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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549


Form 10-K

      þ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the year ended December 31, 2003

Commission file number 1-11471

(BELL INDUSTRIES LOGO)

     
California
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization)

1960 E. Grand Ave
Suite 560
El Segundo, California
(Address of principal executive offices)
  95-2039211
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

90245
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

(310) 563-2355


Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

     
Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered


Common stock
  American Stock Exchange
Pacific Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None.

      Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months, 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.

Not Applicable þ

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

Yes o          No þ

      As of June 30, 2003 the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was: $17,092,840.

      As of March 15, 2004 the number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s class of common stock was: 8,373,224.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

      Part III of this Form 10-K incorporates by reference information from the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 26, 2004.




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 the Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant
Item 11. Executive Compensation
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule, and Reports on Form 8-K
SIGNATURES
EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT 10.X
EXHIBIT 10.Y
EXHIBIT 21
EXHIBIT 23
EXHIBIT 31.1
EXHIBIT 31.2
EXHIBIT 32


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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

      This Annual Report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, regarding, among other things, our plans, strategies and prospects, both business and financial. Although we believe that our plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “planned,” “will,” “may,” and “estimated,” among others. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this Annual Report are set forth in this Annual Report, including the section under the title Trends and Uncertainties, and in other reports or documents that we file from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and include, but are not limited to:

  •  reduced technology product sales as major suppliers increasingly sell directly to end-users;
 
  •  decreased margins due to price competition;
 
  •  increase in outsourced services to foreign countries;
 
  •  ineffectiveness of our business development efforts and inability to obtain new client engagements;
 
  •  delays and costs associated with new client engagements;
 
  •  non renewal or termination of existing client engagements;
 
  •  continued transition of electronics manufacturing to Asia;
 
  •  the impact of adverse weather conditions on our Recreational Products business unit; and
 
  •  general business conditions and economic uncertainty

      All forward looking statements attributable to us or a person acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. We are under no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this Annual Report to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

      As used herein, “we,” “us,” “our,” “Bell,” and the “Company” refer to Bell Industries, Inc.


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PART I

 
Item 1. Business

      Bell Industries, Inc.’s operations include technology lifecycle and outsourced services; distribution of aftermarket products for recreational vehicles, motorcycles, snowmobiles and powerboats; and manufacturing of specialty electronic components. Bell employed approximately 775 people at December 31, 2003.

Technology Solutions

      The technology lifecycle services business, the Tech.logix Group (“BTL” or “Technology Solutions”), (2003 sales of $90.8 million) is a provider of integrated technology solutions for organizations in the Midwestern and Eastern United States. BTL is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and has offices and service facilities in the Midwest and Atlantic regions.

      BTL provides information technology lifecycle services including planning, product sourcing, migration, support, and disposal services. Recurring support services, include help desk, depot, and on-site expertise for desktop and mobile devices, business software applications, and network infrastructures. BTL meets clients’ needs by combining a comprehensive offering of technology outsourcing services with its expertise in sourcing and deploying technology access devices, servers, storage equipment, printers, network products, and software.

      BTL’s suppliers include Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Panasonic, Sun Microsystems, Cisco, Citrix, 3Com, Nortel Networks, and Veritas for technology hardware products; and Microsoft, Symantec, Lotus, Adobe Systems, and Novell for software. Three clients (two Fortune 500 companies and a Midwest healthcare provider) account for approximately 30% of BTL revenues for fiscal 2003.

      There are a number of competitors in BTL’s market. BTL competes with national and multi-regional companies such as CompuCom Systems, Pomeroy Computer Resources, and Sarcom, as well as a number of local and regional firms providing technology products and deployment services. In technology outsourcing services, BTL may compete with large multi-national organizations such as IBM Global Services and Electronic Data Systems, as well as a number of small to mid-sized firms providing specialized services for certain market sectors. Many of BTL’s competitors have greater financial and marketing resources.

Recreational Products

      The Recreational Products Group (“RPG”) (2003 sales of $44.8 million) is a distributor of replacement parts and accessories for recreational and other leisure-time vehicles. RPG supplies these products in the upper Midwestern United States to dealerships and retail stores selling recreational vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles, ATV’s, and marine products. RPG also supplies these products to independent repair facilities. For all product groups, RPG operates distribution, sales and administration facilities in Eagan, Minnesota; Germantown, Wisconsin; and Grand Rapids, Michigan.

      RPG has significant market share in the distribution of recreational vehicle replacement parts and accessories in the upper Midwestern United States. RPG supplies over 8,000 recreational vehicle-related products, 11,000 marine items, 9,000 motorcycle and ATV items, and 5,000 snowmobile items. Major product lines distributed by RPG include Dunlop tires (motorcycle tires), Carefree of Colorado (awnings for RV’s and campers), Reese Products (trailer hitches for all types of vehicles), and Johnson Fishing, Inc. (marine motors). RPG has over 4,500 customers, with no single customer accounting for over 5% of its annual sales.

      RPG faces significant competition from national and regional distributors of after-market products for recreational vehicles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and marine products. Significant competitors include Coast Distribution System and Stag-Parkway (recreational vehicles), Parts Unlimited and Tucker Rocky Distributing (motorcycles and snowmobiles), and Coast Distribution System and Land N’ Sea Distribution (marine).

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Electronic Components

      The J. W. Miller Division (“JWM” or “Electronic Components”) of Bell, located in Gardena, California (2003 sales of $6.3 million), manufactures and distributes over 6,000 standard and custom magnetic products. JWM’s magnetic products include inductors, coils, chokes, and transformers, among others. These products are used extensively in all types of circuitry found in electronic applications including computer, medical and telecommunications equipment.

      JWM’s products are sold through national, regional and international distributors directly and through manufacturer’s representatives located in North America, Europe and Asia. JWM’s customers include electronic distributors and manufacturers with its four largest customers representing 53% of its total 2003 sales. The majority of JWM’s sales are derived from customers located in North America.

      JWM faces significant competition from national and international manufacturers including Vishay, Sumida, Coilcraft, and Delevan.

 
Item 2. Properties

      At December 31, 2003, the Company leased 15 facilities, containing approximately 295,000 square feet and owned one facility, containing approximately 20,000 square feet. The following table sets forth the facilities utilized by each of the Company’s business segments:

                                 
Area in square feet
(number of locations)

Owned Leased


Technology Solutions
                    108,000       (11)  
Recreational Products
                    184,000       (3)  
Electronic Components
    20,000       (1)                  
Corporate
                    3,000       (1)  
     
     
     
     
 
      20,000       (1)       295,000       (15)  
     
     
     
     
 

      These properties are considered in good condition and suitable for their present use. Generally, the Company’s facilities are fully utilized although excess capacity exists from time to time.

 
Item 3. Legal Proceedings

      The Company is involved in litigation which is incidental to its current and discontinued businesses. The resolution of this litigation is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

      No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2003.

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Executive Officers of the Registrant

      The Executive Officers of the Registrant are as follows:

                     
Year First
Name Age Position Named Officer




Tracy A. Edwards
    47     President and Chief Executive Officer (1)     1991  
Russell A. Doll
    42     Senior Vice President (2)     1998  
Charles S. Troy
    60     Vice President (3)     1997  
Mitchell I. Rosen
    39     Vice President and Corporate Controller (4)     2001  


(1)  Mr. Edwards was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer in February 1999. From January 1998 to February 1999, he served as Executive Vice President — Finance and Operations, and Chief Financial Officer. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors.
 
(2)  Mr. Doll was appointed President of the BTL business unit in November 2003 and continues to serve as a Senior Vice President. Concurrent with this appointment, Mr. Doll’s Chief Financial Officer responsibilities were assumed by Mr. Edwards. From February 1999 to November 2003, Mr. Doll served as Chief Financial Officer. From April 1998 to February 1999, he served as Vice President, Finance.
 
(3)  Mr. Troy has served as Vice President since September 1997.
 
(4)  Mr. Rosen has served as Vice President and Corporate Controller since December 2000. Prior to December 2000, he was a senior manager with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

PART II

 
Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

      Bell’s common stock is listed on the American Stock Exchange and the Pacific Stock Exchange under the symbol “BI”. The following table shows the high, low and closing market prices for the Company’s common stock during the eight most recent quarters.

