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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED NOVEMBER 30, 2001 COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 0-5905
CHATTEM, INC.
A TENNESSEE CORPORATION
IRS EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NO. 62-0156300
1715 WEST 38TH STREET
CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE 37409
TELEPHONE: 423-821-4571
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:
NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE ON
TITLE OF EACH CLASS WHICH REGISTERED
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NONE NONE
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:
COMMON STOCK, WITHOUT PAR VALUE
REGISTRANT 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 HAS BEEN
SUBJECT TO SUCH FILING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PAST 90 DAYS.
DISCLOSURE OF DELINQUENT FILERS PURSUANT TO ITEM 405 OF REGULATION S-K WILL NOT
BE CONTAINED IN THE DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN PART
III OF THIS FORM 10-K.
AS OF FEBRUARY 22, 2002 THE AGGREGATE MARKET VALUE OF VOTING SHARES HELD BY
NON-AFFILIATES WAS $79,675,785.
AS OF FEBRUARY 22, 2002 8,945,981 COMMON SHARES WERE OUTSTANDING.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
PORTIONS OF THE REGISTRANT'S ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED
NOVEMBER 30, 2001 (THE "2001 ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS") ARE INCORPORATED BY
REFERENCE IN PARTS I, II AND IV OF THIS FORM 10-K. PORTIONS OF THE REGISTRANT'S
DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT DATED MARCH 11, 2002 (THE "PROXY STATEMENT") ARE
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN PART III OF THIS FORM 10-K.
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PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL
Chattem, Inc. (the "Company") is a leading marketer and manufacturer of a
variety of branded consumer products, principally over-the-counter ("OTC")
health care products. The Company's high quality branded products target niche
market segments and are among the market leaders in their respective categories.
Through creative and cost effective marketing techniques, the Company supports
these brands on a national level across all major distribution channels,
including food, drug and mass merchandisers.
Several of these brands have the number one market share in their categories,
including GOLD BOND medicated powders and the Company's topical analgesic brands
which together rank number one in that category.
The Company conducts a portion of its business through three wholly-owned
subsidiaries. One subsidiary owns or licenses substantially all of the
trademarks and intangibles associated with the Company's domestic consumer
products business and licenses the Company's use thereof. Certain foreign sales
operations are conducted through Canadian and United Kingdom subsidiaries.
For purposes of this report, the "Company", "we", "our" or "us" refers to
Chattem, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Trademarks of the Company
appear in this report in all capitalized letters.
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DEVELOPMENTS DURING FISCAL 2001
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Fiscal 2001 was highlighted by the retirement of $70,462,000 principal amount of
8.875% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008 (the "8.875% Notes") and the remaining
outstanding principal amount of $29,145,000 of 12.75% Senior Subordinated Notes
due 2004 (the "12.75% Notes"), the repurchase of 14,000 shares of the Company's
common stock, entering into a $10,000,000 revolving line of credit from a
financial institution and the restoration of DEXATRIM sales to near the sales
level attained in fiscal 2000 after the discontinuance of DEXATRIM containing
phenylpropanoline ("PPA").
On January 17, 2001 the Company completed the consent solicitation and tender
offer pursuant to which it retired $70,462,000 principal amount of its 8.875%
Notes and $7,397,000 principal amount of its 12.75% Notes. The consideration
paid for the consent solicitation and tender offer was $64,937,000, which was
provided by the proceeds of the Company's divestiture of the Ban(R) product line
in fiscal 2000. An extraordinary gain on the early extinguishment of debt of
$7,551,000, net of income taxes, was recognized in the first six months of
fiscal 2001. On June 15, 2001 the Company retired all of the remaining
outstanding principal balance of $21,748,000 of its 12.75% Notes and accrued
interest thereon. In connection with the retirement of the 12.75% Notes the
Company recognized a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $603,000, net
of income tax benefit, in the third quarter of fiscal 2001. This loss primarily
consisted of the premium paid on the retirement of the notes and the write-off
of related unamortized deferred issuance and initial discount costs.
During fiscal 2001 the Company repurchased, and returned to unissued, 14,000
shares of its common stock, without par value, for $174,000 in accordance with
the Company's previously announced stock buyback program.
On June 21, 2001 the Company obtained a $10,000,000 unsecured revolving line of
credit from a financial institution. As of February 22, 2002 no portion of this
credit facility had been utilized by the Company.
The loss of sales of DEXATRIM containing PPA after its voluntary withdrawal from
the market in November 2000 was nearly offset in 2001 by sales of DEXATRIM
Natural.
The Company will continue to seek sales increases through a combination of
acquisitions and internal growth while maintaining high operating income levels.
As previously high-growth brands mature, sales increases will become even more
dependent on acquisitions and the development of successful line extensions.
During fiscal 2001 the Company introduced DEXATRIM Natural Ephedrine Free, ICY
HOT Patch, BULLFROG Fast Blast and BULLFROG Sensitive Skin as line extensions.
Line extensions, product introductions and acquisitions require a significant
amount of introductory advertising and promotional support. For a period of time
these products do not generate a commensurate amount of sales and/or earnings.
As a result, the Company may experience a short-term impact on its profitability
due to line extensions.
Ban(R) is the registered trademark of Kao Corporation.
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GROWTH STRATEGY
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The Company seeks to expand its business through:
ACQUISITIONS. Brand acquisitions afford the Company the opportunity to leverage
its advertising and promotional capabilities and utilize existing distribution
channels and, in certain instances, existing manufacturing facilities, to attain
incremental sales increases accompanied by higher operating margins. The Company
seeks to acquire brands with unrealized potential that have been under-marketed
by larger firms or have achieved limited success by entrepreneurs. The Company
focuses its acquisition efforts on niche markets in the consumer products sector
where it is able to gain a significant market position. As many of the Company's
larger competitors rationalize their product lines or businesses, we anticipate
an increase in the number and size of attractive brand acquisition
opportunities.
The most recent examples of the execution of this strategy are the Company's
acquisitions of:
The brands acquired from Thompson Medical Company, Inc. ("Thompson Medical") in
December 1998. With the topical analgesic products acquired in this purchase
(SPORTSCREME, ASPERCREME, CAPZASIN and ARTHRITIS HOT), the Company became the
leading marketer in the United States of brands in this category. Also acquired
in this purchase was DEXATRIM, an appetite suppressant.
GOLD BOND in April 1996. GOLD BOND is the leading medicated powder in the United
States. Annual sales of GOLD BOND have approximately doubled since the time of
the acquisition, while operating margins have increased during the same period.
INTERNAL GROWTH. The Company seeks to increase its market share for its existing
brands by focusing on increased market penetration and brand awareness and
introducing product line extensions. Product line extensions allow the Company
to maximize the value of the base brand through an increased market presence and
new market entry. Recent examples of product line extensions include: DEXATRIM
Natural Ephedrine Free, ICY HOT Patch, BULLFROG Fast Blast and BULLFROG
Sensitive Skin.
DIVESTITURES. Strategically, the Company continually evaluates its products as
part of its growth strategy and, in instances where the Company's objectives are
not realized, will dispose of these brands and redeploy the assets to acquire
other brands or reduce indebtedness.
Recent examples of the execution of this strategy are the Company's divestiture
of the Ban product line of antiperspirants and deodorants and Norwich(R) Aspirin
in fiscal 2000 and the Cornsilk(R) oil control makeup brand in fiscal 1998.
Norwich(R) is the registered trademark of The Monticello Companies, Inc.
Cornsilk(R) is the registered trademark of Del Laboratories, Inc.
PRODUCTS
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The objective of the Company is to offer high quality brand name products in
niche market segments in which its products can be among the market leaders in
their respective categories. The Company strives to achieve its objective by
identifying brands with favorable demographic appeal, quickly modifying products
and promotions in response to changing consumer demands and developing creative
and cost-effective marketing and advertising programs. The Company manufactures
products accounting for approximately 65% of its sales volume at its facility in
Chattanooga, Tennessee, with GOLD BOND medicated powders, HERPECIN-L, DEXATRIM,
ICY HOT Patch and the SUNSOURCE products being produced by contract
manufacturers.
