscal 1997 were to
retail customers and approximately 14.6% were to wholesale customers. Of the
retail gallons sold by the Partnership in fiscal 1997, 54% were to residential
customers, 34% were to industrial, commercial and agricultural customers, and
12% were to all other retail users.
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Sales to residential customers in fiscal 1997 accounted for 46% of total
domestic gallons sold but 67% of the Partnership's gross profit from propane
sales. Residential sales have a greater profit margin and a more stable
customer base than other markets served by the Partnership. Industrial,
commercial and agricultural sales accounted for 22% of the Partnership's gross
profit from propane sales for fiscal year 1997, with all other retail users
accounting for 9%. Additional volumes sold to wholesale customers contributed
the remaining 2% of gross profit from propane sales. No single customer
accounted for 5% or more of the Partnership's revenues during fiscal year 1997.
The propane business is very seasonal with weather conditions
significantly affecting demand for propane. The Partnership believes that the
geographic diversity of its operations helps to minimize its nationwide
exposure to regional weather. Although overall demand for propane is affected
by climate, changes in price and other factors, the Partnership believes its
residential and commercial business to be relatively stable due to the
following characteristics: (i) residential and commercial demand for propane
has been relatively unaffected by general economic conditions due to the
largely non-discretionary nature of most propane purchases by the Partnership's
customers, (ii) loss of customers to competing energy sources has been low,
(iii) the tendency of the Partnership's customers to remain with the
Partnership due to the product being delivered pursuant to a regular delivery
schedule and to the Partnership's ownership of over 87% of the storage tanks
utilized by its customers, and (iv) the historic ability of the Partnership to
more than offset customer losses through internal growth of its customer base
in existing markets. Since home heating usage is the most sensitive to
temperature, residential customers account for the greatest usage variation due
to weather. Variations in the weather in one or more regions in which the
Partnership operates, however , can significantly affect the total volumes of
propane sold by the Partnership and the margins realized thereon and,
consequently, the Partnership's results of operations. The Partnership believes
that sales to the commercial and industrial markets, while affected by economic
patterns, are not as sensitive to variations in weather conditions as sales to
residential and agricultural markets.
PROPANE SUPPLY AND STORAGE
The Partnership's propane supply is purchased from over 40 oil
companies and natural gas processors at numerous supply points located in the
United States and Canada. In addition, the Partnership makes purchases on the
spot market from time to time to take advantage of favorable pricing. Most of
the propane purchased by the Partnership in fiscal 1997 was purchased pursuant
to one year agreements subject to annual renewal, but the percentage of
contract purchases may vary from year to year as determined by the Partnership.
Supply contracts generally provide for pricing in accordance with posted prices
at the time of delivery or the current prices established at major delivery
points. Most of these agreements provide maximum and minimum seasonal purchase
guidelines, but none contain "take or pay" provisions. The Partnership receives
its supply of propane predominately through railroad tank cars and common
carrier transport.
Supplies of propane from the Partnership's sources historically have
been readily available. In the fiscal year ended August 31, 1997, Warren
Petroleum Company ("Warren"), a division of Natural Gas Clearing House,
provided approximately 28% of the Partnership's total domestic propane supply.
The Partnership believes that, if supplies from Warren were interrupted, it
would be able to secure adequate propane supplies from other sources without a
material disruption of its operations. Aside from Warren, no single supplier
provided more than 10% of the Partnership's total domestic propane supply in
the fiscal year ended August 31, 1997. Although no assurance can be given that
supplies of propane will be readily available in the future, the Partnership
expects a sufficient supply to continue to be available. However, increased
demand for propane in periods of severe cold weather, or otherwise, could cause
future propane supply interruptions or significant volatility in the price of
propane.
During fiscal 1997 the Partnership purchased approximately 71% of its
propane supplies from domestic suppliers with the remainder being procured
through M-P Oils, Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Partnership. M-P Oils,
Ltd. hold a 60% interest in a Canadian partnership, M-P Oils Partnership, which
buys and sells propane for its own account as well as supplies the
Partnership's volume requirements in the northern states. Those volumes are
included in the sources of propane set forth in the immediately preceding
paragraph.
The market price of propane is subject to volatile changes as a result
of supply or other market conditions over which the Partnership will have no
control. Since rapid increases in the wholesale cost of propane may not be
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immediately passed on to customers, such increases could reduce the
Partnership's gross profits. Since 1992, the Partnership and its predecessor
have generally been successful in maintaining retail gross margins on an annual
basis despite changes in the wholesale cost of propane. See "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations--General." However, there may be times when the Partnership will be
unable to pass on fully such price increases to its customers. Consequently,
the Partnership's profitability will be sensitive to changes in wholesale
propane prices.
The Partnership leases space in storage facilities in Michigan and
Arizona and smaller storage facilities in other locations and has rights to use
storage facilities in additional locations when it "pre-buys" product from
these sources. The Partnership believes that it has adequate third party
storage to take advantage of supply purchasing advantages as they may occur
from time to time. Access to storage facilities allows the Partnership to buy
and store large quantities of propane during periods of low demand, which
generally occur during the summer months, thereby helping to ensure a more
secure supply of propane during periods of intense demand or price instability.
PRICING POLICY
Pricing policy is an essential element in the marketing of propane.
The Partnership relies on regional management to set prices based on prevailing
market conditions and product cost, as well as local management input. All
regional managers are advised regularly of any changes in the posted price of
the district's propane suppliers. In most situations, the Partnership believes
that its pricing methods will permit the Partnership to respond to changes in
supply costs in a manner that protects the Partnership's gross margins and
customer base, to the extent possible. In some cases, however, the
Partnership's ability to respond quickly to cost increases could occasionally
cause its retail prices to rise more rapidly than those of its competitors,
possibly resulting in a loss of customers.
BILLING AND COLLECTION PROCEDURES
Customer billing and account collection responsibilities are retained
at the district level. The Partnership believes that this decentralized
approach is beneficial for several reasons: (i) the customer is billed on a
timely basis; (ii) the customer is more apt to pay a "local" business; (iii)
cash payments are received faster, and (iv) district personnel have a current
account status available to them at all times to answer customer inquiries.
These records are subject to periodic review by the internal audit staff as
well as sent to the accounting offices of the Partnership in Helena, Montana
each month.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
The Partnership is subject to various federal, state and local
environmental, health and safety laws and regulations. Generally, these laws
impose limitations on the discharge of pollutants and establish standards for
the handling of solid and hazardous wastes. These laws include the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act, the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act ("CERCLA"), the Clean Air Act, the Occupational
Safety and Health Act, the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act,
the Clean Water Act, and comparable state statutes. CERCLA, also known as the
"Superfund" law, imposes joint and several liability without regard to fault or
the legality of the original conduct on certain classes of persons that are
considered to have contributed to the release or threatened release of a
"hazardous substance" into the environment. Propane is not a hazardous
substance within the meaning of CERCLA. However, automotive waste products,
such as waste oil, generated by the Partnership's truck fleet, as well as
"hazardous substances" disposed of during past operations by third parties on
the Partnership's properties, could subject the Partnership to liability under
CERCLA. Such laws and regulations could result in civil or criminal penalties
in cases of non-compliance or impose liability for remediation costs. Also,
third parties may make claims against owners or operators of properties for
personal injuries and property damage associated with releases of hazardous or
toxic substances.
In connection with all acquisition of retail propane businesses that
involve the acquisition of any interest in real estate, the Partnership
conducts an environmental review in an attempt to determine whether any
substance other than propane has been sold from, or stored on, any such real
estate prior to its purchase. Such review includes questioning the seller,
obtaining representations and warranties concerning the seller's compliance
with
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environmental laws and conducting inspections of the properties. Where
warranted, independent environmental consulting firms are hired to look for
evidence of hazardous substances or the existence of underground storage tanks.
Petroleum-based contamination or environmental wastes are known to be
located on or adjacent to four sites at which the Partnership operates and are
suspected to be located on or adjacent to one additional site. These sites were
evaluated at the time of their acquisition. In all cases remediation operations
have been or will be undertaken by others, and in all five cases the
Partnership obtained indemnification for expenses associated with any
remediation from the former owners or related entities. Based on information
currently available to the Partnership, such projects are not expected to have
a material adverse effect on the Partnership's financial condition or results
of operation.
National Fire Protection Association Pamphlets No. 54 and No. 58,
which establish rules and procedures governing the safe handling of propane, or
comparable regulations, have been adopted as the industry standard in all of
the states in which the Partnership operates. In some states these laws are
administered by state agencies, and in others they are administered on a
municipal level. With respect to the transportation of propane by truck, the
Partnership is subject to regulations promulgated under the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Act. These regulations cover the transportation of hazardous
materials and are administered by the United States Department of
Transportation. The Partnership conducts ongoing training programs to help
ensure that its operations are in compliance with applicable regulations. The
Partnership maintains various permits that are necessary to operate some of its
facilities, some of which may be material to its operations. The Partnership
believes that the procedures currently in effect at all of its facilities for
the handling, storage and distribution of propane are consistent with industry
standards and are in compliance in all material respects with applicable laws
and regulations.
Future developments, such as stricter environmental, health, or safety
laws and regulations promulgated thereunder, could affect Partnership
operations. It is not anticipated that the Partnership's compliance with or
liabilities under environmental, health and safety laws and regulations,
including CERCLA, will have a material adverse effect on the Partnership. To
the extent that there are any environmental liabilities unknown to the
Partnership or environmental, health or safety laws or regulations are made
more stringent, there can be no assurance that the Partnership's results of
operations will not be materially and adversely affected.
EMPLOYEES
As of August 31, 1997, the Partnership had 847 full time employees, of
whom 39 were general and administrative and 808 were operational employees.
None of the Partnership's employees are represented by a labor union. The
Partnership believes that its relations with its employees are satisfactory.
The Partnership has hired as many as 100 seasonal workers to meet peak winter
demands.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Partnership operates bulk storage facilities at 132 district
sites, of which approximately 80% are owned or under long-term lease and the
balance are subject to renewal in the ordinary course of business during the
next ten years. The Partnership believes that the increasing difficulty
associated with obtaining permits for new propane distribution locations makes
its high level of site ownership and control a competitive advantage. The
Partnership owns approximately nine million gallons of above-ground storage
capacity at its various plant sites. In addition, in 1997, the Partnership
leased approximately 8.1 million gallons of underground storage facilities in
two states (2.5 million gallons of storage in Alto, Michigan and 5.6 million
gallons in Bumstead, Arizona). The Partnership does not own or operate any
underground storage facilities (excluding customer and local distribution
tanks) or pipe line transportation assets (excluding local delivery systems).
The Partnership also owns 50% of Bi-State Propane, a California
general partnership, that conducts business in South Lake Tahoe and Truckee,
California, Reno and other locations in Nevada. Six Bi-State locations are
included in the Partnership's site counts and all site, customer and other
property descriptions contained herein include all Bi-State information on a
gross basis.
-7-
10
The transportation of propane requires specialized equipment. The
trucks and railroad tank cars utilized for this purpose carry specialized steel
tanks that maintain the propane in a liquefied state. As of August 31, 1997,
the Partnership had a fleet of approximately 17 transport truck tractors and 22
transport trailers all of which are owned by the Partnership. In addition, the
Partnership utilizes approximately 360 bobtails and approximately 611 other
delivery and service vehicles, all of which are owned by the Partnership. As of
August 31, 1997, the Partnership owned approximately 176,000 customer storage
tanks with typical capacities of 120 to 1,000 gallons. These customer storage
tanks are collateral to secure the obligations of the Partnership under its
borrowings from its banks and noteholders.