                                   
Quarter ended

Mar. 31 Jun. 30 Sep. 30 Dec. 31




Year ended December 31, 2003
                               
 
High
  $ 1.69     $ 2.24     $ 2.36     $ 2.94  
 
Low
    1.47       1.56       1.79       2.06  
 
Close
    1.68       2.17       2.12       2.57  
Year ended December 31, 2002
                               
 
High
  $ 2.59     $ 2.30     $ 1.97     $ 1.95  
 
Low
    2.06       1.81       1.33       1.35  
 
Close
    2.21       1.91       1.65       1.60  

      As of March 15, 2004 there were approximately 1,000 record holders of common stock.

      A summary of shareholder approved and non-shareholder approved stock plan information as of December 31, 2003 is included at the “Stock Plans” footnote within the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data
                                         
Year ended December 31,

2003 2002 2001 2000 1999





(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Operating Results
                                       
Net revenues
  $ 141,905     $ 140,797     $ 183,621     $ 251,887     $ 240,420  
Operating income (loss) (1)
  $ (2,744 )   $ (3,560 )   $ (2,181 )   $ 3,583     $ 8,936  
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before cumulative effect of accounting change (1)
  $ (3,787 )   $ (2,033 )   $ (1,041 )   $ 2,319     $ 5,488  
Reserve recovery on sale of discontinued operations
                                  $ 1,379  
Cumulative effect of accounting change
          $ (1,280 )                        
Net income (loss)
  $ (3,787 )   $ (3,313 )   $ (1,041 )   $ 2,319     $ 6,867  
Financial Position
                                       
Working capital
  $ 17,826     $ 19,609     $ 21,314     $ 24,678     $ 25,486  
Total assets
  $ 46,633     $ 49,390     $ 57,652     $ 74,426     $ 75,951  
Long-term liabilities
  $ 2,520     $ 2,496     $ 2,810     $ 3,411     $ 4,051  
Shareholders’ equity
  $ 21,597     $ 25,546     $ 29,678     $ 30,482     $ 30,796  
Share and Per Share Data
                                       
BASIC
                                       
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before cumulative effect of accounting change (1)
  $ (.45 )   $ (.24 )   $ (.12 )   $ .26     $ .57  
Reserve recovery on sale of discontinued operations
                                  $ .15  
Cumulative effect of accounting change
          $ (.14 )                        
Net income (loss)
  $ (.45 )   $ (.38 )   $ (.12 )   $ .26     $ .72  
Weighted average common shares (000’s)
    8,367       8,743       8,854       8,999       9,595  
DILUTED
                                       
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before cumulative effect of accounting change (1)
  $ (.45 )   $ (.24 )   $ (.12 )   $ .26     $ .57  
Reserve recovery on sale of discontinued operations
                                  $ .14  
Cumulative effect of accounting change
          $ (.14 )                        
Net income (loss)
  $ (.45 )   $ (.38 )   $ (.12 )   $ .26     $ .71  
Weighted average common shares (000’s)
    8,367       8,743       8,854       9,025       9,646  
OTHER PER SHARE DATA (2)
                                       
Shareholders’ equity
  $ 2.58     $ 3.05     $ 3.34     $ 3.47     $ 3.20  
Market price — high
  $ 2.94     $ 2.59     $ 3.40     $ 7.75     $ 11.69  
Market price — low
  $ 1.47     $ 1.33     $ 1.65     $ 1.50     $ 4.38  
Financial Ratios
                                       
Current ratio
    1.8       1.9       1.8       1.6       1.6  
Long-term liabilities to total capitalization
    10.4 %     8.9 %     8.6 %     10.1 %     11.6 %


(1)  Includes before-tax charge for staff separation and facilities consolidation ($845) and a before-tax charge for settlement costs associated with an executive change-in-control contract ($650) in 2001, before-tax gain on the disposition of a real estate asset ($2,842) and before-tax charge for facilities consolidation and staff relocation costs, asset write-downs and a corporate identity program ($2,405) in 2000, before-tax gain on the disposition of certain real estate assets ($1,497) and a before-tax loss on the disposition of an electronics manufacturing business ($455) in 1999.
 
(2)  Certain other per share data presented for 1999 has not been adjusted to reflect cash distributions totaling $7.00 per share made in June 1999 ($5.70 per share) and December 1999 ($1.30 per share).

 
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

      In addition to historical information, the following discussion and analysis of management contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements.

      The Company’s discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations are based upon its consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles

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generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, including the recoverability of assets, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on other relevant assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Company’s actual results may differ materially from these estimates.

Critical Accounting Policies

      The Summary of Accounting Policies within the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements includes the significant accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The following is a discussion of each of the Company’s critical accounting policies:

Revenue Recognition

      Sales are recognized when products are shipped or when services are provided assuming no significant Company obligations remain and the collection of related receivables is probable. Revenue recognition on product sales is not subject to significant estimates as the Company has not experienced significant product returns.

Valuation of Receivables

      The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers. If the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. Changes in the credit worthiness of customers, general economic conditions and other factors may impact the level of future write-offs.

Valuation of Inventory

      The Company periodically reviews inventory items and overall stocking levels to ensure that adequate reserves exist for inventory deemed obsolete or excessive. In making this determination, the Company considers historical stocking levels, recent sales of similar items and forecasted demand for these items. Changes in factors such as customer demand, technology and other matters could affect the level of inventory obsolescence in the future.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

      In November 2002, the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) reached a consensus on EITF No. 00-21, “Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables.” EITF No. 00-21 provides guidance as to when deliverables must be divided into separate units of accounting. This guidance was effective for revenue arrangements entered into after June 30, 2003. The adoption of EITF No. 00-21 did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

      In May 2003, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity” (“SFAS 150”) that establishes standards for how an issuer classifies and measures certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. SFAS 150 was effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003, and otherwise was effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003. On November 7, 2003, Financial Accounting Standards Board Staff Position 150-3 was issued, which indefinitely deferred the effective date of SFAS 150 for certain mandatory redeemable noncontrolling interests. The adoption of SFAS 150 had no effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

      The following summarizes contractual obligations and commercial commitments as of December 31, 2003 (in thousands):

                                                   
Total 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008






Contractual obligations
                                               
 
Operating leases
  $ 4,358     $ 2,168     $ 1,249     $ 626     $ 304     $ 11  
Other commercial commitments
                                               
 
Standby letter of credit
  $ 20     $ 20                                  

Results of Operations

      Results of operations by business segment were as follows (in thousands):

                             
2003 2002 2001



Net revenues
                       
 
Technology Solutions
                       
   
Products
  $ 55,826     $ 68,219     $ 105,009  
   
Services
    34,949       22,349       25,386  
     
     
     
 
      90,775       90,568       130,395  
 
Recreational Products
    44,804       44,639       46,044  
 
Electronic Components
    6,326       5,590       7,182  
     
     
     
 
    $ 141,905     $ 140,797     $ 183,621  
     
     
     
 
Operating income (loss)
                       
 
Technology Solutions
  $ (2,135 )   $ (2,204 )   $ (938 )
 
Recreational Products
    1,321       819       954  
 
Electronic Components
    939       489       1,590  
 
Special items
                    (650 )
 
Corporate costs
    (2,869 )     (2,664 )     (3,137 )
     
     
     
 
      (2,744 )     (3,560 )     (2,181 )
Interest, net
    166       200       460  
Income tax benefit (provision)
    (1,209 )     1,327       680  
Cumulative effect of accounting change
            (1,280 )        
     
     
     
 
Net loss
  $ (3,787 )   $ (3,313 )   $ (1,041 )
     
     
     
 

      The following summarizes comparative operating results data as a percentage of net revenues:

                           
Net revenues
                       
 
Products
    75.4 %     84.1 %     86.2 %
 
Services
    24.6       15.9       13.8  
     
     
     
 
      100.0       100.0       100.0  
Cost of products sold
    (61.4 )     (69.7 )     (72.5 )
Cost of services provided
    (20.0 )     (12.1 )     (10.4 )
Selling and administrative
    (19.0 )     (19.1 )     (16.3 )
Depreciation and amortization
    (1.5 )     (1.6 )     (1.2 )
Special items
                    (.8 )
Interest, net
    .1       .1       .3  
     
     
     
 
Loss before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change
    (1.8 )     (2.4 )     (.9 )
Income tax benefit (provision)
    (.9 )     .9       .4  
Cumulative effect of accounting change
            (.9 )        
     
     
     
 
Net loss
    (2.7 )%     (2.4 )%     (.5 )%
     
     
     
 

      The following summarizes other comparative operating results data:

                         
Cost of products sold as a percentage of products revenues
    81.5 %     82.8 %     84.1 %
Cost of services provided as a percentage of services revenues
    81.4 %     76.4 %     75.3 %

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Year Ended December 31, 2003 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2002

Net revenues

      Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased 0.8% to $141.9 million from $140.8 million in 2002. Net revenues are further discussed in “Technology Solutions,” “Recreational Products,” and “Electronic Components,” below.

