Back to GetFilings.com



Table of Contents

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the fiscal year ended April 30, 2003

Commission file number 0-10146

ABRAMS INDUSTRIES, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Georgia
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  58-0522129
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
     
1945 The Exchange, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA
(Address of principal executive offices)
  30339-2029
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (770) 953-0304

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:

     
    Name of each exchange on
Title of each class:   which registered:
None   None

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:

Common Stock, $1.00 Par Value Per Share
(Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES þ         NO o

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. þ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Exchange Act 12b-2).

YES o        NO þ

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by nonaffiliates of the registrant as of October 31, 2002, was $5,581,724. See Part III for a definition of nonaffiliates. The number of shares of Common Stock of the registrant outstanding as of April 30, 2003, was 2,914,351.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The information called for by Part III (Items 10, 11, 12 and 13) is incorporated herein by reference to the registrant’s definitive proxy statement for the 2003 Annual Meeting of Shareholders which is to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A.

n ABRAMS 2003 3

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I
ITEM 1 BUSINESS
ITEM 2 PROPERTIES
ITEM 3 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
ITEM 4 SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
PART II
ITEM 5 MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS
ITEM 6 SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
ITEM 7 MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR FISCAL YEARS ENDED APRIL 30, 2003, 2002 AND 2001
ITEM 7A   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 8 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
ITEM 9 CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH INDEPENDENT AUDITORS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
PART III
ITEMS 10-13
ITEM 14 CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
PART IV
ITEM 16 EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
SIGNATURES
CERTIFICATION BY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CERTIFICATION BY CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
EX-10.(H) EDWARD M. ABRAMS RETIREMENT AGREEMENT
EX-21 LIST OF THE COMPANY'S SUBSIDIARIES
EX-23.(A) CONSENT OF DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
EX-23.(B) CONSENT OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP
EX-99.1 SECTION 906 CERTIFICATION OF CEO
EX-99.2 SECTION 906 CERTIFICATION OF CFO


Table of Contents

PART I

ITEM 1 BUSINESS

Abrams Industries, Inc. engages in (i) commercial construction; (ii) real estate investment and development; and (iii) energy management. As used herein, the term “Company” refers to Abrams Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries and predecessors, unless the context indicates otherwise, and the term “Parent” or “Parent Company” refers solely to Abrams Industries, Inc.

     The Company was organized under Delaware law in 1960 to succeed to the business of A. R. Abrams, Inc., which was founded in 1925 by Alfred R. Abrams as a sole proprietorship. In 1984, the Company changed its state of incorporation from Delaware to Georgia.

     Financial information for the operating segments is set forth in Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements of the Company.

CONSTRUCTION SEGMENT

The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Abrams Construction, Inc., has engaged in the construction business since 1925. Although the Company does work throughout much of the United States, it concentrates its activities principally in the southern and midwestern states. The Company builds, expands, remodels and renovates retail stores, shopping centers, banks, office buildings, and distribution and manufacturing facilities, and engages in other types of commercial construction.

     Construction contracts are obtained by competitive bid and by negotiation. The majority of the Company’s construction projects are fixed-price. Construction revenues are accounted for using the percentage-of-completion method, using costs incurred to date in relation to estimated total costs of the contracts, to measure the stage of completion. Generally, the Company purchases materials and services for its construction operations on a project-by-project basis.

REAL ESTATE SEGMENT

The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Abrams Properties, Inc., has engaged in real estate activities since 1960. Historically, these activities primarily involved the acquisition, development, redevelopment, leasing, management, ownership, and sale of shopping centers, industrial facilities, and office buildings, in the Southeast and Midwest. In fiscal year 2001, the Company outsourced all of the asset and property management duties for the Company’s properties owned or controlled by the Real Estate Segment to third parties. In fiscal 2003, the Company brought back in house the asset management responsibilities and the property management of one owned shopping center and all of the leaseback centers.

     The Company currently owns six shopping centers, four that the Company developed and two that it acquired. In June 2002, the Company sold its shopping center located in Englewood, Florida. This center was classified as property held for sale as of April 30, 2002. See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements of the Company. The remaining centers are held as long-term investments. See “ITEM 2. PROPERTIES – Owned Shopping Centers.” The Company is also currently lessee and sublessor of seven Company- developed shopping centers that were sold by and leased back to the Company, and subleased to Kmart. See “ITEM 2. PROPERTIES – Leaseback Shopping Centers.” The Company owns two office properties. See “ITEM 2. PROPERTIES – Office Buildings.” The Company also owns, through its subsidiary, AFC Real Estate, Inc., its vacant former manufacturing facility located in Atlanta, Georgia.

ENERGY MANAGEMENT SEGMENT

In fiscal 2002, the Company began operations of a new segment, Energy Management, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Abrams Power, Inc. In May 2001, the Company purchased substantially all of the assets of Servidyne Systems, Inc., an energy engineering and maintenance management company.

     The Company provides energy management services that assist its customers in reducing the costs of operating buildings by lowering energy consumption and increasing work efficiency. The Company’s engineering services include energy audits, utility monitoring and analysis, mechanical, electrical and plumbing surveys, indoor air quality studies, due diligence, and HVAC retrofit design. The Company also assists building owners and managers in managing equipment maintenance for the highest efficiency and useful equipment life, while maximizing labor productivity through implementation of its proprietary computerized maintenance and work management systems and by providing consulting services.

     The primary focus for the business is the continental United States, although the Company does perform services for some international customers. Energy Management service and engineering contracts are primarily obtained through negotiations, but may also be obtained through competitive bids on larger proposals.

EMPLOYEES AND EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

At April 30, 2003, the Company employed 92 salaried employees and 10 hourly employees. On its construction jobs, the Company utilizes local labor whenever practicable, paying the prevailing wage scale. The Company believes that its relations with its employees are good.

SEASONAL NATURE OF BUSINESS

The Company’s business historically has been somewhat seasonal, with the Construction Segment affected by weather conditions and its retail customers’ store opening schedules. The Company’s exposure to weather conditions is limited to some extent by operating in several regions of the country, with substantial operations in the southern United States where favorable weather conditions prevail for most of the year. Generally, fewer retailers open stores in the winter months, and new store construction usually is scheduled to be completed prior to the winter season. The businesses of the Real Estate and Energy Management Segments are generally less seasonal.

COMPETITION

The businesses of the Company are highly competitive. In the Construction Segment, the Company competes with a large number of national and local construction companies, many of which have proprietary customer relationships or greater financial resources than the Company. The Real Estate Segment also

n ABRAMS 2003 4

 


Table of Contents

operates in a competitive environment, with numerous parties competing for available financing, properties, tenants and investors. The Energy Management Segment’s competition is widespread and ranges from multi-national firms to local small businesses.

PRINCIPAL CUSTOMERS

During fiscal 2003, the Company derived approximately 59% ($43,633,503) of its consolidated revenues from continuing operations from direct transactions with The Home Depot, Inc. These revenues resulted principally from construction activities. See Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements of the Company. No other single customer accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s consolidated revenues during the year.

BACKLOG

The following table indicates the backlog of contracts, expected rentals and real estate sales for the next twelve months by industry segment:

                   
      April 30,   April 30,
      2003   2002
     
 
Construction-contracts
  $ 15,262,000     $ 15,178,000  
Real Estate-rental income (1)
    8,860,000       9,331,000  
Real Estate-sales (2)
          14,000,000  
Energy Management- contracts (3)
    768,000       519,000  
 
   
     
 
 
Total Backlog
  $ 24,890,000     $ 39,028,000  
 
   
     
 

(1)   The difference between 2003 and 2002 is primarily due to rental income of approximately $279,000 from the Englewood, Florida, shopping center that was sold in fiscal 2003, and scheduled lease expirations.
 
(2)   The Real Estate-sales backlog in 2002 represents the contract to sell the Englewood shopping center. The sale closed in June 2002.
 
(3)   Any Energy Management contract that can be cancelled with less than one year’s notice is not included in backlog. As of April 30, 2002, and 2003, such contracts totaled $1,136,000 and $1,139,000, respectively, in potential revenue over the next twelve months, assuming cancellation provisions are not invoked.

     The Company estimates that most of the backlog at April 30, 2003, will be completed prior to April 30, 2004. No assurance can be given as to future backlog levels or whether the Company will realize earnings from revenues resulting from the backlog at April 30, 2003.

REGULATION

The Company is subject to the authority of various federal, state and local regulatory agencies concerned with its construction operations, including among others, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency. The Company is also subject to local zoning regulations and building codes in performing its construction and real estate activities. Management believes that it is in substantial compliance with all such governmental regulations, except to the extent set forth under “ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS” regarding past conduct that possibly may have contravened antitrust laws. Management believes that compliance with federal, state and local provisions, which have been enacted or adopted for regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, does not have a material effect upon the capital expenditures, earnings, or competitive position of the Company.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The Executive Officers of the Company as of June 30, 2003, were as follows:

     
Alan R. Abrams (48)   Officer since 1988

Co-Chairman of the Board since 1998, and a Director of the Company since 1992, he has been Chief Executive Officer since 1999 and President since 2000. From 1998 to 1999, he was President and Chief Operating Officer. He also served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Servidyne Systems, LLC from May 2002 to July 2003.

     
Melinda S. Garrett (47)   Officer since 1990

Director of the Company since 1999, she has been Chief Financial Officer since 1997. She also has served Abrams Properties, Inc. as President since 2001, Chief Financial Officer from 1998 to 2000, and Vice President from 1993 to 2000.

     
J. Andrew Abrams (43)   Officer since 1988

Co-Chairman of the Board since 1998, and a Director of the Company since 1992, he has been Vice President-Business Development since 2000, and served as President and Chief Operating Officer from 1999 to 2000. From 1997 to 1999, he was Executive Vice President.

Executive Officers of the Company are elected by the Board of Directors of the Company or the Board of the respective subsidiary to serve at the pleasure of the Board. Alan R. Abrams and J. Andrew Abrams are brothers, and are the sons of Edward M. Abrams, a retired member of the Board of Directors. David L. Abrams, a member of the Board of Directors, is first cousin to Alan R. Abrams and J. Andrew Abrams, and nephew to Edward M. Abrams. There are no other family relationships between any Executive Officers or Directors of the Company.

n ABRAMS 2003   5

 


Table of Contents

ITEM 2 PROPERTIES

The Company, through its Real Estate Segment, owns its corporate headquarters building, which contains approximately 66,000 square feet of office space. The building is located in the North X Northwest Office Park, 1945 The Exchange, in suburban Atlanta, Georgia. The Parent Company, the Real Estate Segment, and the Construction Segment are located in this building. In addition to the 25,928 square feet of offices leased by Abrams entities, another 29,657 square feet is leased to an unrelated tenant, and 10,295 square feet is currently available for lease.

     The Company also owns a vacant former metal manufacturing facility located in Atlanta, Georgia.

     In May 2001, the Company, through its Energy Management Segment, as part of its acquisition of the assets of Servidyne Systems, Inc., assumed a lease, which expires in July 2004, for 7,418 square feet of office space located at 1350 Spring Street, NW, in midtown Atlanta, Georgia.

     In January 2002, Kmart Corporation filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. At that time, four of the Company’s seven owned retail properties contained stores leased to Kmart, two of which were freestanding stores. In June 2002, the Company sold at a gain its Englewood, Florida, shopping center, which was co-anchored by Kmart. See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements. The three Kmart locations still owned by the Company, and the seven freestanding Kmart stores that the Company developed, sold, leased back, and then subleased to Kmart, are currently open and operating. All of these Kmart leases were assumed by Kmart, who emerged from bankruptcy in May 2003.

     The Company owns, or has an interest in, the following properties:

OWNED SHOPPING CENTERS

As of April 30, 2003, the Company’s Real Estate Segment owned four shopping centers that it developed and two that it acquired. The following chart provides relevant information relating to the owned shopping centers:

                                                                         
                    Percentage                   Rental                   Principal
                    of Square   Calendar           Income                   Amount of
            Leasable   Footage   Year(s)           Per Leased           Debt   Debt
            Square   Leased as of   Placed in   Rental   Square           Service   Outstanding
            Feet in   April 30,   Service by   Income   Foot   EBITDA   Payments   as of April 30,
Location   Acres   Building(s)   2003   Company   2003   2003 (1)   2003 (2)   2003 (3)   2003 (4)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1100 W. Argyle Street
    10.5       110,046       81 %     1972,1996     $ 567,763     $ 6.37     $ 374,090     $ 396,928     $ 2,751,537  
Jackson, MI
                                                                       

1075 W. Jackson Street
    7.3       92,120       100       1980,1992       547,570       5.94       467,852       405,269       2,521,592  
Morton, IL (5)
                                                                       

2500 Airport Thruway
    8.0       87,543       100       1980,1988       442,953       5.06       394,801       391,681       1,667,048  
Columbus, GA (5) (6)
                                                                       

15201 N. Cleveland
    72.3       293,801       97       1993,1996       2,851,717       10.01       1,971,803       1,558,105       11,351,353  
North Ft. Myers, FL
                                                                       

5700 Harrison Avenue
    10.8       86,396       90       1998       645,903       8.31       338,553              
Cincinnati, OH (7)
                                                                       

8106 Blanding Blvd.
    18.8       174,220       89       1999       1,502,006       9.69       1,096,442       918,750       8,600,058  
Jacksonville, FL (8)
                                                                       

(1)   Calculated by dividing rental income by leased square feet in building, as of April 30, 2003.
 
(2)   EBITDA is defined as earnings (loss) before the following: interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization of loan and lease costs. See table following in this “ITEM 2. PROPERTIES,” which reconciles earnings (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations to EBITDA.
 
(3)   Includes principal and interest.
 
(4)   The Company’s liability for repayment is limited by exculpatory provisions to its interest in the respective mortgaged properties, except for the loan in North Ft. Myers, Florida, which has been guaranteed by Abrams Properties, Inc. See Notes 7 and 8 to the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
 
(5)   Land is leased, not owned.
 
(6)   The center in Columbus, Georgia, is owned by Abrams-Columbus Limited Partnership, in which Abrams Properties, Inc. serves as general partner and owns an 80% interest.
 
(7)   Originally developed by others in 1982.
 
(8)   Originally developed by others in 1985.

     The two centers located in Morton, Illinois, and Columbus, Georgia, are leased exclusively to Kmart. The Kmart lease in Columbus, Georgia, expires in 2008 and has ten five-year renewal options, and the Kmart lease in Morton, Illinois, expires in 2016 and has eight five-year renewal options. Anchor tenant lease terms for the other owned centers are shown in the following table:

n ABRAMS 2003   6

 


Table of Contents

                                 
                    Lease   Options
    Anchor   Square   Expiration   to
Location   Tenant (1)   Footage   Date   Renew

 
 
 
 
Jackson, MI
  Big Lots     26,022       2007     2 for 5 years each
 
  Kroger     63,024       2021     6 for 5 years each

North Ft. Myers, FL
  AMC     54,805       2016     4 for 5 years each
 
  Beall’s     35,600       2009     9 for 5 years each
 
  Kash n’ Karry     33,000       2013     4 for 5 years each
 
  Jo-Ann Fabrics     16,000       2004     3 for 5 years each
 
  Kmart     107,806       2018     10 For 5 years each

Cincinnati, OH
  Kroger (2)     42,456       2005     3 For 5 years each
 
  Harbor Freight Tools     13,500       2010     2 For 5 years each

Jacksonville, FL
  Publix (3)     85,560       2010     6 For 5 years each
 
  Office Depot     22,692       2008     2 For 5 years each

(1)   A tenant is considered to be an “Anchor Tenant” if it leases 12,000 square feet or more for an initial lease term in excess of five years.
 
(2)   Tenant has vacated the premises, but remains responsible for lease payments until the expiration date.
 
(3)   Tenant has subleased the premises to Floor and Decor Outlets, but remains responsible for lease payments until the expiration date.