The Partnership believes that it has satisfactory title to or valid
rights to use all of its material properties. Although some of such properties
are subject to liabilities and leases, liens for taxes not yet due and payable,
encumbrances securing payment obligations under non-competition agreements
entered in connection with acquisitions and immaterial encumbrances, easements
and restrictions, the Partnership does not believe that any such burdens will
materially interfere with the continued use of such properties by the
Partnership in its business, taken as a whole. In addition, the Partnership
believes that it has, or is in the process of obtaining, all required material
approvals, authorizations, orders, licenses, permits, franchises and consents
of, and has obtained or made all required material registrations,
qualifications and filings with, the various state and local government and
regulatory authorities which relate to ownership of the Partnership's
properties or the operations of its business.
The Partnership utilizes a variety of trademarks and tradenames which
it owns, including "Heritage Propane." The Partnership believes that its
strategy of retaining the names of the acquired companies has maintained the
local identification of such companies and has been important to the continued
success of these businesses. The Partnership's most significant trade names are
Balgas, Bi-State Propane, Carolane Propane Gas, Gas Service Company, Holton's
L. P. Gas, Ikard & Newsom, Northern Energy and Sawyer Gas, Keen Propane and
Gibson Propane. The Partnership regards its trademarks, tradenames and other
proprietary rights as valuable assets and believes that they have significant
value in the marketing of its products.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
A number of personal injury, property damage and product liability
suits are pending or threatened against the Partnership. In general, these
lawsuits have arisen in the ordinary course of the Partnership's business since
the formation of Heritage and involve claims for actual damages, and in some
cases, punitive damages, arising from the alleged negligence of the Partnership
or as a result of product defects or similar matters. Of the pending or
threatened matters, a number involve property damage, and several involve
serious personal injuries or deaths and the claims made are for relatively
large amounts. Although any litigation is inherently uncertain, based on past
experience, the information currently available to it and the availability of
insurance coverage, the Partnership does not believe that these pending or
threatened litigation matters will have a material adverse effect on its
results of operations or its financial condition.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.
No matters were submitted to a vote of the security holders of the
Partnership during the fiscal year ended August 31, 1997.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S UNITS AND RELATED UNITHOLDER
MATTERS.
The common units representing limited partners interests ("Common
Units") are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, which is the principal
trading market for such securities, under the symbol "HPG". The following table
sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low sales prices per Common
Unit, as reported on the New York Sock Exchange Composite Tape, and the amount
of cash distributions paid per Common Unit.
-8-
11
Price Range Cash
High Low Distribution
---------- --------- ------------
1996 Fiscal Year
Fourth Quarter Ended August 31, 1996 $20.625 $19.875 $0.353*
1997 Fiscal Year
First Quarter Ended November 30, 1996 $21.375 $20.000 $0.500
Second Quarter Ended February 28, 1997 $21.875 $19.875 $0.500
Third Quarter Ended May 31, 1997 $21.375 $20.000 $0.500
Fourth Quarter Ended August 31, 1997 $22.9375 $20.875 $0.500
* Prorated for the period between the closing of the Partnership's initial
public offering ("IPO") on June 28, 1996 and the fourth quarter ended August
31, 1996.
As of September 30, 1997, there were approximately 244 record holders
of the Partnership's Common Units, representing approximately seven thousand
individual common unitholders. The Partnership also has Subordinated Units, all
of which are held by the General Partner for which there is no established
public trading market. The Partnership will distribute to its partners on a
quarterly basis, all of its Available Cash in the manner described herein.
Available Cash generally means, with respect to any quarter of the Partnership,
all cash on hand at the end of such quarter less the amount of cash reserves
that are necessary or appropriate in the reasonable discretion of the General
Partner to (i) provide for the proper conduct of the Partnership's business,
(ii) comply with applicable law or any Partnership debt instrument or other
agreement, or (iii) provide funds for distributions to Unitholders and the
General Partner in respect of any one or more of the next four quarters.
Available Cash is more fully defined in the Amended and Restated Agreement of
Limited Partnership of Heritage Propane Partners, L.P. previously filed as an
exhibit. The Partnership Agreement defines Minimum Quarterly Distributions as
$0.500 per Unit for each full fiscal quarter. Distributions of Available Cash
to the holder of the Subordinated Units are subject to the prior rights of the
holders of the Common Units to receive Minimum Quarterly Distributions for each
quarter during the subordination period, and to receive any arrearages in the
distribution of Minimum Quarterly Distributions on the Common Units for prior
quarters during the subordination period. The subordination period will not end
earlier than June 1, 2001. Restrictions on the Partnership's distributions
required by Item 5 is incorporated herein by reference to Note 8 of the
Partnership's Consolidated Financial Statements which begin on page F-1 of this
Report, and to Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations - Description of Indebtedness.
ITEM 6. SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA
The following table sets forth, for the periods and as of the dates
indicated, selected historical financial and operating data for Heritage. The
selected historical balance sheet data as of August 31, 1997 and August 31,
1996, respectively, and the selected operating data for the year ended August
31, 1997, for the two month period ended August 31, 1996, for the ten month
period ended June 30, 1996, and for the year ended 1995, respectively, have
been derived from the financial statements appearing elsewhere herein which
have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public accountants. The
selected historical balance sheet data as of August 31, 1994 and August 31,
1993 have been derived from Heritage's audited financial statements not
included herein. The selected historical financial and operating data of
Heritage should be read in conjunction with the financial statements of
Heritage included elsewhere in this Report and "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" also included
elsewhere in this Report. The amounts in the table below, except per Unit data,
are in thousands.
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12
Year Ended Year Ended
Year Ended August 31, August 31, 1996 August 31,
---------------------
1993(e) 1994(e) 1995(e) 10 mos.(e) 2 mos. 1997
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ----
Statements of Operating Data
Revenues .................................. $ 102,291 $ 103,971 $ 131,508 $ 144,623 $ 18,477 $ 199,785
Gross Profit(a) ........................... 45,596 48,601 55,841 55,634 6,314 73,838
Depreciation and amortization ............. 8,288 8,711 8,896 7,581 1,733 11,124
Operating income (loss) ................... 8,669 9,905 12,675 15,755 (1,956) 16,919
Interest expense .......................... 8,786 8,761 12,201 10,833 1,962 12,063
Income (loss) before income taxes, minority
interest and extraordinary items ........ (604) 1,296 759 6,084 (4,087) 5,625
Provision for income taxes ................ 117 668 666 2,735 -- --
Net income (loss) ......................... (721) 315 (211) 2,921 (8,423) 5,177
Net income (loss) per Unit(b) ............. -- -- -- -- (1.06) 0.64
August 31,
1993(e) 1994(e) 1995(e) 1996 1997
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Balance Sheet Data (end of period)
Current assets ............................ $ 16,924 $ 17,134 $ 21,293 $ 24,014 $ 27,951
Total assets .............................. 121,557 118,330 163,423 187,850 203,799
Current liabilities ....................... 18,734 19,646 35,825 24,728 34,426
Long-term debt ............................ 86,532 81,373 103,412 132,521 148,453
Redeemable preferred stock ................ 11,167 11,737 12,337 -- --
Stockholders' deficit ..................... (6,232) (6,301) (6,975) -- --
Partner's capital - General Partner ....... -- -- -- 307 208
Partners' capital - Limited Partner (g) ... -- -- -- 30,294 20,712
Year Ended August 31,
1993(e) 1994(e) 1995(e) 1996(f) 1997
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Operating Data
EBITDA(c) ........................... $ 16,957 $ 18,616 $ 21,672 $ 24,365 $ 28,718
Capital Expenditures(d)
Maintenance and growth .......... 3,802 6,194 8,634 7,244 7,170
Acquisition ..................... 8,149 -- 27,879 16,665 14,549
Retail propane gallons sold ....... 73,422 79,669 98,318 118,200 125,605
- - --------------------------
(a) Gross profit is computed by reducing total revenues by the direct cost
of the products sold.
(b) Net income (loss) per Unit is computed by dividing the limited
partners' interest in net income (loss) by the limited partners'
weighted average number of units outstanding.
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13
(c) EBITDA is defined as operating income plus depreciation and
amortization (including the EBITDA of investees). EBITDA should not be
considered as an alternative to net income (as an indicator of
operating performance) or as an alternative to cash flow (as a measure
of liquidity or ability to service debt obligations), but provides
additional information for evaluating the Partnership's ability to
make the Minimum Quarterly Distribution.
(d) The Partnership's capital expenditures fall generally into three
categories: (i) maintenance capital expenditures of approximately $2.3
million in fiscal 1997, which include expenditures for repairs that
extend the life of the assets and replacement of property, plant and
equipment, (ii) growth capital expenditures, which include
expenditures for purchases of new propane tanks and other equipment to
facilitate expansion of the Partnership's retail customer base, and
(iii) acquisition capital expenditures, which include expenditures
related to the acquisition of retail propane operations and the
portion of the purchase price allocated to intangibles associated with
such acquired businesses.
(e) Information for the Partnership's predecessor, Heritage Holdings, Inc.
(f) Reflects unaudited pro forma information for the Partnership as if the
Partnership formation had occurred as of the beginning of the period
presented.
(g) Partners' Capital is anticipated to decrease to the extent
depreciation and amortization exceeds maintenance capital expenditure
requirements.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
The following discussion of the historical financial condition and
results of operations of Heritage and the Partnership should be read in
conjunction with the Selected Historical Financial and Operating Data and notes
thereto, and the historical financial statements and notes thereto included
elsewhere herein.
GENERAL
Since its formation in 1989, Heritage has grown primarily through
acquisitions of retail propane operations and, to a lesser extent, through
internal growth. Through August 31, 1997, Heritage and the Partnership
completed 40 acquisitions for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $179
million. The Partnership completed 11 of these acquisitions since going public
on June 25, 1996. The Partnership engages in the sale, distribution and
marketing of propane and other related products. The Partnership derives its
revenue primarily from the retail propane marketing business. The General
Partner believes that the Partnership is the seventh largest retail marketer of
propane in the United States, based on retail gallons sold, serving more than
220,000 residential, industrial/commercial and agricultural customers in 23
states through 132 retail outlets. Annual retail propane sales volumes in
gallons were 125.6 million, 118.2 million and 98.3 million for the fiscal years
ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
The retail propane business of the Partnership consists principally of
transporting propane purchased in the contract and spot markets, primarily from
major oil companies, to its retail distribution outlets and then to tanks
located on the customers' premises, as well as to portable propane cylinders.
In the residential and commercial markets, propane is primarily used for space
heating, water heating and cooking. In the agricultural market, propane is
primarily used for crop drying, tobacco curing, poultry brooding and weed
control. In addition, propane is used for certain industrial applications,
including use as an engine fuel that burns in internal combustion engines that
power vehicles and forklifts and as a heating source in manufacturing and
mining processes.
The retail propane distribution business is largely seasonal due to
propane's use as a heating source in residential and commercial buildings.
Historically, approximately two-thirds of the Partnership's retail propane
volume and in excess of 80% of the Partnership's EBITDA is attributable to
sales during the six-month peak heating season of October through March.
Consequently, sales and operating profits are concentrated in the Partnership's
first and second fiscal quarters. Cash Flow from operations, however, is
greatest during the second and third fiscal quarters when customers pay for
propane purchased during the six-month peak heating season.