Operating income (loss)

      Operating loss for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased 22.9% to $2.7 million from $3.6 million in 2002. Operating results are further discussed in “Technology Solutions,” “Recreational Products,” and “Electronic Components,” below.

Corporate costs

      Corporate costs for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased 7.7% to $2.9 million from $2.7 million in 2002. During 2002, corporate costs were reduced by miscellaneous income arising from insurance proceeds. Excluding such miscellaneous income, corporate costs were relatively consistent between the two years.

Interest, net

      Net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased 17.0% to $166,000 from $200,000 in 2002. The decrease in net interest income is primarily attributable to lower interest rates that were partially offset by higher average cash balances during 2003.

Cumulative effect of accounting change

      During 2002, the Company recorded a pre-tax goodwill impairment loss of $2.1 million, $1.3 million after tax, following the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 on January 1, 2002.

Technology Solutions

      Technology Solutions revenues for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased slightly to $90.8 million from $90.6 million in 2002. Services revenues for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased 56.4% to $34.9 million from $22.3 million in 2002 and rose to 38.5% of total Technology Solutions revenues during 2003 from 24.7% in 2002. Several new outsourcing engagements have contributed to the increase in services revenues during 2003. Services revenues for 2004 will be impacted due to the ending of an outsourcing engagement in March 2004 that generated approximately $6 million in revenues during 2003. Product revenues for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased 18.2% to $55.8 million from $68.2 million. The decrease in product revenues is primarily attributable to decreased technology product deliveries, as business enterprises continued to defer information technology expenditures. Product revenues have also continued to be negatively impacted as major suppliers continued to market their products directly to end-user customers, rather than utilizing traditional distribution channels. The operating loss for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased 3.1% to $2.1 million from $2.2 million in 2002. Operating results continue to be challenged due to the start-up and implementation costs of new engagements and a continued investment in expanded business development efforts. The costs associated with these efforts will continue to impact near term results, but are considered essential to the Company’s efforts in generating new business opportunities and expanding its market penetration.

Recreational Products

      Recreational Products revenues for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased slightly to $44.8 million from $44.6 million in 2002, and operating income increased 61.3% to $1.3 million from $819,000. Strong marine product sales have been partially offset by generally weak sales in snow related products as a result of mild winter conditions in the Northern Midwest in early 2003. Reduced operating expenses, including lower

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payroll costs, advertising expenses and catalog expenses, have contributed to the overall increase in operating income. Results for 2002 also included distribution center relocation costs.

Electronic Components

      Electronic Components revenues for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased 13.2% to $6.3 million from $5.6 million in 2002, and operating income increased 92.0% to $939,000 from $489,000. Increased product demand contributed to the higher revenues in 2003. Increased revenues and shifts in product mix contributed to the improvement in operating income. In addition, in the prior year certain inventory reserves were increased in light of difficult market conditions at the time.

Cost of products sold

      As a percentage of product revenues, cost of products sold for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased to 81.5% from 82.8% in 2002. This decrease is primarily due to reductions in lower margin product sales at the Technology Solutions business unit.

Cost of services provided

      As a percentage of services revenues, cost of services provided for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased to 81.4% from 76.4%. This increase is primarily due to higher payroll related costs incurred to integrate new clients and deliver services within the Technology Solutions business unit.

Selling and administrative expenses

      As a percentage of sales, selling and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased slightly to 19.0% from 19.1% in 2002. This decrease is primarily attributable to reduced operating expenses at the Recreational Products business unit offset by higher travel, telecommunications and other related costs incurred to integrate new clients at the Technology Solutions business unit.

Income tax

      For the year ended December 31, 2003, the Company’s effective income tax rate was a provision of approximately 46.9% compared to a benefit of approximately 39.5% in 2002. After consideration of relevant factors, including recent operating results and the prior utilization of all previously available tax benefit carry-back opportunities, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance against net deferred tax asset balances. The establishment of the valuation allowance, net of reversals of tax accruals no longer required, resulted in an income tax provision of $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2003. Before accounting changes, during the year ended December 31, 2002, the Company recognized income tax benefits of $1.3 million all of which were realized through carry-back opportunities.

Net loss

      Net loss totaled $3.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2003, an increase of $0.5 million from the net loss in the prior year. The change in net loss resulted from improvements in operating results offset by the income tax effects described above.

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Year Ended December 31, 2002 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2001

Net revenues

      Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 23.3% to $140.8 million from $183.6 million in 2001. Net revenues are further discussed in “Technology Solutions,” “Recreational Products,” and “Electronic Components” below.

Operating income (loss)

      Operating loss for the year ended December 31, 2002 increased 63.2% to $3.6 million from $2.2 million in 2001. Operating results are further discussed in “Technology Solutions,” “Recreational Products,” and “Electronic Components” below.

Special items

      Operating results for 2001 include pre-tax charges totaling $1.5 million composed of $845,000 of costs related to the strategic repositioning of BTL’s Midwest operations and $650,000 in settlement costs associated with a change-in-control contract. The $845,000 repositioning charge has been included in the operating results of Technology Solutions and is further discussed in “Technology Solutions” below.

Corporate costs

      Corporate costs for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 15.1% to $2.7 million from $3.1 million in 2001. The decrease is primarily attributable to reduced costs associated with the Company’s strategic change initiatives, miscellaneous income arising from insurance proceeds and reduced bonus awards during 2002 as compared to 2001.

Interest, net

      Net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 56.5% to $200,000 from $460,000 in 2001. The decrease in net interest income is primarily attributable to lower interest rates and lower average cash balances during 2002.

Cumulative effect of accounting change

      The Company recorded a pre-tax goodwill impairment loss of $2.1 million, $1.3 million after tax, following the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 effective January 1, 2002.

Technology Solutions

      Technology Solutions revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 30.5% to $90.6 million from $130.4 million in 2001. Approximately half of the decrease in revenues is attributable to decreased technology product deliveries, as business enterprises have continued to defer information technology expenditures. Revenues have also been negatively impacted as major suppliers increasingly market their products directly to end-user customers, rather than utilizing traditional distribution channels. Product revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 35.0% to $68.2 million from $105.0 million in 2001. Services revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 12.0% to $22.3 million from $25.4 million in 2001. The decrease in services revenues is primarily attributable to a significant technology project in 2001 and no such similar project in 2002. The operating loss totaled $2.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2002 compared to a $938,000 loss in 2001, which includes the $845,000 special charge associated with this business unit in 2001. Components of the 2001 special charge included facilities consolidation costs and asset write-downs in connection with the opening of a technology center and separation costs. The results for 2002 have been adversely impacted by continued costs associated with building BTL’s technology outsourcing practices. This business unit also discontinued its application development service line, in response to weak market demand, that further contributed to the operating loss during 2002.

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Recreational Products

      Recreational Products revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 3.1% to $44.6 million from $46.0 million in 2001, and operating income decreased 14.2% to $819,000 from $954,000. The decrease in revenues for 2002 is attributable to lower snow product sales during the first quarter as compared to the comparable period in 2001. Operating results were also impacted by the relocation of this business unit’s Minnesota distribution center to a new facility during the second half of 2002.

Electronic Components

      Electronic Components revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased 22.2% to $5.6 million from $7.2 million in 2001, and operating income decreased 69.2% to $489,000 from $1.6 million. The decrease in revenues and operating income is attributable to weak demand for electronics components in the computer and telecommunications sectors, shifts in product mix, pricing pressures, and additions to inventory reserves arising from difficult market conditions.

Cost of products sold

      As a percentage of product revenues, cost of products sold for the year ended December 31, 2002 decreased to 82.8% from 84.1% in 2001. The decrease is primarily due to reductions in lower margin product sales at the Technology Solutions business unit.

Cost of services provided

      As a percentage of services revenues, cost of services provided for the year ended December 31, 2002 increased to 76.4% from 75.3% in 2001. This increase is primarily due to higher margins associated with a technology project in 2001.

Selling and administrative expenses

      As a percentage of sales, selling and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2002 increased to 19.1% from 16.3% in 2001. This increase is primarily due to the overall reduction in sales in 2002 and the existence of certain fixed costs.

