FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

Delaware		13-3045573
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(I.R.S.  Employer Identification No.)
456 North 5th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania		19123
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code  (215) 873-2200

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý No o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o No ý

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Common Stock, $.01 par value — 5,256,884 shares outstanding as of May 13, 2003

 

 

MOTHERS WORK, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
INDEX

 

PART I —  FINANCIAL INFORMATION			1
Item 1.	Financial Statements (unaudited)		1
	Consolidated Balance Sheets		1
	Consolidated Statements of Operations		2
	Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows		3
	Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements		4
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		12
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk		18
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures		19
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION			20
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings		20
Item 4.	Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders		20
Item 6.	Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K		21
Signatures			22
Certifications			23

 

 

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements

 

MOTHERS WORK, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

		March 31, 2003			September 30, 2002
		(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	16,746		$	14,759
Trade receivables		5,413			4,839
Inventories		75,664			76,830
Deferred income taxes		6,556			8,888
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		7,161			5,126
Total current assets		111,540			110,442
Property, Plant and Equipment, net		53,858			50,460
Assets Held for Sale		1,200			1,200
Other Assets:
Goodwill		52,677			52,677
Deferred financing costs, net of accumulated amortization of $649 and $465		4,283			4,467
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $2,380 and $2,249		1,224			1,199
Deferred income taxes		11,831			11,831
Other non-current assets		992			1,009
Total other assets		71,007			71,183
		$	237,605		$	233,285
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Line of credit borrowings		$	—		$	—
Current portion of long-term debt		269			369
Accounts payable		22,509			20,110
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		29,137			32,045
Total current liabilities		51,915			52,524
Long-Term Debt		127,904			127,913
Deferred Rent and Other Liabilities		5,559			5,343
Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock		—			—
Total liabilities		185,378			185,780
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 3)
Stockholders’ Equity:
Preferred Stock, 2,000,000 shares authorized
Series A cumulative convertible preferred stock, $.01 par value; $280.4878 stated value; 41,000 shares authorized, none outstanding		—			—
Series B junior participating preferred stock, $.01 par value; 300,000 shares authorized, none outstanding		—			—
Common stock, $.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized, 5,263,138 and 5,179,901 shares issued and outstanding, respectively		53			52
Additional paid-in capital		64,401			63,623
Accumulated deficit		(12,227		)	(16,170		)
Total stockholders’ equity		52,227			47,505
		$	237,605		$	233,285

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

1

 

MOTHERS WORK, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

(unaudited)

 

		Three Months Ended March 31,						Six Months Ended March 31,
		2003			2002			2003			2002
Net sales		$	111,304		$	104,865		$	237,644		$	219,250
Cost of goods sold		52,324			49,653			112,021			105,635
Gross profit		58,980			55,212			125,623			113,615
Selling, general and administrative expenses		55,038			50,315			112,159			101,251
Operating income		3,942			4,897			13,464			12,364
Interest expense, net		3,412			3,433			7,154			7,020
Income before income taxes		530			1,464			6,310			5,344
Income tax provision		199			642			2,367			1,988
Net income		331			822			3,943			3,356
Dividends on preferred stock		—			733			—			1,533
Net income available to common stockholders		$	331		$	89		$	3,943		$	1,823
Income per share — basic		$	0.06		$	0.02		$	0.75		$	0.52
Average shares outstanding — basic		5,267			3,569			5,241			3,540
Income per share — diluted		$	0.06		$	0.02		$	0.69		$	0.49
Average shares outstanding — diluted		5,660			3,718			5,691			3,764

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

2

 

MOTHERS WORK, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)

 

		Six Months Ended March 31,
		2003			2002
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income		$	3,943		$	3,356
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		4,741			4,884
Loss on impairment of long-lived assets		89			—
Loss on disposal of assets		125			—
Deferred income tax provision		2,332			1,737
Tax benefit of stock option exercises		453			—
Amortization of deferred financing costs		184			250
Accretion of discount on notes		67			106
Provision for deferred rent		179			144
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisition:
Decrease (increase) in
Trade receivables		(574		)	(522		)
Inventories		1,166			11,165
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		(1,591		)	1,184
Increase (decrease) in
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities		532			(9,963		)
Net cash provided by operating activities		11,646			12,341
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Acquisition of iMaternity, net of cash acquired		—			574
Capital expenditures		(10,842		)	(3,236		)
Purchase of intangible assets		(156		)	(79		)
Net cash used in investing activities		(10,998		)	(2,741		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Decrease in line of credit borrowings		—			(11,862		)
Increase in cash overdrafts		2,951			3,573
Repayment of long-term debt		(176		)	(158		)
Repayment of debt assumed in acquisition of iMaternity		—			(8,892		)
Repurchase of common stock		(123		)	—
Payment of issuance costs of common stock		(210		)	—
Payment of issuance costs of long-term debt		(242		)	—
Payment of redemption of Series A Preferred Stock		(1,310		)	—
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants		449			142
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		1,339			(17,197		)
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents		1,987			(7,597		)
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period		14,759			10,358
Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period		$	16,746		$	2,761
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:
Cash paid for interest		$	6,710		$	6,708
Cash paid for income taxes		$	2,484		$	2,466

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

3

 

MOTHERS WORK, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
March 31, 2003
(unaudited)

 

1.             BASIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements for Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X and, accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures have been condensed or omitted. Reference is made to the Annual Report on Form 10-K as of and for the year ended September 30, 2002 for Mothers Work, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Mothers Work”) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for additional disclosures including a summary of the Company’s accounting policies.