-11-
14
A substantial portion of the Partnership's propane is used in the
heating-sensitive residential and commercial markets causing the temperatures
realized in the Partnership's areas of operations, particularly during the
six-month peak heating season, to have a significant effect on the financial
performance of the Partnership. In any given area, sustained warmer-than-normal
temperatures will tend to result in reduced propane use, while sustained
colder-than-normal temperatures will tend to result in greater propane use. The
Partnership therefore uses information on normal temperatures in understanding
how temperatures that are colder or warmer than normal affect historical
results of operations and in preparing forecasts of future operations, which
bases the assumption that normal weather will prevail in each of the
Partnership's regions.
The retail propane business is a "margin-based" business in which
gross profits depend on the excess of sales price over propane supply costs.
The market price of propane is often subject to volatile changes as a result of
supply or other market conditions over which the Partnership will have no
control. Product supply contracts are one year agreements subject to annual
renewal and generally permit suppliers to charge posted prices (plus
transportation costs) at the time of delivery or the current prices established
at major delivery points. Since rapid increases in the wholesale cost of
propane may not be immediately passed on to retail customers, such increases
could reduce the Partnership's gross profits. In the past, the Partnership
generally attempted to reduce price risk by purchasing propane on a short-term
basis. The Partnership has on occasion purchased significant volumes of propane
during periods of low demand, which generally occur during the summer months,
at the then current market price, for storage both at its service centers and
in major storage facilities for future resale.
Gross profit margins vary according to customer mix. For example,
sales to residential customers generate higher margins than sales to certain
other customer groups, such as agricultural customers. Wholesale margins are
substantially lower than retail margins. In addition, gross profit margins vary
by geographical region. Accordingly, a change in customer or geographic mix can
affect gross profit without necessarily affecting total revenues.
ANALYSIS OF HISTORICAL RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion reflects for the periods indicated the
results of operations and operating data for the Partnership. Most of the
increases in the line items discussed below result from the acquisitions made
by the Partnership during the periods discussed. In fiscal 1997, the
Partnership consummated seven acquisitions for a total purchase price of $14.5
million. In fiscal 1995 and 1996, the Partnership consummated seven and eight
acquisitions for total purchase prices of $39.6 million and $22.0 million,
respectively. These acquisitions affect the comparability of prior period
financial matters as the volumes are not included in the prior period's results
of operations. Amounts discussed below reflect 100% of the results of M-P Oils
Partnership, a general partnership in which the Partnership owns a 60%
interest. Because M-P Oils Partnership is primarily engaged in lower-margin
wholesale distribution, its contribution to the Partnership's net income and
EBITDA is not significant.
FISCAL YEAR 1997 COMPARED TO FISCAL YEAR 1996
Volume. During fiscal 1997, the Partnership sold 125.6 retail gallons,
an increase of 7.4 million retail gallons or 6.3% from the 118.2 million retail
gallons sold in fiscal 1996. This increase was primarily attributable both to
the volume increases from acquisitions and internal growth, offset by warmer
than normal weather during the heating season in the Partnership's southeast
and southwest areas of operations.
The partnership also sold 112.6 million wholesale gallons in fiscal
1997, a decrease of 7.9 million gallons or 7.9% from the 120.5 million
wholesale gallons in fiscal 1996. This decrease was mainly attributable to the
decrease in wholesale volumes in the foreign operations of M-P Oils
Partnership.
Revenues. Total revenues for fiscal 1997 increased $36.7 million or
22.5% to $199.8 million, as compared to $163.1 million for fiscal 1996.
Domestic revenues increased $31.1 million or 24.4% to $158.5 million for fiscal
1997, as compared to $127.4 million for fiscal 1996. Foreign revenues increased
$5.6 million to $41.3 million for fiscal 1997, an increase of 15.7%, as
compared to $35.7 million for fiscal 1996. The increase in foreign revenues was
all attributable to an increase in the selling price. The increase in domestic
revenues was attributable to higher selling prices and greater volumes
associated with acquisitions and internal growth.
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15
Cost of Sales. Total cost of sales increased $24.8 million to $126.0
million for fiscal 1997, an increase of 24.5%, as compared to $101.2 million
for fiscal 1996. Domestic cost of sales increased $19.3 million or 29.0% for
fiscal 1997 to $85.9 million as compared to $66.6 for fiscal 1996. Foreign cost
of sales increased $5.5 million or 15.9% from $34.6 million for fiscal 1996 to
$40.1 million for fiscal 1997. During fiscal 1997, the propane industry
witnessed the most volatile propane market since 1989, with the wholesale cost
of propane raising rapidly during the heating season. The increase in foreign
cost of sales is primarily attributable to higher propane costs. The increase
in domestic cost of sales is attributable to the increase in propane costs for
fiscal 1997 and the increase in retail volumes.
Gross Profit. Gross profit increased $11.9 million or 19.2% to $73.8
million for fiscal 1997, as compared to $61.9 million for fiscal 1996. In spite
of the rapid increases in propane costs during the heating season in fiscal
1997, the Partnership was able to retain strong margins. The strong margins
experienced in fiscal 1997 and the increased retail volumes were responsible
for the increase in gross profit over fiscal 1996.
Operating Expenses. Operating expenses increased $5.4 million or 15.4%
to $40.4 million for fiscal 1997 as compared to $35.0 million for fiscal 1996.
The majority of this increase was attributable to an increase in wages and
plant operations resulting from acquisitions. Vehicle expenses also contributed
to this increase, with the majority of the Partnership's vehicles operating on
propane, due to higher own use fuel costs associated with higher propane prices
and volumes.
Selling, General and Administrative. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were $5.3 million for fiscal 1997, an increase of $1.4
million or 35.9% as compared to $3.9 million for fiscal 1996. This increase
resulted from costs associated with changing to and operating as a public
master limited partnership.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization increased
$2.0 million or 22.0% to $11.1 million for fiscal 1997 as compared to $9.1
million for fiscal 1996. This increase was the result of additional
depreciation and amortization associated with the increase in property, plant,
and equipment along with intangible assets from the acquisitions the
Partnership has made.
Operating Income. Operating income increased $3.2 million to $17.0
million, a 23.2% increase in fiscal 1997 as compared to $13.8 million in fiscal
1996. This increase was due to the Partnership having increased volumes related
to acquisitions and retaining strong margins on these volumes, offset by the
acquisition related increases in operating expenses and depreciation and
amortization costs.
Net Income. Net income increased $10.7 million to $5.2 million in
fiscal 1997, a 194.5% increase as compared to fiscal 1996's net loss of $5.5
million. This increase is the result of higher operating income in fiscal 1997
and as well as conversion to a partnership form during fiscal 1996. The
Partnership is not subject to federal income tax whereas a $2.7 million income
tax provision was provided by the Company in fiscal 1996. The Partnership also
experienced an extraordinary loss of $4.4 million on the early extinguishment
of debt in fiscal year 1996.
EBITDA. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization
increased $4.3 million, or 17.8% to $28.7 million for fiscal 1997, as compared
to $24.4 million for fiscal 1996. This increase was due to the increase in
domestic margins, plus volumes related to acquisitions and internal growth
partially offset by the related increase in operating expenses.
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FISCAL YEAR 1996 COMPARED TO FISCAL YEAR 1995
The following table provides gallons and certain financial information
for Heritage Propane Partners, L.P.
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P.
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT AVERAGE SELLING PRICE)
Pro Forma
September 1, 1995 to September 1, 1994 to
August 31, 1996 (a) August 31, 1995
-------------------- --------------------
Gallons sold:
Retail 118,200 98,300
Wholesale 120,500 93,400
--------- ---------
238,700 191,700
========= =========
Revenues:
Retail $ 102,588 $ 86,142
Wholesale 45,557 31,114
Other 14,955 14,252
--------- ---------
$ 163,100 $ 131,508
========= =========
Average selling price
per gallon:
Retail $.87 $.88
Wholesale $.38 $.33
Gross profit (b) $ 61,948 $ 55,841
EBITDA (c) $ 24,365 $ 21,672
Operating income $ 14,042 $ 12,675
- - -----------------------
(a) Reflects unaudited pro forma information for the Partnership as if the
Partnership formation had occurred as of the beginning of the period
presented.
(b Revenues less related cost of sales.
(c) EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization) should not be considered as an alternative to net income
(as an indicator of operating performance) or as an alternative to
cash flow (as a measure of liquidity or ability to service debt
obligations).
Volume. During fiscal 1996, the Partnership sold 118.2 million retail
gallons, an increase of 19.9 million retail gallons or 20.2% from the 98.3
million gallons sold in fiscal 1995. Approximately half of this increase
resulted from eight acquisitions completed after August 31, 1995, plus a full
12 months of the acquisitions competed in 1995, with internal growth and colder
weather responsible for the remaining increase.
The Partnership also sold 120.5 million wholesale gallons in fiscal
1996, a 29.0% increase from the 93.4 million wholesale gallons sold in fiscal
1995. The increase in wholesale volumes was attributable to increased sales by
M-P Oils Partnership in Canada.
Revenues. Total revenues increased $31.6 million or 24.0% to $163.1
million for fiscal 1996, as compared to $131.5 million for fiscal 1995.
Approximately $14.5 million of the increase was attributable to low-margin
wholesale revenues that may or may not recur in future periods with the balance
attributable to volumes associated with acquisitions, colder weather and
internal growth. Domestic revenues increased $16.6 million or 15.0% to $127.4
million for fiscal 1996, as compared to $110.8 million for fiscal 1995. Foreign
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17
revenues increased $15.0 million or 72.5% to $35.7 million for fiscal 1996, as
compared to $20.7 million for fiscal 1995.
Cost of Sales. Total cost of sales increased $25.5 million or 33.7% to
$101.2 million for fiscal 1996, as compared to $75.7 million for fiscal 1995.
Approximately $10.8 million of the increase in cost of sales was attributable
to wholesale activity. The actual cost of propane on a per gallon basis
increased approximately $0.05 per gallon domestically in fiscal 1996,
accounting for $5.4 million of the total increase. The remaining increase in
cost of sales was attributable to higher retail volumes resulting from
acquisitions, internal growth and colder weather. Domestic cost of sales
increased $10.8 million or 19.4% to $66.6 million for fiscal 1996, as compared
to $55.8 million for fiscal 1995. Foreign cost of sales increased $14.7 million
or 73.9% to $34.6 million for fiscal 1996, as compared to $19.9 million for
fiscal 1995.
Gross Profit. Gross profit increased $6.1 million or 10.9% to $61.9
million for fiscal 1996, as compared to $55.8 million for fiscal 1995. This
increase was attributable to acquisition-related volumes, internal growth and
colder weather partially offset by a decrease in gross profit per retail gallon
resulting from competitive pressures.
Operating Expenses. Operating expenses increased $3.6 million or 11.5%
to $35.0 million in fiscal 1996, as compared to $31.4 million in fiscal 1995.
About two-thirds of this increase was attributable to higher volumes resulting
from acquisitions, with the balance due to higher volumes generated by internal
growth and colder weather partially offset by lower operating costs
attributable to operations in place at the beginning of the fiscal year.
Selling, General and Administrative. SG&A expenses increased $1.0
million or 34.5% from $2.9 million in fiscal 1995 to $3.9 million in fiscal
1996. This increase was largely attributable to expenses associated with
acquisitions.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization increased
approximately $0.2 million or 2.0% to $9.1 million for fiscal 1996 as compared
to $8.9 million for fiscal 1995. This increase was attributable to additional
depreciation and amortization associated with acquisitions offset by a
reduction in amortization associated with the expiration of certain non-compete
agreements.