Income tax

      The Company’s effective income tax rate was a benefit of approximately 39.5% in both 2002 and 2001. Taxable losses during the year ended December 31, 2002 resulted in a federal tax refund of approximately $2.4 million as losses in this year have been carried back to previously profitable years.

Net loss

      Net loss totaled $3.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, an increase of $2.3 million from the net loss in the prior year. The increase in net loss resulted from the factors described above, including the goodwill impairment charge of $1.3 million.

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Changes in Financial Condition

Liquidity and Capital Resources

      Selected financial data is set forth in the following table (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):

                 
December 31,

2003 2002


Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 12,203     $ 10,079  
Working capital
  $ 17,826     $ 19,609  
Current ratio
    1.8:1       1.9:1  
Long-term liabilities to total capitalization
    10.4 %     8.9 %
Shareholders’ equity per share
  $ 2.58     $ 3.05  
Days’ sales in receivables
    46       51  
Days’ sales in inventories
    36       47  

      Net cash provided by operating activities was $2.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2003 compared with $1.9 million in 2002. The cash flow from operating activities in 2003 reflects an increase in accounts payable and accrued payroll and the collection of a $2.4 million federal tax refund, partially offset by an increase in accounts receivable. The increase in accounts payable was primarily due to a $1.5 million increase in December 2003 inventory purchases at the Technology Solutions business unit as compared to December 2002. This inventory was sold prior to December 31, 2003. The increases in accounts receivable and accrued payroll were primarily attributable to the increase in sales at the Technology Solutions business unit during the fourth quarter of 2003 as compared to the prior year and an increase in accrued payroll costs at year-end for employees hired on new services engagements. The cash flow from operating activities in 2002 reflects cash collected on accounts receivable partially offset by payment of accounts payable and accrued liabilities and an increase in income tax receivable. The decrease in accounts receivable was primarily due to the $5.1 million decline in revenues during the fourth quarter of 2002 as compared to 2001. Accounts payable was also lower at the end of 2002 as a result of reduced inventory purchases in light of the reduced sales levels. The increase in income tax receivable totaling $1.7 million represents the increase in 2002 federal tax refund over the refund received related to the 2001 tax year.

      Net cash used in investing activities totaled $789,000 for the year ended December 31, 2003 compared to $1.5 million in 2002. Investing activities included the addition of fixed assets as well as expenditures for a relocated distribution center in 2002.

      Net cash used in financing activities totaled $819,000 for the year ended December 31, 2002. This total included funds utilized to purchase shares of common stock under the Company’s 2001 Stock Repurchase Program, offset by proceeds from stock issued under the Company’s Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan.

      Despite recent operating losses, the Company believes that sufficient cash resources exist for 2004 to support requirements for its operations and commitments through available cash and cash generated by operations. The Company has a line of credit for general corporate purposes in the amount of $10.0 million, expiring in May 2004. No amounts were borrowed under the line during 2003 or 2002. The Company is currently able to borrow up to $2.5 million of the $10.0 million credit line, subject to certain requirements, including maintaining minimum cash and cash equivalents on deposit of at least $3.5 million. Management does not currently anticipate the need to borrow under the line of credit and is evaluating its options in regards to renewing or terminating the facility.

      The Company does not have any material off-balance sheet arrangements.

Trends and Uncertainties

      The challenging technology market conditions and costs associated with building our technology outsourcing practices have impacted results during 2003 and are expected to continue to impact near term financial performance. Operating results continue to be challenged due to the start-up and implementation

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costs of new engagements and a continued investment in expanded business development efforts. The success of BTL’s business is dependent to a significant extent on the ability to generate services business with new and existing clients. We believe that continued focus on developing new business opportunities and expanding market penetration are key steps towards long term growth. Because of the challenges in selling technology lifecycle and outsourced services to new clients in the current difficult technology environment, there can be no assurance that such efforts will be successful. The success of these efforts is critical in returning the Company to profitability.
 
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

      The Company has no investments in market risk-sensitive investments for either trading purposes or purposes other than trading purposes.

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

           
Page

Financial Statements:
       
 
Report of Independent Auditors
    14  
 
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the three years ended December 31, 2003
    15  
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2003 and 2002
    16  
 
Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity for the three years ended December 31, 2003
    17  
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the three years ended December 31, 2003
    18  
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    19  
Financial Statement Schedule:
       
 
Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
    28  

      The financial data included in the financial statement schedule should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements. All other schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

To the Board of Directors and

Shareholders of Bell Industries, Inc.

      In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Bell Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits 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 audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

      As discussed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, effective January 1, 2002, the Company changed its method of accounting for goodwill in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.”

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP

Los Angeles, California

February 17, 2004

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except per share data)
                           
Year ended December 31,

2003 2002 2001



Net revenues
                       
 
Products
  $ 106,956     $ 118,448     $ 158,235  
 
Services
    34,949       22,349       25,386  
     
     
     
 
      141,905       140,797       183,621  
     
     
     
 
Costs and expenses
                       
 
Cost of products sold
    87,181       98,076       133,039  
 
Cost of services provided
    28,449       17,065       19,124  
 
Selling and administrative
    26,914       26,883       29,870  
 
Depreciation and amortization
    2,105       2,333       2,274  
 
Interest, net
    (166 )     (200 )     (460 )
 
Special items, net
                    1,495  
     
     
     
 
      144,483       144,157       185,342  
     
     
     
 
Loss before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change
    (2,578 )     (3,360 )     (1,721 )
Income tax provision (benefit)
    1,209       (1,327 )     (680 )
     
     
     
 
Loss before cumulative effect of accounting change
    (3,787 )     (2,033 )     (1,041 )
Cumulative effect of accounting change, net of income tax benefit of $836
            (1,280 )        
     
     
     
 
Net loss
  $ (3,787 )   $ (3,313 )   $ (1,041 )
     
     
     
 
SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA
                       
BASIC AND DILUTED
                       
 
Loss before cumulative effect of accounting change
  $ (.45 )   $ (.24 )   $ (.12 )
 
Cumulative effect of accounting change
            (.14 )        
     
     
     
 
 
Net loss
  $ (.45 )   $ (.38 )   $ (.12 )
     
     
     
 
 
Weighted average common shares
    8,367       8,743       8,854  
     
     
     
 

See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

(Dollars in thousands)
                     
December 31,

2003 2002


ASSETS
Current assets
               
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 12,203     $ 10,079  
 
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $936 and $749
    16,164       13,078  
 
Income tax receivable
            2,400  
 
Inventories
    11,286       12,349  
 
Prepaid expenses and other
    689       3,051  
     
     
 
   
Total current assets
    40,342       40,957  
     
     
 
Fixed assets, at cost
Land, buildings and improvements
    554       554  
 
Leasehold improvements
    926       932  
 
Computer equipment and software
    8,754       7,798  
 
Furniture, fixtures and other
    4,547       5,362  
     
     
 
      14,781       14,646  
 
Less accumulated depreciation
    (10,575 )     (9,210 )
     
     
 
   
Total fixed assets
    4,206       5,436  
     
     
 
Other assets
    2,085       2,997  
     
     
 
    $ 46,633     $ 49,390  
     
     
 
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
               
 
Accounts payable
  $ 12,882     $ 10,687  
 
Accrued payroll
    2,414       1,871  
 
Accrued liabilities
    7,220       8,790  
     
     
 
   
Total current liabilities
    22,516       21,348  
     
     
 
Deferred compensation and other
    2,520       2,496  
     
     
 
Shareholders’ equity
               
Preferred stock
               
 
Authorized — 1,000,000 shares, outstanding — none
               
Common stock
               
 
Authorized — 35,000,000 shares, outstanding — 8,366,724 shares
    32,373       32,535  
 
Accumulated deficit
    (10,776 )     (6,989 )
     
     
 
   
Total shareholders’ equity
    21,597       25,546  
     
     
 
Commitments and contingencies
               
    $ 46,633     $ 49,390  
     
     
 

See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Dollars in thousands)
                           
Common stock

Accumulated
Shares Amount deficit



Balance at December 31, 2000
    8,790,936     $ 33,117     $ (2,635 )
 
Employee stock plans and other
    98,772       237          
 
Net loss
                    (1,041 )
     
     
     
 
Balance at December 31, 2001
    8,889,708       33,354       (3,676 )
 
Employee stock plans
    33,737       53          
 
Stock repurchase program
    (556,721 )     (872 )        
 
Net loss
                    (3,313 )
     
     
     
 
Balance at December 31, 2002
    8,366,724       32,535       (6,989 )
 