     With the exception of the Kmart lease in Columbus, Georgia, and the Harbor Freight Tools lease in Cincinnati, Ohio, all of the anchor tenant and many of the small shop leases provide for contingent rentals if sales exceed specified amounts. In fiscal 2003, the Company recognized $89,782 in contingent rentals, net of offsets, which amounts are included in the aggregate rentals set forth above.

     Typically, tenants are responsible for their pro rata share of ad valorem taxes, insurance and common area maintenance (subject to the right of offset mentioned above). Kmart has total maintenance responsibility for the centers in Morton, Illinois, and Columbus, Georgia.

OFFICE BUILDINGS

The Company, through its Real Estate Segment, owns two office properties: the corporate headquarters building located at 1945 The Exchange, in suburban Atlanta, Georgia, and an office park in suburban Atlanta, Georgia. The following chart provides pertinent information relating to the office buildings:

                                                                         
                    Percentage                   Rental                   Principal
                    of Square   Calendar           Income                   Amount of
            Leasable   Footage   Year(s)           Per Leased           Debt   Debt
            Square   Leased as of   Placed in   Rental   Square           Service   Outstanding
            Feet in   April 30,   Service by   Income   Foot   EBITDA   Payments   as of April 30,
Location   Acres   Building(s)   2003   Company   2003   2003 (1)   2003 (2)   2003 (3)   2003

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1945 The Exchange
    3.12       65,880       90 %     1997     $ 1,126,983     $ 19.01     $ 647,691     $ 435,285     $ 4,856,088  
Atlanta, GA (4)
                                                                       

1501-1523
                                                                       
Johnson Ferry Rd.
    8.82       121,476       65       1997       1,539,601       19.50       897,630       538,925       6,138,567  
Marietta, GA (5)
                                                                       

(1)   Calculated by dividing rental income by leased square feet in building, as of April 30, 2003.
 
(2)   EBITDA is defined as earnings (loss) before the following: interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization of loan and lease costs. See table following in this “ITEM 2. PROPERTIES,” which reconciles earnings (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations to EBITDA.
 
(3)   Includes principal and interest.
 
(4)   Corporate headquarters building of which the Parent Company, Real Estate Segment, and Construction Segment lease approximately 25,928 square feet. Rental income and cash flow includes intercompany rent at a competitive rate of $471,842 paid by the Parent Company, Real Estate and the Construction Segment. See “ITEM 7. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES” for additional discussion regarding new financing. Originally developed by others in 1974 and acquired and re-developed by the Company in 1997.
 
(5)   The Company, through a subsidiary of its Real Estate Segment, is the lessee of 10,661 square feet of space under a master lease agreement to satisfy a condition required by the lender, of which 5,445 square feet has been leased to third parties as of April 30, 2003. Rental income and cash flow include intercompany rent at a competitive rate of $154,528 paid by the Real Estate Segment. The building was originally developed by others in 1980 and 1985.

     Earnings (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization of loan and lease costs (“EBITDA”) is not a measure of performance defined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). However, management believes that EBITDA is useful to investors and management in evaluating performance because it is a commonly used financial analysis tool for measuring and comparing individual properties in the area of operating performance. EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to earnings (loss) before income taxes as an indicator of the Company’s performance or as an alternative to net cash provided by operating activities as a measure of liquidity and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. The following table reconciles earnings (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations under GAAP to EBITDA presented in the owned shopping center and owned office tables above:

n ABRAMS 2003 7

 


Table of Contents

                                                                   
      OWNED SHOPPING CENTERS   OWNED OFFICE
     
 
      Jackson,   Morton,   Columbus,   N. Ft. Myers,   Cincinnati,   Jacksonville,   Atlanta,   Marietta,
      Michigan   Illinois   Georgia   Florida   Ohio   Florida   Georgia   Georgia
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings (loss)
                                                               
 
before income taxes from
                                                               
 
continuing operations
  $ 61,635     $ 95,607     $ 131,564     $ 747,949     $ 281,115     $ (9,581 )   $ 51,392     $ 88,531  
Add:
                                                               
 
Depreciation
    52,648       125,151       104,300       616,110       50,493       143,684       201,216       278,764  
 
Amortization
    16,327       7,236       29,037       18,255       6,945       20,267       55,980       65,985  
 
Interest expense
    243,480       239,858       129,900       589,489             942,072       339,103       464,350  
 
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
EBITDA
  $ 374,090     $ 467,852     $ 394,801     $ 1,971,803     $ 338,553     $ 1,096,442     $ 647,691     $ 897,630  
 
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 

LEASEBACK SHOPPING CENTERS

The Company, through its Real Estate Segment, has a leasehold interest in seven shopping centers that it developed, sold, and leased back under leases expiring from years 2004 to 2014. The centers are 100% subleased by the Company to Kmart Corporation, and the Company has the ability to lease the properties for periods corresponding with the Kmart subleases. (See previous discussion regarding Kmart in this “ITEM 2.” above.) The Kmart subleases provide for contingent rentals if sales exceed specified amounts, and contain ten five-year renewal options, except Jacksonville, Florida, which has eight five-year renewal options, and Bayonet Point, Florida, and Orange Park, Florida, and Davenport, Iowa, all of which have nine five-year renewal options. The Company’s leases with the fee owners contain renewal options coextensive with Kmart’s renewal options.

     Kmart is responsible for insurance and ad valorem taxes, but has the right to offset against contingent rentals any such taxes paid in excess of specified amounts. In fiscal 2003, the Company recognized $96,411 in contingent rentals, net of offsets, which amounts are included in the aggregate annual rentals set forth below. The Company has responsibility for structural and roof maintenance of the buildings. The Company also has responsibility for underground utilities, parking lots and driveways, except routine upkeep, which is the responsibility of the subtenant, Kmart. The Company’s leases contain exculpatory provisions, which limit the Company’s liability for payments to its interest in the respective leases.

     The following chart provides certain information relating to the leaseback shopping centers:

                                                 
            Square   Calendar Years   Rental   Rental Income   Rent
            Feet in   Placed in Service   Income   Per Square Foot   Expense
Location   Acres   Building(s)   by Company   2003   2003 (1)   2003

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayonet Point, FL
    10.8       109,340       1976,1994     $ 365,788     $ 3.35     $ 269,564  

Orange Park, FL
    9.4       84,180       1976       264,000       3.14       226,796  

Davenport, IA
    10.0       84,180       1977       255,308       3.03       204,645  

Minneapolis, MN
    7.1       84,180       1978       383,543       4.56       238,637  

Ft. Smith, AR
    9.2       106,141       1979,1994       255,350       2.41       223,195  

Jacksonville, FL
    11.6       97,032       1979       303,419       3.13       258,855  

Richfield, MN
    5.7       74,217       1979       300,274       4.05       241,904  

(1)   Calculated by dividing rental income by square feet in building.

REAL ESTATE LEASED OR HELD FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OR SALE

The Company, through its Real Estate Segment, owns or has an interest in the following real estate leased or held for future development or sale:

                     
            Calendar Year    
            Development   Intended
Location   Acres   Completed   Use (1)

 
 
 
Dixie Highway
Louisville, KY
    4.7       1979     Food store and/or retail shops

West 15th Street
Washington, NC (2)
    1.4       1979     Two outlots

Mundy Mill Road
Oakwood, GA
    5.3       1987     Commercial development pad or up to four outlots

North Cleveland Avenue
North Ft. Myers, FL
    11.6       1993     Five outlots, anchor pads and retail shops

Metropolitan Parkway
Atlanta, GA (3)
    3.6       (3)     Warehouse, industrial or commercial
building

(1)   “Outlot” as used herein refers to a small parcel of land platted separately from the shopping center parcel, which is generally sold for, leased for, or developed as, a fast-food restaurant, bank, or similar use.

n ABRAMS 2003 8

 


Table of Contents

(2)   Leased under leases terminating in years 2005 and 2010 with a right to extend the term for three additional five-year periods. One outlot is subleased for terms coextensive with the Company’s lease. The second outlot was subleased to Kmart, but was rejected during fiscal 2003 under Kmart’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy plan of reorganization. The Company has offered to relinquish its interest in this outlot to the landlord, and is no longer making payments under the lease. The landlord has filed a complaint in small claims court seeking only possession of the property.
 
(3)   Land and building, originally utilized by the Company as its metal manufacturing facility; owned by AFC Real Estate, Inc., formerly known as Abrams Fixture Corporation. The Company assembled the property in a series of transactions. The building was developed by others prior to 1960.

     An outlot located in Jackson, Michigan, and an outlot and anchor store pads located in Davenport, Iowa, were all sold at a gain during fiscal 2003. These properties are not included above.

     There is no debt on any of the above properties, except for the anchor pads and retail shop land in North Ft. Myers, Florida. See Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements of the Company. The Company will either develop the properties described above or will continue to hold them for sale or lease to others.

     For further information on the Company’s properties see Notes 3, 5, 7, 8 and 16 to the consolidated financial statements and “SCHEDULE III - REAL ESTATE AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION.”

ITEM 3 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

     On July 7, 2003, the Company announced that an internal investigation, which was conducted by the Company’s legal counsel at the request of senior management, had revealed information suggesting that behavior in violation of Federal antitrust laws may have taken place in a certain job bidding process for one customer of the Company’s subsidiary, Abrams Construction, Inc. The results of this investigation were reported to the Board of Directors of the Company on June 9, 2003. The Company has also voluntarily communicated the results of its investigation to the United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) and is fully cooperating in the subsequent inquiry that has resulted. The DOJ, on July 1, 2003, issued a conditional letter of amnesty to the Company and its subsidiaries for their cooperation in recognizing and then immediately reporting the irregularities. The Company believes, based on its internal investigation, that the specific improprieties were confined to a bidding process for The Home Depot, Inc. (“Home Depot”), its largest customer. At this time, the Company has no reason to believe that any other customers were affected. The Company has also communicated its concerns about the job bidding process to Home Depot. The Company has conducted extensive additional training of all employees and is implementing additional procedures to prevent a recurrence of this behavior.

     The Company estimates the costs associated with this matter, including the Company’s internal investigation and its ongoing cooperation with the DOJ, are expected to approximate $750,000 in the current fiscal year ending April 30, 2004. Such cost estimates, however, are particularly difficult to make with any precision, and as a result the actual costs may be lower or higher than this amount. To date, no third party has made, or threatened to make, any claim in connection with this matter. It is possible, however, that claims could be made as a result of this situation.

     On December 18, 2002, ASK Financial, counsel for Montgomery Ward, LLC (“Ward”), filed a complaint in Bankruptcy Court in Delaware to recover approximately $1.84 million in alleged “preference” payments made by Ward to the Company’s subsidiary, Abrams Construction, Inc. (“ACI”), prior to Ward’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing on December 28, 2000. Under federal bankruptcy law, a bankrupt debtor-in-possession can sue to recover preferential payments made to the creditors of the bankrupt debtor-in-possession during the 90-day period preceding the filing for bankruptcy protection, subject to certain defenses, including payments made in the ordinary course of business. The Company believes that it has meritorious defenses to the action, and intends to continue to vigorously defend against the claim.

     On September 20, 2002, the Company’s subsidiary, Abrams Properties, Inc. (“API”), filed a claim in the Superior Court of Cobb County, Georgia, against API’s former real estate asset manager. The defendant subsequently made a demand against API for arbitration and filed a counterclaim. During the third quarter of fiscal 2003, the Cobb County Superior Court denied the defendant’s demand for arbitration, but in July 2003, this decision was reversed by the Georgia Court of Appeals. The Company intends to seek appellate review of this most recent decision. The dispute arises out of the defendant’s former provision of real estate asset management services to API. The Company believes API’s counter claims against its former asset manager and its defenses to the manager’s claims are meritorious and intends to continue to vigorously pursue its claims and assert its defenses.

     Other than the costs of the Company’s internal investigation and ongoing cooperation associated with the DOJ, the Company believes the ultimate disposition of the above noted legal proceedings and claims or potential claims will not have a material adverse affect on the financial condition, cash flows, or results of operations of the Company; however, the Company cannot predict the ultimate disposition of the above noted claims, potential claims and proceedings, and therefore, the Company cannot be certain that the above noted legal proceedings and claims or potential claims will not have a material adverse affect on the financial condition, cash flows, or results of operations of the Company.

ITEM 4 SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

Not applicable.

n ABRAMS 2003 9

 


Table of Contents

PART II

ITEM 5   MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS

                                                 
                                    DIVIDENDS PAID
    CLOSING MARKET PRICES   PER SHARE
   
 
    FISCAL 2003   FISCAL 2002   FISCAL 2003   FISCAL 2002
   
 
 
 
    HIGH   LOW   HIGH   LOW                
    TRADE   TRADE   TRADE   TRADE                
   
 
 
 
               
First Quarter
  $ 5.310     $ 4.600     $ 4.240     $ 3.400     $ .040     $ .040  
Second Quarter
    4.840       3.370       4.200       3.800       .040       .040  
Third Quarter
    4.580       3.470       3.900       3.630       .040       .040  
Fourth Quarter
    4.100       3.750       5.310       3.650       .040       .040  

The common stock of Abrams Industries, Inc. is traded on the NASDAQ National Market System (Symbol: ABRI). The approximate number of holders of common stock was 465 (including shareholders of record and shares held in street name) at May 31, 2003.

     The information contained under the heading “Equity Compensation Plan” in the Company’s definitive proxy materials for its 2003 Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under a separate filing, and is hereby incorporated by reference.

ITEM 6   SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table sets forth selected financial data for the Company and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto:

                                         
Year Ended April 30,   2003   2002   2001   2000   1999

 
 
 
 
 
Net Earnings (Loss) (1)
  $ (1,073,524 )   $ 811,774     $ 676,172     $ (456,605 )   $ (676,031 )
Net Earnings (Loss) Per Share (1)
  $ (.37 )   $ .28     $ .23     $ (.16 )   $ (.23 )
Consolidated Revenues - Continuing Operations
  $ 74,135,347     $ 115,627,822     $ 152,622,433     $ 172,654,127     $ 170,232,540  
Net Earnings (Loss) - Continuing Operations
  $ (1,694,481 )   $ (1,053,271 )   $ 322,066     $ 2,301,833     $ (53,455 )
Net Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Continuing Operations
  $ (.58 )   $ (.36 )   $ .11     $ .78     $ (.02 )
Shares Outstanding at Year-End
    2,914,351       2,909,079       2,943,303       2,936,356       2,936,356  
Cash Dividends Paid Per Share
  $ .16     $ .16     $ .16     $ .16     $ .20  
Shareholders’ Equity
  $ 21,257,952     $ 22,778,876     $ 22,505,543     $ 22,346,138     $ 23,272,560  
Shareholders’ Equity Per Share
  $ 7.29     $ 7.83     $ 7.65     $ 7.61     $ 7.93  
Working Capital
  $ 7,638,091     $ 9,875,096     $ 11,442,348     $ 10,820,179     $ 9,885,902  
Depreciation and Amortization Expense - Continuing Operations
  $ 2,326,517     $ 3,164,886     $ 2,495,327     $ 2,710,729     $ 2,343,838  
Total Assets
  $ 73,797,098     $ 91,784,369     $ 97,619,685     $ 102,845,867     $ 126,132,540  
Income-Producing Properties and Property and Equipment, net (2)
  $ 43,650,850     $ 45,188,295     $ 28,134,764     $ 61,456,455     $ 64,680,003  
Long-Term Debt
  $ 33,523,314     $ 35,163,492     $ 50,180,619     $ 51,929,637     $ 56,554,488  
Interest Rate Sensitive Debt (3)
  $ 11,351,353     $ 16,916,652     $ 17,941,479     $ 18,302,855     $ 38,032,872  
Return on Average Shareholders’ Equity - Continuing Operations
    (7.7)%       (4.7)%       1.4%       10.1%       (.2)%  
Return on Average Shareholders’ Equity (1)
    (4.9)%       3.6%       3.0%       (2.0)%       (2.8)%  

(1)   Includes continuing operations, discontinued operations, and extraordinary items, if any.
 