Operating Income. Operating income increased $1.1 million or 8.7% to
$13.8 million in fiscal 1996 from $12.7 million in fiscal 1995. This increase
was primarily due to acquisition-related volumes, partially offset by lower
margins. Domestic operating income increased $1.1 million or 9.0% to $13.5
million for fiscal 1996, as compared to $12.4 million for 1995. Foreign
operating income increased $0.2 million.
Net Income. The Partnership posted a net loss of $5.5 million for
fiscal 1996, as compared to net loss of $0.2 million in fiscal 1995. This
increase in net loss was primarily the result of certain transactions
associated with the initial public offering plus an increase in interest
expense of $0.8 million in fiscal 1996, partially offset by an increase in
operating income of approximately of $1.1 million.
EBITDA. EBITDA increased $2.7 million or 12.4%, to $24.4 million for
fiscal 1996, as compared to $21.7 million for fiscal 1995. This increase was
primarily due to an increase in volumes attributable to acquisitions, colder
weather and internal growth, partially offset by a decline in gross margins.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The statements contained herein are based on current expectation.
These statements are forward looking and actual results may differ materially.
The ability of the partnership to satisfy its obligations will depend
on its future performance, which will be subject to prevailing economic,
financial, business and weather conditions and other factors, many of which are
beyond its control. Future capital needs of the Partnership are expected to be
provided by various sources as follows:
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18
a) increases in working capital will be financed on the working
capital line of credit and repaid from subsequent seasonal
reductions in inventory and accounts receivable
b) payment of interest cost, and other debt services, will be
provided by the annual cash flow from operations
c) required maintenance capital, predominantly vehicle replacement,
will also be provided by the annual cash flow from operations
d) growth capital, mainly for customer tanks, expended will be
financed by the revolving acquisition bank line of credit
e) acquisition capital expenditures will be financed with additional
indebtedness on the revolving acquisition bank line of credit,
other lines if credit, issues of additional Common Units or a
combination thereof.
Cash Flows
Cash provided by operating activities for fiscal 1997, was $15.4
million compared to $12.3 million fiscal 1996. The cash flows from operations
for fiscal 1997 consisted primarily of net income of $5.2 million and noncash
charges of $11.1 million, principally depreciation and amortization.
Cash used in investing activities during fiscal 1997 included capital
expenditures for acquisitions amounting to $14.5 million, net of cash received
plus $7.2 million spent for maintenance needed to sustain operations at current
levels, new customer tanks to support growth of operations and other
miscellaneous capitalized items. These amounts were partially offset by the
proceeds from asset sales of $1.6 million.
Cash provided by financing activities during fiscal 1997 of $5.6
million reflects net working capital borrowings of $6.7 million for operating
purposes under the credit facilities available to the Partnership and a net
increase in long-term debt of $13.8 million used for acquisitions. These
increases were offset by cash distributions to unitholders of $14.9 million.
Financing and Sources of Liquidity
The Partnership has a Bank Credit Facility, which includes a Working
Capital Facility, a revolving credit facility providing for up to $15.0 million
of borrowings to be used for working capital and other general partnership
purposes, and an Acquisition Facility, a revolving credit facility providing
for up to $35.0 million of borrowings to be used for acquisitions and
improvements. See page F-11, "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements--4.
Working Capital Facilities and Long-Term Debt."
The Partnership uses almost all of its cash provided by operating and
financing activities to fund acquisition, maintenance and growth capital
expenditures. Acquisition capital expenditures, which include expenditures
related to the acquisition of retail propane operations and intangibles
associated with such acquired businesses, were $14.5 million for fiscal year
1997, as compared to $16.7 million during fiscal 1996.
DESCRIPTION OF INDEBTEDNESS
The Operating Partnership assumed $120 million principal amount of
8.55% Senior Secured Notes (the "Notes") at the formation of the Partnership in
a private placement with institutional investors. Interest is payable
semi-annually in arrears on each December 31 and June 30. The Notes have a
final maturity of 15 years, with ten equal mandatory repayments of principal
beginning on June 30, 2002. See page F-11, "Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements--4. Working Capital Facilities and Long-Term Debt."
The Note Purchase Agreement and Bank Credit Agreement contain
customary restrictive covenants applicable to the Operating Partnership
including limitations on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, creation
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of liens and sale of assets. In addition, the Operating Partnership must
maintain certain ratios of Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to Consolidated
EBITDA and Consolidated EBITDA to Consolidated Interest Expense. These
Agreements also provide that the Operating Partnership may declare, make or
incur a liability to make a Restricted Payment during each fiscal quarter, if:
(a) the amount of such Restricted Payment, together with all other Restricted
Payments during such quarter, do not exceed Available Cash with respect to the
immediately preceding quarter; and (b) no default or event of default exists
before such Restricted Payment and after giving effect thereto. The Agreements
provide that Cash is required to reflect a reserve equal to 50% of the interest
to be paid on the Notes. In addition, in the third, second and first quarters
preceding a quarter in which a scheduled principal payment is to be made the
Notes, Available Cash is required to reflect a reserve equal to 25%, 50% and
75%, respectively, of the principal amount to be repaid on such payment dates.
The Operating Partnership is in compliance with all requirements,
tests, limitations and covenants related to the Notes and Bank Credit Facility.
The assets utilized in the propane business do not typically require
lengthy manufacturing process time nor complicated, high technology components.
Accordingly, the Partnership does not have any significant financial
commitments for capital expenditures. In addition, the Partnership has not
experienced any significant increases attributable to inflation in the cost of
these assets.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
The Financial statements set forth on pages F-1 to F-14 of this Report
are incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT.
PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT
The General Partner manages and operates the activities of the
Partnership. Unitholders do not directly or indirectly participate in the
management of operation of the Partnership.
In October of 1996, the Board of Directors of the General Partner
appointed J. T. Atkins to serve on the Independent Committee with the authority
to review specific matters as to which the Board of Directors believes there
may be a conflict of interest in order to determine if the resolution of such
conflict proposed by the General Partner is fair and reasonable to the
Partnership. Any matters approved by the Independent Committee will be
conclusively deemed to be fair and reasonable to the Partnership, approved by
all partners of the Partnership and not a breach by the General Partner or its
Board of Directors of any duties they may owe the Partnership or the
Unitholders. In addition, the General Partner's Board of Directors serves as
the Audit Committee to review external financial reporting of the Partnership,
to engage the Partnership's independent accountants and review the
Partnership's procedures for internal auditing and the adequacy of the
Partnership's internal accounting controls.
The Partnership does not directly employ any of the persons
responsible for managing or operating the Partnership. At August 31, 1997, 847
full time individuals were employed by the General Partner.
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DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE GENERAL PARTNER
The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the
executive officers and members of the Board of Directors of the General
Partner. Executive officers and directors are elected for one-year terms.
Name Position with General Partner
- - ---- -----------------------------
James E. Bertelsmeyer Chairman of the Board , Chief Executive
Officer and a Director of the General Partner
R. C. Mills Executive Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer
G. A. Darr Vice President - Corporate Development
H. Michael Krimbill Vice President and Chief Financial Officer,
Treasurer and Secretary
J. T. Atkins Director of the General Partner
John D. Capps Director of the General Partner, deceased
Bill W. Byrne Director of the General Partner
J. Charles Sawyer Director of the General Partner
James E. Bertelsmeyer. Mr. Bertelsmeyer, age 55, has 22 years of
experience in the propane industry, including six years as President of Buckeye
Gas Products Company, at the time the nation's largest retail propane marketer.
Mr. Bertelsmeyer has served as Chief Executive Officer of Heritage since its
formation. Mr. Bertelsmeyer began his career with Conoco Inc. where he spent
ten years in positions of increasing responsibility in the pipeline and gas
products departments. Mr. Bertelsmeyer has been a Director of the National
Propane Gas Association, (the "Association"), for the past 22 years, and is
currently President Elect of the Association.
R. C. Mills. Mr. Mills, age 60, has 39 years of experience in the
propane industry. Mr. Mills joined Heritage in 1991 as Executive Vice President
and Chief Operating Officer. Before coming to Heritage, Mr. Mills spent 25
years with Texgas Corporation and its successor, Suburban Propane, Inc. At the
time he left Suburban in 1991, Mr. Mills was Vice President of Supply and
Wholesale.
G. A. Darr. Mr. Darr, age 64, has over 40 years of experience in the
propane industry. Mr. Darr came to Heritage in June 1989, as Director of
Corporate Development and was promoted to Vice President, Corporate Development
in 1990. Prior to joining Heritage, Mr. Darr served for 10 years as Director of
Corporate Development with CalGas Corporation and its successor, AmeriGas
Propane, Inc. Mr. Darr began his career in the propane division of Phillips
Petroleum Company. Mr. Darr is a Director of the National Propane Gas
Association.
H. Michael Krimbill. Before joining Heritage in 1990 as Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Krimbill, age 44, was Treasurer of Total
Petroleum, Inc. ("Total"). Total was a publicly traded, fully-integrated oil
company located in Denver, Colorado.
J. T. Atkins. Mr. Atkins, age 40, is a managing director of
Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., investment bankers. Prior to his joining Oppenheimer
in July of 1995, he held a similar position with the investment banking firm of
Houlihan, Lokey, Howard & Zukin, Inc. Mr. Atkins was elected a director October
1, 1996.
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Bill W. Byrne. Mr. Byrne, age 67, served as Vice President of Warren
Petroleum Company, the gas liquids division of Chevron Corporation, from
1982-1992. Since that time Mr. Byrne has served as the principal of Byrne &
Associates, L.L.C., a gas liquids consulting group based in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Mr. Byrne has been a Director of Heritage since 1992. Mr. Byrne is a past
president and Director of the National Propane Gas Association.
John D. Capps. Mr. Capps, deceased, served as Executive Vice President
of the National Propane Gas Association for 16 years before retiring in 1989.
Mr. Capps then served as Chief Executive Officer of J.D. Capps, Inc., a propane
industry executive search firm. Mr. Capps served as a Director of Heritage from
1989 until his death in June, 1997.
J. Charles Sawyer. Mr. Sawyer, age 61, has served as President and
Chief Executive Officer of Computer Energy, Inc., a provider of software of the
propane industry, since 1981. Mr. Sawyer was formerly Chief Executive Officer
of Sawyer Gas Co., a regional propane distributor that was purchased by
Heritage in 1991. Mr. Sawyer has served as a director of Heritage since 1991.
Mr. Sawyer is a past president and Director of the National Propane Gas
Association.
COMPENSATION OF THE GENERAL PARTNER.
The General Partner does not receive any management fee or other
compensation in connection with its management of the Partnership. The General
Partner and its affiliates performing services for the Partnership are
reimbursed at cost for all expenses incurred on behalf of the Partnership,
including the costs of compensation allocable to the Partnership, and all other
expenses necessary or appropriate to the conduct of the business of, and
allocable to, the Partnership.
The General Partner has a 2% general partner interest in the combined
operations of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership.
COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 16(A) OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT
Section 16(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 requires the
General Partner's officers and directors, and persons who own more than 10% of a
registered class of the Partnership's equity securities, to file reports of
beneficial ownership and changes in beneficial ownership with the Securities
and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Officers, directors and greater than 10
percent unitholders are required by SEC regulation to furnish the General
Partner with copies of all Section 16(a) forms.
Based solely on its review of the copies of such forms received by the
General Partner, or written representations from certain reporting persons that
no Form 5's were required for those persons, the General Partner believes that
during fiscal year ending August 31, 1997, all filing requirements applicable
to its officers, directors, and greater than 10 percent beneficial owners were
met in a timely manner, with the exception of the following late filing of one
Form 4 for Heritage Holdings, Inc.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
The following table sets forth the annual salary, bonus and all other
compensation awards and payouts earned by the General Partner's Chief Executive
Officer and the other executive officers for services rendered to the General
Partner and its subsidiaries during the fiscal years ended August 31, 1997,
1996 and 1995.