Other stock transactions
            (162 )        
 
Net loss
                    (3,787 )
     
     
     
 
Balance at December 31, 2003
    8,366,724     $ 32,373     $ (10,776 )
     
     
     
 

See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)
                             
Year ended December 31,

2003 2002 2001



Cash flows from operating activities:
                       
 
Net loss
  $ (3,787 )   $ (3,313 )   $ (1,041 )
 
Cumulative effect of accounting change
            1,280          
 
Depreciation
    2,105       2,333       2,161  
 
Amortization of goodwill
                    113  
 
Provision for losses on accounts receivable
    207       63       168  
 
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and disposals
    4,388       1,574       (804 )
     
     
     
 
   
Net cash provided by operating activities
    2,913       1,937       597  
     
     
     
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
 
Purchases of fixed assets and other
    (789 )     (1,457 )     (4,449 )
 
Purchase of business
                    (400 )
     
     
     
 
   
Net cash used in investing activities
    (789 )     (1,457 )     (4,849 )
     
     
     
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
 
Employee stock plans and other
            53       237  
 
Purchases of common stock
            (872 )        
     
     
     
 
   
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
            (819 )     237  
     
     
     
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    2,124       (339 )     (4,015 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    10,079       10,418       14,433  
     
     
     
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $ 12,203     $ 10,079     $ 10,418  
     
     
     
 
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and disposals:
                       
 
Accounts receivable
  $ (3,273 )   $ 5,525     $ 13,571  
 
Income tax receivable
    2,400       (1,654 )     (746 )
 
Inventories
    1,063       1,259       1,457  
 
Accounts payable
    2,195       (1,146 )     (12,659 )
 
Accrued liabilities and other
    2,003       (2,410 )     (2,427 )
     
     
     
 
   
Net change
  $ 4,388     $ 1,574     $ (804 )
     
     
     
 
Supplemental cash flow information:
                       
 
Interest paid
  $     $  —     $ 4  
 
Income taxes paid
  $ 36     $     $  

See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Summary of Accounting Policies

      Principles of consolidation — The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated.

      Cash and cash equivalents — The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity date of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

      Revenue recognition and receivables — The Company’s operations include technology lifecycle services (“Technology Solutions”); distribution of aftermarket products for recreational vehicles, motorcycles, snowmobiles and powerboats (“Recreational Products”); and specialty components manufacturing and distribution for the computer and electronics markets (“Electronic Components”). Sales are recognized and trade receivables are recorded when products are shipped or when services are provided assuming no significant Company obligations remain and collection of related receivables is probable. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade receivables are generally limited due to the large number and general dispersion of trade accounts, which constitute the Company’s customer base. During 2003 and 2002, the Company had one Technology Solutions customer that accounted for approximately 10% and 12% of net sales, respectively. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had one Technology Solutions customer that accounted for approximately 14% and 15% of accounts receivable, respectively. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and generally does not require collateral. The Company estimates reserves for potential credit losses and such losses have been within these estimates.

      Inventories — Inventories, consisting primarily of finished goods, are stated at the lower of cost (determined using weighted average and first-in, first-out methods) or market (net realizable value).

      Shipping and handling costs — Shipping and handling costs, consisting primarily of freight paid to carriers, Company-owned delivery vehicle expenses and payroll related costs incurred in connection with storing, moving, preparing, and delivering products totaled approximately $3.4 million in 2003, $3.3 million in 2002 and $3.7 million in 2001. These costs are included, net of amounts billed to customers, within selling and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Amounts billed to customers totaled approximately $550,000 in 2003, $550,000 in 2002 and $800,000 in 2001.

      Vendor rebates — The Company receives volume incentives from certain vendors related to sales activity of certain products that are recognized when deemed earned.

      Fixed assets, depreciation and amortization — All fixed assets are recorded at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method based upon estimated useful lives of 10 years for building improvements, 3 to 5 years for computer equipment and software and 3 to 7 years for furniture, fixtures and other. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their estimated service lives or the term of the lease.

      Goodwill and other intangible assets — In July 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS No. 142 changes the accounting for goodwill from an amortization method to an impairment-only approach. Upon adoption of SFAS No. 142, goodwill is tested at least annually and whenever events or circumstances occur indicating that goodwill might be impaired. Amortization of goodwill, including goodwill recorded in past business combinations, ceases. During the quarter ended June 30, 2002, the Company completed both steps of the transitional impairment tests, as required by SFAS No. 142, and recorded a pre-tax goodwill impairment loss of $2.1 million, $1.3 million after tax, representing the total goodwill balance as of January 1, 2002 (date of adoption). The goodwill resulted from Technology Solutions acquisitions in previous years. The fair value of the Technology Solutions reporting unit was determined using the discounted cash flow approach as allowed by SFAS No. 142. Goodwill amortization recorded during the year ended December 31, 2001 was $113,000 or $0.01 per share.

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      Long-lived assets — In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-lived Assets”, the Company assesses potential impairments to its long-lived assets when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be fully recoverable. If required, an impairment loss is recognized as the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the assets.

      Income taxes — Provision is made for the tax effects of temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities. In estimating deferred tax balances, the Company considers all expected future events other than enactments of changes in the tax law or rates. A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

      Accrued liabilities — The Company’s accrued liabilities include approximately $4.9 million and $5.4 million of amounts attributable to disposed businesses at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. These amounts relate to certain legal, environmental and contractual matters specifically identifiable to these disposed businesses.

      Stock option plans — The Company measures and records compensation expense relating to stock options as the excess, if any, between the market value of shares on the date of option grant and the expected proceeds upon exercise. Such expense is accrued ratably over the period to be benefited. The Company has adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to disclose the impact of compensation cost on earnings as determined under the fair value method prescribed by SFAS No. 123.

      Per share data — Basic earnings per share data are based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share data are based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the number of common shares potentially issuable for dilutive securities such as stock options and warrants.

      Use of estimates — Certain amounts and disclosures included in the consolidated financial statements required the use of management estimates which could differ from actual results.

      Reclassifications — Certain amounts shown in the prior years’ consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

      New pronouncements — In November 2002, the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) reached a consensus on EITF No. 00-21, “Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables.” EITF No. 00-21 provides guidance as to when deliverables must be divided into separate units of accounting. This guidance was effective for revenue arrangements entered into after June 30, 2003. The adoption of EITF No. 00-21 did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

      In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity” that establishes standards for how an issuer classifies and measures certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. SFAS 150 was effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003, and otherwise was effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003. On November 7, 2003, Financial Accounting Standards Board Staff Position 150-3 was issued, which indefinitely deferred the effective date of SFAS 150 for certain mandatory redeemable noncontrolling interests. The adoption of SFAS 150 had no effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Special Items

      Repositioning and settlement costs — During 2001, the Company recorded special pre-tax charges totaling $1.5 million. The charges consisted of $845,000 for costs related to strategic repositioning of the Company’s operations and $650,000 in settlement costs associated with an executive change-in-control contract. Components of the repositioning charge included facilities consolidation costs and asset write-downs

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in connection with the opening of a new technology center and separation costs. Substantially all costs relating to these charges, other than a lump sum payment made in January 2002 relating to the change-in-control contract, were paid during 2001.

Floor Plan Arrangements

      The Company finances certain inventory purchases in its Technology Solutions business unit through floor plan arrangements with two finance companies. The amount of aggregate outstanding floor plan obligations ranged between $2.0 million and $5.6 million during 2003 and $3.1 million and $5.5 million during 2002, and were secured by certain of the Company’s inventory and accounts receivable. Additionally, the finance companies maintain intercreditor agreements with the Company’s primary lender. The outstanding amounts are payable in 30 to 45 days. The arrangements are generally subsidized by computer products manufacturers and are interest free if amounts are paid within the specified terms. The Company paid minimal interest under floor plan arrangements for the periods presented. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had outstanding floor plan obligations of $4.1 million and $3.1 million, respectively, which are classified within accounts payable.

Borrowings and Liquidity

      Under a credit agreement dated April 1999, as amended, with its primary lender, the Company has a line of credit in the amount of $10.0 million to finance short term cash flow and working capital requirements. The credit agreement expires in May 2004 and provides for interest at either the bank’s reference rate or LIBOR plus 1.75%. The line of credit is subject to an annual commitment fee of .5% on the unused line of credit. Available borrowing capacity is subject to a borrowing base calculation based on a percentage of the Company’s available accounts receivable and inventories. The Company is subject to certain restrictive covenants including minimum interest coverage, minimum tangible net worth and a maximum leverage ratio. Outstanding borrowings are secured by the assets of the Company, except those assets that secure borrowings under floor plan arrangements. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the credit agreement. The Company currently is able to borrow up to $2.5 million of the $10.0 million credit line, subject to certain requirements, including maintaining minimum cash and cash equivalents on deposit of at least $3.5 million.