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The Company's product brands are:
GOLD BOND - medicated powders and lotion, antibiotic ointment and
anti-itch cream
FLEXALL - topical analgesic
ICY HOT - topical analgesic
ASPERCREME - topical analgesic
SPORTSCREME - topical analgesic
CAPZASIN - P - topical analgesic
CAPZASIN - HP - topical analgesic
ARTHRITIS HOT - topical analgesic
BENZODENT - topical oral analgesic
PAMPRIN - menstrual internal analgesic
PREMSYN PMS - premenstrual internal analgesic
HERPECIN-L - cold sore and fever blister balm
DEXATRIM - appetite suppressant
GARLIQUE - garlic extract
REJUVEX - menopausal supplement
NEW PHASE - menopausal supplement
PROPALMEX - prostate health
MELATONEX - sleep aid
OMNIGEST EZ - digestion aid
PHISODERM - facial cleanser and acne medicine
MUDD - facial mask and cleanser
BULLFROG - sunscreen and sunblock
ULTRASWIM - chlorine removing shampoo, conditioner and body wash
SUN-IN - spray-in hair lightener
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The Company markets a diversified portfolio of brand name OTC health care
products, many of which are among the market leaders in the United States in
their respective categories.
The GOLD BOND brand, which is over 100 years old, competes in the adult and baby
medicated powder, foot powder, therapeutic lotion, anti-itch cream and
antibiotic ointment markets. GOLD BOND is the leading brand in the medicated
powder category in the United States. Total retail sales for the brand have
grown from less than $28,000,000 when the brand was acquired in fiscal 1996 to
over $61,000,000 in fiscal 2001. In 1997 the Company added two line extensions,
GOLD BOND Foot Powder and GOLD BOND Medicated Body Lotion. GOLD BOND Antibiotic
Ointment was introduced during the first quarter of 1999, while GOLD BOND
Sensitive Skin Body Lotion was added to the product line in 2000. In fiscal 2002
the GOLD BOND brand will introduce an aerosol delivery form of its successful
foot powder to meet the needs of more than half of consumers who prefer a spray
form. The product line is heavily supported by national television and radio
advertising throughout most of the year, as well as with consumer promotions. We
believe GOLD BOND continues to represent an opportunity for growth both through
the existing products and the introduction of line extensions.
With the acquisition of the Thompson Medical brands in late 1998, Chattem became
the United States market leader in the $220,000,000 topical analgesic market
category. The Company's strong market position as well as the advancing age of
the United States population and the increasing interest in physical fitness
combine to provide solid growth prospects within the topical analgesic category.
FLEXALL is an aloe vera based topical analgesic used primarily by chronic pain
sufferers to alleviate pain and inflammation in joints and secondarily by
sufferers of muscle strain. Introduced in fiscal 1999, FLEXALL QUIK GEL, which
provides fast relief without any mess, was accompanied by an advertising
campaign featuring NFL Hall of Famer Joe Montana.
Uniquely positioned as the brand that goes on "icy to dull the pain and gets hot
to relax it away", ICY HOT is available in a cream, balm, patch and stick. This
dual action extra strength product appeals to younger users just entering the
category as well as older consumers who want to remain active. ICY HOT Patch,
concentrated pain relief that lasts for hours and is easy to apply, was
successfully introduced in fiscal 2001.
Former Thompson Medical brands round out the Company's topical analgesic
portfolio. ASPERCREME provides odor free relief of arthritis and other chronic
pain while SPORTSCREME is targeted at serious athletes as well as "weekend
warriors". CAPZASIN, which contains capsicin, the active ingredient that doctors
recommend most, is focused on the arthritis sufferer looking for clinically
proven relief. ARTHRITIS HOT provides relief at a value price. The Company
supports the topical analgesic brands with extensive national television and
radio advertising as well as targeted consumer promotions and is well positioned
to achieve solid growth within the topical analgesic category.
BENZODENT is a dental analgesic cream in an adhesive base for use as an oral
topical analgesic for pain related to dentures. BENZODENT is principally
supported by sampling consumers at the time they are fitted with dentures and
representation at professional dental conferences.
The Company competes in the menstrual analgesic segment with two brands:
PAMPRIN, a combination drug targeted towards relief of all menstrual symptoms,
and PREMSYN PMS, targeted towards the specific symptoms of premenstrual
syndrome. The Company uses a mix of television and print advertising as well as
point of entry sampling to gain trial and awareness among the female target
audience.
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HERPECIN-L, Chattem's entry in the lip care category, is uniquely formulated to
treat and protect cold sores by moisturizing lips to help prevent cracking and
promote healing. Available in a stick and a jar, HERPECIN-L contains a sunblock
to help protect lips from the harmful rays of the sun. The Company uses radio
advertising to generate trial use during the peak winter and summer cold sore
seasons.
DEXATRIM, acquired in December 1998, is a leading name in the diet pill
category. In 2001 DEXATRIM enjoyed strong growth in the herbal diet aid category
with DEXATRIM Natural. DEXATRIM Natural is a drug-free, all natural, dietary
supplement with special dual action that curbs appetite and helps burn more fat
and calories. DEXATRIM Natural is also available in Green Tea and Caffeine Free
versions. DEXATRIM Natural was successfully promoted with high levels of
advertising support through the New Year's resolution and spring swimsuit
seasons. DEXATRIM is now only available in herbal, dietary supplement formulas
after the removal of DEXATRIM products with PPA from the product line in
November 2000. In 2002 DEXATRIM RESULTS, a nutrition based weight control
product, will be introduced. DEXATRIM RESULTS has a unique formula, which
provides more energy sources and more nutrition so that consumers can feel good
while they are reaching their dieting goals. DEXATRIM RESULTS will be available
in a regular and an ephedrine-free formula.
The Company competes in the United States nutritional supplement category with
its SUNSOURCE line which includes GARLIQUE, REJUVEX, NEW PHASE, PROPALMEX,
MELATONEX, and OMNIGEST EZ. These products are distributed primarily through the
drug and mass merchandiser trade channels.
GARLIQUE garlic tablets support cardiovascular health and are uniquely
positioned in the marketplace as a "one per day" high potency garlic supplement.
Most major GARLIQUE competitors require multiple daily dosages. National
television advertising is utilized throughout the year to emphasize this key
advantage to consumers.
REJUVEX and NEW PHASE offer a more complete way for a woman to maintain comfort
as she enters a phase of life that, for many, is a time of hormonal imbalance
and discomfort. REJUVEX is an estrogen-free dietary supplement that contains
magnesium, vitamins and other natural ingredients to replenish nutrients and
help maintain healthy bones. NEW PHASE supports hormonal balance with 80
milligrams per tablet of natural phytoestrogens, double the isoflavone content
of many leading brands.
PROPALMEX supports prostate health and promotes free urinary flow. For men over
forty looking for all natural, drug-free options, PROPALMEX offers a healthy
choice with a unique formula that contains saw palmetto, lycopene and zinc.
MELATONEX is formulated to support a natural sleep cycle by supplementing the
body's production of melatonin, a hormone necessary for a good night's sleep.
OMNIGEST EZ contains a unique blend of seven plant derived digestive enzymes
that work along with the digestive enzymes produced by your own body to help in
the digestion of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, cellulose and dairy products.
PHISODERM is a line of facial cleansers developed by dermatologists which
retains an ethical, troubled skin reputation. The line includes several formulas
of liquid cleansers including one for infants. In 2001 the PHISODERM brand
sustained its focus on the growing acne portion of the business which includes
the 4-Way Daily Acne Cleanser. Consumer support behind the brand is concentrated
on the acne business and includes print advertising in teen magazines, targeted
television advertising on teen cable programs and extensive sampling. In 2002
the Company will further expand the acne portion of the business with unique
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line extensions: PHISODERM Clear Confidence Acne Body Wash and PHISODERM Clear
Confidence 5 Minute Blemish Masque. The entire PHISODERM line has been
repackaged in clear, contemporary-looking packages.
MUDD is a line of deep cleaning clay-based products for the face. Target
consumers for MUDD are women between the ages of 18 and 49. MUDD Masque is
available in four formulas and is a strong market leader in the masque category.
In 2001 the masque products were supported by a new television campaign
featuring the entire MUDD line and the brand promise of providing the ultimate
in facial deep cleaning.
BULLFROG is the line of ultimate waterproof sunblocks for outdoor active
consumers. In 2001 BULLFROG was the fastest growing SPF 15+ sunblock, posting
sales gains of over 6%. In 2001 two new products were added to the line:
BULLFROG FastBlast, a watermelon scented spray version for kids of the popular
BULLFROG Quik Gel formula, and BULLFROG Sensitive Skin, a dermatologist
recommended, fragrance free, high protection lotion. In 2002 BULLFROG is
expected to continue to realize solid growth with a comprehensive brand plan
which includes an active new product program and targeted consumer advertising,
promotions and sampling programs.
ULTRASWIM is a line of chlorine removing shampoos, conditioners and soaps.