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SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
LONG TERM
COMPENSATION
ANNUAL COMPENSATION AWARDS
------------------- ------------
SECURITIES
UNDERLYING ALL OTHER
YEAR SALARY BONUS OPTIONS/SARS COMPENSATION(1)
---- ------ ----- ------------ ---------------
James E. Bertelsmeyer 1997 $ 341,756 $ -- -- $ 2,619
Chairman of the Board and 1996 241,756 100,000 -- 1,140
Chief Executive Officer 1995 230,800 100,000 -- 1,140
R. C. Mills 1997 215,000 -- -- 2,316
Executive Vice President and 1996 165,400 50,000 10,000 2,250
Chief Operating Officer 1995 158,000 50,000 -- 2,250
G. A. Darr 1997 134,756 -- -- 1,193
Vice President - Corporate 1996 104,756 30,000 6,000 913
Development 1995 99,800 30,000 6,000 688
H. Michael Krimbill 1997 175,000 -- -- 616
Vice President, Chief Financial 1996 135,000 40,000 10,000 510
Officer, Treasurer and Secretary 1995 129,000 40,000 -- 510
- - ---------------
(1) Consists of life insurance premiums.
STOCK OPTION PLANS
Certain key employees of the General Partner and its subsidiaries
participated in the 1995 Stock Option Plan (the "1995 Plan") and the 1989 Stock
Option Plan (the "1989 Plan"). Options to purchase the General Partner's
Common Stock were granted under the plans by action of the General Partner's
Board of Directors. The terms of individual option grants, including whether
such options constitute incentive stock options under Section 422A of the Code,
are determined by the Board subject to certain limitations. No option to
purchase shares may be exercisable more than 10 years following the date of the
initial grant. Under the 1995 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of options to
purchase shares which may be granted to any key employee during any calendar
year is 20,000 options and no more than 75,000 options to purchase shares may
be outstanding under such plan at any given time. The 1995 Plan also allows for
a disinterested committee of the General Partner's Board of Directors to grant
outright up to 3,000 shares of the General Partner's Common Stock to any
non-employee director. The 1989 Plan provided that no more than 180,000 options
to purchase shares may be outstanding at any given time. As of June 28, 1996,
all Stock Option Plans were terminated, therefore, no Option/SAR grant table is
presented.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
The General Partner has entered into employment agreements (the
"Employment Agreements") with Messrs. Bertelsmeyer, Mills, Darr and Krimbill,
(each an "Executive"). The summary of such Employment Agreements contained
herein does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the Employment Agreements, which have been filed as exhibits to
this Report.
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The Employment Agreements have an initial term of five years for Mr.
Bertelsmeyer and three years for each of Messrs. Mills, Darr and Krimbill, but
will be automatically extended for successive one year periods, respectively,
unless earlier terminated by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the
entire membership of the Board of Heritage upon a finding that a sufficient
reason exists for such termination or by the Executive for any reason or
otherwise terminated in accordance with the Employment Agreements. The
Employment Agreements do provide for an annual base salary of $341,000,
$215,000, $134,000 and $175,000 for each of Messrs. Bertelsmeyer, Mills, Darr
and Krimbill, respectively. The Employment Agreements do not provide for an
annual bonus for the Executives, but certain of the agreements do provide for
other benefits, including a car allowance and the payment of life insurance
premiums. The Employment Agreements also provide for the Executive and, where
applicable, the Executive's dependents, to have the right to participate in
benefit plans made available to other executives of Heritage including the
Restricted Unit Plan described below.
The Employment Agreements provide that in the event an Executive (i)
is involuntarily terminated (other than for "misconduct" or "disability") or
(ii) voluntarily terminates employment for "good reason" (as defined in the
agreements), such Executive will be entitled to continue receiving his base
salary and to participate in all group health insurance plans and programs that
may be offered to executives of the General Partner for the remainder of the
term of the Employment Agreement or, if earlier, the Executive's death. Each
Employment Agreement also provides that if any payment received by an Executive
is subject to the 20% federal excise tax under Section 4999(a) of the Code of
the Internal Revenue Service, the Payment will be grossed up to permit the
Executive to retain a net amount on an after-tax basis equal to what he would
have received had the excise tax and all other federal and state taxes on such
additional amount not been payable. In addition, each Employment Agreement
contains non-competition and confidentiality provisions.
RESTRICTED UNIT PLAN
The General Partner has adopted a restricted unit plan (the
"Restricted Unit Plan") for its non-employee directors and key employees of the
General Partner and its affiliates. The Plan covers rights to acquire 146,000
Common Units. The right to acquire the Common Units under the Restricted Unit
Plan, including any forfeiture or lapse of rights are available for grant to
key employees on such terms and conditions (including vesting conditions) as
the Compensation Committee of the General Partner shall determine. Each
non-employee director shall automatically receive a grant with respect to 500
Common Units on Each September 1 that such person continues as a non-employee
director. Newly elected non-employee directors are also entitled to receive a
grant with respect to 2,000 Common Units upon election or appointment to the
Board. Generally, the rights to acquire the Common Units will vest upon the
later to occur of (i) the three-year anniversary of the grant date, or (ii) the
conversion of the Subordinated Units to Common Units. In the event of a "change
of control" (as defined in the Restricted Unit Plan), all rights to acquire
Common Units pursuant to the Restricted Unit Plan will immediately vest.
Common Units to be delivered upon the "vesting" of rights may be
Common Units acquired by the General Partner in the open market, Common Units
already owned by the General Partner, Common Units acquired by the General
Partner directly from the Partnership, or any other person, or any combination
of the foregoing. Although the Restricted Unit Plan permits the grant of
distribution equivalent rights to key employees, it is anticipated that until
such Common Units have been delivered to a participant, such participant shall
not be entitled to any distributions or allocations of income or loss and shall
not have any voting or other rights in respect of such Common Units.
The Board of Heritage in its discretion may terminate the Restricted
Unit Plan at any time with respect to any Common Units for which a grant has
not therefore been made. The Board will also have the right to alter or amend
the Restricted Unit Plan or any part thereof from time to time; provided,
however, that no change in any Restricted Unit may be made that would impair
the rights of the participant without the consent of such participant; and
provide further, that, during the Subordination Period, without the approval of
a majority of the Unitholders no amendment or alteration will be made that
would (i) increase the total number of Units available for awards under the
Restricted Unit Plan; (ii) change the class of individuals eligible to receive
Restricted Unit awards; (iii) extend the maximum period which Restricted Units
may be granted under the Restricted Unit Plan; or (iv) materially increase the
cost of the Restricted Unit Plan to the Partnership.
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The issuance of the Common Units pursuant to the Restricted Unit Plan
is intended to serve as a means of incentive compensation for performance and
not primarily as an opportunity to participate in the equity appreciation in
respect of the Common Units. Therefore, no consideration will be payable by the
plan participants upon vesting and issuance of the Common Units. As of August
31, 1997, 18,000 Restricted Units had been granted to non-employee directors
and key employees. Compensation expense of $93,000 was recorded in the
Partner's financial statements for fiscal year 1997. See Note 8 of the of the
Partnership's Consolidated Financial Statements which begin on page F-1 of this
Report.
The following table sets forth the number of grants that may result in
the issuance of Common Units under the Restricted Unit Plan to the executive
officers of the Company:
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS-AWARDS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
Number of Performance or
Shares, Units or Other Period Until Threshold Target Maximum
Name Other Rights(#) Maturation or Payout (#) (#) (#)
---------------- -------------------- --------- ------ -------
James E. Bertelsmeyer 500 May 31, 1999 500 500 500
500 May 31, 2000 500 500 500
1,000 June 1, 2001 1,000 1,000 1,000
R. C. Mills 500 May 31, 1999 500 500 500
500 May 31, 2000 500 500 500
1,000 June 1, 2001 1,000 1,000 1,000
G. A. Darr 500 May 31, 1999 500 500 500
500 May 31, 2000 500 500 500
1,000 June 1, 2001 1,000 1,000 1,000
H. Michael Krimbill 500 May 31, 1999 500 500 500
500 May 31, 2000 500 500 500
1,000 June 1, 2001 1,000 1,000 1,000
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORs
Heritage currently pays no additional remuneration to its employees
for serving as directors. Under the Restricted Unit Plan, non-employee
directors will be awarded 500 of these Restricted Units annually, and newly
elected directors receive an initial award of 2,000 Restricted Units. The
General Partner will pay each of its non-employee directors $10,000 annually,
plus $1,000, per Board meeting attended and $500 per committee meeting
attended. All expenses associated with compensation of directors will be
reimbursed to Heritage by the Partnership.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
Compensation of the executive officers of Heritage is determined by
its board of directors. Mr. Bertelsmeyer, Heritage's Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer, participated in deliberations of Heritage's board of
directors concerning executive officer compensation, but did not participate in
deliberations concerning his own compensation.
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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information as of August 31,
1997, regarding the beneficial ownership by certain beneficial owners, all
directors and named executive officers of the General Partner and the
Partnership, each of the named executive officers and all directors and
executive officers of the General Partner as a group, of (i) the Common and
Subordinated Units of the MLP, and (ii) the Common Stock of the General
Partner. The General Partner knows of no other person beneficially owing more
than 5% of the Common Units.
MLP UNITS
Name and Address of Beneficially Percent of
Title of Class Beneficial Owner Owned (1) Class
- - --------------- ------------------- ------------ ----------
Common Units James E. Bertelsmeyer (2) 16,700 *
R. C. Mills 1,000 *
G. A. Darr -- *
H. Michael Krimbill (2) 7,800 *
Bill W. Byrne 5,000 *
J. Charles Sawyer 2,000 *
J. T. Atkins 1,000 *
All directors and executive
officers as a group
(7 persons) 33,500 *
Subordinated Units (3) Heritage Holdings, Inc. (4) 3,702,943 100%
HERITAGE HOLDINGS, INC. COMMON STOCK
Name and Address of Beneficially Percent of
Title of Class Beneficial Owner Owned (1) Class
- - --------------- ------------------- ------------ ----------
Common Stock James E. Bertelsmeyer (2) (4) 224,558 41.9
R. C. Mills (4) 53,729 10.0
G. A. Darr (4) 35,386 6.6
H. Michael Krimbill (2) (4) 51,364 9.6
Bill W. Byrne 14,104 2.6
J. Charles Sawyer 14,104 2.6
J. T. Atkins -- --
All directors and executive
officers as a group
(7 persons) 393,245 76.5%
- - ------------------------
* Less than one percent (1%)
(1) Beneficial ownership for the purposes of the foregoing table is
defined by Rule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Under
that rule, a person is generally considered to be the beneficial owner
of a security if he has or
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shares the power to vote or direct the voting thereof ("Voting Power")
or to dispose or direct the disposition thereof ("Investment Power")
or has the right to acquire either of those powers within sixty (60)
days.
(2) Each of Messrs. Bertelsmeyer and Krimbill shares Voting and Investment
Power with his wife.
(3) Messrs. Bertelsmeyer, Byrne, Sawyer and Atkins, as directors of the
General Partner, share Voting and Investment Power of the Subordinated
Units.
(4) The address for Heritage Holdings, Inc. and Mr. Krimbill is 8801 S.
Yale, Suite 310, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74137. The address for each of
Messrs. Bertelsmeyer and Mills is 7162 Phillips Highway, Jacksonville,
Florida 32256. The address for Mr. Darr is 2830 Halle Parkway,
Collierville, Tennessee 38017.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
None.