      Despite recent operating losses, the Company believes that sufficient cash resources exist for 2004 to support requirements for its operations and commitments through available cash and cash generated by operations. Management does not currently anticipate the need to borrow under the line of credit and is evaluating its options in regards to renewing or terminating the facility.

Stock Repurchase Program

      In July 2001, the Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program (the “2001 Program”) of up to 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s outstanding common stock. The common stock can be repurchased in the open market at varying prices depending on market conditions and other factors. During 2002, the Company repurchased 556,721 shares of common stock at an average price of $1.57 per share under the 2001 Program.

Stock Plans

      The Company maintains certain stock option plans which provide for the issuance of common stock to be available for purchase by employees and by non-employee directors of the Company. Under the stock option plans, both incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock may be granted. Options outstanding under the plans have terms of five or ten years, vest over a period of up to four years and were issued at market value on the date of grant.

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      The following summaries activity under the plans:

                                   
Weighted
average Fair
Available Shares exercise value of
for future under price per option
grant option share per share




Outstanding at December 31, 2000
    458,030       1,012,159     $ 4.37          
 
Granted
    (245,000 )     245,000       2.44     $ 1.24  
 
Canceled
    239,830       (239,830 )     4.82          
 
Adoption of 2001 Plan
    500,000                          
     
     
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2001
    952,860       1,017,329       3.80          
 
Granted
    (130,000 )     130,000       2.00     $ 0.95  
 
Canceled
    65,100       (65,100 )     4.46          
     
     
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2002
    887,960       1,082,229       3.55          
 
Granted
    (45,000 )     45,000       1.79     $ 0.89  
 
Canceled
    89,500       (89,500 )     2.81          
     
     
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2003
    932,460       1,037,729     $ 3.54          
     
     
                 

      The following summarizes stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2003:

                         
Remaining Weighted
Option life Options Options average
in years outstanding exercisable exercise price




1
    84,229       84,229     $ 5.14  
2
    118,500       83,500       2.47  
3
    75,000       50,500       2.56  
4
    140,000       95,000       4.77  
5 or more
    620,000       548,333       3.81  
     
     
         
      1,037,729       861,562     $ 3.84  
     
     
         

      At December 31, 2002 and 2001, 590,946 and 348,079 options were exercisable at weighted average exercise prices of $3.95 and $4.61, respectively.

      The following summarizes shareholder approved and non-shareholder approved plan information as of December 31, 2003:

                         
Weighted
Shares average Available
under exercise price for future
option per share grant



Shareholder approved plans
    997,729     $ 3.57       472,460  
Non-shareholder approved plan
    40,000     $ 2.59       460,000  
     
             
 
      1,037,729               932,460  
     
             
 

      Under the Bell Industries Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”) 750,000 shares were authorized for issuance to Bell employees. Eligible employees may purchase Bell stock at 85% of market value through the ESPP at various offering times during the year. Under the ESPP, the Company issued 33,737 and 61,802 shares during 2002 and 2001, respectively. The weighted average fair value per share of the purchase rights granted in 2002 and 2001 were $.66 and $.62, respectively. During the third quarter of 2002, the Company suspended the ESPP. At December 31, 2003, 419,450 shares were available for future issuance under the ESPP.

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      The Black-Scholes model was utilized for estimating the fair value of stock-based grants using an assumed volatility of approximately 60% for all years presented and an expected four year life for stock options, and an assumed volatility of approximately 60% for all years presented and an expected four month life for the ESPP. The assumed risk free interest rate was approximately 4.0% in 2003, 4.0% in 2002 and 5.0% in 2001 for the stock option plans and approximately 2.5% in 2002 and 3.5% in 2001 for the ESPP. Stock-based compensation costs determined under the fair value method would have increased net loss by $.2 million ($.02 per share) in 2003, $.4 million ($.05 per share) in 2002 and $.4 million ($.05 per share) in 2001.

Income Taxes

      The income tax provision (benefit) charged (credited) before cumulative effect of accounting change was as follows (in thousands):

                           
2003 2002 2001



Current
                       
 
Federal
  $ (1,290 )   $ (2,057 )   $ (394 )
 
State
    70       (422 )     (136 )
Deferred
                       
 
Federal
    2,349       1,117       (146 )
 
State
    80       35       (4 )
     
     
     
 
    $ 1,209     $ (1,327 )   $ (680 )
     
     
     
 

      The following is a reconciliation of the federal statutory tax rate to the effective tax rate:

                         
2003 2002 2001



Federal statutory tax rate
    (34.0 )%     (34.0 )%     (34.0 )%
State taxes, net of federal benefit
    1.8       (4.8 )     (5.2 )
Reversal of previously recorded tax accruals
    (50.8 )                
Valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets
    130.1                  
Other, net
    (.2 )     (.7 )     (.3 )
     
     
     
 
Effective tax rate
    46.9 %     (39.5 )%     (39.5 )%
     
     
     
 

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      Deferred tax balances were composed of the following (in thousands):

                   
December 31,

2003 2002


Deferred tax assets:
               
 
Discontinued operations
  $ 1,521     $ 1,711  
 
Net operating loss carryforwards
    1,014          
 
Employee benefit accruals
    469       545  
 
Goodwill
    370       439  
 
Receivables allowance
    288       223  
 
Inventory reserves
    177       178  
     
     
 
      3,839       3,096  
Deferred tax liabilities:
               
 
Prepaid items
    (209 )     (330 )
 
Depreciation
    (39 )     (197 )
 
Other
    (238 )     (140 )
     
     
 
Net deferred tax balances before valuation allowance
    3,353       2,429  
Valuation allowance
    (3,353 )        
     
     
 
Net deferred tax balances after valuation allowance
  $ 0     $ 2,429  
     
     
 

      After consideration of relevant factors, including recent operating results and the prior utilization of all previously available tax carry-back opportunities, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance against net deferred tax asset balances in the fourth quarter of 2003.

      Net current deferred tax assets, included with prepaid expenses and other, and net non-current deferred tax assets, included with other assets, totaled $1.6 million and $791,000, respectively, at December 31, 2002.

      As of December 31, 2003, the Company has a Federal net operating loss carry forward of $3.0 million which expires in 2023.

Employee Benefit and Deferred Compensation Plans

      The Company has a qualified, trusteed, savings and profit sharing plan for eligible employees. The Company’s matching contributions and discretionary contributions to the plan, as determined by the Board of Directors, were $59,000 in 2003, $112,000 in 2002 and $150,000 in 2001.

      The Company has deferred compensation plans available for certain officers and other key employees. Expense associated with the deferred compensation element of these plans was $207,000 in 2003, $134,000 in 2002 and $110,000 in 2001.

      The Company provides postretirement medical coverage for qualifying employees who were employed prior to January 1, 1998. The estimated liability for postretirement medical benefits, included in deferred compensation and other long term liabilities, totaled $868,000 and $987,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Annual costs for active and potentially eligible employees were not significant during any of the years presented.

Commitments and Contingencies

      At December 31, 2003, the Company had operating leases on certain of its facilities and equipment expiring in various years through 2008. Under certain operating leases, the Company is required to pay property taxes and insurance. Rent expense under operating leases was $2.2 million in 2003, $2.0 million in 2002 and $2.1 million in 2001.

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Table of Contents

      Minimum annual rentals on operating leases for the five years subsequent to 2003 are as follows (in thousands):

         
2004
  $ 2,168  
2005
    1,249  
2006
    626  
2007
    304  
2008
    11  
     
 
    $ 4,358  
     
 

      The Company has an outstanding letter of credit totaling $20,000 at December 31, 2003 that renews annually.

      The Company is involved in litigation which is incidental to its current and discontinued businesses. The resolution of this litigation is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Business Segment and Related Information

      The Company has three reportable business segments: Technology Solutions, a provider of integrated technology solutions; Recreational Products, a distributor of replacement parts and accessories for recreational and other leisure-time vehicles; and Electronic Components, a specialty manufacturer and distributor of standard and custom magnetic products. Each operating segment offers unique products and services and has separate management. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as described in the Summary of Accounting Policies.