(2)   Does not include property held for sale or real estate held for future development or sale.
 
(3)   Includes short-term and long-term debt.

n ABRAMS 2003  10

 


Table of Contents

ITEM 7   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                 FOR FISCAL YEARS ENDED APRIL 30, 2003, 2002 AND 2001.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

REVENUES

Revenues from continuing operations for 2003 were $74,135,347, compared to $115,627,822 and $152,622,433, for 2002 and 2001, respectively. This represents decreases in revenues of 36% in 2003, and 24% in 2002. Revenues include interest income of $55,317, $171,137, and $461,493, for 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively, and other income of $65,172, $90,418, and $51,030, for 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. The figures in Chart A below, however, do not include interest income, other income or intersegment revenues. When more than one segment is involved, revenues are reported by the segment that sells the product or service to an unaffiliated purchaser.

REVENUES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS SUMMARY BY SEGMENT

CHART A

(Dollars in Thousands)
                                                                 
    Years Ended                   Years Ended   Increase
    April 30,   (Decrease)   April 30,   (Decrease)
   
 
 
 
    2003   2002   Amount   Percent   2002   2001   Amount   Percent
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction (1)
  $ 59,528     $ 100,688     $ (41,160 )     (41 )   $ 100,688     $ 141,118     $ (40,430 )     (29 )
Real Estate (2)
    11,587       11,684       (97 )     (1 )     11,684       10,992       692       6  
Energy Management (3)
    2,900       2,995       (95 )     (3 )     2,995             2,995        
 
   
     
     
             
     
     
         
Total
  $ 74,015     $ 115,367     $ (41,352 )     (36 )   $ 115,367     $ 152,110     $ (36,743 )     (24 )
 
   
     
     
             
     
     
         

NOTES:
(1)   Revenues decreased for 2003 compared to 2002 and 2002 compared to 2001 primarily due to: (a) the Company’s ongoing election to reduce revenue volume rather than continuing to bid at prices that offered the Company unacceptable levels of potential profitability on a number of jobs for the Company’s largest customer (revenues from this customer decreased by approximately $22.2 million in 2003 compared to 2002, and $35.7 million in 2002 compared to 2001); and (b) a limited number of construction jobs available in a very competitive marketplace, which is a result of a weakness in capital spending by many retail companies. A significant portion of 2003 revenues were from jobs the Company would not bid today based on its current profitability criteria. In fiscal 2003, the Company increased its new business development efforts, in order to identify customers and contracts that place more value on the Company’s high quality and high service approach, and is exploring different commercial market sectors for potential opportunities to broaden and increase construction segment revenues. The Company has seen no indication that the possible construction job bidding improprieties described in “ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS” will negatively impact the Company’s ability to achieve future potential revenues.
 
(2)   Rental revenues for 2003 were $10,727,247, compared to $11,218,516 in 2002, and $10,991,599 in 2001. Rental revenues exclude intercompany rents of $449,549 in 2003, $461,818 in 2002, and $388,960 in 2001, which amounts were received from the Company’s other segments. Revenues from sales of real estate were $859,561 in 2003, resulting from the sale of an outparcel in Jackson, Michigan, and an outparcel and an anchor store pad in Davenport, Iowa, and $465,000 in 2002, resulting from the sale of an outlot in North Ft. Myers, Florida. There were no sales of real estate in 2001. The Company reviews its real estate portfolio on an ongoing basis, and places a property on the market for sale when it believes it is in its best interests to do so. In addition, a property may be marketed in one fiscal year, but a potential sale may not close until a subsequent year, due to market conditions or individually negotiated contract terms. Sales of real estate, which may have a material impact on the Company’s net earnings, do not occur every year, and the Company cannot predict the timing of any such sales.
 
(3)   The Energy Management Segment was formed in May 2001.

COST AND EXPENSES: APPLICABLE TO REVENUES

As a percentage of total segment revenues (See Chart A), the applicable total segment costs and expenses (See Chart B) of $65,881,110 for 2003, $106,619,741 for 2002, and $138,365,211 for 2001, were 89%, 92%, and 91%, respectively.

n ABRAMS 2003  11

 


Table of Contents

COSTS AND EXPENSES:APPLICABLE TO REVENUES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS SUMMARY BY SEGMENT

CHART B

(Dollars in Thousands)

                                                 
                            Percent of
                            Segment Revenues
            Years Ended           For Years Ended
            April 30,           April 30,
   
 
    2003   2002   2001   2003   2002   2001
   
 
 
 
 
 
Construction (1)
  $ 57,279     $ 97,150     $ 131,821       96       96       93  
Real Estate (2)
    7,029       7,710       6,544       61       66       60  
Energy Management (3)
    1,573       1,760             54       59        
 
   
     
     
                         
Total
  $ 65,881     $ 106,620     $ 138,365       89       92       91  
 
   
     
     
                         

NOTES:

(1)   The increase in the percentage of costs and expenses applicable to revenues from continuing operations for 2002 compared to 2001 is primarily attributable to an oversupply of contractors that began in 2002 in the Company’s marketplace, and the resulting competitive pressure on margins, which are the result of a weakness in capital spending in the retail industry. The Company also has exposure to increased costs for many reasons beyond its immediate control, including, but not limited to, unexpected costs, delays due to weather, or an individual customer’s scheduling adjustments. Therefore, the Company cannot predict whether or how long the percentages reflected above will continue at the current levels.
 
(2)   The decrease in the dollar amount and percentage of costs and expenses applicable to revenues from continuing operations for 2003 compared to 2002 is primarily attributable to: (a) lower cost of real estate sold of approximately $110,000; (b) a decrease in lease costs of approximately $380,000 due to the cancellation of Kmart subleases; (c) a decrease in depreciation expense of approximately $217,000; and (d) a decrease in management fees of approximately $217,000 paid to an outside asset manager that only served for a partial year in 2003; offset by (e) an increase in common area operating expenses of approximately $233,000, primarily due to parking lot repairs. The increase in the dollar amount and percentage of costs and expenses applicable to revenues from continuing operations for 2002 compared to 2001 is primarily attributable to: (a) the cost of real estate sold in 2002 of approximately $406,000; (b) an increase in management fees of approximately $283,000 paid to an outside asset manager that only served for a partial year in 2001; and (c) an increase in depreciation expense of approximately $116,000 on the Company’s North Ft. Myers, Florida, shopping center, which was not depreciated during the fourth quarter of 2001 as it was held for sale. During the fourth quarter of 2002, the center was removed from the market and reclassified to income-producing property, resulting in recapture of the depreciation not taken in 2001.
 
(3)   The decrease in the dollar amount and percentage of costs and expenses applicable to revenues for 2003 compared to 2002 is primarily a result of a change in the mix of services and products sold. The Energy Management Segment was formed in May 2001.

     SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

For the years 2003, 2002, and 2001, selling, general and administrative expenses (See Chart C) were $8,046,676, $7,540,071, and $9,857,847, respectively. As a percentage of consolidated revenues from continuing operations, these expenses were 11%, 7%, and 6% in 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. In reviewing Chart C, the reader should recognize that the volume of revenues generally affects these amounts and percentages. The percentages in Chart C are based on expenses as they relate to segment revenues in Chart A, with the exception that parent expenses and total expenses relate to consolidated revenues.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS SUMMARY BY SEGMENT

CHART C

(Dollars in Thousands)

                                                 
                            Percent of
                            Segment Revenues
            Years Ended           For Years Ended
            April 30,           April 30,
   
 
    2003   2002   2001   2003   2002   2001
   
 
 
 
 
 
Construction (1)
  $ 2,426     $ 3,092     $ 6,054       4       3       4  
Real Estate (2)
    844       497       1,096       7       4       10  
Energy Management (3)
    1,795       1,360             62       45        
Parent (4)
    2,982       2,591       2,708       4       2       2  
 
   
     
     
                         
Total
  $ 8,047     $ 7,540     $ 9,858       11       7       6  
 
   
     
     
                         

n ABRAMS 2003  12

 


Table of Contents

NOTES:

(1)   On a dollar basis, selling, general and administrative expenses were lower for 2003 compared to 2002, due to: (a) a $450,000 reduction in an allowance for doubtful accounts reserve for a receivable from Montgomery Ward & Company; and (b) a reduction in personnel and incentive compensation costs of approximately $278,000; offset by (c) an increase in information technology costs of approximately $122,000. On a dollar basis comparison, the decrease in expenses in 2002 compared to 2001 was primarily due to: (a) a decrease in incentive compensation costs of approximately $1,598,000, which are based on segment earnings; (b) a decrease in the number of personnel; and (c) the expense charge in 2001 of approximately $918,000 for an allowance for doubtful accounts reserve related to a receivable from Montgomery Ward, which had filed for bankruptcy protection.
 
(2)   On a dollar and percentage basis, selling, general and administrative expenses were higher for 2003 compared to 2002, primarily due to (a) increased legal and professional fees of approximately $201,000 largely attributable to: Kmart’s bankruptcy; a legal dispute with the Company’s former asset manager; and the employment of an outside consultant to assist in asset management; and (b) increased personnel and staffing costs of approximately $149,000 due to the Company’s reversion to internal asset management. On a dollar and percentage basis comparison, the decrease in expenses in 2002 as compared to 2001 resulted primarily from a decrease in personnel costs in connection with the Company’s outsourcing of its asset management activities, which began in January 2001.
 
(3)   On a dollar and percentage basis, selling, general and administrative expenses were higher for 2003 compared to 2002, primarily due to an increase in the number of personnel and other personnel costs and consulting fees. The Energy Management Segment was formed in May 2001.
 
(4)   On a dollar and percentage basis, selling, general and administrative expenses were higher for 2003 compared to 2002, primarily due to the accrual of an expense of $484,000 related to a retirement agreement, which replaced a previous employment agreement of a former officer and director of the Company. See Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements.

INTEREST COSTS

Most of the interest costs expensed of $2,967,042, $3,227,253, and $3,866,644, in 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively, is related to debt on real estate. Interest costs decreased in 2003 and 2002 primarily due to a decrease in interest rates on the Company’s variable rate debt. There was no capitalized interest in any of the years presented.

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND CHANGES IN FINANCIAL CONDITION

Assets of discontinued operations decreased by $12,423,795 in 2003, due to the sale in June 2002 of the Company’s shopping center located in Englewood, Florida. See “ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.”

Current maturities of long-term debt decreased by $70,462, and mortgage notes payable increased by $3,715,022, primarily due to the refinancing of the corporate headquarters building in Atlanta, Georgia. The prior acquisition and construction loan in the amount of $4,279,361 was previously classified as other long- term debt, and $317,322 was included in current maturities of long-term debt at April 30, 2002.

Liabilities of discontinued operations decreased by $11,977,452, primarily due to the repayment of the debt upon the Company’s sale of the shopping center located in Englewood, Florida.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Except for certain real estate construction loans and occasional short-term operating loans, the Company has been able to finance its working capital needs through funds generated internally. If adequate funds are not generated through normal operations or the sale of income producing properties, the Company has available bank lines of credit. See Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements. Working capital was $7,638,091 at April 30, 2003, compared to $9,875,096 at April 30, 2002. Operating activities used cash of $1,816,199, which primarily consisted of a decrease in trade and subcontractors payable. Investing activities provided cash of $200,237. Financing activities used cash of $2,204,904, primarily for scheduled principal payments of mortgage notes and other long-term debt. Discontinued operations provided cash of $1,067,300, primarily from the sale of the Company’s shopping center located in Englewood, Florida.

     In 1992, the Company secured a construction loan for the property in North Ft. Myers, Florida, from SunTrust Bank. The original term of the construction financing was five years, and the loan most recently was extended to August 2004, in accordance with the loan agreement, as amended. The loan carries a floating interest rate of prime plus .375%. As of April 30, 2003, the principal amount outstanding was $11,351,353. The Company is currently considering selling the property. Although the Company has regularly received extensions on the SunTrust loan, there can be no assurance it will be able to continue to do so; and, there can be no assurance that sufficient proceeds from any sale or refinancing of the property would be available to pay off the loan on or before its maturity.

     In 1997, the Company obtained a permanent mortgage loan of $3,500,000 on its shopping center in Jackson, Michigan. The loan had an original term of 22 years and bears interest at 8.625%. Certain provisions of the loan, as most recently amended in April 2003, require the establishment of a $500,000 letter of credit, which is to be used to pay down the loan in October 2003 if certain leasing requirements are not met. As these requirements had not yet been met as of April 30, 2003, the Company has classified $500,000 as current maturities of long-term debt.

     In 1999, in connection with the financing of the purchase of the Company’s shopping center in Jacksonville, Florida, the Company obtained a permanent mortgage loan in the amount of $9,500,000, which is secured by the center. The loan bears interest at 7.375% and is scheduled to be fully amortized over twenty years. The loan matures in 2019, but the lender has the right to call the loan at any time after September 1, 2002, upon thirteen months notice. If the loan were called, the Company would have up to thirteen months to repay the principal amount of the loan without penalty, by selling or refinancing the loan on the shopping center. There can be no assurance that the property could be refinanced or sold, and that sufficient proceeds would be realized during the time allowed to pay off this loan. However, the Company’s liability for repayment is limited to its interest in the center. In conjunction with the loan, an Additional

n ABRAMS 2003 13

 


Table of Contents

Interest Agreement was executed, which entitles the lender to be paid additional interest equal to fifty percent of the quarterly net cash flow and fifty percent of the appreciation in the property upon sale or refinance. The liability related to the lender’s fifty percent share of the appreciation in the property was $2,721,448 at April 30, 2003. The mortgage debt and related unamortized loan discount was $8,600,058 and $1,732,647, respectively, at April 30, 2003.

     In October 1999, the Georgia World Congress Center Authority acquired the Company’s former wood manufacturing facility located in Atlanta, Georgia, for approximately $4.5 million. For income tax purposes, the company treated this transaction as an involuntary conversion under Section 1033 of the Internal Revenue Code, which allows for the tax deferral on the gain if the Company acquires a qualified replacement property by April 30, 2004. The Company intends to acquire such property, primarily through the use of debt financing, by April 30, 2004. There can be no assurance, however, that such acquisition will take place. If a qualified replacement property were not acquired by April 30, 2004, the Company would be required to pay the deferred taxes of approximately $1.15 million, which are classified as a long-term liability on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets at April 30, 2003, and April 30, 2002.

     In fiscal 2000, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 200,000 shares of Common Stock during the twelve-month period beginning February 25, 2000, and ending February 24, 2001. In February 2001, 2002, and 2003, the Company’s Board authorized additional repurchases of up to 200,000 shares of the Company Stock in each of the subsequent twelve-month periods, the most recent to end on March 4, 2004. Any such purchases, if made, could be in the open market at prevailing prices or in privately negotiated transactions. During fiscal 2003, the Company repurchased a total of 128 shares at a cost of $470. The Company financed the purchases with available cash and expects any future purchases would be made with available cash. The Company did not purchase any shares in the period between May 1, 2003, and June 30, 2003.

     In May 2001, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of an energy engineering and maintenance management company, Servidyne Systems, Inc., and some intellectual and other intangible property assets of its affiliated company, Servidyne, Incorporated. The Company used available cash to purchase the assets for approximately $3.1 million, including the costs associated with completing the transaction.

     In July 2002, the Company refinanced the loan on its corporate headquarters building in Atlanta, Georgia, which loan had a balance of $4,596,683 as of April 30, 2002. The new permanent loan, in the original principal amount of $4,900,000, bears interest at 7.75%, is due August 2012, and is to be amortized on a twenty-five year schedule. In conjunction with the refinancing of the loan, the Company is required to provide for potential future tenant improvement expenses and lease commissions through additional collateral, in the form of a letter of credit, in the amount of $150,000 for each of the first three loan years, $300,000 during the fourth, fifth, and sixth loan years, and $450,000 during the seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth loan years. The $150,000 letter of credit is secured by a bank line of credit.