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORT OF FORM 8-K.
(a) 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
See "Index to Financial Statements" set forth on page F-1.
2. FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
None.
3. EXHIBITS.
See "Index to Exhibits" set forth on page E-1.
(b) REPORTS OF FORM 8-K.
None.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P.
By Heritage Holdings, Inc.
(General Partner)
By: /s/ James E. Bertelsmeyer
------------------------------------
James E. Bertelsmeyer
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
this report has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on
the dates indicated:
Signature Title Date
Chairman of the Board, Chief October 21, 1997
/s/ James E. Bertelsmeyer Executive Officer and Director
James E. Bertelsmeyer (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ J. T. Atkins Director October 21, 1997
J. T. Atkins
/s/ Bill W. Byrne Director October 21, 1997
Bill W. Byrne
/s/ J. Charles Sawyer Director October 21, 1997
J. Charles Sawyer
Vice President and Chief Financial October 21, 1997
/s/ H. Michael Krimbill Officer (Principal Financial and
H. Michael Krimbill Accounting Officer)
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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES PAGE
- - ------------------------------------------------ ----
Report of Independent Public Accountants..........................................................F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets - August 31, 1997 and 1996............................................F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations -
Year Ended August 31, 1997 and
Two Months Ended August 31, 1996 (Successor),
Ten Months Ended June 30, 1996
and Year Ended August 31, 1995 (Predecessor)....................................................F-4
Consolidated Statements of Partners' Capital -
Year Ended August 31, 1997 and
The Period From Inception April 24, 1996 to August 31, 1996 (Successor),
and Year Ended August 31, 1995 (Predecessor)....................................................F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Year Ended August 31, 1997 and
Two Months Ended August 31, 1996 (Successor), Ten Months Ended June
30, 1996 and Year Ended August 31, 1995 (Predecessor)...........................................F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements........................................................F-7
29
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To the Partners of
Heritage Propane Partners, L.P.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Heritage
Propane Partners, L.P. (formerly Heritage Holdings, Inc.) and subsidiaries as
of August 31, 1997 and 1996, the related consolidated statements of operations
and cash flows for the year ended August 31, 1997 and for the two months ended
August 31, 1996 (Successor), for the ten months ended June 30, 1996 and for
the year ended August 31, 1995 (Predecessor), and the related consolidated
statements of Partners' Capital for the year ended August 31, 1997 and the
period from inception (April 24, 1996) to August 31, 1996 (Successor) and for
the year ended August 31, 1995 (Predecessor). These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Partnership's management. Our responsibility is to
express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Heritage Propane Partners,
L.P. and subsidiaries at August 31, 1997 and 1996, Partners' capital for the
year ended August 31, 1997, and for the period from inception (April 24, 1996)
to August 31, 1996 (Successor), and for the year ended August 31, 1995
(Predecessor), and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the
year ended August 31, 1997, and for the two months ended August 31, 1996
(Successor), for the ten months ended June 30, 1996 and the year ended
August 31, 1995 (Predecessor), in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
October 10, 1997
/s/ Arthur Anderson LLP
-----------------------------------
F-2
30
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except unit data)
ASSETS August 31, August 31,
1997 1996
-------- --------
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash $ 2,025 $ 1,170
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful
accounts of $436 and $315 in 1997 and 1996, respectively 11,170 10,859
Inventories 13,361 11,115
Prepaid expenses 1,395 870
-------- --------
Total current assets 27,951 24,014
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net 117,962 110,342
INVESTMENT IN AFFILIATES 4,097 4,882
INTANGIBLES AND OTHER ASSETS, net 53,789 48,612
-------- --------
Total assets $203,799 $187,850
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Working capital facilities $ 12,250 $ 5,600
Accounts payable 14,000 13,155
Accrued and other current liabilities 7,376 5,730
Current maturities of long-term debt 800 243
-------- --------
Total current liabilities 34,426 24,728
LONG-TERM DEBT 148,453 132,521
-------- --------
Total liabilities 182,879 157,249
-------- --------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
PARTNERS' CAPITAL:
Common unit holders (4,285,000 units outstanding) 11,295 16,392
Subordinated unit holders (3,702,943 units outstanding) 9,417 13,902
General Partner 208 307
-------- --------
Total partners' capital 20,920 30,601
-------- --------
Total liabilities and partners' capital $203,799 $187,850
======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-3
31
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per unit and unit data)
For the Year Ended
August 31, 1996
--------------------------
For the Two Months Ten Months For the
Year Ended Ended Ended Year Ended
August 31, August 31, June 30, August 31,
1997 1996 1996 1995
----------- ----------- --------- ---------
(Predecessor) (Predecessor)
REVENUES:
Retail $ 129,673 $ 9,920 $ 92,668 $ 86,142
Wholesale 53,019 6,467 39,090 31,114
Other 17,093 2,090 12,865 14,252
----------- ----------- --------- ---------
Total revenues 199,785 18,477 144,623 131,508
----------- ----------- --------- ---------
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Cost of products sold 125,947 12,163 88,989 75,667
Depreciation and amortization 11,124 1,733 7,581 8,896
Selling, general and administrative 5,351 698 3,164 2,903
Operating expenses 40,444 5,839 29,134 31,367
----------- ----------- --------- ---------
Total costs and expenses 182,866 20,433 128,868 118,833
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) 16,919 (1,956) 15,755 12,675
Gain on disposal of assets 372 57 170 215
Equity in earnings (losses) of affiliates 487 (119) 662 37
Other income (expense) (90) (107) 330 33
Interest expense (12,063) (1,962) (10,833) (12,201)
----------- ----------- --------- ---------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME
TAXES, MINORITY INTEREST AND EXTRAORDINARY LOSS 5,625 (4,087) 6,084 759
Provision for income taxes -- -- 2,735 666
Minority interest (448) 25 (428) (304)
----------- ----------- --------- ---------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE EXTRAORDINARY LOSS 5,177 (4,062) 2,921 (211)
Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net
of minority interest of $44 -- (4,361) -- --
NET INCOME (LOSS) 5,177 (8,423) $ 2,921 $ (211)
GENERAL PARTNER'S INTEREST IN NET INCOME (LOSS) 52 (84)
----------- -----------
LIMITED PARTNERS' INTEREST IN NET INCOME (LOSS) $ 5,125 $ (8,339)
----------- -----------
NET INCOME (LOSS) PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT:
Income (Loss) before extraordinary loss $ .64 $ (.51)
Extraordinary loss
-- (.55)
$ .64 $ (1.06)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF UNITS
OUTSTANDING 7,987,943 7,864,336
----------- -----------
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-4
32
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PARTNERS' CAPITAL
(in thousands, except share/unit data)
Class A Class B
Common Stock Common Stock
(Voting) (Nonvoting)
-----------------------------------------
Number Number Additional Total
of of Paid-in Accumulated Stockholders'
Shares Amount Shares Amount Capital Deficit Equity
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, AUGUST 31, 1994 (Predecessor) 1,282,105 $13 357,500 $3 $ 3,903 $(10,220) $(6,301)
Issuance of common stock 3,000 -- -- - 93 -- 93
Repurchase of common stock (1,000) -- -- - (16) -- (16)
Compensatory appreciation in stock warrants -- -- -- - 60 -- 60
5% preferred stock dividend -- -- -- - -- (600) (600)
Net loss -- -- -- - -- (211) (211)
--------- --- ------- -- ------- -------- -------
BALANCE, AUGUST 31, 1995 (Predecessor) 1,284,105 $13 357,500 $3 $ 4,040 $(11,031) $(6,975)
========= === ======= == ======= ======== =======
Number of Units
------------------------
Total
General Partners'
Common Subordinated Common Subordinated Partner Capital
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, APRIL 24, 1996 -- -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
Contributions of net assets of
predecessor -- 3,702,943 19,334 16,397 361 36,092
Issuance of units to public 4,285,000 -- 42,729 36,236 798 79,763
Net senior notes transferred from
predecessor -- -- (41,159) (34,904) (768) (76,831)
Net loss -- -- (4,512) (3,827) (84) (8,423)
--------- --------- -------- -------- ----- --------
BALANCE, AUGUST 31, 1996 4,285,000 3,702,943 $ 16,392 $ 13,902 $ 307 $ 30,601
========= ========= ======== ======== ===== ========
Unit distribution -- -- (7,939) (6,861) (151) (14,951)
Deferred compensation on restricted
units -- -- 93 -- -- 93
Net income -- -- 2,749 2,376 52 5,177
--------- --------- -------- -------- ----- --------
BALANCE, AUGUST 31, 1997 4,285,000 3,702,943 $ 11,295 $ 9,417 $ 208 $ 20,920
========= ========= ======== ======== ===== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-5
33
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
For the Year Ended
August 31, 1996
------------------------
For the Year Two Months Ten Months For the Year
Ended Ended Ended Ended
August 31, August 31, June 30, August 31,
1997 1996 1996 1995
-------- --------- --------- --------
(Predecessor)(Predecessor)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss) $ 5,177 $ (8,423) $ 2,921 $ (211)
Reconciliation of net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used
in) operating activities-
Depreciation and amortization 11,124 1,733 7,581 8,896
Provision for losses on accounts receivable 699 133 261 325
Gain on disposal of assets (372) (55) (170) (215)
Issuance of stock for services rendered and compensatory
appreciation in warrants -- -- (164) 60
Deferred compensation on restricted units 93 -- -- --
Undistributed earnings of affiliates (411) 330 (471) 48
Increase in deferred income taxes -- -- 2,680 563
Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt -- 4,361 -- --
Minority interest 130 (69) 428 304
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable (622) (332) (2,444) (877)
Inventories (1,694) (2,859) 2,056 (1,188)
Prepaid expenses (194) 1,058 (1,389) 526
Intangibles and other assets (581) (235) (381) (1,789)
Accounts payable 740 (917) 3,720 728
Accrued and other current liabilities 1,295 2,328 644 447
-------- -------- -------- -------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 15,384 (2,947) 15,272 7,617
-------- -------- -------- -------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired (14,549) (8,298) (8,367) (27,879)
Capital expenditures (7,170) (1,092) (6,152) (8,634)
Proceeds from asset sales 1,619 50 282 579
-------- -------- ------- -------
Net cash used in investing activities (20,100) (9,340) (14,237) (35,934)
-------- -------- ------- -------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from borrowings 69,782 21,603 159,645 62,375
Principal payments on debt (49,260) (6,850) (37,884) (33,933)
Unit distribution (14,951) -- -- --
Payment of financing and organization costs -- (4,331) -- --
Issuance of common stock -- -- 76 62
Repurchase of common and preferred stock -- -- (61,156) (16)
Net proceeds from issuance of common units -- 79,763 -- --
Cash contribution by General Partner -- 4,296 (4,296) --
Net proceeds transferred from issuance of senior note debt -- 43,169 (43,169) --
Repayment of long-term debt, working capital facilities and
prepayment penalty -- (124,193) -- --
-------- --------- --------- --------
Net cash provided by financing activities 5,571 13,457 13,216 28,488
-------- --------- --------- --------
INCREASE IN CASH 855 1,170 14,251 171
CASH, beginning of period 1,170 -- 1,237 1,066
-------- --------- --------- --------
CASH, end of period $ 2,025 $ 1,170 $ 15,488 $ 1,237
-------- --------- --------- --------
NONCASH FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Notes payable incurred on noncompete agreements $ 1,961 $ 1,655 $ 500 $ 6,281
5% Preferred stock dividend -- -- 523 600
Net senior notes transferred from predecessor -- 76,831 -- --
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the year for interest $ 11,873 $ 1,682 $ 10,151 $ 11,581
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-6
34
HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollar amounts in thousands, except unit and per unit amounts)
1. OPERATIONS AND ORGANIZATION:
Heritage Propane Partners, L.P. (the Partnership) was formed April 24,
1996, as a Delaware limited partnership. The Partnership was formed to acquire,
own and operate the propane business and substantially all of the assets of
Heritage Holdings, Inc. In order to simplify the Partnership's obligation under
the laws of several jurisdictions in which the Partnership conducts business,
the Partnership's activities are conducted through a subsidiary operating
partnership, Heritage Operating, L.P. (the Operating Partnership). The
Partnership holds a 98.9899 percent limited partner interest and Heritage
Holdings, Inc. (the Company or General Partner) holds a 1.0101 percent general
partner interest in the Operating Partnership.