ULTRASWIM has a unique formula that performs chlorine removal better than any
comparable hair care or skin care product on the market. The Company supports
this brand through targeted print advertising to competitive, recreational and
exercise swimmers and through event sponsorship with targeted sampling programs.
In 2001 ULTRASWIM was relaunched with a new healthy hair formula and a clear
package design.
SUN-IN is a hair lightener available in two varieties: spray-on and Super
Streaks, a highlighting hair gel. In 2001 SUN-IN built awareness with a
continually changing teen target audience through promotional prepacks and an
interactive web site.
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INTERNATIONAL
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Certain of the Company's products are sold in foreign countries. The
international business is concentrated in Canada, Europe and Central and South
America.
Sales in Canada and Europe are conducted by subsidiary companies located and
locally staffed in Canada and the United Kingdom, respectively. General export
sales are handled by the Company from its offices in Chattanooga. Most of the
products sold in international markets are manufactured by the Company at its
Chattanooga facilities and are packaged by the subsidiary companies in Canada
and the United Kingdom with the assistance, from time to time, of outside
contract packagers.
The GOLD BOND, PAMPRIN, PHISODERM, ULTRASWIM, SUN-IN, MUDD, ASPERCREME and
DEXATRIM brands are sold in Canada. Consumer product sales in the United Kingdom
and on the continent of Western Europe are currently limited to toiletry and
skin care products. The Company's hair lightener is sold on the continent under
the SPRAY BLOND trademark and in the United Kingdom as SUN-IN. MUDD, Cornsilk
(through a license agreement) and ULTRASWIM are the other products sold by the
Company's United Kingdom subsidiary in Europe. Certain of the Company's OTC
health care products are also sold by the United Kingdom operation to customers
in the Middle and Far East.
The Company's export division services various distributors primarily located in
Central and South America and the Caribbean. The Company sells various products
into these markets including GOLD BOND, ICY HOT, DEXATRIM and PHISODERM.
MANUFACTURING AND QUALITY CONTROL
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The Company manufactures approximately 65% of the sales volume of its products
at its Chattanooga plants. GOLD BOND medicated powders, HERPECIN-L, DEXATRIM,
ICY HOT Patch and the SUNSOURCE brands are manufactured by third party contract
manufacturers. The Company believes it has adequate capacity to meet anticipated
demand for its products. New products that are consistent with currently
manufactured products can generally be manufactured with the adaptation of
existing equipment and facilities, the addition of new equipment at relatively
small cost or through readily available contract manufacturers. For additional
information about the extent of utilization of the Company's manufacturing
facilities, see Item 2, "Properties", of this Form 10-K.
The Company's third party manufacturers produce certain products including GOLD
BOND medicated powders, HERPECIN-L, DEXATRIM, ICY HOT Patch and the SUNSOURCE
brands. In most cases, the manufacturer is not obligated under a contract that
fixes the term of its commitment. Manufacturers may experience problems with
product quality or timeliness of product delivery. Manufacturers may also
discontinue production of brands for us upon little or no advance notice. In
each case, we believe that other contract manufacturers could be quickly secured
if any of our current contractors cease to perform adequately. However, if this
occurs and we cannot find other contract manufacturers, we may be forced to
shift production to in-house facilities. This may cause manufacturing delays,
which would cause disruption in our ability to fill orders. This could adversely
affect our business.
To monitor the quality of its products, the Company maintains an internal
quality control system supported by an on-site microbiology laboratory. We have
quality control inspectors who regularly test our products and processes and
shepherd the products through the manufacturing cycle. Outside consultants also
are employed from time to time to monitor product manufacturing and the
effectiveness of the Company's operations.
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The Company has not experienced any material adverse effect on its business as a
result of shortages of energy, raw materials or packaging materials used in the
manufacture of its products. Certain of our products contain specialized
ingredients that we obtain from international and domestic third party
suppliers. An unexpected interruption or a shortage in supply could adversely
affect our business derived from these products. We may not be able to raise
prices quickly enough to immediately offset the effects of any increase in the
costs of these specialized ingredients or fill customer orders in the event of a
supply shortage. At present, we do not foresee any significant problems in
obtaining our ingredients requirements at reasonable prices, but an unexpected
interruption or a shortage in supply could adversely affect our business in the
future.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
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The Company's product development expenditures were $1,664,000, $1,901,000, and
$1,839,000 in the fiscal years ended November 30, 2001, 2000 and 1999,
respectively. No material customer-sponsored product development activities were
undertaken during these periods. The Company expects product development
expenditures to increase in fiscal 2002 due to greater emphasis on developing
new products and line extension opportunities.
The product development effort focuses on developing improved formulations for
existing products and on the creation of formulations for product line
extensions. The preservation and improvement of the quality of the Company's
products are also integral parts of its overall strategy.
DISTRIBUTION
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The Company's domestic products are sold primarily through food, drug and mass
merchandiser accounts. Internationally, the products are sold by national
brokers in Canada and the United Kingdom and by distributors in Western Europe,
Central and South America and the Caribbean.
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. accounts for more than 10% of the Company's consolidated
net sales. No other customer accounts for more than 10% of consolidated net
sales. Boots Plc, a United Kingdom retailer, and Shoppers Drug Mart, a Canadian
retailer, account for more than 10% of the international consumer products
sales. On January 22, 2002 Kmart Corporation, a customer of the Company
representing approximately 5% of consolidated revenues, filed a petition under
Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. At the time of the filing,
Kmart Corporation owed the Company approximately $1,200,000. The Company is
assessing what impact, if any, this bankruptcy filing may have on future
operations. This bankruptcy filing did not impact the Company's results of
operations and financial position for fiscal 2001.
The Company generally maintains sufficient inventories to meet customer orders
as received, absent unusual and infrequent situations. At present, the Company
has no significant backlog of customer orders and is promptly meeting customer
requirements.
The Company does not generally experience wide variances in the amount of
inventory it maintains. Inventory levels were increased during fiscals 1996-1999
largely as a result of product acquisitions and line extensions in those years.
The decline in inventories in 2000 was largely the result of the sale of Ban and
write downs for DEXATRIM with PPA and SUNSOURCE inventories. Although not
contractually obligated to do so, in certain circumstances the Company allows
its customers to return unsold merchandise and, for seasonal products, the
Company provides extended payment terms to its customers.
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MARKETING
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The Company allocates a significant portion of its revenues to the advertising
and promotion of its products. Expenditures for these purposes were 39.3%,
42.3%, and 39.5%, respectively, as a percentage of net sales during each of the
fiscal years ended November 30, 2001, 2000 and 1999.
The Company's marketing objective is to develop and execute professionally
designed, creative and cost-effective advertising and promotional programs. The
manner in which the Company executes promotional programs and purchases
advertising time creates more flexibility in terms of adjusting spending levels.
The Company believes that balancing advertising, trade promotion and consumer
promotion expenditures on a cost-effective basis is essential to its ability to
compete successfully.
The Company develops for each of its major brands advertising strategies and
executions that sell the product by focusing on the particular strengths and
market position of the product rather than just entertaining the viewer. The
Company achieves cost-effective advertising by minimizing certain expenses, such
as production of commercials and payments to advertising agencies. Additionally,
working with its outside media agencies, the Company pursues a strategy for
buying spot, network and cable television as well us network radio that it
believes results in significant efficiencies as compared to traditional media
buying methods. New product launches are supported with a substantial level of
advertising and promotional spending. We occasionally use celebrity endorsements
to increase awareness of our products, such as Joe Montana's endorsement of
FLEXALL. Where appropriate, we use radio and print advertising and 10 and
15-second television advertisements. In our advertisements, we sometimes use
personal testimonials from individuals attesting to the effectiveness of our
products.
The Company works directly with retailers to develop promotional calendars and
campaigns for each brand that are customized to the particular requirements of
the individual retailer. The programs, which include cooperative advertising,
temporary price reductions, in-store displays and special events, are designed
to obtain or enhance distribution at the retail level and to reach the ultimate
consumers of the product. The Company also utilizes consumer promotions such as
coupons, samples and trial sizes to increase the trial and consumption of the
products.
COMPETITION
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The Company competes in the OTC health care market. This market is highly
competitive and is characterized by the frequent introduction of new products,
including the movement of prescription drugs to the OTC market, often
accompanied by major advertising and promotional programs. We compete primarily
on the basis of product quality, price, brand loyalty and consumer acceptance.