     In April 2003, the Company leased (subject to approval by a co-tenant, which approval has not yet been granted) 8,000 square feet of space in its Jackson, Michigan shopping center. In fiscal 2004, the Company plans to invest approximately $800,000 of its available cash to complete the build-out of this space, and an additional 13,000 square feet of adjacent shop space. The Company also plans to market this center for sale during fiscal 2004.

     Effective April 30, 2003, the Company terminated an employment agreement and entered into a new retirement agreement with a former officer and director of the Company. Beginning May 1, 2003, the new agreement requires the Company to pay a retirement benefit of approximately $87,000 through August 19, 2003, and approximately $100,000 per year thereafter for a term of four years, ending on August 19, 2007. In addition, the Company will also continue to provide medical insurance benefits through the term of the retirement agreement. The new agreement accelerated the exercise date of the retiree’s stock options and provided that such options expire no later than August 19, 2004. The retirement agreement would terminate early, in the event of the death of the retiree.

     Assuming a discount rate of 5.25%, the Company has accrued the net present value expense of $484,000 related to the retirement agreement, which is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations for fiscal 2003. As of April 30, 2003, $162,000 is included in accrued expenses and $322,000 is included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying balance sheet.

     The Company estimates the costs associated with the U.S. Department of Justice investigation described under “ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS,” including the Company’s internal investigation and its ongoing cooperation with the Justice Department, are expected to approximate $750,000 in the current fiscal year ending April 30, 2004. Such cost estimates, however, are particularly difficult to make with any precision, and as a result the actual costs may be lower or higher than this amount.

     The Company’s other commitments primarily include operating leases for its leaseback shopping centers and land leased for future development as described in “ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.” The Company has no long-term commitments to purchase building materials or other supplies.

     The Company anticipates that its equity, potential proceeds from sales of real estate, potential cash flow provided by financing or refinancing of debt, and cash flow generated from operations will, for the foreseeable future, provide adequate liquidity and financial flexibility to meet the Company’s needs to fund working capital, capital expenditures, and investment activities.

     EFFECTS OF INFLATION ON REVENUES AND OPERATING PROFITS

The effects of inflation upon the Company’s operating results are varied. Inflation in recent years has been modest and has had minimal effect on the Company. The Construction Segment subcontracts most of its work at fixed prices, which normally will help that segment protect its profit margin from any erosion due to inflation.

     In the Real Estate Segment, many of the anchor tenant leases are long-term (original terms over 20 years), with fixed rents, except for some leases with contingent rent provisions by which the Company may earn additional rent as a result of increases in tenants’ sales. In many cases, however, the contingent rent provisions permit the anchor tenant to offset against contingent rents any increases in ad valorem taxes over a specified amount. If

n ABRAMS 2003 14

 


Table of Contents

inflation were to rise, ad valorem taxes would probably increase as well, which, in turn, could cause a decrease in the contingent rents. Furthermore, the Company has certain repair obligations, and the costs of repairs generally increase with inflation.

     The Energy Management Segment generally has contracts that renew on an annual basis. At the time of renewal, contract fees may be adjusted, subject to customer approval. As inflation impacts the Company’s costs, primarily labor, the Company could seek a price increase for its contracts in order to protect its profit margin.

     Inflation causes interest rates to rise, which has a positive effect on investment income, but could have a negative effect on profit margins, because of the increased costs of contracts and the increase in interest expense on variable rate loans. Overall, inflation could tend to limit the Company’s markets, and in turn, could reduce revenues as well as operating profits and earnings.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

A critical accounting policy is one which is both important to the portrayal of a Company’s financial position and results of operations, and requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions in certain circumstances that affect amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes. In preparing these financial statements, the Company has made its best estimates and used its best judgments regarding certain amounts included in the financial statements, giving due consideration to materiality. The application of these accounting policies involves the exercise of judgment and the use of assumptions regarding future uncertainties, and as a result, actual results could differ from those estimates. Management believes that the Company’s most critical accounting policies are discussed and described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, and include:

Revenue recognition

Construction revenues are reported on the percentage-of- completion method, using costs incurred to date in relation to estimated total costs of the contracts, to measure the stage of completion. Original contract prices are adjusted for change orders in the amounts that are reasonably estimated based on the Company’s historical experience. The cumulative effects of changes in estimated total contract costs and revenues (change orders) are recorded in the period in which the facts requiring such revisions become known, and are accounted for using the percentage-of- completion method. At the time it is determined that a contract is expected to result in a loss, the entire estimated loss is recorded.

     The Company leases space in its income-producing properties to tenants, and recognizes minimum base rentals as revenue on a straight-line basis over the lease terms. Tenants may also be required to pay additional rental amounts based on property operating expenses. In addition, certain tenants are required to pay incremental rental amounts, which are contingent on their store sales. These percentage rents are recognized only as earned.

     Revenue from the sale of real estate is recognized when all of the following has occurred: (a) the property is transferred to the buyer; (b) the buyer’s initial and continuing investment is adequate to demonstrate a commitment to pay for the property; and (c) the buyer has assumed all future ownership risks of the property. Costs of sales related to real estate are based on the specific property sold. When a portion or unit of a development property is sold, a proportionate share of the total cost of the development is charged to cost of sales.

     Energy management revenues primarily consist of services and product sales. Revenues are recognized as services are rendered, and depending upon the product type and customer agreement, product sales are recognized when products are shipped or delivered.

Income-producing properties and property and equipment

Income-producing properties are stated at cost, and are depreciated for financial reporting purposes using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets.

     Property and equipment are recorded at cost, and are depreciated for financial reporting purposes using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Significant additions that extend asset lives are capitalized. Normal maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred.

     Interest and other carrying costs related to real estate assets under construction are capitalized. Costs of development and construction of real estate assets are also capitalized. Capitalization of interest and other carrying costs are discontinued when a project is substantially completed or if active development ceases.

Impairment of long-lived assets, including goodwill, and assets to be disposed of

Long-lived assets and certain intangible assets, including goodwill, are required to be reviewed for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset to future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If an asset is considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the asset’s estimated fair value. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of their carrying amount or estimated fair value less cost to sell.

Income taxes

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

New accounting pronouncements

During August 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. SFAS 144 supercedes SFAS 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of. In addition, SFAS 144 supercedes the accounting and reporting provisions of APB Opinion No. 30, Reporting the Results of Operations—Reporting the Effects of Disposal of a Segment of a Business, and Extraordinary, Unusual and Infrequently Occurring Events and Transactions. SFAS 144 addresses the treatment of assets held for sale or to be otherwise disposed of, the evaluation of impairment for long-lived assets, and the reporting of discontinued

n ABRAMS 2003 15

 


Table of Contents

operations. The provisions of SFAS 144 were effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001, and for the Company beginning May 1, 2002. The adoption of SFAS 144 also requires that the gains and losses from the disposition of certain income-producing real estate assets, and the related historical operating results, be reflected as discontinued operations in the statements of operations for all periods presented. Although net earnings is not affected, the Company has reclassified results previously included in continuing operations to discontinued operations for qualifying dispositions under SFAS 144.

     In December 2002, SFAS 148, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure, was issued which is an amendment of SFAS 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. This statement amends SFAS 123 to provide alternative methods of transition for an entity that voluntarily changes to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. It also amends the disclosure provisions of that statement to require prominent disclosure about the effects on reported net income of an entity’s accounting policy decisions with respect to stock-based employee compensation. The Company elected to adopt this standard as of January 31, 2003, resulting in additional disclosures related to its stock-based compensation plan.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND RISKS

Certain statements contained or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including without limitation, statements containing the words “believes,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “expects,” “plans,” and words of similar import, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other matters which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance, or uncertainties expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

     Factors relating to general global, national, regional, and local economic conditions, including international political stability, national security, employment levels, wage and salary levels, consumer confidence, availability of credit, taxation policies, interest rates, capital spending, and inflation could negatively impact the Company and its customers, suppliers, and sources of capital. Any significant negative impact from these factors could result in material adverse effects on the Company’s results of operations and financial condition.

     The Company is at risk for many other matters beyond its control, including, but not limited to: the possible impact, if any, on revenues due to the possible construction job bidding improprieties described in “ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS;” the ultimate disposition of legal proceedings in which the Company is involved, including the Justice Department’s inquiry into the construction job bidding matter just referred to; the potential loss of significant customers; co-tenancy provisions in anchor tenant leases; the Company’s ability to sell or refinance its real estate; the Company’s ability to acquire a qualified replacement property for tax deferral purposes; the possibility of not achieving projected backlog revenues or not realizing earnings from such revenues; continuing competitive pressures on the availability and pricing of construction projects; the cost and availability of insurance; the ability of the Company to attract and retain key personnel; weather conditions; changes in laws and regulations, including changes in accounting standards, generally accepted accounting principles, and regulatory requirements of the SEC and NASDAQ; overall capital spending trends in the economy; the timing and amount of earnings recognition related to the possible sale of real estate properties held for sale; delays in or cancellations of customers’ orders; the ultimate collectibility of the Company’s receivable from the Montgomery Ward & Company bankruptcy; the ultimate disposition of legal proceedings in which the Company is involved; the availability, timing, and amount of possible refinancings related to real estate properties; the level and volatility of interest rates; the failure of a subcontractor to perform; and the deterioration in the financial stability of an anchor tenant, significant subcontractor or other significant customer.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

As of April 30, 2001, the Company had deferred the $2.76 million gain from discontinued operations that resulted from the eminent domain taking of the Company’s former manufacturing facility in Atlanta, Georgia. The amount of the condemnation award was settled in October 2001, and earnings from discontinued operations for 2002 represent the recognition of the deferred gain related to this transaction.

     On June 28, 2002, the Company sold its shopping center located in Englewood, Florida, and recognized a pre-tax gain of $990,215. As a result of the sale, the Company’s financial statements have been prepared with the property’s assets and liabilities, results of operations, cash flows, and the gain from the sale shown as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

n ABRAMS 2003 16

 


Table of Contents

ITEM 7A QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company’s major market risk exposure arises from changes in interest rates and the resulting impact on variable rate debt instruments. In addition, the Company has interest rate risk associated with fixed rate debt. The Company’s objectives in interest rate risk management are to limit the negative impact of interest rates on earnings and cash flows and to lower overall borrowing costs. To achieve its objectives, the Company borrows at fixed rates when it believes it is in its best interests to do so, and may enter into derivative financial instruments, such as interest rate swaps and caps, in order to limit its exposure to interest rate fluctuations. The Company does not enter into derivative or interest rate transactions for speculative purposes. There were no derivative contracts in effect at April 30, 2003, or 2002. The following table summarizes information related to the Company’s market risk sensitive debt instruments as of April 30, 2003:

                                                                 
    Expected Maturity Date
    Fiscal year ending April 30
   
    (Dollars in Thousands)
                                                            Estimated
                                            There-           Fair
    2004   2005   2006   2007   2008   after   Total   Value
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed rate debt (1)
  $ 1,586       7,475       968       994       6,577       7,202       24,802       26,749  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average interest rate
    8.0 %     7.5 %     8.1 %     8.1 %     7.5 %     8.2 %            
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable rate debt (2)
  $ 1,044       10,307                               11,351       11,351  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

(1)   Amount for 2005 includes approximately $6.9 million, net of loan discount of approximately $1.7 million, of debt on the shopping center in Jacksonville, Florida, which loan is not scheduled to mature until 2019, but may be called at any time after September 2002, for repayment thirteen months after such call date. See “ITEM 7. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES.”
 
(2)   Interest on variable rate debt is based on the lender’s prime rate plus .375%.

ITEM 8 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     
Independent Auditors’ Report and Report of Independent Accountants   page 18
Consolidated Balance Sheets - April 30, 2003, and 2002   page 19
Consolidated Statements of Operations - For the years ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001   page 20
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity - For the years ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001   page 21
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - For the years ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001   page 22
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - For the years ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001   page 23
 
Schedules:    
Schedule Number    
II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts   page 35
III Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation   page 36

n ABRAMS 2003 17

 


Table of Contents

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT

The Board of Directors and Shareholders
Abrams Industries, Inc.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Abrams Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of April 30, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years then ended. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules for 2003 and 2002 listed in the Index at Item 8. These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Abrams Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries as of April 30, 2003 and 2002, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedules for 2003 and 2002, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth herein.

As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, effective May 1, 2002, the Company changed its method of accounting for discontinued operations to conform to the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144 and retroactively restated the 2002 and 2001 financial statements for the change.


Atlanta, Georgia
July 21, 2003

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

To The Board of Directors and Shareholders
Abrams Industries, Inc.:

In our opinion, the consolidated statement of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the year ended April 30, 2001, present fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations and cash flows of Abrams Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries for the year ended April 30, 2001, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedules as of April 30, 2001, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements for the year ended April 30, 2001. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit of these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which 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, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. We have not audited the consolidated financial statements of Abrams Industries, Inc. for any period subsequent to April 30, 2001.

-s- PricewaterhouseCoopers
Atlanta, Georgia
May 23, 2001

n ABRAMS 2003 18

 


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                     
        April 30,
       
        2003   2002
       
 
ASSETS
               
CURRENT ASSETS:
               
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 5,157,639     $ 7,911,205  
 
Receivables:
               
   
Trade accounts and notes, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $44,751 in 2003 and $113,566 in 2002
    1,178,382       754,990  
   
Contracts, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $447,294 in 2003 and $917,894 in 2002, including retained amounts of $3,096,192 and $4,630,398 in 2003 and 2002, respectively (Note 4)
    11,231,854       11,191,925  
 
Assets of discontinued operations (Note 3)
    102,146       12,525,941  
 
Costs and earnings in excess of billings (Note 4)
    503,113       682,162  
 
Income tax receivable
    171,907       843,486  
 
Deferred income taxes (Note 9)
    610,980       864,036  
 
Other
    554,396       686,842  
 
   
     
 
   
Total current assets
    19,510,417       35,460,587  
 
   
     
 
INCOME-PRODUCING PROPERTIES, net (Notes 5 and 7)
    43,179,037       44,545,585  
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net (Note 6)
    471,813       642,710  
OTHER ASSETS:
               
 
Real estate held for future development or sale
    3,952,812       4,211,073  
 
Intangible assets, net (Note 15)
    2,335,827       2,416,887  
 
Goodwill (Note 15)
    1,741,831       1,741,831  
 
Other
    2,605,361       2,765,696  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 73,797,098     $ 91,784,369  
 
   
     
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
               
 
Trade and subcontractors payables, including retained amounts of $1,064,989 and $1,776,684 in 2003 and 2002, respectively
  $ 6,163,796     $ 8,028,199  
 
Accrued expenses
    1,831,990       1,637,525  
 
Billings in excess of costs and earnings (Note 4)
    682,674       677,987  
 
Liabilities of discontinued operations (Note 3)
    563,584       12,541,036  
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
    2,630,282       2,700,744  
 
   
     
 
   
Total current liabilities
    11,872,326       25,585,491  
 
   
     
 
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES (Note 9)
    2,772,132       4,359,894  
OTHER LIABILITIES
    4,371,374       3,896,616  
MORTGAGE NOTES PAYABLE, LESS CURRENT MATURITIES (Note 7)
    23,216,407       19,501,385  
OTHER LONG-TERM DEBT, less current maturities (Note 8)
    10,306,907       15,662,107  
 
   
     
 
   
Total liabilities
    52,539,146       69,005,493  
 
   
     
 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Notes 7, 8 and 17)
               
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Note 11):
               
 
Common stock, $1 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; 3,060,239 issued and 2,914,351 outstanding in 2003, 3,054,439 issued and 2,909,079 outstanding in 2002
    3,060,239       3,054,439  
 
Additional paid-in capital
    2,153,505       2,135,005  
 
Deferred stock compensation
    (16,598 )     (12,744 )
 