      The following is summarized financial information for the Company’s reportable segments (in thousands):

                             
Year ended December 31,

2003 2002 2001



Net revenues
                       
 
Technology Solutions
                       
   
Products
  $ 55,826     $ 68,219     $ 105,009  
   
Services
    34,949       22,349       25,386  
     
     
     
 
      90,775       90,568       130,395  
 
Recreational Products
    44,804       44,639       46,044  
 
Electronic Components
    6,326       5,590       7,182  
     
     
     
 
    $ 141,905     $ 140,797     $ 183,621  
     
     
     
 
Operating income (loss)
                       
 
Technology Solutions
  $ (2,135 )   $ (2,204 )   $ (938 )
 
Recreational Products
    1,321       819       954  
 
Electronic Components
    939       489       1,590  
 
Special items
                    (650 )
 
Corporate costs
    (2,869 )     (2,664 )     (3,137 )
     
     
     
 
      (2,744 )     (3,560 )     (2,181 )
 
Interest, net
    166       200       460  
     
     
     
 
 
Loss before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change
  $ (2,578 )   $ (3,360 )   $ (1,721 )
     
     
     
 

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Table of Contents

                           
Year ended December 31,

2003 2002 2001



Depreciation and amortization
                       
 
Technology Solutions
  $ 841     $ 1,150     $ 1,114  
 
Recreational Products
    259       190       181  
 
Electronic Components
    31       32       33  
 
Corporate
    974       961       946  
     
     
     
 
    $ 2,105     $ 2,333     $ 2,274  
     
     
     
 
Total assets
                       
 
Technology Solutions
  $ 12,829     $ 10,472     $ 17,281  
 
Recreational Products
    14,087       15,803       16,193  
 
Electronic Components
    2,110       2,410       2,916  
 
Corporate
    17,607       20,705       21,262  
     
     
     
 
    $ 46,633     $ 49,390     $ 57,652  
     
     
     
 
Capital expenditures
                       
 
Technology Solutions
  $ 336     $ 396     $ 3,172  
 
Recreational Products
    266       382       217  
 
Electronic Components
    8       12       5  
 
Corporate
    390       745       951  
     
     
     
 
    $ 1,000     $ 1,535     $ 4,345  
     
     
     
 

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QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
                                   
Quarter ended

Mar. 31 Jun. 30 Sep. 30 Dec. 31




Year ended December 31, 2003
                               
Net revenues
                               
 
Products
  $ 23,568     $ 30,398     $ 30,625     $ 22,365  
 
Services
    8,509       8,977       8,953       8,510  
     
     
     
     
 
      32,077       39,375       39,578       30,875  
     
     
     
     
 
Costs and expenses
                               
 
Cost of products sold
    19,007       24,721       25,278       18,175  
 
Cost of services provided
    6,972       6,998       7,258       7,221  
 
Selling and administrative
    6,833       6,847       6,845       6,389  
 
Depreciation and amortization
    590       519       489       507  
 
Interest, net
    (22 )     (44 )     (59 )     (41 )
     
     
     
     
 
      33,380       39,041       39,811       32,251  
     
     
     
     
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
    (1,303 )     334       (233 )     (1,376 )
Income tax provision (benefit)
    (391 )     114       277       1,209  
     
     
     
     
 
Net income (loss)
  $ (912 )   $ 220     $ (510 )   $ (2,585 )
     
     
     
     
 
Share and Per Share Data
                               
BASIC AND DILUTED
                               
 
Net income (loss)
  $ (.11 )   $ .03     $ (.06 )   $ (.31 )
     
     
     
     
 
 
Weighted average common shares
    8,367       8,367       8,367       8,367  
     
     
     
     
 
Year ended December 31, 2002
                               
Net revenues
                               
 
Products
  $ 26,444     $ 35,643     $ 35,336     $ 21,025  
 
Services
    5,673       5,706       5,105       5,865  
     
     
     
     
 
      32,117       41,349       40,441       26,890  
     
     
     
     
 
Costs and expenses
                               
 
Cost of products sold
    22,043       29,410       29,436       17,187  
 
Cost of services provided
    4,314       4,094       4,097       4,560  
 
Selling and administrative
    6,744       6,570       7,103       6,466  
 
Depreciation and amortization
    608       587       564       574  
 
Interest, net
    (56 )     (37 )     (71 )     (36 )
     
     
     
     
 
      33,653       40,624       41,129       28,751  
     
     
     
     
 
Income (loss) before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change
    (1,536 )     725       (688 )     (1,861 )
Income tax provision (benefit)
    (606 )     287       (272 )     (736 )
     
     
     
     
 
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change
    (930 )     438       (416 )     (1,125 )
Cumulative effect of accounting change
    (1,280 )                        
     
     
     
     
 
Net income (loss)
  $ (2,210 )   $ 438     $ (416 )   $ (1,125 )
     
     
     
     
 
Share and Per Share Data
                               
BASIC AND DILUTED
                               
 
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change
  $ (.10 )   $ .05     $ (.05 )   $ (.13 )
 
Cumulative effect of accounting change
    (.14 )                        
     
     
     
     
 
 
Net income (loss)
  $ (.24 )   $ .05     $ (.05 )   $ (.13 )
     
     
     
     
 
 
Weighted average common shares
    8,890       8,900       8,777       8,404  
     
     
     
     
 

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SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

(In thousands)
                                     
Additions Deductions


Balance at Charge to Accounts Balance
beginning costs and charged off at end of
Description of period expenses (recovered) period





Allowance for doubtful accounts:
                               
 
Year ended December 31:
                               
   
2001
  $ 1,222       168       (135 )   $ 1,525  
   
2002
  $ 1,525       63       839     $ 749  
   
2003
  $ 749       207       20     $ 936  
Deferred tax valuation allowance:
                               
 
Year ended December 31, 2003
  $ 0       3,353       0     $ 3,353  
 
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

      Not applicable.

 
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

      Our management, with the participation of our principal executive and financial officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of December 31, 2003. Based on this evaluation, the Company’s principal executive and financial officer concluded that, as of December 31, 2003, our disclosure controls and procedures were (1) designed to ensure that material information relating to us, including our consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to our principal executive and financial officer by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report was being prepared and (2) effective, in that they provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

      No change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2003 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART III

 
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant

      (a) Directors: The information required by Item 10 with respect to Directors will appear in the Proxy Statement for the 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is hereby incorporated by reference.

      (b) Executive Officers: The information required by Item 10 with respect to Executive Officers appears in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

      (c) Code of Ethics: Our code of Ethics, as required by Item 406 of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, is available, without charge, upon written request sent to Bell Industries, Inc., Attention Secretary, at the address set forth on the cover page of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 
Item 11. Executive Compensation

      The information required by Item 11 will appear in the Proxy Statement for the 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is hereby incorporated by reference.

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Table of Contents

 
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

      The information required by Item 12 will appear in the Proxy Statement for the 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is hereby incorporated by reference.

 
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

      The information required by Item 13 will appear in the Proxy Statement for the 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is hereby incorporated by reference.

 
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services

      The information required by Item 14 will appear in the Proxy Statement for the 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is hereby incorporated by reference.

PART IV

 
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule, and Reports on Form 8-K

      (a)1.     Financial Statements:

      The Consolidated Financial Statements and Report of Independent Accountants dated February 7, 2004 are included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

      2.     Financial Statement Schedule:

      The Financial Statement Schedule listed in the Index to Financial Statements included under Item 8 is filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

      3.     Exhibits:

         
Number Exhibit Title


  2.     Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 26, 1996 among Registrant, ME Acquisitions, Inc., and Milgray Electronics, Inc. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Form 8-K dated January 7, 1997.
  3.     The Restated Articles of Incorporation and Restated By-laws are incorporated by reference to Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2, respectively, to Registrant’s Form 8-B dated March 22, 1995, as amended.
  4. a.   The Specimen of Registrant’s Common Stock certificates is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 5 to Amendment number 1 to Registrant’s Form 8-B filed January 15, 1980.
    b.   Warrant Agreement dated September 15, 1993 including Form of Warrant Certificate issued to the named Insurance Companies included in the Note Purchase Agreement dated February 1, 1991, as amended, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.e of the Form 10-K dated June 30, 1993.
  10. a.   The Employment and Deferred Compensation Agreements dated January 1, 1979 and the Amendment thereto dated August 6, 1979 concerning certain officers of Registrant are incorporated by reference to Exhibits 9A, 9C and 9D to Amendment number 1 to Registrant’s Form 8-B dated November 19, 1979.
    b.   The 1990 Stock Option and Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit A of Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement (File No. 1-7899) filed in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held October 29, 1990.
    c.   The 1993 Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit A of Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement (File No. 1-7899) filed in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held November 2, 1993.
    d.   The 1994 Stock Option Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit A of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement (File No. 1-7899) filed in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on November 1, 1994.