Our competitors include other OTC pharmaceutical companies and large consumer
products companies, many of which have considerably greater financial and
marketing resources than the Company. In addition, our competitors have often
been willing to use aggressive spending on trade promotions and advertising as a
strategy for building market share at the expense of their competitors,
including us. The private label or generic category has also become increasingly
competitive in certain of the Company's product markets. Our products continue
to compete for shelf space among retailers which are increasingly consolidating.
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TRADEMARKS AND PATENTS
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Our trademarks are of material importance to our business and are among our most
important assets. In fiscal 2001 substantially all of our net sales were from
products bearing proprietary brand names, including GOLD BOND, FLEXALL, ICY HOT,
ASPERCREME, PAMPRIN, GARLIQUE, PHISODERM, DEXATRIM and BULLFROG. Accordingly,
our future success may depend in part upon the goodwill associated with our
brand names, particularly GOLD BOND, ICY HOT and DEXATRIM.
Our principal brand names are registered in the United States and certain
foreign countries. However, we cannot assure you that the steps we take to
protect our proprietary rights in our brand names will be adequate to prevent
the misappropriation of these registered brand names in the United States or
abroad. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries do not protect
proprietary rights in brand names to the same extent as do the laws of the
United States.
Through our subsidiary, Signal Investment & Management Co., we maintain and have
applied for patent, trademark and copyright protection in the United States
relating to certain of our existing and proposed products and processes. We
cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully protect our intellectual
property, and the loss of our intellectual property protection could adversely
affect our business. Additionally, we license certain intellectual property from
third parties, and we cannot assure you that these third parties can
successfully maintain their intellectual property rights. The sales of certain
of our products rely on our ability to maintain and extend our licensing
agreements with third parties, and we cannot assure you that we will be
successful in maintaining these licensing agreements. If we lose the right to
use these licenses, our business could be adversely affected.
The Company also owns patents related to the ICY HOT stick topical analgesics,
which expire in 2007. After expiration of the patents, the Company expects that
this product will continue to compete in the market primarily on the basis of
the goodwill associated with the brand.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
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The manufacturing, distribution, processing, formulation, packaging, labeling
and advertising of the Company's products are subject to regulation by federal
agencies, including, but not limited to:
o the United States Food and Drug Administration ("FDA");
o the Federal Trade Commission ("FTC");
o the Consumer Product Safety Commission;
o the United States Department of Agriculture;
o the United States Postal Service;
o the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA"); and
o the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ("OSHA").
These activities are also regulated by various agencies of the states,
localities and foreign countries in which our products are sold. In particular,
the FDA regulates the safety, manufacturing, labeling and distribution of
dietary supplements, including vitamins, minerals and herbs, food additives, OTC
and prescription drugs, medical devices and cosmetics. The regulations that are
promulgated by the FDA relating to the manufacturing process are known as
current good manufacturing practices, or GMP's. In addition, the FTC has
overlapping jurisdiction with the FDA to regulate the promotion and advertising
of OTC pharmaceutical, dietary supplement and functional toiletries and skin
care products.
12
All of the Company's OTC drug products are regulated pursuant to the FDA's
monograph system for OTC drugs. The monographs set out the active ingredients
and labeling indications that are permitted for certain broad categories of OTC
drug products, such as topical analgesics. Compliance with the monograph
provisions means that the product is generally recognized as safe and effective
and is not misbranded. Products that comply with monograph standards do not
require pre-market approval from the FDA. Future changes in the monographs could
result in the Company having to revise product labeling and formulations, which
would require the submission of a new drug application or abbreviated new drug
application.
The Company responded to certain questions with respect to efficacy received
from the FDA in connection with clinical studies for pyrilamine maleate, one of
the active ingredients used in certain of the PAMPRIN and PREMSYN PMS products.
While the Company addressed all of the FDA questions in detail, the final
monograph for menstrual drug products, which has not yet been issued, will
determine if the FDA considers pyrilamine maleate safe and effective for
menstrual relief products. The Company has been actively monitoring the process
and does not believe that either PAMPRIN or PREMSYN PMS will be materially
adversely affected by the FDA review. The Company believes that any adverse
finding by the FDA would likewise affect the Company's principal competitors in
the menstrual product category. The Company is also aware of the FDA's concern
about the potential toxicity due to concomitant use of OTC and prescription
drugs that contain the ingredient acetaminophen, an ingredient also found in
PAMPRIN and PREMSYN PMS. The Company is participating in an industry-wide effort
to reassure the FDA that the current recommended dosing regimen is safe and
effective and that proper labeling and public education by both OTC and
prescription drug companies are the best policies to abate the FDA's concern.
There can be no assurance what action, if any, the FDA may take with respect to
acetaminophen.
The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 ("DSHEA") was enacted on
October 25, 1994. DSHEA amends the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act by
defining dietary supplements, which include vitamins, mineral, nutritional
supplements, herbs and botanicals, as a new category of food separate from
conventional food. DSHEA provides a regulatory framework to ensure safe, quality
dietary supplements and to foster the dissemination of accurate information
about such products. Under DSHEA, the FDA is generally prohibited from
regulating dietary supplements as food additives or as drugs unless product
claims, such as claims that a product may diagnose, mitigate, cure or prevent an
illness, disease or malady, permit the FDA to attach drug status to a product.
DSHEA provides for specific nutritional labeling requirements for dietary
supplements. DSHEA permits substantiated, truthful and non-misleading statements
of nutritional support to be made in labeling, such as statements describing
general well-being resulting from consumption of a dietary ingredient or the
role of a nutrient or dietary ingredient in affecting or maintaining a structure
or function of the body. The FDA has adopted a final regulation, effective
February 7, 2000, distinguishing between permitted claims and impermissible
disease-related claims for dietary supplements. The Company anticipates that the
FDA will promulgate GMPs which are specific to dietary supplements and require
at least some of the quality control provisions contained in the GMPs for drugs,
which are more rigorous than the GMPs for foods.
13
The FDA has finalized some of its regulations to implement DSHEA, including
those relating to nutritional labeling requirements and nutritional support
claims. The FDA also has under development additional regulations and guidelines
to implement DSHEA. Newly adopted and future regulations may require expanded or
different labeling for our vitamin and nutritional products. We cannot determine
what effect these regulations, when fully implemented, will have on our business
in the future. These regulations could require the recall, reformulation or
discontinuance of certain products, additional recordkeeping, warnings,
notification procedures and expanded documentation of the properties of certain
products and scientific substantiation regarding ingredients, product claims and
safety. Failure to comply with applicable FDA requirements can result in
sanctions being imposed on the Company or the manufacture of our products,
including warning letters, product recalls and seizures, injunctions or criminal
prosecution.
As part of its regulatory authority, the FDA may periodically conduct audits of
the physical facilities, machinery, processes and procedures that we and our
competitors use to manufacture products. The FDA may perform these audits at any
time without advanced notice. As a result of these audits, the FDA may order us
to make certain changes in our manufacturing facilities and processes. We may be
required to make additional expenditures to comply with these orders or possibly
discontinue selling certain products until we comply with these orders. As a
result, our business could be adversely affected. In December 1998, the FDA
conducted an inspection of one of our manufacturing facilities in Chattanooga,
Tennessee. In connection with that inspection, the FDA observed certain
processes and procedures that needed to be changed or improved. The Company has
responded to the FDA's concerns and believes that it has implemented changes
that address and satisfy the FDA's observations. In 2001 the FDA made another
inspection of our manufacturing facilities in Chattanooga, Tennessee; no major
violations of GMP's were noted at that time.
In 1994 the Nonprescription Drug Manufacturers Association (now the Consumer
Healthcare Products Association ("CHPA")) initiated a large scale study in
conjunction with the Yale University School of Medicine to investigate a
possible association, if any, of stroke in women aged 18 to 49 using PPA, the
active ingredient in certain of the DEXATRIM products (the "Yale Study"). PPA is
also used in other over-the-counter medications which were also part of the
study. In May 2000 the results of the Yale Study were filed with the FDA. The
investigators concluded that the results of the Yale Study suggest that PPA
increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. The FDA indicated at that time that no
immediate action was required and scheduled an FDA advisory panel to meet in
October 2000 to discuss the results of this study. The CHPA questioned the
execution of the Yale Study and disagreed with its conclusions.
On October 19, 2000 a Nonprescription Drugs Advisory Committee ("NDAC"),
commissioned by the FDA to review the safety of PPA, determined that there is an
association between PPA and hemorrhagic stroke and recommended that PPA not be
considered generally recognized as safe for OTC use as a nasal decongestant or
for weight control. In response to a request from the FDA to voluntarily cease
marketing DEXATRIM with PPA, the Company announced on November 7, 2000 its
decision to immediately cease shipping DEXATRIM with PPA and to accept product
returns from any retailers who decide to discontinue marketing DEXATRIM with
PPA. To date, the FDA has not issued any final determination concerning PPA or
products containing PPA.