On June 28, 1996, the Partnership completed its initial public
offering (the IPO) of 4,025,000 Common Units, representing limited partner
interests in the Partnership, to the public at a price of $20.25 a unit.
Concurrent with the closing of the IPO, the Company issued $120,000 principal
amount of Senior Secured Notes (the Notes) to certain institutional investors
in a private placement. The Company conveyed substantially all of its assets
(other than approximately $76,831 in proceeds from the issuance of the Notes)
to the Operating Partnership in exchange for a general partner interest and all
of the limited partner interests in the Operating Partnership and the
assumption by the Operating Partnership of substantially all of the liabilities
of the Company. The Company conveyed all of its limited partner interest in the
Operating Partnership to the Partnership in exchange for 3,702,943 Subordinated
Units and a general partner interest in the Partnership. On July 26, 1996, the
underwriters exercised their option to purchase an additional 260,000 Common
Units and the Partnership received proceeds of approximately $4,898 in exchange
thereof on July 29, 1996. As a result, the Company owns a 45.4 percent limited
partner interest and an aggregate two percent general partner interest, in the
Partnership and the Operating Partnership.
In contemplation of the offering, the Company entered into a letter
agreement with its nonmanagement/director shareholders. Pursuant to the terms
of the agreement, the Company together with certain members of management and
directors, repurchased equity interests of the nonmanagement/director
shareholders. The members of management issued notes aggregating $5,000 in
connection with the repurchase. Additionally, the Company used approximately
$61,156 of the proceeds of the Notes to finance the repurchase of equity
interests including the preferred stock plus unpaid cumulative dividends in the
Company.
The Partnership contributed the net proceeds of approximately $79,763
from the IPO to the Operating Partnership. The Operating Partnership applied
the net proceeds, together with approximately $40,898 in cash contributed by
the Company to finance the repayment of all of the indebtedness of the Company
to the Prudential Insurance Company of America (Prudential). The Operating
Partnership paid a prepayment penalty in the amount of $3,500 in connection
with the early retirement of the Prudential debt.
The Operating Partnership entered into a Bank Credit Facility, which
includes a Working Capital Facility, providing for up to $15,000 of borrowings
to be used for working capital and other general partnership purposes, and an
Acquisition Facility, providing for up to $35,000 of borrowings to be used for
acquisitions and improvements (see Note 4). The Partnership utilized the Bank
Credit Facility in order to repay amounts previously borrowed in connection
with certain acquisitions (see Note 3) and other bank debt outstanding at the
time of the closing of the IPO.
The Operating Partnership sells propane and propane-related products
to approximately 200,000 retail customers in 23 states throughout the United
States. The Partnership is also a wholesale propane supplier in the
southwestern United States and in Canada, the latter through participation in a
Canadian partnership. The Partnership grants credit to its customers for the
purchase of propane and propane-related products.
F-7
35
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BALANCE SHEET DETAIL:
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the
Partnership, its subsidiaries and a majority owned partnership. The Partnership
accounts for its 50 percent partnership interest in another propane retailer
under the equity method. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts
have been eliminated in consolidation. The General Partner's 1.0101 percent
interest in the Operating Partnership is accounted for in the consolidated
financial statements as a minority interest.
REVENUE RECOGNITION
Sales of propane, propane appliances and parts and fittings are
recognized at the time of delivery of the product to the customer or at the
time of sale or installation. Revenue from service labor is recognized upon
completion of the service and tank rent is recognized ratably over the period
it is earned.
CASH
The Partnership participates in cash management programs, and, as a
result, disbursements in excess of bank balances of approximately $2,322 and
$3,307 are included in accounts payable at August 31, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
INVENTORIES
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. The cost of
fuel inventories is determined using the average cost method while the cost of
appliances, parts and fittings is determined by the first-in, first-out method.
Inventories consist of the following:
August 31,
----------
1997 1996
------- -------
Fuel $ 9,468 $ 7,735
Appliances, parts and fittings 3,893 3,380
------- -------
$13,361 $11,115
======= =======
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation is computed principally by the straight-line method
over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Expenditures for maintenance and
repairs are expensed as incurred. Components and useful lives of property,
plant and equipment are as follows:
August 31,
----------
1997 1996
--------- ---------
Land and improvements $ 7,298 $ 6,456
Buildings and improvements (10 to 30 years) 11,415 11,402
Bulk storage, equipment and facilities (3 to 30 years) 17,974 16,713
Tanks and other equipment (5 to 30 years) 84,664 76,756
Vehicles (5 to 7 years) 18,743 15,178
Furniture and fixtures (5 to 10 years) 4,049 3,786
Other 1,126 989
--------- ---------
145,269 131,280
Less-accumulated depreciation (27,307) (20,938)
--------- ---------
$ 117,962 $ 110,342
========= ==========
F-8
36
INTANGIBLES AND OTHER ASSETS
Intangibles and other assets are stated at cost net of amortization
computed on the straight-line and effective interest methods. Components and
useful lives of intangibles and other assets are as follows:
August 31,
----------
1997 1996
-------- --------
Goodwill (30 years) $ 31,666 $ 27,885
Noncompete agreements (10 to 15 years) 24,233 25,597
Customer lists (15 years) 11,885 9,351
Other 5,373 4,933
-------- --------
73,157 67,766
Less-accumulated amortization (19,368) (19,154)
-------- --------
$ 53,789 $ 48,612
======== =========
It is the Partnership's policy to review intangible assets for
impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the
carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. If such a review should
indicate that the carrying amount of intangible assets is not recoverable, it
is the Partnership's policy to reduce the carrying amount of such assets to
fair value.
ACCRUED AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accrued and other current liabilities consist of the following:
August 31,
----------
1997 1996
------ ------
Interest payable $2,075 $1,885
Wages and payroll taxes 1,048 966
Deferred tank rent 925 916
Taxes other than income 519 730
Minority interest 295 165
Customer deposits 1,999 821
Other 515 247
------ ------
$7,376 $5,730
====== ======
INCOME TAXES
The Partnership is a limited partnership. As a result, the
Partnership's earnings or loss for federal income tax purposes is included in
the tax returns of the individual partners. Accordingly, no recognition has
been given to income taxes in the accompanying financial statements of the
Partnership. Net earnings for financial statement purposes may differ
significantly from taxable income reportable to unitholders as a result of
differences between the tax basis and financial reporting basis of assets and
liabilities and the taxable income allocation requirements under the
Partnership agreement.
The Predecessor filed a consolidated federal income tax return.
Deferred income taxes were recognized for the tax consequences of temporary
differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of
existing assets and liabilities.
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM
In connection with the repayment of the Prudential debt (see Note 1),
the Partnership incurred a prepayment penalty of $3,500 and wrote-off the
unamortized balance of $905 of deferred financing costs associated with the
Prudential debt. These are reflected as extraordinary loss in the consolidated
statement of operations for the two months ended August 31, 1996.
F-9
37
INCOME (LOSS) PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT
Net income (loss) per limited partner unit is computed by dividing net
income (loss), after considering the General Partner's one percent interest, by
the weighted average number of Common and Subordinated Units outstanding.
USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amount 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
reported period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
FAIR VALUE
The carrying amounts of accounts receivable and accounts payable
approximate their fair value. Based on the estimated borrowing rates currently
available to the Partnership for long-term loans with similar terms and average
maturities, the aggregate fair value at August 31, 1997, of the Partnership's
long-term debt approximates the aggregate carrying amount.
RECLASSIFICATIONS
Certain prior-year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the
current-year presentations. These reclassifications have no impact on net
income.
3. ACQUISITIONS:
During fiscal 1997, the Partnership purchased certain assets of
Horizon Gas, Inc., Horizon Gas of Palm Bay, Inc., Horizon Gas of Hudson, Inc.,
Waynesville Gas Service, Inc., Keen Compressed Gas Co., and three small
companies. Guilford Gas Service, Inc., a corporation in which the Partnership
owned a one-third interest, entered into a stock redemption agreement with its
other shareholders to purchase the remaining two-thirds of the stock. Guilford
Gas Service, Inc. then purchased certain assets of Lancaster Gas Service, Inc.
The acquisitions totaled approximately $17,353, including noncompete agreements
for periods ranging from seven to fifteen years totaling $1,961, which was
financed primarily with the acquisition facility. Subsequent to August 31,
1997, the Partnership purchased certain assets of Gibson Propane Co. and Gibson
Homegas of Memphis, TN., and all of the outstanding stock of Tennessee
Independent Propane Co. (TIPCO).
During the two months ended August 31, 1996, the Partnership purchased
certain assets of Tri-Gas of Benzie, Inc. and Spring Lake Super Flame Gas &
Oil, Inc. The Company purchased all of the outstanding stock of Liberty Propane
Gas, Inc. and Kingston Propane, Inc., and conveyed the net assets to the
Partnership. The acquisitions totaled approximately $10,091, including
noncompete agreements for periods ranging from five to ten years totaling
$1,655, which was financed primarily with the acquisition facility.
During the ten months ended June 30, 1996, the Company purchased
certain assets of Bi-State Propane, Century Propane, and Turner Gas Company
locations in Nevada and California. The aggregate purchase price of the
acquisitions totaled approximately $9,693, including noncompete agreements for
a period of ten years totaling $2,290, which was financed primarily with lines
of credit available at the time.
During fiscal 1995, the Partnership purchased certain assets of
Ballard, Inc., Balcom, Inc., San Luis Butane Distributors, Jerry's Propane
Service, Inc., Greer Gas, Inc. and Paragon Energy Corporation, as well as the
outstanding common stock of Carolane Propane Gas, Inc. The aggregate purchase
price of the acquisitions totaled approximately $30,837, including noncompete
agreements for periods ranging from 7 to 15 years totaling $8,760, which was
financed primarily with the revolving senior acquisition facility.
The acquisitions have been accounted for by the purchase method and,
accordingly, the purchase prices have been allocated to assets acquired and
liabilities assumed based on the fair market values at the date of
acquisitions. The Company capitalized as part of the purchase price allocation
legal and other costs related to the acquisitions. The excess of the purchase
price over the fair market values of the net assets acquired has been recorded
as goodwill.
F-10
38
The results of operations of the acquired entities have been included
in the Company's and Partnership's consolidated financial statements from the
date of acquisition, as appropriate.