Retained earnings
    16,734,753       18,273,853  
 
Treasury stock, common shares, 145,888 in 2003 and 145,360 in 2002
    (673,947 )     (671,677 )
 
   
     
 
   
Total shareholders’ equity
    21,257,952       22,778,876  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 73,797,098     $ 91,784,369  
 
   
     
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

n ABRAMS 2003 19

 


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                             
        Years Ended April 30,
       
        2003   2002   2001
       
 
 
REVENUES:
                       
 
Construction
  $ 59,527,859     $ 100,687,872     $ 141,118,311  
 
Rental income
    10,727,247       11,218,516       10,991,599  
 
Real estate sales
    859,561       465,000        
 
Energy management
    2,900,191       2,994,879        
 
Interest
    55,317       171,137       461,493  
 
Other
    65,172       90,418       51,030  
 
 
   
     
     
 
 
    74,135,347       115,627,822       152,622,433  
 
 
   
     
     
 
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
                       
 
Construction
    57,278,712       97,149,635       131,821,216  
 
Rental property operating expenses,excluding interest
    6,733,159       7,304,452       6,543,995  
 
Cost of real estate sold
    295,813       405,647        
 
Energy management
    1,573,426       1,760,007        
 
 
   
     
     
 
 
    65,881,110       106,619,741       138,365,211  
 
 
   
     
     
 
Selling, general and administrative
    8,046,676       7,540,071       9,857,847  
Interest costs incurred
    2,967,042       3,227,253       3,866,644  
 
 
   
     
     
 
 
    76,894,828       117,387,065       152,089,702  
 
 
   
     
     
 
   
(LOSS) EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
    (2,759,481 )     (1,759,243 )     532,731  
 
 
   
     
     
 
INCOME TAX (BENEFIT) EXPENSE (Note 9):
                       
 
Current
    (171,907 )     (605,773 )     412,198  
 
Deferred
    (893,093 )     (100,199 )     (201,533 )
 
 
   
     
     
 
 
    (1,065,000 )     (705,972 )     210,665  
 
 
   
     
     
 
   
(LOSS) EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
    (1,694,481 )     (1,053,271 )     322,066  
 
 
   
     
     
 
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Note 3):
                       
 
Earnings from discontinued operations, adjusted for applicable income tax expense of $3,413 in 2003, $89,729 in 2002, and $218,048 in 2001
    2,970       144,296       354,106  
 
Gain on sale of assets of discontinued operations, adjusted for applicable income tax expense of $372,228 in 2003, $1,056,000 in 2002, and $0 in 2001
    617,987       1,720,749        
 
 
   
     
     
 
   
    EARNINGS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
    620,957       1,865,045       354,106  
 
 
   
     
     
 
   
    NET (LOSS) EARNINGS
  $ (1,073,524 )   $ 811,774     $ 676,172  
 
 
   
     
     
 
NET (LOSS) EARNINGS PER SHARE (Note 12):
                       
 
From continuing operations - basic and diluted
  $ (.58 )   $ (.36 )   $ .11  
 
From discontinued operations - basic and diluted
    .21       .64       .12  
 
 
   
     
     
 
   
    Net (loss) earnings per share - basic and diluted
  $ (.37 )   $ .28     $ .23  
 
 
   
     
     
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

n ABRAMS 2003 20

 


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY

                                                           
                                                   
      Common Stock   Additional   Deferred                
     
  Paid-in   Stock   Retained   Treasury        
      Shares   Amount   Capital   Compensation   Earnings   Stock   Total
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
BALANCES at April 30, 2000
    3,014,039     $ 3,014,039     $ 2,019,690     $     $ 17,724,960     $ (412,551 )   $ 22,346,138  
 
Net earnings
                            676,172             676,172  
 
Common stock acquired
                                  (76,080 )     (76,080 )
 
Common stock issued
    27,000       27,000       77,625       (104,625 )                  
 
Stock compensation expense
                      29,531                   29,531  
 
Cash dividends declared - $.16 per share
                            (470,218 )           (470,218 )
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
BALANCES at April 30, 2001
    3,041,039       3,041,039       2,097,315       (75,094 )     17,930,914       (488,631 )     22,505,543  
 
Net earnings
                            811,774             811,774  
 
Common stock acquired
                                  (183,046 )     (183,046 )
 
Common stock issued
    13,400       13,400       37,690       (51,090 )                  
 
Stock compensation expense
                      113,440                   113,440  
 
Cash dividends declared - $.16 per share
                            (468,835 )           (468,835 )
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
BALANCES at April 30, 2002
    3,054,439       3,054,439       2,135,005       (12,744 )     18,273,853       (671,677 )     22,778,876  
 
Net loss
                            (1,073,524 )           (1,073,524 )
 
Common stock acquired
                                    (2,270 )     (2,270 )
 
Common stock issued
    5,800       5,800       18,500       (24,300 )                  
 
Stock compensation expense
                      20,446                   20,446  
 
Cash dividends declared - $.16 per share
                            (465,576 )           (465,576 )
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
BALANCES at April 30, 2003
    3,060,239     $ 3,060,239     $ 2,153,505     $ (16,598 )   $ 16,734,753     $ (673,947 )   $ 21,257,952  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

n ABRAMS 2003 21

 


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

                               
          Years Ended April 30,
         
          2003   2002   2001
         
 
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                       
 
Net (loss) earnings
  $ (1,073,524 )   $ 811,774     $ 676,172  
 
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) earnings to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
                       
   
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
    (620,957 )     (1,865,045 )     (354,106 )
   
Depreciation and amortization
    2,326,517       3,164,886       2,495,327  
   
Deferred tax benefit
    (1,334,706 )     (1,062,587 )     (176,897 )
   
Provision for doubtful accounts
    (539,415 )     69,999       936,684  
   
Gain on sale of real estate
    (563,748 )     (59,353 )      
 
Changes in assets and liabilities:
                       
   
Receivables, net
    737,490       2,431,245       4,512,394  
   
Costs and earnings in excess of billings
    179,049       801,033       835,907  
   
Other current assets
    132,446       108,244       (246,959 )
   
Other assets
    156,335       421,256       (115,120 )
   
Trade and subcontractors payable
    (1,864,403 )     (764,797 )     (4,569,982 )
   
Accrued expenses
    169,272       (1,357,839 )     (1,682,467 )
   
Accrued profit-sharing
          (1,277,917 )     (51,129 )
   
Billings in excess of costs and earnings
    4,687       (828,779 )     217,652  
   
Other liabilities
    474,758       (73,271 )     (66,620 )
 
 
   
     
     
 
     
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
    (1,816,199 )     518,849       2,410,856  
 
 
   
     
     
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
 
Proceeds from sales of real estate and property and equipment
    847,203       407,837        
 
Additions to intangible assets
    (283,552 )            
 
Additions to income-producing properties, net
    (260,522 )     (339,207 )      
 
Additions to property, equipment, and other, net
    (113,075 )     (512,056 )     (437,412 )
 
Acquisition, net of cash acquired
          (2,971,663 )      
 
Repayments received on notes receivable
    10,183       94,096       127,510  
 
 
   
     
     
 
     
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    200,237       (3,320,993 )     (309,902 )
 
 
   
     
     
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
 
Debt proceeds
    4,900,000              
 
Debt repayments
    (6,529,270 )     (2,056,947 )     (1,317,391 )
 
Deferred loan costs paid
    (107,788 )     (5,000 )     (5,000 )
 
Repurchase of common stock
    (2,270 )     (183,046 )     (76,080 )
 
Cash dividends
    (465,576 )     (468,835 )     (470,218 )
 
 
   
     
     
 
     
Net cash used in financing activities
    (2,204,904 )     (2,713,828 )     (1,868,689 )
 
 
   
     
     
 
Cash flows from discontinued operations:
                       
 
Operating activities
    (215,901 )     1,978,427       3,947,511  
 
Mortgage payoff
    (12,206,700 )            
 
Proceeds from sale of property, net of costs of sale
    13,489,901              
 
 
   
     
     
 
     
Net cash provided by discontinued operations
    1,067,300       1,978,427       3,947,511  
 
 
   
     
     
 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
    (2,753,566 )     (3,537,545 )     4,179,776  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    7,911,205       11,448,750       7,268,974  
 
 
   
     
     
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $ 5,157,639     $ 7,911,205     $ 11,448,750  
 
 
   
     
     
 
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing activities:
                       
 
Transfer of income-producing property to property held for sale
  $     $     $ 31,896,809  
 
Transfer of real estate held for future development or sale to property held for sale
  $     $ 12,522,944     $  
 
Transfer of property to real estate held for future development or sale
  $     $ 321,710     $  
 
Transfer of property held for sale to income-producing property
  $     $ 19,362,643     $  
Supplemental disclosure of noncash financing activities:
                       
 
Issuance of common stock under Stock Award Plan
  $ 24,300     $ 51,090     $ 104,625  
Supplemental schedule of cash flow information:
                       
 
Cash paid during the year for interest
  $ 2,678,985     $ 4,092,065     $ 4,781,850  
 
Cash (refunded) paid during the year for income taxes, net
  $ (351,871 )   $ 202,716     $ 249,811  
 
 
   
     
     
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

n ABRAMS 2003 22

 


Table of Contents

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

APRIL 30, 2003, 2002, AND 2001

1 ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS

Abrams Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) was organized under Delaware law in 1960. In 1984, the Company changed its state of incorporation from Delaware to Georgia. The Company engages in (i) commercial construction (ii) real estate investment and development, and (iii) energy management. The Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries include Abrams Construction, Inc., the “Construction Segment;” Abrams Properties, Inc. and subsidiaries, and AFC Real Estate, Inc., the “Real Estate Segment;” and Abrams Power, Inc. and its subsidiary, Servidyne Systems, LLC, the “Energy Management Segment.” Previously the Company engaged in the property management of its real estate. In fiscal year 2001, the Company outsourced all of the asset and property management duties for the Company’s properties owned or controlled by the Real Estate Segment to third parties. In fiscal 2003, the Company brought back in house the asset management responsibilities and the property management of one owned shopping center and all of the leaseback centers.

2 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(a)  Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Abrams Industries, Inc., its wholly owned subsidiaries, and its 80% investment in Abrams-Columbus Limited Partnership. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

(b)  Use of estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

(c)  Revenue recognition
Construction revenues are reported on the percentage-of-completion method, using costs incurred to date in relation to estimated total costs of the contracts, to measure the stage of completion. Original contract prices are adjusted for change orders in the amounts that are reasonably estimated based on the Company’s historical experience. The cumulative effects of changes in estimated total contract costs and revenues (change orders) are recorded in the period in which the facts requiring such revisions become known, and are accounted for using the percentage-of-completion method. At the time it is determined that a contract is expected to result in a loss, the entire estimated loss is recorded.

The Company leases space in its income-producing properties to tenants, and recognizes minimum base rentals as revenue on a straight-line basis over the lease terms. Tenants may also be required to pay additional rental amounts based on property operating expenses. In addition, certain tenants are required to pay incremental rental amounts, which are contingent on their store sales. These percentage rents are recognized only as earned.

Revenue from the sale of real estate is recognized when all of the following has occurred: (a) the property is transferred to the buyer; (b) the buyer’s initial and continuing investment is adequate to demonstrate a commitment to pay for the property; and (c) the buyer has assumed all future ownership risks of the property. Costs of sales related to real estate are based on the specific property sold. When a portion or unit of a development property is sold, a proportionate share of the total cost of the development is charged to cost of sales.

Energy management revenues primarily consist of services and product sales. Revenues are recognized as services are rendered, and depending upon the product type and customer agreement, product sales are recognized when products are shipped or delivered.

(d)  Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include money market funds and other financial instruments. The Company considers all highly liquid financial instruments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

(e)  Property held for sale
Property held for sale is expected to be sold in the near term and is carried at the lower of cost or fair value less costs to sell.

(f)  Income-producing properties and property and equipment
Income-producing properties are stated at cost, and are depreciated for financial reporting purposes using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the properties and related assets.

Property and equipment are recorded at cost, and are depreciated for financial reporting purposes using the straight- line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Significant additions, which extend asset lives, are capitalized. Normal maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred.

Interest and other carrying costs related to real estate assets under construction are capitalized. Costs of development and construction of real estate assets are also capitalized. Capitalization of interest and other carrying costs are discontinued when a project is substantially completed or if active development ceases.

(g)  Real estate held for future development or sale
Real estate held for future development or sale is carried at the lower of cost or fair value less costs to sell.

(h)  Deferred loan costs
Costs incurred to obtain loans have been deferred and are being amortized over the terms of the related loans.

(i)  Impairment of long-lived assets, including goodwill, and assets to be disposed of
The Company reviews its long-lived assets and certain intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is

n ABRAMS 2003 23

 


Table of Contents

measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset to future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If an asset is considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the asset’s fair value. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of their carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell.

(j)  Income taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

(k)  Fair value of financial instruments
Management believes that the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, other assets, accounts payable, accrued expenses, and current portion of debt instruments are reasonable approximations of their fair value, because of the short-term nature of these instruments.

The fair value of the Company’s noncurrent portions of debt instruments is estimated by discounting the future cash flows of each instrument at rates currently offered to the Company by the Company’s bankers for similar debt instruments of comparable maturities. Based on this valuation methodology, management believes that the carrying amount of the noncurrent portions of debt instruments is a reasonable estimation of their fair value.

(l)  Intangible assets
Intangible assets primarily consist of a trademark, computer software, computer-based work management products, lease costs, and deferred loan costs. The trademark is an unamortized intangible as it has an indefinite life. However, the computer software, computer-based work management products, lease costs, and deferred loan costs are amortized using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:

     
Computer software   3 years
Proprietary customer software solutions   4-5 years
Lease costs   Over the term of the lease
Loan costs   Over the term of the loan

(m)  Derivative instruments and hedging activities
The Company accounts for derivative and hedging activities in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, as amended. Under SFAS 133, derivative instruments are recognized in the balance sheet at fair value, and changes in the fair value of such instruments are recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. At April 30, 2003, and 2002, the Company had no derivative instruments.

(n)  Stock Compensation
In December 2002, SFAS 148, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation — Transition and Disclosure, was issued which is an amendment of SFAS 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. This statement amends SFAS 123 to provide alternative methods of transition for an entity that voluntarily changes to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. It also amends the disclosure provisions of that statement to require prominent disclosure about the effects on reported net income of an entity’s accounting policy decisions with respect to stock-based employee compensation. The Company elected to adopt this standard as of January 31, 2003, resulting in additional disclosures related to its stock-based compensation plan.

For purposes of the pro forma disclosures required by SFAS 123, the Company has computed the value of all stock and stock option awards granted during fiscal 2003 and 2002 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The weighted average fair value of options granted is $1.18 and $1.05, for 2003 and 2002, respectively. The fair value of each option grant as of the date of grant has been estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, with the following weighted average assumptions for grants in 2003 and 2002, respectively: risk- free interest rates of 3.22% and 4.65%, and 4.93%; expected lives of 5 and 10 years, and 5 years; dividend yields of 3.68% and 4.16%; and expected volatility of 33% and 42%.

The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions. In the Company’s opinion, because the Company’s stock-based compensation awards have characteristics significantly different from traded options, and because changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, the results obtained from the valuation model do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the value of its stock-based compensation awards.

n ABRAMS 2003 24

 


Table of Contents

If the Company had accounted for its stock-based compensation awards in accordance with SFAS 123, pro forma results would have been as follows for the years ended April 30:

                           
      2003   2002   2001
     
 
 
Net (loss) earnings, as reported
  $ (1,073,524 )   $ 811,774     $ 676,172  
Deduct: Total stock-based compensation expense as determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects
    (198,756 )     (46,869 )      
 
   
     
     
 
Pro forma net (loss) earnings
  $ (1,272,280 )   $ 764,905     $ 676,172  
 
   
     
     
 
Net (loss) earnings per share:
                       
 
Basic and diluted - as reported
  $ (.37 )   $ .28     $ .23  
 
Basic and diluted - pro forma
  $ (.44 )   $ .26     $ .23  

(o)  Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2002 and 2001 consolidated financial statements to conform to classifications adopted in 2003.