The Company has been named as a defendant in approximately 115 lawsuits alleging
that the plaintiffs were injured as a result of ingestion of products containing
PPA, which until November 2000 was the active ingredient in certain of the
Company's DEXATRIM products. Most of the lawsuits seek an unspecified amount of
compensatory and exemplary damages. None of these suits has been certified as a
14
class action. Approximately 40% of these suits represent cases in which the
Company is being defended and indemnified from liability by The DELACO Company,
Inc., successor to Thompson Medical from which the Company acquired DEXATRIM in
December 1998.
Certain countries, states and localities have enacted, or are considering
enacting, restrictions on the sale of products that contain PPA, synthetic
ephedrine or naturally-occurring sources of ephedrine. These restrictions
include the prohibition of OTC sales, required warnings or labeling statements,
recordkeeping and reporting requirements, the prohibition of sales to minors,
per-transaction limits on the quantity of product that may be purchased and
limitations on advertising and promotion. In such countries, states or
localities these restrictions could adversely affect the sale of DEXATRIM
Natural, which contains naturally-occurring sources of ephedrine. Failure to
comply with these restrictions could also lead to regulatory enforcement action,
including the seizure of violative products, product recalls, civil or criminal
fines or other penalties. The enactment of these restrictions, the perceived
safety concerns relating to ephedrine and the possibility of further regulatory
action increases the likelihood that claims relating to the existence of
naturally-occurring sources of ephedrine in DEXATRIM Natural will be filed
against the Company. In late 2000 the FDA requested the National Institutes of
Health to commission a review of the safety and efficacy of ephedrine in herbal
products used to control weight. This review is assumed to be retrospective in
nature and will be based on all adverse events, records and scientific data
available to the reviewers. It is expected that the report will be issued in
early Fall of 2002. On September 5, 2001 The Public Citizens Health Research
Group petitioned the FDA to ban the production and sale of dietary supplements
containing ephedrine alkaloids. As of February 22, 2002 the FDA had taken no
action in regard to this petition.
The Company was notified in October, 2000 that the FDA denied the citizens
petition submitted by Thompson Medical, previous owner of SPORTSCREME and
ASPERCREME, seeking a determination that 10% trolamine salicylate was clinically
proven to be an effective active ingredient in external analgesic OTC drug
products, and thus should be included in the FDA's yet-to-be finalized monograph
for external analgesics. The Company has met with the FDA and submitted a
proposed protocol study to evaluate the efficacy of 10% trolamine salicylate as
an active ingredient in OTC external analgesic drug products. Based on comments
received from the FDA at the meeting, the Company may revise and resubmit the
protocol. After final comments from the FDA, the Company expects that it will
take one to two years to produce the clinical data for FDA review. Although
unlikely, the FDA could finalize the OTC external analgesic monograph before the
protocol and clinical data results are finalized, which would place 10%
trolamine salicylate in non-monograph status, thus requiring the submission of a
new drug application to market and sell OTC products with 10% trolamine
salicylate. The Company is working to develop alternate formulations for
SPORTSCREME and ASPERCREME in the event that the FDA does not consider the
available clinical data to conclusively demonstrate the efficacy of trolamine
salicylate when the OTC external analgesic monograph is finalized. The Company
is also reviewing the option of marketing SPORTSCREME and ASPERCREME as
homeopathic products.
ENVIRONMENTAL
- -------------
The Company continuously assesses compliance of its operations with applicable
federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations. The Company's
policy is to record liabilities for environmental matters when loss amounts are
probable and reasonably determinable. The Company's manufacturing sites utilize
chemicals and other potentially hazardous materials and generate both hazardous
and non-hazardous waste, the transportation, treatment, storage and disposal of
which are regulated by various government agencies, and has engaged
environmental consultants on a regular basis to assist its compliance efforts.
The Company is currently in substantial compliance with all applicable
environmental permits and is aware of its responsibilities under applicable
environmental laws. Any expenditures necessitated by changes in law and
permitting requirements cannot be predicted at this time, although such costs
are not expected to be material to the Company's financial position or results
of operations.
15
Since the early 1980's, the EPA has been investigating the extent of, and the
health effects resulting from, contamination of Chattanooga Creek, which runs
through a major manufacturing area of Chattanooga in the vicinity of the
Company's manufacturing facilities. The contamination primarily stems from the
dumping of coal tar into the creek during World War II when the federal
government was leasing and operating a coke and chemical plant adjacent to the
creek. However, the EPA has been investigating virtually all businesses that
have discharged any wastewater into the creek. A 2 1/2 mile stretch of
Chattanooga Creek was placed on the National Priorities List as a Superfund site
under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Recovery Act in
September of 1995 and remediation of the creek bed commenced in mid-1997. The
Company could be named as a potentially responsible party in connection with
such site due to the Company's historical discharge of wastewater into the
creek. However, considering the nature of the Company's wastewater, as well as
the fact that the Company's discharge point is downstream from the old coke and
chemical plant that was operated by the government, and the availability of
legal defenses and expected cost sharing, the Company does not believe that any
liability associated with such site will be material to its financial position
or results of operations.
PRODUCT LIABILITY AND INSURANCE
- -------------------------------
An inherent risk of the Company's business is exposure to product liability
claims brought by users of the Company's products or by others. Except as set
forth in Item 3, "Legal Proceedings", of this Form 10-K or elsewhere in this
Form 10-K, the Company is not aware of any material claims pending or threatened
against the Company or its products that if adversely decided would negatively
affect us. While the Company will continue to attempt to take what it considers
to be appropriate precautions, there can be no assurance that it will avoid
significant product liability exposure. The Company maintains product liability
insurance, principally through third party insurers, that provides coverage for
product liability claims, including those asserted in the lawsuits currently
pending and anticipated to be filed against the Company relating to the
existence of PPA in DEXATRIM. There can be no assurance that current insurance
covering the DEXATRIM with PPA litigation will be sufficient to cover all such
claims or that these claims will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's results of operations for some period or on the Company's financial
position. The existence of these lawsuits and potential regulatory concerns
relating to the existence of ephedrine in DEXATRIM Natural have decreased the
availability, increased the cost and limited the coverage afforded of product
liability insurance to the Company. At present, the Company has much lower
levels of product liability coverage than it did for PPA claims. This coverage
expires on May 31, 2002. There can be no assurance that the existing amounts and
scope of coverage are sufficient to satisfy future claims, if any, against the
Company or that the Company will be able to obtain coverage in the future that
is sufficient to satisfy any future claims.
EMPLOYEES
- ---------
The Company employs approximately 373 persons on a full-time basis in the United
States and 35 persons at its foreign subsidiaries' offices. The Company's
employees are not represented by any organized labor union, and management
considers its labor relations to be good.
RISK FACTORS
- ------------
The Company's business is subject to a number of risks. Some of those risks are
described in "Competition," "Governmental Regulation", "Environmental" and
"Manufacturing and Quality Control" included in this Form 10-K. In addition to
the other information contained in this Form 10-K, the following risk factors
should be carefully considered.