4. WORKING CAPITAL FACILITIES AND LONG-TERM DEBT:
Long-term debt consists of the following:
August 31,
----------
1997 1996
--------- ---------
8.55% Senior Secured Notes $ 120,000 $ 120,000
Senior Revolving Acquisition Facility 25,000 10,750
Notes payable on noncompete agreements with
interest imputed at rates averaging 8%, due in
installments through 2007, collateralized by a first
security lien on certain assets of the Partnership 3,278 1,655
Other 975 359
--------- ---------
149,253 132,764
Current maturities of long-term debt (800) (243)
--------- ---------
$ 148,453 $ 132,521
========= =========
The Notes mature at the rate of $12,000 on June 30 in each of the
years 2002 to and including 2011. The Note Purchase Agreement contains
restrictive covenants including limitations on substantial disposition of
assets, changes in ownership of the Partnership, additional indebtedness and
requires the maintenance of certain financial ratios. The Notes are secured by
all receivables, contracts, equipment, inventory, general intangibles, any cash
concentration account, and the common stock of the Partnership's subsidiaries.
As of June 25, 1996, the Partnership entered into a credit agreement
with various financial institutions. This agreement was amended September 30,
1997. The amended credit agreement extended the terms of the Senior Revolving
Working Capital Facility and the Acquisition Facility by one year and increased
the Senior Revolving Acquisition Facility by $10,000. The amended credit
agreement consists of the following:
A $15,000 Senior Revolving Working Capital Facility, expiring June 30,
2000, with $12,250 outstanding at August 31, 1997. The interest rate
and interest payment dates vary depending on the terms the Partnership
agrees to when the money is borrowed. The weighted average interest
rates were 7.59 percent and 8.08 percent for amounts outstanding at
August 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Partnership must be free of
all working capital borrowings for 30 consecutive days each fiscal
year. A commitment fee of .5 percent is paid on the unused portion of
the facility.
A $35,000 Senior Revolving Acquisition Facility is available to
December 31, 1999, at which time the outstanding amount must be paid in
ten equal quarterly installments, beginning March 31, 2000. The
interest rate and interest payment dates vary depending on the terms
the Partnership agrees to when the money is borrowed. The average
interest rates were 7.38 percent and 7.73 percent for amounts
outstanding at August 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. A commitment fee
of .5 percent is paid on the unused portion of the facility.
Future maturities of long-term debt for each of the next five fiscal
years and thereafter are $800 in 1998; $790 in 1999; $5,500 in 2000; $10,540 in
2001; $22,322 in 2002 and $109,301 thereafter.
5. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
Certain property and equipment is leased under noncancelable leases
which require fixed monthly rental payments, and that expire at various dates
through 2008. Rental expense under these leases totaled approximately $1,359
for fiscal 1997, $1,010 and $226 for the ten months ended June 30, 1996 and the
two months ended August 31, 1996, respectively, and $1083 for the year ended
August 31, 1995. Fiscal year future minimum lease commitments for such leases
are $1,328 in 1998; $733 in 1999; $527 in 2000; $322 in 2001; $241 in 2002 and
$644, thereafter.
F-11
39
The Partnership is a party to various legal proceedings incidental to
its business. Certain claims, suits and complaints arising in the ordinary
course of business have been filed or are pending against the Partnership. In
the opinion of management, all such matters are covered by insurance, are
without merit, or involve amounts, which, if resolved unfavorably, would not
have a significant effect on the financial position or results of operations of
the Partnership.
The Partnership has entered into several purchase and supply
commitments with varying terms as to quantities and prices, which expire at
various dates through March 1998.
6. INCOME TAXES:
During the Predecessor period, the Company retroactively adopted the
provisions of SFAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes, which uses the
liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under the liability method,
deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between
financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities. The deferred tax
assets and liabilities are measured using the current tax rates and laws. The
significant temporary differences and related deferred tax provisions relate
primarily to net operating loss carryforwards and depreciation.
The provision for income taxes includes the following components for
the periods ended as follows:
For the Ten Months For the Year Ended
Ended June 30, August 31,
1996 1995
------------------ ------------------
Current $ 55 $ 103
Deferred 2,680 563
------ ------
$2,735 $ 666
====== ======
The reconciliation of the statutory income tax rate to the effective
income tax rate for the periods ended is as follows:
For the Ten Months For the Year Ended
Ended June 30, August 31,
1996 1995
------------------ ------------------
Tax at statutory rates $1,923 $155
Nondeductible amortization 360 390
State income taxes 226 18
Other 226 103
------ ----
$2,735 $666
====== ====
7. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
In conjunction with the debt agreements with Prudential, the Company
granted Prudential warrants for a maximum of 83,919 shares of the Company's
Class B Common Stock. During the Predecessor period, Prudential exercised all
warrants at the exercise price of $.10 per share. Additionally, the Company
granted management warrants for Class A Common Stock for a maximum of 15,092
shares. During the Predecessor period, management exercised all warrants at the
exercise price of $.01 per share. Compensation expense has been recorded based
on the estimated market value of the management warrants.
8. PARTNERS' CAPITAL:
Partners' capital consists of 4,285,000 Common Units representing a
52.6 percent limited partner interest, 3,702,943 Subordinated Units owned by
the General Partner representing a 45.4 percent limited partner interest, and a
two percent general partner interest.
The Agreement of Limited Partnership of Heritage Propane Partners,
L.P. (Partnership Agreement) contains specific provisions for the allocation of
net earnings and loss to each of the partners for purposes of maintaining the
partner capital accounts.
F-12
40
During the Subordination Period, (as defined below), the Partnership
may issue up to 2,012,500 additional Common Units (excluding Common Units
issued in connection with conversion of Subordinated Units into Common Units)
or an equivalent number of securities ranking on a parity with the Common Units
and an unlimited number of partnership interests junior to the Common Units
without a Unitholder vote. The Partnership may also issue additional Common
Units during the Subordination Period in connection with certain acquisitions
or the repayment of certain indebtedness. After the Subordination Period, the
Partnership Agreement authorizes the General Partner to cause the Partnership
to issue an unlimited number of limited partner interests of any type without
the approval of any Unitholders.
QUARTERLY DISTRIBUTIONS OF AVAILABLE CASH
The Partnership is expected to make quarterly cash distributions of
all of its Available Cash, generally defined as consolidated cash receipts less
consolidated operating expenses, debt service payments, maintenance capital
expenditures and net changes in reserves established by the General Partner for
future requirements. These reserves are retained to provide for the proper
conduct of the Partnership business, or to provide funds for distributions with
respect to any one or more of the next four fiscal quarters.
Distributions by the Partnership in an amount equal to 100 percent of
its Available Cash will generally be made 98 percent to the Common and
Subordinated Unitholders and two percent to the General Partner, subject to the
payment of incentive distributions to the holders of Incentive Distribution
Rights to the extent that certain target levels of cash distributions are
achieved. To the extent there is sufficient Available Cash, the holders of
Common Units have the right to receive the Minimum Quarterly Distribution ($.50
per Unit), plus any arrearages, prior to any distribution of Available Cash to
the holders of Subordinated Units. Common Units will not accrue arrearages for
any quarter after the Subordination Period and Subordinated Units will not
accrue any arrearages with respect to distributions for any quarter.
In general, the Subordination Period will continue indefinitely until
the first day of any quarter beginning after May 31, 2001, in which
distributions of Available Cash equal or exceed the Minimum Quarterly
Distribution (MQD) on the Common Units and the Subordinated Units for each of
the three consecutive four-quarter periods immediately preceding such date.
Prior to the end of the Subordination Period, 925,736 Subordinated Units will
convert to Common Units after May 31, 1999 and another 925,736 Subordinated
Units will convert to Common Units after May 31, 2000, if distributions of
Available Cash on the Common Units and Subordinated Units equal or exceed the
MQD for each of the three consecutive four-quarter periods preceding such date.
Upon expiration of the Subordination Period, all remaining Subordinated Units
will convert to Common Units.
The Partnership is expected to make distributions of its Available
Cash within 45 days after the end of each fiscal quarter ending November,
February, May and August to holders of record on the applicable record date. A
pro rata MQD of $.353 per Common and Subordinated unit was made on October 15,
1996 for the two month period between the Partnership's initial public offering
and the fourth quarter ended August 31, 1996. The MQD was made to the Common
and Subordinated Unitholders for the quarters ended November 30, 1996, February
28, 1997, and May 31, 1997. The fourth quarter MQD was declared on September
18, 1997, payable on October 15 to the Common and Subordinated Unitholders of
record as of September 30, 1997.
RESTRICTED UNIT PLAN
The General Partner adopted a restricted unit plan (the "Plan") for
its non-employee directors and key employees of the General Partner and its
affiliates effective June 1996. Rights to acquire 146,000 Common Units
("Phantom Units") are available under the Plan and may be granted to employees
from time to time at the discretion of the Plan Committee. Commencing on
September 1, 1996, and on each September 1 thereafter that the Plan is in
effect, each director who is in office automatically receives 500 units. The
Phantom Units vest upon, and in the same proportions as (1) the conversion of
the Partnership's Subordinated Units into Common Units or (2) if later, the
third anniversary of their grant date. During fiscal 1997, 18,000 of these
Phantom Units were granted to non-employee directors and key employees. The
market value of the Phantom Units issued was $20.25 on the date of grant.
Compensation cost and directors' fees of $93 related to the issuance of the
units is included in net income.
9. PROFIT SHARING AND 401(K) SAVINGS PLAN:
The Partnership sponsors a defined contribution profit sharing and
401(k) savings plan (the Plan), which covers all employees subject to service
period requirements. Contributions are made to the Plan at the discretion of
the Board of Directors. Total expense under the profit sharing provision of the
Plan during the years ended August 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995, was $325, $350 and
$275 , respectively.
F-13
41
10. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:
The Partnership has no employees and is managed by the General
Partner. Pursuant to the Partnership Agreement, the General Partner is entitled
to reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses incurred or payments it
makes on behalf of the Partnership, and all other necessary or appropriate
expenses allocable to the Partnership or otherwise reasonably incurred by the
General Partner in connection with operating the Partnership's business. These
costs, which totaled approximately $28,659 for the year ended August 31, 1997
and $4,127 for the two months ended August 31, 1996, include compensation and
benefits paid to officers and employees of the General Partner.
11. DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN OPERATIONS:
The following table presents revenue, operating income and
identifiable assets attributable to the Partnership's domestic and foreign
operations.
For the Year For the Two For the Ten For the Year
Ended Months Ended Months Ended Ended
August 31, August 31, June 30, August 31,
1997 1996 1996 1995
--------- --------- --------- --------
(Predecessor) (Predecessor)
Revenues:
Domestic $ 158,508 $ 13,182 $ 114,257 $ 110,773
Foreign
Affiliated 20,764 1,261 10,394 10,540
Unaffiliated 41,277 5,295 30,366 20,735
Elimination (20,764) (1,261) (10,394) (10,540)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
$ 199,785 $ 18,477 $ 144,623 $ 131,508
========= ========= ========= =========
Operating Income (Loss):
Domestic $ 16,541 $ (1,991) $ 15,440 $ 12,491
Foreign
Affiliated 186 8 111 93
Unaffiliated 378 35 315 184
Elimination (186) (8) (111) (93)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
$ 16,919 $ (1,956) $ 15,755 $ 12,675
========= ========= ========= =========
Identifiable Assets:
Domestic $ 198,935 $ 184,469 $ n/a $ 161,097
Foreign 4,864 3,381 n/a 2,326
--------- --------- --------- ---------
$ 203,799 $ 187,850 $ n/a $ 163,423
========= ========= ========= =========
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42
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
The exhibits listed on the following Exhibit Index are filed as part
of this Report. Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K, but which are
not listed below, are not applicable.
10.1.3 Third Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of September 30,
1997
27.1 Financial Data Schedule - Filed with EDGAR version only
E-1