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Number Exhibit Title


    e.   Form of Severance Agreement between the Registrant and its executive officers is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to Registrant’s Form 8-B dated March 22, 1995, as amended.
    f.   Form of Indemnity Agreement between the Registrant and its executive officers and directors is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to Registrant’s Form 8-B dated March 22, 1995, as amended.
    g.   Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan, as revised is, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Registrant’s Form 10-K dated December 31, 1995.
    h.   Form of Stock Option Agreement between the Registrant and Non-employee Directors is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.m to Registrant’s Form 10-K dated December 31, 1995.
    i.   Amendment to the 1994 Stock Option Plan dated August 8, 1997 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99 to Registrant’s Form 10-Q dated June 30, 1997.
    j.   Post-effective Amendment No. 1 to the 1994 Stock Option Plan dated August 12, 1997 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1.1 to Registrant’s Form S-8 dated August 12, 1997.
    k.   1997 Deferred Compensation Plan dated August 27, 1997 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registrant’s Form S-8 dated August 28, 1997.
    l.   The Employment Agreement between the Registrant and Tracy A. Edwards, dated February 1, 1999 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.s. of the Registrants Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 1998.
    m.   The Rights Agreement, dated February 1, 1999, by and between Bell Industries, Inc. and Harris Trust Company of California, as Rights Agent, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-A12B, dated February 25, 1999.
    n.   The Asset Purchase Agreement dated August 28, 1998 between Bell Industries, Inc. and PrimeSource Corporation is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K, event date September 14, 1998.
    o.   The Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated October 1, 1998 between Bell Industries, Inc. and Arrow Electronics, Inc. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K, event date October 1, 1998.
    p.   Credit Agreement dated as of April 14, 1999 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.x of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 2000.
    q.   First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of April 26, 2000 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.y of the Registrant’s. Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 2000.
    r.   Agreement for Wholesale Financing dated as of May 11, 2001 between the Registrant and Deutsche Financial Services Corporation is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated June 30, 2001.
    s.   Agreement for Wholesale Financing dated as of June 27, 2001 between the Registrant and IBM Credit Corporation is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated June 30, 2001.
    t.   First Amendment to Rights Agreement, dated May 30, 2001, by and between the Registrant, Harris Trust Company of California and Computershare Investor Services, LLC is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-A12(b), dated May 30, 2001.
    u.   Second Amendment to Rights Agreement, dated May 30, 2001, by and between the Registrant and Computershare Investor Services, LLC, as Rights Agent, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-A12(b), dated May 30, 2001.
    v.   The Bell Industries, Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99. of the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated September 30, 2001.
    w.   Second Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of March 27, 2002 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.w of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 2001.

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Number Exhibit Title


    x.   Third Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of May 12, 2003 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A.
    y.   Letter Agreement dated as of August 12, 2003 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A.
  21.     Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
  23.     Consent of Independent Auditors.
  31. 1   Certification of Tracy A. Edwards, Chief Executive Officer of Registrant pursuant to Rule 13a-14 adopted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  31. 2   Certification of Tracy A. Edwards, Chief Financial Officer of Registrant, pursuant to Rule 13a-14 adopted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  32.     Certification of Tracy A. Edwards, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Registrant furnished pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

      (b) Reports on Form 8-K:

        a) On February 24, 2004, the Company filed a current Report on Form 8-K related to its issuance of a press release describing selected financial results of the Company for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2003.

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SIGNATURES

      Pursuant to the requirement 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.

  BELL INDUSTRIES, INC.

  By  /s/ TRACY A. EDWARDS
 
  Tracy A. Edwards
  President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 26, 2004

      Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below on March 26, 2004 by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated.

     
Signature Title


/s/ TRACY A. EDWARDS

Tracy A. Edwards
  Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive and Financial Officer)
 
/s/ MITCHELL I. ROSEN

Mitchell I. Rosen
  Vice President and Corporate Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
 
/s/ JOHN J. COST

John J. Cost
  Director and Secretary
 
/s/ CHARLES B. GRAVES

Charles B. Graves
  Director
 
/s/ L. JAMES LAWSON

L. James Lawson
  Director
 
/s/ MICHAEL R. PARKS

Michael R. Parks
  Director
 
/s/ MARK E. SCHWARZ

Mark E. Schwarz
  Director

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EXHIBIT INDEX

         
Exhibit
Number Description


  2.     Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of November 26, 1996 among Registrant, ME Acquisition, Inc. and Milgray Electronics, Inc.(*)
  3.     Articles of incorporation and by-laws(*)
  4.     Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures
    a.   Specimen of Registrant’s Common Stock certificate(*)
    b.   Warrant Agreement dated September 15, 1993 including Form of Warrant Certificate issued to the named Insurance Companies included in the Note Purchase Agreement dated February 1, 1991, as amended(*)
  10.     Material contracts
    a.   The Employment and Deferred Compensation Agreements dated January 1, 1979 and the Amendment thereto dated August 6, 1979 concerning certain officers of Registrant(*)
    b.   The 1990 Stock Option and Incentive Plan included as Exhibit A to Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement (File No. 1-7899) filed in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held October 29, 1990(*)
    c.   The 1993 Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan included as Exhibit A to Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement (File No. 1-7899) filed in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held November 2, 1993(*)
    d.   The 1994 Stock Option Plan included as Exhibit A of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement (File No. 1-7899) filed in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on November 1, 1994(*)
    e.   Form of Severance Compensation Agreement between the Registrant and its executive officers(*)
    f.   Form of Indemnity Agreement between the Registrant and its executive officers and directors(*)
    g.   Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan, as revised(*)
    h.   Form of Stock Option Agreement between the Registrant and Non-employee Directors(*)
    i.   Amendment to the 1994 Stock Option Plan dated August 8, 1997(*)
    j.   Post-effective Amendment No. 1 to the 1994 Stock Option Plan dated August 12, 1997(*)
    k.   1997 Deferred Compensation Plan dated August 27, 1997(*)
    l.   Employment Agreement between the Registrant and Tracy A. Edwards, dated February 1, 1999(*)
    m.   The Rights Agreement, dated February 1, 1999, by and between Bell Industries, Inc. and Harris Trust Company of California, as Rights Agent(*)
    n.   Asset Purchase Agreement dated August 28, 1998 between Bell Industries, Inc. and PrimeSource Corporation(*)
    o.   The Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated October 1, 1998 between Bell Industries, Inc. and Arrow Electronics, Inc.(*)
    p.   Credit Agreement dated as of April 14, 1999 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A. is incorporated by Reference’s to Exhibit 10.x of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 2000.(*)
    q.   First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of April 26, 2000 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.y of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 2000.(*)
    r.   Agreement for Wholesale Financing dated as of May 11, 2001 between the Registrant and Deutsche Financial Services Corporation is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated June 30, 2001.(*)
    s.   Agreement for Wholesale Financing dated as of June 27, 2001 between the Registrant and IBM Credit Corporation is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated June 30, 2001.(*)

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Table of Contents

         
Exhibit
Number Description


    t.   First Amendment to Rights Agreement, dated May 30, 2001, by and between the Registrant, Harris Trust Company of California and Computershare Investor Services, LLC is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-A12(b), dated May 30, 2001.(*)
    u.   Second Amendment to Rights Agreement, dated May 30, 2001, by and between the Registrant and Computershare Investor Services, LLC, as Rights Agent, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-A12(b), dated May 30, 2001.(*)
    v.   The Bell Industries, Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99. of the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated September 30, 2001.(*)
    w.   Second Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of March 27, 2002 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.w of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 2001.(*)
    x.   Third Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of May 12, 2003 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A.
    y.   Letter Agreement dated as of August 12, 2003 between the Registrant and Union Bank of California, N.A.
  21.     Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
  23.     Consent of Independent Auditors.
  31. 1   Certification of Tracy A. Edwards, Chief Executive Officer of Registrant pursuant to Rule 13a-14 adopted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  31. 2   Certification of Tracy A. Edwards, Chief Financial Officer of Registrant pursuant to Rule 13a-14 adopted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  32.     Certification of Tracy A. Edwards, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Registrant furnished pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.


(*) Incorporated by reference.

34