PRODUCT LIABILITY AND INSURANCE
-------------------------------
The Company is constantly at risk that consumers and users of its products will
bring lawsuits alleging product liability. Except as disclosed in Item 3, "Legal
Proceedings", of this Form 10-K or elsewhere in this Form 10-K, the Company is
not aware of any claims pending against it or its products that if adversely
decided would materially adversely effect its business. While the Company will
continue to attempt to take what it considers to be appropriate precautions,
there can be no assurance that these precautions will enable the Company to
avoid significant product liability exposure in the future. The Company
maintains product
16
liability insurance, principally through third party insurers, that provides
coverage for product liability claims, including those asserted in the lawsuits
currently pending and anticipated to be filed against the Company relating to
the existence of PPA in DEXATRIM. There can be no assurance that current
insurance covering the DEXATRIM with PPA litigation will be sufficient to cover
all such claims or that these claims will not have a material adverse effect on
the Company's results of operations for some period or on the Company's
financial position. The existence of these lawsuits and potential regulatory
concerns relating to the existence of ephedrine in DEXATRIM Natural have
decreased the availability, increased the cost and limited the coverage afforded
of product liability insurance to the Company. At present, the Company has much
lower levels of product liability coverage than it did for PPA claims. This
coverage expires on May 31, 2002. There can be no assurance that the existing
amounts and scope of coverage are sufficient to satisfy future claims, if any,
against the Company or that the Company will be able to obtain coverage in the
future that is sufficient to satisfy future claims.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
---------------------
Certain countries, states and localities have enacted, or are considering
enacting, restrictions on the sale of products that contain PPA, synthetic
ephedrine or naturally-occurring sources of ephedrine. These restrictions
include the prohibition of OTC sales, required warnings or labeling statements,
recordkeeping and reporting requirements, the prohibition of sales to minors,
per-transaction limits on the quantity of product that may be purchased, and
limitations on advertising and promotion. In such countries, states or
localities these restrictions could adversely affect the sale of DEXATRIM
Natural, which contains naturally-occurring sources of ephedrine. Failure to
comply with these restrictions could also lead to regulatory enforcement action,
including the seizure of violative products, product recalls, civil or criminal
fines or other penalties. The enactment of these restrictions, the perceived
safety concerns relating to ephedrine and the possibility of further regulatory
action increases the likelihood that claims relating to the existence of
naturally-occurring sources of ephedrine in DEXATRIM Natural will be filed
against the Company. In late 2000 the FDA requested the National Institutes of
Health to commission a review of the safety and efficacy of ephedrine in herbal
products used to control weight. This review is assumed to be retrospective in
nature and will be based on all adverse events, records and scientific data
available to the reviewers. It is expected that the report will be issued in
early Fall of 2002. On September 5, 2001 The Public Citizens Health Research
Group petitioned the FDA to ban the production and sale of dietary supplements
containing ephedrine alkaloids. As of February 22, 2002 the FDA had taken no
action in regard to this petition.
RISKS RELATED TO POTENTIAL FUTURE ACQUISITIONS
----------------------------------------------
Future acquisitions by the Company could result in the incurrence of substantial
additional indebtedness, which could adversely affect the Company's business,
financial condition and results of operations. Acquisitions involve numerous
risks, including difficulties in integrating the operations, technologies,
services and products of the acquired companies and the diversion of
management's attention from other business concerns. If the Company makes any
acquisitions, there can be no assurance that those acquisitions will be
successful or that its business will not be adversely affected.
Much of the Company's future growth depends on its ability to complete
additional acquisitions, although the Company has not completed an acquisition
since the December 1998 purchase of products from Thompson Medical. There can be
no assurance that the Company will be able either to identify qualified
acquisition candidates or successfully integrate any of its future acquisitions
into its operations. There can be no assurance that the Company will complete
any future acquisitions or that acquisitions will contribute favorably to the
Company's operations and financial condition.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RISKS
-------------------------
The Company's future growth is also dependent on new product development. New
product initiatives may not be successfully implemented because of difficulty in
assimilation, development costs and diversion of management time. The Company
evaluates opportunities to develop new products through product line extensions
and product modifications in the ordinary course of its business. Product line
extensions and product modifications involve numerous risks, including
difficulties in the assimilation of the developed
17
products, the expenses incurred in connection with the product development and
the diversion of management's attention from other business concerns. There can
be no assurance that the Company will successfully develop product line
extensions or integrate newly developed products into the Company's business. In
addition, there can be no assurance that newly developed products will
contribute favorably to the Company's operations and financial condition.
RELIANCE ON BRANDS; INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CONCERNS
--------------------------------------------------
If the Company is unable to successfully protect its intellectual property, the
Company's business could be adversely affected. The Company's trademarks are of
material importance to its business and are among its most important assets. In
fiscal year 2001 substantially all of the Company's net sales were from products
bearing proprietary brand names, including GOLD BOND, FLEXALL, ICY HOT,
ASPERCREME, PAMPRIN, GARLIQUE, PHISODERM and DEXATRIM. Accordingly, the
Company's future success may depend in part upon the goodwill associated with
its brand names, particularly GOLD BOND, ICY HOT and DEXATRIM.
The Company's principal brand names are registered in the United States and
certain foreign countries. However, there can be no assurance that the steps the
Company takes to protect its proprietary rights in its brand names will be
adequate to prevent the misappropriation of these registered brand names in the
United States or abroad. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries do not
protect proprietary rights in brand names to the same extent as do the laws of
the United States.
Through its subsidiary, Signal Investment & Management Co., the Company
maintains or has applied for patent, trademark and copyright protection in the
United States relating to certain of its existing and proposed products and
processes. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to
successfully protect its intellectual property or that patents, trademarks or
copyrights will be granted with respect to intellectual property that the
Company believes is proprietary, and the loss of its intellectual property
protection could adversely affect the Company's business. Additionally, the
Company licenses certain intellectual property from third parties, and there can
be no assurance that these third parties can successfully maintain their
intellectual property rights. The sale of certain of the Company's products rely
on its ability to maintain and extend its licensing agreements with third
parties, and there can be no assurance that we will be successful in maintaining
these licensing agreements. If the Company loses the right to use these
licenses, its business could be adversely affected.
RISK OF LOSS OF MATERIAL CUSTOMERS
----------------------------------
For the year ended November 30, 2001 sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. ("Wal-Mart")
accounted for approximately 26% of the Company's total sales. Consistent with
industry practice, the Company does not operate under a long-term written supply
contract with Wal-Mart or any of its other customers. The Company's business
would be adversely affected by the loss of Wal-Mart as a continuing major
customer. No other customer accounted for more than 10% of the Company's sales
in fiscal 2001. On January 22, 2002 Kmart Corporation, a customer of the Company
representing approximately 5% of consolidated revenues, filed a petition under
Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. At the time of the filing Kmart
Corporation owed the Company approximately $1,200,000. The Company is assessing
what impact, if any, this bankruptcy filing may have on future operations. This
bankruptcy filing did not impact the Company's results of operations and
financial position for fiscal 2001.
PUBLIC PERCEPTION
-----------------
The Company's dietary supplement and appetite suppressant business could be
adversely affected if any of its products or similar products distributed by
other companies prove to be harmful to consumers or if scientific studies
provide unfavorable findings regarding the safety or effectiveness of its
products or any similar products. In 2000 the NDAC report and the FDA request
that the Company voluntarily cease marketing DEXATRIM with PPA were widely
reported in the media. There can be no assurance that DEXATRIM products which do
not contain PPA will not suffer from negative public perception, which could
adversely affect the ongoing DEXATRIM business.
18
The Company's dietary supplements products contain vitamins, minerals, herbs and
other ingredients that the Company regards as safe when taken as directed by the
Company and that various scientific studies have suggested may offer health
benefits. While the Company conducts extensive quality control testing on its
products, the Company generally does not conduct or sponsor clinical studies
relating to the benefits of its products, although the Company did conduct a
limited number of clinical studies in 2000. The Company is highly dependent upon
consumers' perception of the overall integrity of the dietary supplements
business, as well as the safety and quality of products in that industry and
similar products distributed by other companies which may not adhere to the same
quality standards as the Company.
In the past, appetite suppressants, including DEXATRIM, have been the subject of
negative press that has affected the public's perception of these products. The
Company will market and advertise DEXATRIM that does not contain PPA as safe and
effective when taken as directed to offset its past negative perception, but
there can be no assurance that DEXATRIM or any of the Company's products will
not suffer from negative public perception.
DEPENDENCE ON THIRD PARTY MANUFACTURERS
---------------------------------------
The Company's business could be adversely affected if its third party
manufacturers cease to perform satisfactorily. The Company uses third party
manufacturers to make products representing approximately 35% of its sales
volume, including GOLD BOND medicated powders, HERPECIN-L, DEXATRIM, ICY HOT
Patch and the SUNSOURCE line. In most cases, the manufacturer is not obligated
under a contract that fixes the term of its commitment. Manufacturers may
experience problems with product quality or timeliness of product delivery.
Manufacturers may also discontinue production of products for the Company or
increase their manufacturing costs upon little or no advance notice. In any
case, the Company believes that it could find other contract manufacturers
quickly if any of its current contractors cease to perform adequately. However,
if this occurs and the Company cannot find other contract manufacturers, the
Company may be forced to shift production to in-house facilities. This may cause
manufacturing delays, which would cause disruption in the Company's ability to
fill orders. This could adversely affect the Company's business.