3 DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

Effective May 1, 2002, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, which requires, among other things, that the operating results of certain income-producing assets, sold subsequent to April 30, 2002, be included in discontinued operations in the statements of operations for all periods presented. On June 28, 2002, the Company sold its shopping center located in Englewood, Florida, and recognized a pre-tax gain of $990,215. As a result of the sale, the Company’s financial statements have been prepared with the property’s assets and liabilities, results of operations, cash flows, and the gain from the sale shown as discontinued operations. In June 1999, the Company received notice from the Georgia State Properties Commission that the Georgia World Congress Center Authority had made the determination to acquire the Company’s former manufacturing segment’s wood manufacturing facility in Atlanta, Georgia. In October 1999, a Special Master appointed by the court awarded the Company $4.5 million for the property, which was paid to the manufacturing segment. Both the State and the Company appealed the award amount. During the year ended April 30, 2002, the Company reached a settlement with the State and recognized an after-tax gain of $1,720,749 on the transaction. All historical statements have been restated in accordance with SFAS 144. Summarized financial information for discontinued operations for the fiscal years ended April 30 is as follows:

                         
    2003   2002   2001
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 289,173     $ 1,969,865     $ 2,508,496  
Operating expenses, including amortization and interest
    282,790       1,735,840       1,936,342  
 
   
     
     
 
 
  $ 6,383     $ 234,025     $ 572,154  
 
   
     
     
 
                 
    Balances at
   
    April 30, 2003   April 30, 2002
   
 
Assets of discontinued operations:
               
Property held for sale
  $     $ 12,502,037  
Receivables
    57,020       16,713  
Other
    45,126       7,191  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 102,146     $ 12,525,941  
 
   
     
 
                 
    Balances at
   
    April 30, 2003   April 30, 2002
   
 
Liabilities of discontinued operations:
               
Mortgage debt
  $     $ 12,206,700  
Accounts payable
          10,764  
Income taxes
    476,635       242,091  
Accrued expenses
    86,949       81,481  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 563,584     $ 12,541,036  
 
   
     
 

n ABRAMS 2002 25

 


Table of Contents

4 CONTRACTS IN PROGRESS

Assets and liabilities related to contracts in progress, including contracts receivable, are included in current assets and current liabilities, as they will be liquidated in the normal course of contract completion, which is expected to occur within one year. Amounts billed and costs and earnings recognized on contracts in progress at April 30 were:

                 
    2003   2002
   
 
Costs and earnings in excess of billings:
               
Accumulated costs and earnings
  $ 16,324,508     $ 26,769,091  
Amounts billed
    15,821,395       26,086,929  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 503,113     $ 682,162  
 
   
     
 
Billings in excess of costs and earnings:
               
Amounts billed
  $ 17,349,809     $ 37,142,812  
Accumulated costs and earnings
    16,667,135       36,464,825  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 682,674     $ 677,987  
 
   
     
 

5 INCOME-PRODUCING PROPERTIES

Income-producing properties and their estimated useful lives at April 30 were as follows:

                         
    Estimated                
    useful lives   2003   2002
   
 
 
Land
          $ 13,777,053     $ 13,777,053  
Buildings and improvements
  7-39 years     46,294,096       46,060,629  
 
           
     
 
 
            60,071,149       59,837,682  
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
            16,892,112       15,292,097  
 
           
     
 
 
          $ 43,179,037     $ 44,545,585  
 
           
     
 

Depreciation expense for the years ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001, was $1,619,116, $1,808,125, and $1,445,733, respectively.

6 PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

The major components of property and equipment and their estimated useful lives at April 30 were as follows:

                         
    Estimated                
    useful lives   2003   2002
   
 
 
Building improvements
  3-39 years   $ 309,460     $ 309,460  
Vehicles and equipment
  3-10 years     1,654,701       1,771,733  
 
           
     
 
 
            1,964,161       2,081,193  
Less - accumulated depreciation
            1,492,348       1,438,483  
 
           
     
 
 
          $ 471,813     $ 642,710  
 
           
     
 

Depreciation expense for the years ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001, was $269,026, $366,739, and $425,235, respectively.

7 LEASES AND MORTGAGE NOTES PAYABLE

As of April 30, 2003, the Company owned six shopping centers, an office park, an office building and a former manufacturing facility. Of the owned properties, four of the six shopping centers and both office properties were pledged as collateral on related mortgage notes payable. Exculpatory provisions of the mortgage notes limit the Company’s liability for repayment to its interest in the respective mortgaged properties. The Company also leases seven shopping centers under leaseback arrangements expiring on various dates between fiscal years 2004 to 2014. The Company’s leases contain exculpatory provisions that limit the Company’s liability for payment to its interest in the respective leases.

All of the leaseback centers are subleased to the Kmart Corporation. As of April 30, 2003, Kmart was also a tenant in three of the six Company-owned shopping centers. The owned shopping centers are leased to tenants for terms expiring on various dates from fiscal 2004 to 2021, while leases on the office properties expire from fiscal years 2004 to 2012. Subleases on the leaseback centers either are the same as, or may be extended to correspond to, the leaseback periods. All leases are operating leases. The shopping center leases typically require that the tenants make fixed rental payments over a five to twenty-five year period, and may provide for renewal options and for contingent rentals, if the tenant’s sales volume exceeds a predetermined amount. In some cases, the shopping center leases provide that the tenant bear the cost of insurance, repairs, maintenance, and taxes. Base rental revenue recognized from owned shopping centers and office properties in 2003, 2002, and 2001, was approximately $7,268,000, $7,347,000, and $7,320,000, respectively. Base rental revenue recognized from leaseback centers in 2003, 2002, and 2001, was approximately $2,031,000, $2,497,000, and $2,620,000, respectively. Contingent rental revenue on all centers in 2003, 2002, and 2001, was approximately $186,000, $174,000, and $161,000, respectively.

n ABRAMS 2003 26

 


Table of Contents

Approximate future minimum annual rental receipts from all rental properties are as follows:

                 
Year ending April 30,   Owned   Leaseback

 
 
2004
  $ 6,843,000     $ 2,032,000  
2005
    6,108,000       1,800,000  
2006
    5,580,000       1,476,000  
2007
    5,056,000       888,000  
2008
    4,602,000       618,000  
Thereafter
    23,489,000       1,846,000  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 51,678,000     $ 8,660,000  
 
   
     
 

The expected future minimum principal and interest payments on mortgage notes payable on the owned rental properties, and the approximate future minimum rentals expected to be paid on the leaseback centers, are as follows:

                         
    Owned Rental Properties        
    Mortgage Payments   Leaseback
   
  Centers Rental
Year ending April 30,   Principal   Interest   Payments

 
 
 
2004
  $ 1,585,836     $ 2,006,389     $ 1,656,000  
2005
    7,474,897       1,339,634       1,462,000  
2006
    967,628       1,213,172       1,146,000  
2007
    994,429       1,131,948       515,000  
2008
    6,577,237       916,044       287,000  
Thereafter
    7,202,216       2,433,707       867,000  
 
   
     
     
 
 
  $ 24,802,243     $ 9,040,894     $ 5,933,000  
 
   
     
     
 

The mortgage notes payable are due at various dates between January 1, 2008, and September 1, 2019, and bear interest at rates ranging from 7.25% to 9.25%. At April 30, 2003, the weighted average rate for all outstanding debt was 6.8%, including other long-term debt and credit facilities (See Note 8).

In conjunction with the origination of a mortgage on an income-producing property, an Additional Interest Agreement was executed, which entitles the lender to participate in fifty percent of the quarterly net cash flow and fifty percent of the appreciation in the property upon sale or refinance, as defined in the Agreement. The appreciation participation liability, which is included in other liabilities, was $2,721,448 and $2,384,945, at April 30, 2003, and 2002, respectively. The related unamortized loan discount was $1,732,647 and $1,651,276, at April 30, 2003, and 2002, respectively.

8 OTHER LONG-TERM DEBT AND CREDIT FACILITIES

Other long-term debt at April 30 was as follows:

                   
      2003   2002
     
 
Real estate construction loan bearing interest at the prime rate plus .375% (4.625% at April 30, 2003); requires monthly principal and interest payments of $87,729; matures August 29, 2004; secured by real property and assignment of leases and rents   $ 7,249,849     $ 7,925,172  
 
Amendment to the construction loan shown above,currently permitting borrowings of up to $4,942,419; bearing interest at the prime rate plus .375% (4.625% at April 30, 2003); requires monthly principal and interest payments of $42,113; matures August 29, 2004; secured by real property and the assignment of leases and rents     4,101,504       4,394,797  
 
Note payable to a bank,with variable interest rate of LIBOR plus 2% (3.879% at April 30, 2002); required monthly principal payments of $41,047; refinanced in July 2002, as discussed below           4,596,683  
 
   
     
 
 
Total other long-term debt
    11,351,353       16,916,652  
Less current maturities
    1,044,446       1,254,545  
 
   
     
 
Total other long-term debt, less current maturities
  $ 10,306,907     $ 15,662,107  
 
   
     
 

n ABRAMS 2003 27

 


Table of Contents

The future minimum principal payments due on other long-term debt are as follows:

         
Year Ending April 30,        

       
2004
  $ 1,044,446  
2005
    10,306,907  
 
   
 
 
  $ 11,351,353  
 
   
 

At April 30, 2003, the Company had commitments from a bank for unsecured lines of credit totaling $9 million, of which a total of $650,000 is restricted as it secures letters of credit described below. These lines of credit bear interest at the prime rate or LIBOR plus 2%, and have a commitment fee of 0.375% on any unused portion. The lines of credit expire on October 30, 2003. At April 30, 2003, no amounts were outstanding under these lines of credit.

In conjunction with the origination of a mortgage on an income-producing property, the Company obtained an irrevocable, standby letter of credit in the amount of $500,000. The letter of credit was originally issued in July 1997, and matures on December 31, 2003. The mortgage lender is allowed to draw on the letter in order to reduce the related mortgage loan if certain leasing requirements are not met. The letter of credit is secured by one of the bank lines of credit, as discussed above.

In July 2002, the Company refinanced the loan on its corporate headquarters building in Atlanta, Georgia, which prior loan had a balance of $4,596,683 as of April 30, 2002. The new permanent loan, in the original principal amount of $4,900,000, bears interest at 7.75%, is due in ten years, and is to be amortized on a twenty-five year schedule. Pursuant to the provisions of the new permanent loan, the Company is required to provide for potential future tenant improvement costs and lease commissions through additional collateral, in the form of a letter of credit in the amount of $150,000 for each of the first three loan years, $300,000 during the fourth, fifth, and sixth loan years, and $450,000 during the seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth loan years. The $150,000 letter of credit is secured by one of the bank lines of credit, as discussed above.

9 INCOME TAXES

The (benefit) provision for income taxes consists of the following:

                         
    Current   Deferred   Total
   
 
 
Year ended April 30, 2003
                       
Federal
  $ (171,907 )   $ (752,078 )   $ (923,985 )
State and local
          (141,015 )     (141,015 )
 
   
     
     
 
 
  $ (171,907 )   $ (893,093 )   $ (1,065,000 )
 
   
     
     
 
Year ended April 30, 2002
                       
Federal
  $ (553,121 )   $ (95,011 )   $ (648,132 )
State and local
    (52,652 )     (5,188 )     (57,840 )
 
   
     
     
 
 
  $ (605,773 )   $ (100,199 )   $ (705,972 )
 
   
     
     
 
Year ended April 30, 2001
                       
Federal
  $ 349,819     $ (186,947 )   $ 162,872  
State and local
    62,379       (14,586 )     47,793  
 
   
     
     
 
 
  $ 412,198     $ (201,533 )   $ 210,665  
 
   
     
     
 

In fiscal 2002, the Company recognized a deferred gain on discontinued operations, resulting in a deferred tax liability of $1,056,000 (Note 3).

Total income tax (benefit) expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations differs from the amounts computed by applying the Federal income tax rate of 34% to pretax (loss) earnings, as a result of the following:

                           
      Year ended April 30
     
      2003   2002   2001
     
 
 
Computed “expected” tax (benefit) expense
  $ (938,224 )   $ (598,143 )   $ 181,129  
(Decrease) increase in income taxes resulting from:
                       
 
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax (benefit) expense
    (126,776 )     (107,829 )     29,636  
 
Other, net
                (100 )
 
   
     
     
 
 
  $ (1,065,000 )   $ (705,972 )   $ 210,665  
 
   
     
     
 

n ABRAMS 2003 28

 


Table of Contents

The tax effect of the temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities, at April 30, are presented below:

                     
        2003   2002
       
 
Deferred income tax assets:
               
Items not currently deductible for tax purposes:
               
 
Provisions for impairment on income-producing property
  $ 1,026,816     $ 1,026,816  
 
Net operating loss carryforwards
    1,579,861       314,992  
 
Capitalized costs
    407,450       477,721  
 
Accrued directors’ fees
    170,283       177,524  
 
Bad debt reserve
    191,364       409,163  
 
Deferred compensation plan
    461,468       498,722  
 
Compensated absences
    86,471       84,992  
 
Other accrued expenses
    441,805       211,475  
 
Other
    184,000       379,458  
 
 
   
     
 
   
Gross deferred income tax assets
    4,549,518       3,580,863  
 
 
   
     
 
Deferred income tax liabilities:
               
 
Income-producing properties and property and equipment, principally because of differences in depreciation and capitalized interest
    1,707,847       1,671,917  
 
Gain on real estate sales structured as tax-deferred like-kind exchanges
    5,002,823       5,279,104  
 
Other
          125,700  
 
 
   
     
 
   
Gross deferred income tax liability
    6,710,670       7,076,721  
 
 
   
     
 
   
Net deferred income tax liability
  $ 2,161,152     $ 3,495,858  
 
 
   
     
 

There was no valuation allowance against deferred tax assets at April 30, 2003, and 2002. In management’s opinion it is more likely than not that such deferred tax assets are realizable.

10 DEFERRED PROFIT-SHARING AND 401(K) PLAN

The Company has a deferred profit-sharing plan (the “Plan”) which covers the majority of its employees. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company amended the Plan to add a 401(k) feature covering eligible employees. Pursuant to the provisions of the Plan, eligible employees may make salary deferral (before tax) contributions of up to 100% of their total compensation per plan year, not to exceed a specified maximum contribution as determined by the Internal Revenue Service. The Plan also includes provisions that authorize the Company to make discretionary contributions. Such contributions, if made, are allocated among all eligible employees as determined under the Plan. The trustee under the Plan invests the assets of each participant’s account, as directed by the participant. The Plan assets do not include any stock of the Company. Funded employer contributions to the Plan for 2003, 2002, and 2001, were approximately $18,000, $60,000, and $634,000, respectively. The net assets in the Plan, which is administered by an independent trustee, were approximately $8,204,000, $9,290,000, and $13,234,000, at April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively.

In conjunction with the acquisition of the assets of Servidyne Systems, Inc. in fiscal 2002, the Company assumed a 401(k) plan (“the Servidyne Plan”), which covered substantially all employees of the Energy Management segment. Under the provisions of the Servidyne Plan, participants could contribute up to 100% of their compensation per plan year, not to exceed a specified maximum contribution, as determined by the Internal Revenue Service. The Company could also make discretionary contributions, and did make contributions of approximately $19,500 and $15,000, in 2003 and 2002, respectively. The Servidyne Plan was frozen as of January 1, 2003, and no more employee or employer contributions were funded after that date. All employees of the Energy Management Segment are eligible to participate in the Company’s deferred profit-sharing and 401(k) plan as described above.