LEVERAGE
--------
As of November 30, 2001, the Company's long-term debt was $204,740,000. The
degree to which the Company is leveraged could have important consequences,
including, but not limited to, the following: (i) the Company's ability to
obtain additional financing in the future for working capital, capital
expenditures, acquisitions, general corporate purposes or other purposes may be
limited or become impaired; (ii) while the Company's indebtedness is currently
at fixed interest rates, in the future a portion of the Company's borrowings may
be at variable rates of interest, which could result in higher interest expenses
in the event of increases in interest rates; and (iii) such indebtedness
contains and will contain financial and restrictive covenants, the failure to
comply with which may result in an event of default which, if not cured or
waived, could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
DEPENDENCE ON SENIOR MANAGEMENT
-------------------------------
The Company's future performance will depend to a significant degree upon the
efforts and abilities of certain members of senior management, in particular
those of Zan Guerry, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, and A.
Alexander Taylor, II, President and Chief Operating Officer. The loss of the
services of either Messrs. Guerry or Taylor, each of whom has an employment
agreement with the Company, could have an adverse effect on the Company's
business.
RISKS OF FOREIGN OPERATIONS
---------------------------
For the year ended November 30, 2001, 8.3% of the Company's net sales were
attributable to its international business. The Company is subject to the risk
of doing business internationally, including unexpected changes in, or
impositions of, legislative or regulatory requirements, fluctuations in the
United States dollar against foreign currencies, which could increase the price
of the Company's products in foreign markets or increase the cost of certain raw
materials purchased by the Company, delays resulting from
19
difficulty in obtaining export licenses, tariffs and other barriers and
restrictions, potentially longer payment cycles, greater difficulty in accounts
receivable collection, potentially adverse tax treatment and the burden of
complying with a variety of foreign laws. In addition, the Company is subject to
general geopolitical risks, such as political and economic instability and
changes in diplomatic and trade relationships, which could affect, among other
things, customers' inventory levels and consumer purchasing. Although the
Company has not to date experienced any material adverse effect as a result of
such factors, there can be no assurance that such factors will not adversely
affect the Company in the future. In addition, the laws of certain foreign
countries may not protect the Company's intellectual property rights to the same
extent as the laws of the United States.
VOLATILITY OF STOCK PRICE
-------------------------
The trading price of the common stock could be subject to significant
fluctuations in response to variations in the results of the Company's
operations, its leveraged financial position, general trends in the consumer
products industry, the relative illiquidity of the Company's common stock and
stock market conditions generally.
DIVIDEND POLICY
---------------
The Company presently intends to retain its earnings, if any, for use in its
operations and repayment of outstanding indebtedness and has no current
intention of paying dividends to the holders of common stock.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
- -------------------
The Company's headquarter and administrative offices are located at 1715 West
38th Street, Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Company's primary production facilities
are in close proximity to the Company's headquarters on land owned by the
Company. The Company leases its primary warehouse and distribution centers in
Chattanooga, Tennessee for its domestic consumer products. The following table
describes in detail the principal properties owned and leased by the Company:
Total Area Total Buildings Square
(Acres) (Square Feet) Use Feet
------- ------------- ------------------------ ------
Owned Properties:
Chattanooga, Tennessee 10.0 120,700 Manufacturing 80,000
Office & Administration 40,700
Chattanooga, Tennessee 8.3 68,300 Manufacturing
& Warehousing 58,100
Office 10,200
Leased Properties:
Chattanooga, Tennessee (1) 5.0 135,200 Warehousing 103,800
Chattanooga, Tennessee (2) 0.1 3,800 Warehousing &
Manufacturing 35,200
Chattanooga, Tennessee (3) 5.0 50,000 Warehousing 49,300
Office 700
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (4) 0.3 20,015 Warehousing 15,515
Office & Administration 3,000
Packaging 1,500
Basingstoke, Hampshire, England (5) 0.5 21,900 Warehousing 13,900
Office & Administration 6,500
Packaging 1,500
20
NOTES:
(1) Leased on a month-to-month basis for a monthly rental of $26,533. A twelve
month termination notice is required.
(2) Leased on a month-to-month basis for a monthly rental of $1,575.
(3) Leased under a one year lease ending December 31, 2001, with two one year
term renewal options, for a monthly rental of $12,500. The first one year
renewal option has been exercised.
(4) Leased under a lease ending November 30, 2004 at a monthly rental,
including property taxes and other incidentals, of approximately $8,461.
(5) Leased under leases ending in 2014 and 2015 at a monthly rental, including
property taxes and other incidentals, of approximately $15,882.
The Company is currently operating its facilities at approximately 70% of total
capacity. These facilities are FDA registered and are capable of further
utilization through the use of a full-time second shift and the addition of a
third shift.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
- -------------------------
Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements on page 40 of the
Company's 2001 Annual Report to Shareholders is incorporated herein by
reference.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
- ------------------------------------------------------------
None.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
MATTERS
-------
The information found on pages 23 and 37 to 40 of the Company's 2001 Annual
Report to Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.
The Company has not paid dividends on its stock during the past two fiscal
years. The Company is restricted from paying dividends by the terms of the
indenture under which the 8.875% Notes were issued. (See Note 4 of Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements).
In fiscal 2001 the Company issued 50,000 shares of restricted common stock to
each of Zan Guerry and A. Alexander Taylor II, in accordance with the terms of a
restricted stock agreement. The issuance of these shares of common stock was
exempt from registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
- --------------------------------
The information found on page 22 of the Company's 2001 Annual Report to
Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OF OPERATIONS
-------------
The information found on pages 12 to 21 of the Company's 2001 Annual Report to
Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Not applicable.
21
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
- ----------------------------------------------------
The consolidated balance sheets as of November 30, 2001 and 2000 and the
consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each
of the three years in the period ended November 30, 2001 together with the
report of independent public accountants (which includes an explanatory
paragraph that describes an accounting change discussed in Note 2 to the
financial statements) contained on pages 22 through 56 of the Company's 2001
Annual Report to Stockholders are incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
--------------------
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
- -----------------------------------------------------------
(a) Directors
The information found in the Company's 2002 Proxy Statement under the
heading "Information about Nominees and Continuing Directors" is hereby
incorporated by reference.
(b) Executive Officers
The following table lists the names of the executive officers and other
key employees of the Company as of February 22, 2002, their ages, their
positions and offices with the Company and the year in which they were first
elected or appointed to these positions:
NAME AGE POSITION WITH REGISTRANT FIRST ELECTED
- -------------------------- --- ------------------------ -------------
Zan Guerry 53 Chairman of the Board and 1990
Chief Executive Officer; Director
A. Alexander Taylor II 48 President and Chief Operating Officer; 1998
Director
Andrea M. Crouch 43 Vice-President - Brand Management 1995
Ron Galante 57 Vice-President - New Business Development 1993
Richard W. Kornhauser 47 Vice-President - Brand Management 2000
Luke J. Lenahan 52 Vice-President - International 2002
Robert S. Marshall 36 Vice-President - Marketing 2000
B. Derrill Pitts 58 Vice-President - Operations 1984
Donald K. Riker, Ph.D. 56 Vice-President - Research and Development 2001
and Chief Scientific Officer
Scott J. Sloat 39 Controller 2002
Charles M. Stafford 51 Vice-President - Sales 1994
22
Mr. Guerry has served as Chairman of the Board since June 1990 and as Chief
Executive Officer since January 1998. Previously he served as Vice-President and
Chief Financial Officer from 1980 until 1983, as Executive Vice-President from
1983 to 1990, as President of Chattem Consumer Products from 1989 to 1994, as
Chief Operating Officer from 1989 to 1990 and as President of the Company from
1990 to 1998. Mr. Guerry was first elected as a director of the Company in 1981.
Mr. Taylor was elected to his present positions with the Company in January
1998. Previously he was a partner from 1983 to 1998 with the law firm Miller &
Martin LLP, general counsel to the Company. Mr. Taylor was first elected as a
director of the Company in 1993.
Ms. Crouch joined the Company in 1985 as an Assistant Brand Manager. In 1995 she
was named to her current position. Previously she worked with Hayes
Microcomputer Products and Arthur Andersen LLP. She was denoted an executive
officer of the Company in January 1999.
Mr. Galante was appointed to his present position with the Company in June 1993.
Previously he served as General Manager of Chattem (Canada) Inc. from June 1990
until May 1993 and as Director of Marketing for many of the Company's domestic
brands from 1980 until 1993. He was denoted an executive officer of the Company
in January 1999.
Mr. Kornhauser joined the Company in 2000 as Vice-President - Brand Management.
Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Kornhauser served as Vice-President Group
Marketing Director with Combe Incorporated from October 1990 until May 2000.
Previously he held sales, marketing and advertising positions with American Home
Products, Revlon, Ted Bates and Del Laboratories.
Mr. Lenahan joined the Company in February 2002 as Vice-President -
International. Prior to joining the Company he was Vice-President-Marketing with
Johnson & Johnson KK in Tokyo, Japan from 1994 to 2001. Previously he held
similar international positions with Combe Incorporated and Procter & Gamble.