11 STOCK COMPENSATION

In August 2000, the shareholders approved the 2000 Stock Award Plan (the “Award Plan”). The Award Plan permits the grant of incentive and non-qualified stock options, non-restricted, restricted and performance stock awards, and stock appreciation rights to directors, employees, independent contractors, advisors, or consultants to the Company, as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. The term and vesting requirements for each award are determined by the Compensation Committee, but in no event may the term exceed ten years. Incentive Stock Options under the Award Plan provide for the purchase of the Company’s common stock at not less than fair market value on the date the option is issued. The total number of shares originally available for grant under the Award Plan was 1,000,000 shares.

n ABRAMS 2003 29

 


Table of Contents

On January 19, 2001, the Company granted a restricted stock award to certain eligible employees, directors, and certain consultants, which vested on January 19, 2002. On May 18, 2001, the Company granted a restricted stock award to certain eligible employees, which vested on May 18, 2002. On November 28, 2001, the Company granted a restricted stock award to an eligible employee, which vested on November 28, 2002. On July 29, 2002, the Company granted a restricted stock award to certain eligible employees, which will vest on July 29, 2003, as long as the individual grantee continues to be employed by the Company until the vesting date. On March 11, 2003, the Company granted a restricted stock award to certain eligible employees, certain consultants, and certain independent contractors, which will vest on March 11, 2004, as long as the individual grantee continues to be employed by the Company until the vesting date. During fiscal 2003, 2002, and 2001, forfeitures of restricted shares, which did not vest, totaled 400, 2,300, and 800 shares, respectively.

The Company recognizes compensation expense ratably over the vesting period. Stock award compensation expense for the years ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001, was $20,446, $113,440, and $29,531, respectively. As of April 30, 2003, after forfeitures during the year, there were 5,400 shares outstanding under restricted stock award grants, which were not yet vested.

As allowed under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, the Company accounts for all options issued to employees under the Award Plan in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion (“APB”) 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and compensation expense, if any, will be recognized accordingly. All options issued to non-employees are accounted for under SFAS 123, and compensation expense is recognized accordingly. In May 2001, the Company issued 150,616 incentive stock options with an exercise price of $4.00 per share to certain employees, one-half of which vested in May 2002, and the remaining one-half vested in May 2003. In July 2002, the Company issued an additional 355,856 incentive stock options to certain employees, and 253,144 non-qualified stock options to the Company’s directors, certain employees, and an independent contractor, one-half of which will vest in July 2003 and the remaining one-half of which will vest in July 2004, as long as the individual grantee continues to be employed by the Company until the respective vesting dates. All of the options issued in July 2002 have an exercise price of $5.10 per share. At April 30, 2003, and 2002, 85,308 and 0 options were vested, respectively.

In fiscal 2000, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 200,000 shares of Common Stock during the twelve-month period beginning February 25, 2000, and ending February 24, 2001. In February 2001, 2002, and 2003, the Company’s Board authorized additional repurchases of up to 200,000 shares of Common Stock in each of the subsequent twelve-month periods, the most recent to end on March 4, 2004. During fiscal 2001, 2002, and 2003, the Company repurchased 20,053 shares, 44,524 shares, and 128 shares, respectively, of Common Stock.

12 NET EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

Earnings per share is calculated in accordance with SFAS 128, Earnings Per Share, which requires dual presentation of basic and diluted earnings per share on the face of the income statement for all entities with complex capital structures. Basic and diluted weighted-average share differences result solely from dilutive common stock options. Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average shares outstanding during the reporting period. Dilutive potential common shares are calculated in accordance with the treasury stock method, which assumes that the proceeds from the exercise of all options are used to repurchase common shares at current market value. The number of shares remaining after the exercise proceeds are exhausted represents the potentially dilutive effect of the options. Options to purchase 747,250 shares were outstanding at April 30, 2003. The dilutive number of common shares for the fourth quarter 2003 and 2002, were 2,912,659 and 2,933,395, respectively; and for the fiscal year ended 2003 and 2002, were 2,919,203 and 2,930,340, respectively. Since the Company had losses from continuing operations for all periods presented, all stock equivalents were antidilutive during these periods, and are therefore excluded from weighted average shares outstanding.

n ABRAMS 2003 30

 


Table of Contents

The following tables set forth the computations of basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per share:

                         
    For the year ended April 30, 2003
   
    Earnings (loss)   Shares   Per share
    (numerator)   (denominator)   amount
   
 
 
Basic EPS - loss per share from continuing operations
  $ (1,694,481 )     2,910,475     $ (.58 )
Basic EPS - earnings per share from discontinued operations
    620,957       2,910,475       .21  
Effect of dilutive securities
                 
 
   
     
     
 
Diluted EPS - loss per share plus assumed conversions
  $ (1,073,524 )     2,910,475     $ (.37 )
 
   
     
     
 
                         
    For the year ended April 30, 2002
   
    Earnings (loss)   Shares   Per share
    (numerator)   (denominator)   amount
   
 
 
Basic EPS - loss per share from continuing operations
  $ (1,053,271 )     2,926,248     $ (.36 )
Basic EPS - earnings per share from discontinued operations
    1,865,045       2,926,248       .64  
Effect of dilutive securities
                 
 
   
     
     
 
Diluted EPS - earnings per share plus assumed conversions
  $ 811,774       2,926,248     $ .28  
 
   
     
     
 
                         
    For the year ended April 30, 2001
   
    Earnings   Shares   Per share
    (numerator)   (denominator)   amount
   
 
 
Basic EPS - earnings per share from continuing operations
  $ 322,066       2,938,504     $ .11  
Basic EPS - earnings per share from discontinued operations
    354,106       2,938,504       .12  
Effect of dilutive securities
                 
 
   
     
     
 
Diluted EPS - earnings per share plus assumed conversions
  $ 676,172       2,938,504     $ .23  
 
   
     
     
 

13 OPERATING SEGMENTS

The Company had three operating segments at April 30, 2003: Construction, Real Estate, and Energy Management. The Construction Segment’s activities consist primarily of construction, expansion, remodeling and renovation of retail store buildings, banks, shopping centers, warehouses and distribution centers, and other types of commercial construction. Although, the Construction Segment does work throughout much of the United States, it concentrates its activities principally in the southern and midwestern states. The Real Estate Segment is involved in the investment and development of shopping centers and office properties in the Southeast and Midwest. The Energy Management Segment, which began in fiscal 2002, assists its customers in reducing the costs of operating buildings by lowering energy consumption and increasing work efficiency through its: (1) engineering and consulting services; (2) utility monitoring and analysis; and (3) equipment maintenance and work management. The primary focus for the Energy Management Segment is the continental United States, although it does perform services for some international customers.

The operating segments are managed separately and maintain separate personnel, due to the differing services offered by each segment. Management of each of the segments evaluates and monitors the performance of the respective segment primarily based on the earnings or losses prior to income taxes, cash flows, and activities consistent with the Company’s long-term strategic objectives. The significant accounting policies utilized by the operating segments are the same as those summarized in Note 2 to the accompanying financial statements of the Company.

Total revenue by operating segment includes both revenues from unaffiliated customers, as reported in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, and intersegment revenues, which are generally at prices negotiated between segments.

The Company had revenues from The Home Depot, Inc., primarily representing revenues in the Construction Segment, aggregating approximately 59%, 56%, and 66% of consolidated revenues from continuing operations in 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. Revenues from Academy Sports & Outdoor, generated entirely in the Construction Segment, totaled 18% of consolidated revenues in 2002, but were less than 10% of consolidated revenues in 2003 and 2001.

Earnings (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations represents total revenue less operating expenses, including depreciation and interest. Selling, general and administrative, and interest costs, deducted in the computation of earnings (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations of each segment, represent the actual costs incurred by that segment. It excludes any extraordinary items. Parent expenses have not been allocated to the subsidiaries in the following table.

Segment assets are those that are used in the Company’s operations in each segment, including receivables due from other segments. The Parent Company’s assets are primarily cash and cash equivalents, the cash surrender value of life insurance, receivables, and assets related to deferred compensation plans. Liquid assets attributable to the Company’s former manufacturing segment’s discontinued operations are also included in the Parent Company’s assets in 2003, 2002, and 2001.

n ABRAMS 2003 31

 


Table of Contents

13 OPERATING SEGMENTS continued

                                                   
                      Energy                        
      Construction   Real Estate   Management   Parent   Eliminations   Consolidated
     
 
 
 
 
 
2003
                                               
Revenues from unaffiliated customers
  $ 59,527,859     $ 11,586,808     $ 2,900,191     $     $     $ 74,014,858  
Interest and other income
    9,903       94,550             22,342       (6,306 )     120,489  
Intersegment revenue
          449,549                   (449,549 )      
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 
Total revenues from continuing operations
  $ 59,537,762     $ 12,130,907     $ 2,900,191     $ 22,342     $ (455,855 )   $ 74,135,347  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Earnings (loss)
                                               
  before income taxes from
continuing operations
  $ (1,832,730 )   $ 702,540     $ (566,852 )   $ (3,277,435 )   $ 2,214,996     $ (2,759,481 )
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Segment assets
  $ 15,073,267     $ 54,413,919     $ 3,624,372     $ 13,043,446     $ (12,357,906 )   $ 73,797,098  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Interest expense
  $ 942     $ 2,946,901     $ 7,912     $ 11,287     $     $ 2,967,042  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Depreciation and amortization
  $ 246,783     $ 1,838,013     $ 222,155     $ 47,034     $ (27,468 )   $ 2,326,517  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Capital expenditures
  $ 67,050     $ 264,986     $ 31,810     $ 18,404     $     $ 382,250  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
                                                   
                      Energy                        
      Construction   Real Estate   Management   Parent   Eliminations   Consolidated
     
 
 
 
 
 
2002
                                               
Revenues from unaffiliated customers
  $ 100,687,872     $ 11,683,516     $ 2,994,879     $     $     $ 115,366,267  
Interest and other income
    60,537       156,068             55,188       (10,238 )     261,555  
Intersegment revenue
          461,818                   (461,818 )      
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 
Total revenues from continuing operations
  $ 100,748,409     $ 12,301,402     $ 2,994,879     $ 55,188     $ (472,056 )   $ 115,627,822  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Earnings (loss)
                                               
  before income taxes from
continuing operations
  $ 243,344     $ 859,689     $ (135,945 )   $ (2,785,300 )   $ 58,969     $ (1,759,243 )
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Segment assets
  $ 18,011,119     $ 67,143,652     $ 3,452,921     $ 12,843,051     $ (9,666,374 )   $ 91,784,369  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Interest expense
  $ 5,255     $ 3,203,642     $ 10,431     $ 7,925     $     $ 3,227,253  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Depreciation and amortization
  $ 348,137     $ 2,519,035     $ 201,399     $ 127,041     $ (30,726 )   $ 3,164,886  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Capital expenditures
  $ 14,655     $ 624,801     $ 39,154     $ 13,769     $     $ 692,379  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
                                                   
                      Energy                        
      Construction   Real Estate   Management (1)   Parent   Eliminations   Consolidated
     
 
 
 
 
 
2001
                                               
Revenues from unaffiliated customers
  $ 141,118,311     $ 10,991,599     $     $     $     $ 152,109,910  
Interest and other income
    241,679       240,310             30,534             512,523  
Intersegment revenue
    28,060       388,960                   (417,020 )      
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 
Total revenues from continuing operations
  $ 141,388,050     $ 11,620,869     $     $ 30,534     $ (417,020 )   $ 152,622,433  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Earnings (loss)
                                               
  before income taxes from continuing operations   $ 3,194,897     $ 111,888     $     $ (2,819,777 )   $ 45,723     $ 532,731  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Segment assets
  $ 23,293,006     $ 69,459,677     $     $ 11,779,447     $ (6,912,445 )   $ 97,619,685  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Interest expense
  $ 12,106     $ 3,835,604     $     $ 18,934     $     $ 3,866,644  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Depreciation and amortization
  $ 420,241     $ 2,048,863     $     $ 56,004     $ (29,781 )   $ 2,495,327  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
Capital expenditures
  $ 303,541     $ 97,862     $     $ 4,989     $     $ 406,392  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 

(1)   The Energy Management Segment was formed in May 2001.

n ABRAMS 2003 32

 


Table of Contents

14 NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

During August 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. SFAS 144 supercedes SFAS 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of. In addition, SFAS 144 supercedes the accounting and reporting provisions of APB Opinion No. 30, Reporting the Results of Operations — Reporting the Effects of Disposal of a Segment of a Business, and Extraordinary, Unusual and Infrequently Occurring Events and Transactions. SFAS 144 addresses the treatment of assets held for sale or to be otherwise disposed of, the evaluation of impairment for long-lived assets, and the reporting of discontinued operations. The provisions of SFAS 144 were effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. The adoption of SFAS 144 also requires that the gains and losses from the disposition of certain income-producing real estate assets and the related historical operating results be reflected as discontinued operations in the statements of operations for all periods presented. Although net earnings is not affected, the Company has reclassified results previously included in continuing operations to discontinued operations for qualifying dispositions under SFAS 144.

15 GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The gross carrying amounts and accumulated amortization for all of the Company’s intangible assets are as follows:

                   
      April 30, 2003
 
      Gross Carrying   Accumulated
Amortized intangible assets   Amount   Amortization

 
 
Proprietary customer
               
 
software solutions
  $ 960,419     $ 386,440  
Computer software
    349,016       282,995  
Real estate lease costs
    1,850,252       957,674  
Deferred loan costs
    947,979       482,918  
Other
    28,660       5,733  
 
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 4,136,326     $ 2,115,760  
 
 
   
     
 
                   
      April 30, 2002
 
      Gross Carrying   Accumulated
Amortized intangible assets   Amount   Amortization

 
 
Proprietary customer
               
 
software solutions
  $ 885,951     $ 190,080  
Computer software
    304,956       243,542  
Real estate lease costs
    1,783,381       856,573  
Deferred loan costs
    819,875       428,133  
Other
    28,660       2,869  
 
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 3,822,823     $ 1,721,197  
 
 
   
     
 
         
Unamortized intangible assets        

Goodwill
  $ 1,741,831  
Trademark
    315,261  
 
   
 
 
  $ 2,057,092  
 
   
 

         
Aggregate amortization expense for all amortized intangible assets

For the year ended April 30,2003
  $ 499,268  

Estimated amortization expense for all amortized intangible assets for the fiscal year ended April 30,

         
2004
  $ 468,188  
2005
    431,135  
2006
    316,645  
2007
    184,853  
2008
    152,949  

The goodwill and trademark amounts are related to the Energy Management Segment. For tax purposes, all of the goodwill is expected to be amortized and deductible.

16 KMART BANKRUPTCY

In January 2002, Kmart Corporation filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. At that time, four of the Company’s seven owned retail properties contained stores leased to Kmart, two of which were freestanding stores. The Company sold at a gain its shopping center in Englewood, Florida, which was co-anchored by a Kmart store, on June 28, 2002. See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements. The remaining three Kmart stores owned by the Company are currently open and operating. The seven freestanding Kmart stores that the Company developed, sold, leased back, and then sub-leased to Kmart are currently open and operating. The leases for the three owned and seven leaseback Kmart stores have been affirmed by Kmart under its plan of reorganization. Kmart emerged from bankruptcy in May 2003.

17 COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Effective April 30, 2003, the Company terminated an employment agreement and entered into a new retirement agreement with a former officer and director of the Company. Beginning May 1, 2003, the new agreement requires the Company to pay a retirement benefit of approximately $87,000 through August 19, 2003, and approximately $100,000 per year thereafter for a term of four years ending on August 19, 2007. In addition, the Company will also continue to provide medical insurance benefits through the term of the retirement agreement. The new agreement accelerated the exercise date of the retiree’s options, and provided that such options expire no later than August 19, 2004. The retirement agreement would terminate early, in the event of the death of the retiree.