Mr. Marshall joined the Company in 1994 as a Brand Manager. In 1995 he was
promoted to Group Marketing Manager in Toiletries, in 1996 to Vice-President-OTC
Marketing and in 2000 to his current position. Previously he worked in brand
management at Procter & Gamble. He was denoted an executive officer of the
Company in January 1999.
Mr. Pitts is a long-term employee and has served in all manufacturing operation
disciplines since joining Chattem in 1962. He was promoted to Vice-President in
1984 and was denoted an executive officer of the Company in January 1999.
Dr. Riker joined the Company in 2001 as Vice-President-Research and Development
and Chief Scientific Officer. Prior to joining the Company, Dr. Riker was
employed by Richardson-Vicks/Procter & Gamble from 1982 to 2001 in various
research capacities, the last of which was as P&G Fellow, Personal Health Care.
Mr. Sloat, a Certified Public Accountant, joined the Company in 2001 as
Controller and was denoted an executive officer of the Company in 2002.
Previously he had served in corporate accounting and controller positions with
several companies. He had also been an Audit Manager with the international
public accounting firm of Touche, Ross & Co. (currently Deloitte & Touche LLP.)
Mr. Stafford was appointed to his present position in June 1994. Previously he
served as Director of Field Sales and Zone Sales Manager. Prior to joining the
Company in 1983, Mr. Stafford held sales management positions with Johnson &
Johnson and Schering Plough. He was denoted an executive officer of the Company
in January 1999.
(c) Compliance with Section 16 (a) of the Exchange Act
The information found in the Company's 2002 Proxy Statement under the
heading "Section 16 (a) Beneficial Reporting Compliance" is hereby
incorporated by reference.
23
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
- --------------------------------
The information found in the Company's 2002 Proxy Statement under the heading
"Executive Compensation and Other Information" is hereby incorporated by
reference.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
The information found in the Company's 2002 Proxy Statement under the heading
"Voting Securities and Principal Holders Thereof" is hereby incorporated by
reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
- -------------------------------------------------------
None.
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORT ON FORMS 8-K
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) 1. The consolidated financial statements and the related report of
independent public accountants required to be filed with this Form
10-K are incorporated by reference from pages 24 to 56 of the
Company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders.
2. The following documents are filed or incorporated by reference as
exhibits to this report:
Exhibit
Number Description of Exhibit References
------ ---------------------- ----------
3 Restated Charter of Chattem, Inc., as amended (10)
Amended and Restated By-Laws of Chattem, Inc. (1)
4 Rights Agreement dated January 27, 2000 between
Chattem, Inc. and SunTrust Bank, Atlanta, N.A. (2)
Form of Indenture dated March 24, 1998 between
Chattem, Inc. and SouthTrust Bank of Alabama,
N.A. relating to the 8.875% Senior Subordinated
Notes due 2008 (3)
First Amendment and Supplemental Indenture dated
January 3, 2001 to Form of Indenture dated March
24, 1998 between Chattem, Inc. and SouthTrust Bank
of Alabama, N.A. relating to the 8.875% Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2008. (12)
10 Material Contracts -
Lease Agreements, as amended, dated February 1,
1996 between Tammy Development Company and Chattem,
Inc. for warehouse space at 3100 Williams Street,
Chattanooga, Tennessee (4) and (5)
Asset Purchase Agreement dated June 6, 1996 between
Campbell Laboratories, Inc., seller, and Chattem, Inc.
and Signal Investment & Management Co., purchasers,
for the HERPECIN-L business (5)
Asset Purchase and Sale Agreement dated May 23,
1997 by and among Chattem, Inc., Signal Investment &
Management Co., and Sunsource International, Inc.
and Mindbody, Inc. (without schedules and exhibits)
for the SUNSOURCE business (6)
24
Exhibit
Number Description of Exhibit References
------ ---------------------- ----------
10 First Amended and Restated Master
Trademark License Agreement between
Signal Investment & Management Co.
and Chattem, Inc., effective
June 30, 1992 (7)
Chattem, Inc. Non-Statutory Stock
Option Plan- 1998 (7)
Commercial Lease dated April 1, 1998
between Chattem, Inc., lessee, and Kenco
Group, Inc., lessor, for warehouse space
Located at 4309 Distribution Avenue, (8)
Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Purchase and Sale Agreement dated
November 16, 1998 by and among Thompson
Medical Company, Inc., Chattem, Inc. and
Signal Investment & Management Co. for
certain products (9)
Termination Agreement dated November 30,
1999 to SUNSOURCE Asset Purchase and Sale
Agreement dated May 23, 1997 (10)
Chattem, Inc. Non-Statutory Stock Option
Plan - 2000 (10)
Asset Sale Agreement dated August 24,
2000 by and among The Andrew Jergens
Company, Chattem, Inc. and Signal
Investment & Management Co. for the Ban
business. (11)
Form of Employment Agreements-
Zan Guerry
A. Alexander Taylor II (12)
Form of Amended and Restated Severance
Agreements-
Zan Guerry
A. Alexander Taylor II (12)
Form of Amended and Restated Non-
Competition and Severance Agreements-
Andrea M. Crouch
Ron Galante
Luke J. Lenahan
Richard W. Kornhauser
Robert S. Marshall
B. Derrill Pitts
Don K. Riker
Charles M. Stafford (12)
25
Exhibit
Number Description of Exhibit References
------ ---------------------- ----------
10 Form of Restricted Stock Agreements -
Zan Guerry
A. Alexander Taylor II
Loan Agreement dated June 21, 2001 by
and among Bank of America, N.A., as
Lender, and Chattem, Inc. and Signal
Investment and Management Co. as
Borrowers, for Revolving Credit Loans
not to Exceed $10,000,000
11 Statement Regarding Computation of Per
Share Earnings
13 2001 Annual Report to Shareholders of
Chattem, Inc.
21 Subsidiaries of the Company
23 Consent of Independent Public
Accountants
27 Report of Independent Public Accountants
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying
Accounts
26
References:
Previously filed as an exhibit to and incorporated by reference from:
(1) Form 8-K dated February 1, 2000.
(2) Form 8-A dated February 1, 2000.
(3) Form S-4/A Registration Statement (No. 333-53627).
(4) Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 1995.
(5) Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 1996.
(6) Form 8-K dated June 26, 1997.
(7) Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 1997.
(8) Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 1998.
(9) Form 8-K dated December 21, 1998.
(10) Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 1999.
(11) Form 8-K dated September 15, 2000.
(12) Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2000.
(b) No reports on Form 8-K were filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission during the three months ended November 30, 2001.
27
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Dated: February 22, 2002 CHATTEM, INC.
By: /s/ Zan Guerry
--------------------------------------
Zan Guerry
Title: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/Scott J. Sloat
---------------------------------------
Scott J. Sloat
Title: Controller (Principal Financial Officer)
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in
the capacities and on the dates indicated:
Signature Title Date
--------- ----- ----
/s/ Zan Guerry Chairman of the Board 2-22-02
- --------------------------- and Director
Zan Guerry (Chief Executive Officer)
/s/ A. Alexander Taylor II President and Director 2-22-02
- --------------------------- (Chief Operating Officer)
A. Alexander Taylor II
/s/ Samuel E. Allen Director 2-22-02
- ---------------------------
Samuel E. Allen
/s/ Louis H. Barnett Director 2-22-02
- ---------------------------
Louis H. Barnett
/s/ Robert E. Bosworth Director 2-22-02
- ---------------------------
Robert E. Bosworth
/s/ Richard E. Cheney Director 2-22-02
- ---------------------------
Richard E. Cheney
/s/ Scott L. Probasco, Jr. Director 2-22-02
- ---------------------------
Scott L. Probasco, Jr.
/s/ Philip H. Sanford Director 2-22-02
- ---------------------------
Philip H. Sanford
28
CHATTEM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT
------ ----------------------
10.1 Form of Restricted Stock Agreement-
Zan Guerry
A. Alexander Taylor II
10.2 Loan Agreement dated June 21, 2001 by and among
Bank of America, N.A., as Lender, and Chattem,
Inc. and Signal Investment & Management Co., as
Borrowers, for Revolving Credit Loans not to
Exceed $10,000,000
11 Statement Regarding Computation of Per Share Earnings
13 2001 Annual Report to Shareholders of Chattem, Inc.
21 Subsidiaries of the Company
23 Consent of Independent Public Accountants
27.1 Report of Independent Public Accountants
27.2 Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
29