Assuming a discount rate of 5.25%, the Company has accrued a net present value expense of $484,000 related to the retirement agreement, which is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations for fiscal 2003. As of April 30, 2003, $162,000 is included in accrued expenses and $322,000 is included in other long term liabilities in the accompanying balance sheet.

On July 7, 2003, the Company announced that an internal investigation, which was conducted by the Company’s legal counsel at

n ABRAMS 2003 33

 


Table of Contents

the request of senior management, had revealed information suggesting that behavior in violation of Federal antitrust laws may have taken place in a certain job bidding process for one customer of the Company’s subsidiary, Abrams Construction, Inc., (“ACI”).

The results of this investigation were reported to the Board of Directors of the Company on June 9, 2003. The Company has also voluntarily communicated the results of its investigation to the United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) and is fully cooperating in the subsequent inquiry that has resulted from such communication. The DOJ, on July 1, 2003, issued a conditional letter of amnesty to the Company and its subsidiaries for their cooperation in recognizing and then immediately reporting the irregularities. The Company believes, based on its internal investigation, that the specific improprieties were confined to a bidding process for The Home Depot, Inc. (“Home Depot”), its largest customer. At this time, the Company has no reason to believe that any other customers were affected. The Company has also communicated its concerns about the job bidding process to Home Depot.

The Company estimates the costs associated with this matter, including the Company’s internal investigation and its ongoing cooperation with the DOJ, are expected to approximate $750,000 in the current fiscal year ending April 30, 2004. Such cost estimates, however, are particularly difficult to make with any precision, and as a result the actual costs may be lower or higher than this amount. To date, no third party has made, or threatened to make, any claim in connection with this matter. It is possible, however, that claims could be made as a result of this situation.

On December 18, 2002, ASK Financial, counsel for Montgomery Ward, LLC (“Ward”), filed a complaint in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware to recover approximately $1.84 million in alleged “preference” payments made by Ward to ACI, prior to Ward’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing on December 28, 2000. Under federal bankruptcy law, a bankrupt debtor-in-possession can sue to recover preferential payments made to the creditors of a bankrupt debtor-in-possession during the 90-day period preceding the filing for bankruptcy protection, subject to certain defenses, including payments made in the ordinary course of business. Management cannot reasonably estimate the amount, if any, that could ultimately be paid with respect to this claim. The Company believes that it has meritorious defenses to the action, and it intends to continue to vigorously defend against the claim.

On September 20, 2002, the Company’s subsidiary, Abrams Properties, Inc. (“API”), filed a claim in the Superior Court of Cobb County, Georgia, against API’s former real estate asset manager. The defendant subsequently made a demand against API for arbitration and filed a counterclaim. During the third quarter of fiscal 2003, the Cobb County Superior Court denied the defendant’s demand for arbitration, but in July 2003 this decision was reversed by the Georgia Court of Appeals. The Company intends to seek appellate review of this most recent decision. The dispute arises out of the defendant’s former provision of real estate asset management services to API. The Company believes API’s counter claims against its former asset manager and its defenses to the manager’s claims are meritorious and intends to continue to vigorously pursue its claims and assert its defenses.

Other than the costs of the Company’s internal investigation and ongoing cooperation associated with the DOJ, the Company believes the ultimate disposition of the above noted legal proceedings and claims or potential claims will not have a material adverse affect on the financial condition, cash flows, or results of operations of the Company; however, the Company cannot predict the ultimate disposition of the above noted claims, potential claims, and proceedings, and therefore, the Company cannot be certain that the above noted legal proceedings and claims or potential claims will not have a material adverse affect on the financial condition, cash flows, or results of operations of the Company.

The Company is subject to other various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. While the resolution of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company believes that the final outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

n ABRAMS 2003 34

 


Table of Contents

18 QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

Quarterly financial information for the fiscal years ended April 30, 2003, and 2002 (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):

                                 
    Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2003
   
    First Quarter   Second Quarter   Third Quarter   Fourth Quarter
   
 
 
 
Total revenues
  $ 17,722     $ 23,470     $ 15,825     $ 17,118  
Gross profit
    1,404       1,808       1,912       3,130  
Net earnings (loss)
    164       (543 )     (603 )     (92 )
Net earnings (loss) per share - basic and diluted
    .06       (.18 )     (.21 )     (.04 )
                                 
    Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2002
   
    First Quarter   Second Quarter   Third Quarter   Fourth Quarter
   
 
 
 
Total revenues
  $ 39,613     $ 32,568     $ 24,627     $ 18,820  
Gross profit
    2,778       2,420       1,989       1,821  
Net earnings (loss)
    52       1,575       (220 )     (595 )
Net earnings (loss) per share - basic and diluted
    .02       .54       (.08 )     (.20 )

     SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

                                         
            Additions                
           
               
    Balance at   Charged to   Charged to                
    Beginning   Costs and   Other           Balance at
    of Year   Expenses   Accounts   Deductions*   End of Year
   
 
 
 
 
Description
                                       
Allowance for doubtful accounts
                                       
Year ended April 30, 2003
  $ 1,031,460     $ 84,727     $     $ 624,142     $ 492,045  
Year ended April 30, 2002
    961,461       203,687             133,688       1,031,460  
Year ended April 30, 2001
    210,777       983,146             232,462       961,461  

*   Allowance for doubtful accounts deductions resulted from the subsequent write-off and/or recovery of the related receivable.

n ABRAMS 2003 35

 


Table of Contents

SCHEDULE III REAL ESTATE AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION, APRIL 30, 2003

                                 
                            Costs
                            Capitalized
                            Subsequent
            Initial Cost to Company   to Acquisition
           
 
                    Building and        
Description   Encumbrances   Land   Improvements   Improvements

 
 
 
 
INCOME-PRODUCING PROPERTIES:
                               
Shopping Center - Jackson, MI
  $ 2,751,537     $ 401,195     $ 1,788,183     $ 1,206,803  
Kmart - Morton, IL
    2,521,592       18,005       2,767,764        
Kmart - Columbus, GA
    1,667,048       11,710       2,356,920       10,078  
Leaseback Shopping Center - Davenport, IA
                2,150       193,261  
Leaseback Shopping Center - Jacksonville, FL
                42,151        
Leaseback Shopping Center - Orange Park, FL
                127,487       35,731  
Leaseback Shopping Center - Minneapolis, MN
                      40,778  
Office Building - Atlanta, GA
    4,856,088       660,000       4,338,102       770,063  
Office Park - Marietta, GA
    6,138,567       1,750,000       6,417,275       981,902  
Shopping Center - Cincinnati, OH
          1,699,410       617,102       395,469  
Shopping Center - North Ft. Myers, FL
    11,351,353       5,940,143       11,290,778       2,245,308  
Shopping Center - Jacksonville, FL
    8,600,058       3,908,004       5,170,420       85,332  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 
    37,886,243       14,388,467       34,918,332       5,964,725  
 
   
     
     
     
 
REAL ESTATE HELD FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OR SALE:
                               
Land - Louisville, KY
          80,011              
Land - Oakwood, GA
          234,089             543,330  
Land - - North Ft. Myers, FL
          2,411,703             345,326  
Land and Building - Atlanta, GA (2)
          92,226       722,033        
 
   
     
     
     
 
 
          2,818,029       722,033       888,656  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 
  $ 37,886,243     $ 17,206,496     $ 35,640,365     $ 6,853,381  
 
   
     
     
     
 

Reconciliations of total real estate carrying value and accumulated depreciation for the three years ended April 30, are as follows:

                                                   
      Real Estate   Accumulated Depreciation
     
 
      2003   2002   2001   2003   2002   2001
     
 
 
 
 
 
BALANCE AT BEGINNING OF YEAR
  $ 64,541,303     $ 63,894,081     $ 63,455,753     $ 15,784,645     $ 13,570,955     $ 12,125,222  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
ADDITIONS DURING YEAR
                                               
 
Real Estate
    260,929       602,062       438,328                    
 
Depreciation
                        1,619,116       1,808,125       1,445,733  
 
Transfers
          814,259 (2)                 492,548 (2)      
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 
    260,929       1,416,321       438,328       1,619,116       2,300,673       1,445,733  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
DEDUCTIONS DURING YEAR
                                               
 
Accumulated depreciation on properties sold or transferred
                      19,099       86,983        
 
Carrying value of real estate sold, transferred, or retired
    285,721       769,099                          
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 
    285,721       769,099             19,099       86,983        
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
BALANCE AT CLOSE OF YEAR
  $ 64,516,511     $ 64,541,303     $ 63,894,081     $ 17,384,662     $ 15,784,645     $ 13,570,955  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 

n ABRAMS 2003 36

 


Table of Contents

 

                                                           
                                                      Life on Which
Gross Amounts at Which                           Depreciation
Carried at Close of Year                           in Latest

                          Earnings
      Building and   Capitalized           Net Accumulated   Date(s) of   Date   Statement
Land   Improvements   Interest   Total (1)   Depreciation   Construction   Acquired   is Computed

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                       
$
453,293
  $ 2,942,888     $ 89,866     $ 3,486,047     $ 2,146,831       1972, 1996             39 years  
18,005
    2,767,764             2,785,769       2,546,411       1980, 1992             25 years  
11,710
    2,366,998       238,970       2,617,678       2,350,061       1980, 1988             25 years  
    195,411             195,411       184,738       1995             7 years  
    42,151             42,151       17,703       1994             25 years  
    163,218             163,218       163,218       1995             7 years  
    40,778             40,778       11,973       1997             15 years  
660,000
    5,108,165             5,768,165       1,088,953       1974, 1997 (3)     1997       39 years  
1,750,000
    7,399,177             9,149,177       1,294,864       1980, 1985 (4)     1997       39 years  
1,699,410
    1,012,571             2,711,981       151,485       1982 (4)     1998       39 years  
5,276,631
    14,199,598       4,470,789       23,947,018       6,409,692       1993, 1996             31.5 years  
3,908,004
    5,255,752             9,163,756       526,183       1985 (4)     1999       39 years  

   
     
     
     
                         
13,777,053
    41,494,471       4,799,625       60,071,149       16,892,112                          

   
     
     
     
                         
 
                                                       
 
                                                       
80,011
                80,011                   1979        
777,419
          16,644       794,063                   1987        
2,757,029
                2,757,029                   1993        
92,226
    722,033             814,259       492,550       1970-1980       1960, 1968        

   
     
     
     
                         
3,706,685
    722,033       16,644       4,445,362       492,550                          

   
     
     
     
                         
$
17,483,738
  $ 42,216,504     $ 4,816,269     $ 64,516,511     $ 17,384,662                          

   
     
     
     
                         

NOTES:

(1)   The aggregated cost for land and building and improvements for federal income tax purposes at April 30, 2003, is $51,681,138.
 
(2)   Vacant; former manufacturing facility.
 
(3)   Developed by others in 1974; redeveloped by the Company in 1997.
 
(4)   Developed by others.

ITEM 9 CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH INDEPENDENT AUDITORS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

The information required by this Item has been previously reported on Current Reports on Form 8-K filed October 30, 2001, and May 28, 2002.

n ABRAMS 2003 37

 


Table of Contents

PART III

ITEMS 10-13

The information contained under the headings “Nomination and Election of Directors,” “Related Party Transactions,” “Principal Holders of the Company’s Securities,” “Compensation of Executive Officers and Directors,” and “Equity Compensation Plan” in the Company’s definitive proxy materials for its 2003 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under a separate filing, and are hereby incorporated by reference. Information related to Executive Officers of the Company is included in Item 1 of this report.

     For purposes of determining the aggregate market value of the Company’s voting stock held by nonaffiliates, shares held directly or indirectly by all Directors and Executive Officers of the Company have been excluded. The exclusion of such shares is not intended to, and shall not, constitute a determination as to which persons or entities may be “affiliates” of the Company, as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

ITEM 14 CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

     The Company has evaluated its disclosure controls and procedures as defined by Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, within 90 days of the filing date of this Annual Report. This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on this evaluation, these officers have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the date of the evaluation. There were no significant changes to the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of the last evaluation of internal controls.

PART IV

ITEM 16 EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(A)   The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
    1. Financial Statements:
Independent Auditors’ Report and Report of Independent Accountants
Consolidated Balance Sheets at April 30, 2003, and 2002
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the Years Ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended April 30, 2003, 2002, and 2001
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
    2. Financial Statement Schedules:
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation
 
    3. Exhibits:
Exhibit No.
    3a. Articles of Incorporation (1)
    3b. Restated Bylaws (2), Amendment to Bylaws (5)
    10a. Directors Deferred Compensation Plan (3)#
    10b. Edward M. Abrams Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreements dated July 29, 1991 (4)#
    10c. Edward M. Abrams Employment Agreement dated November 18, 1998 (6)#
    10d. 2000 Stock Award Plan (7)#
    10e. E. Milton Bevington Employment Agreement dated May 9, 2001 (8)#
    10f. Alan R. Abrams Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreement dated May 31, 2001 (8)#
    10g. J. Andrew Abrams Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreement dated May 31, 2001 (8)#
    10h. Edward M. Abrams Retirement Agreement dated July 22, 2003#
    21. List of the Company’s Subsidiaries
    23a. Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP
    23b. Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
    99.1 Section 906 Certification of the CEO
    99.2 Section 906 Certification of the CFO

    Explanation of Exhibits
  (1)   This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1985.
  (2)   This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1997.
  (3)   This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1991.
  (4)   This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1993.

n ABRAMS 2003 38


Table of Contents

  (5)   This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1998.
  (6)   This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1999.
  (7)   This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form S-8 filed September 29, 2000.
  (8)   These exhibits are incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2001.
  #   Management compensatory plans or arrangement.

(B)   Reports on Form 8-K: None filed during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2003.
 
(C)   The Company hereby files as exhibits to this Annual Report on Form 10-K the exhibits set forth in Item 16(A)3 hereof.
 
(D)   The Company hereby files as financial statement schedules to this Annual Report on Form 10-K the financial statement schedules set forth in Item 16(A)2 hereof.

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.

         
        ABRAMS INDUSTRIES, INC.
         
Dated: July 25, 2003   By:   /s/ Alan R. Abrams
       
        Alan R. Abrams
        Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Alan R. Abrams
   
    Alan R. Abrams
    Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors,
    Chief Executive Officer
     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ J. Andrew Abrams
   
    J. Andrew Abrams
    Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors
     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ David L. Abrams
   
    David L. Abrams
    Director
     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Paula Lawton Bevington
   
    Paula Lawton Bevington
    Director
     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Gilbert L. Danielson
   
    Gilbert L. Danielson
    Director
     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Melinda S. Garrett
   
    Melinda S. Garrett
    Director, Chief Financial Officer, and
    Chief Accounting Officer
     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Robert T. McWhinney, Jr.
   
    Robert T. McWhinney, Jr.
    Director
     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Felker W. Ward, Jr.
   
    Felker W. Ward, Jr.
    Director

n ABRAMS 2003 39


Table of Contents

CERTIFICATION BY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

I, Alan R. Abrams, certify that:

  1.   I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Abrams Industries, Inc.;
 
  2.   Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report;
 
  3.   Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report;
 
  4.   The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

  a.   Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual report is being prepared;
 
  b.   Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this annual report (the “Evaluation Date”); and
 
  c.   Presented in this annual report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

  5.   The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

  a.   All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and
 
  b.   Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

  6.   The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have indicated in this annual report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Alan R. Abrams
   
    Alan R. Abrams
    Chief Executive Officer

CERTIFICATION BY CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

I, Melinda S. Garrett, certify that:

  1.   I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Abrams Industries, Inc.;
 
  2.   Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report;
 
  3.   Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report;
 
  4.   The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

  a.   Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual report is being prepared;
 
  b.   Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this annual report (the “Evaluation Date”); and
 
  c.   Presented in this annual report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

  5.   The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

  a.   All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and
 
  b.   Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

6.   The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have indicated in this annual report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

     
Dated: July 25, 2003   /s/ Melinda S. Garrett
   
    Melinda S. Garrett
    Chief Financial Officer

n ABRAMS 2003 40