 

In the opinion of management, the consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the consolidated financial position of the Company for the periods presented. Since the Company’s operations are seasonal, the interim operating results of the Company may not be indicative of operating results for the full year.

 

Certain prior year balances in the financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.

 

2.             STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS

 

During the three and six months ended March 31, 2003, respectively, a total of 16,000 and 210,000 stock options were granted to certain employees and non-employee directors for the purchase of the Company’s common stock at prices not less than the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.

 

In connection with the acquisition of iMaternity on October 17, 2001 (see Note 8), the Company issued to the sellers warrants to purchase 350,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $22.50 per share (the “Warrants”).  The Warrants were immediately vested upon grant and are exercisable for seven years from the date of grant.  During the year ended September 30, 2002 (“fiscal 2002”), the Company repurchased Warrants to purchase 125,000 shares of the Company’s common stock for a purchase price of $4.50 per underlying share, or a total of $562,500.  In the first quarter of fiscal 2003, certain holders of the Warrants turned in Warrants to purchase 100,000 shares of the Company’s common stock and were issued 44,113 shares of the Company’s common stock pursuant to a cashless exercise net issuance election. As of March 31, 2003, Warrants to purchase 125,000 shares remained outstanding.

 

3.             COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

On July 17, 2002, a purported class action was filed against the Company in the Superior Court of California for Los Angeles County. The complaint alleged that, under California law, certain former and current employees should have received overtime compensation, meal breaks and rest breaks. In March 2003, the Company, without admitting liability, entered into a settlement agreement in connection with this action.  The agreement is subject to court approval.  The Company, as previously disclosed, incurred a charge of approximately $800,000 relating to this settlement during the three months ended March 31, 2003.

 

The Company is currently a party to an action alleging similar claims under Washington law in Spokane County Superior Court. The plaintiffs in the Washington case are seeking unspecified actual damages, penalties and attorneys’ fees. On or about April 23, 2003, one purported subclass of the plaintiffs accepted a settlement arrangement in the amount of $50,000, plus attorney’s fees and costs incurred through such date.  At this stage in these proceedings, the Company is unable to predict the outcome of the remaining claims in the Washington case, which it continues to vigorously defend.

 

In addition, from time to time, the Company is named as a defendant in legal actions arising from its normal business activities. Although the amount of any liability that could arise with respect to currently pending actions, including the matters specifically described above, cannot be accurately predicted, the Company does not believe that the resolution of any pending action will have a material adverse effect on its financial position.

 

4.             EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)

 

The Company follows Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.”  Basic earnings (loss) per share (Basic EPS) is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding.  Diluted earnings (loss) per share (Diluted EPS) is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding, after giving effect to the potential dilution from the exercise of securities, such as stock options, into shares of common stock as if those securities were exercised.

 

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The following tables summarize the Diluted EPS calculation (in thousands, except per share amounts):

 

		Three Months Ended March 31, 2003								Three Months Ended March 31, 2002
		Income			Shares		Earnings Per Share			Income			Shares		Earnings Per Share
Basic EPS		$	331		5,267		$	0.06		$	89		3,569		$	0.02
Incremental shares from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options and warrants		—			393					—			149
Diluted EPS		$	331		5,660		$	0.06		$	89		3,718		$	0.02

 

		Six Months Ended March 31, 2003								Six Months Ended March 31, 2002
		Income			Shares		Earnings Per Share			Income			Shares		Earnings Per Share
Basic EPS		$	3,943		5,241		$	0.75		$	1,823		3,540		$	0.52
Incremental shares from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options and warrants		—			450					—			154
Assumed conversion of subordinated notes		—			—					19			70
Diluted EPS		$	3,943		5,691		$	0.69		$	1,842		3,764		$	0.49

 

Options to purchase 238,550 and 127,740 shares were outstanding as of March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, but were not included in the computation of diluted EPS as their effect would have been antidilutive for the three and six month periods then ended. These options could potentially dilute EPS in the future.

 

During the second quarter of fiscal 2002, certain holders of Series A Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Stock”) elected to convert 7,316 of such shares, with a stated value of $2,052,000 and at a conversion rate equal to ten shares of common stock for each share of Series A Preferred Stock (a total of 73,160 shares of common stock). The Company was restricted under the terms of its old 12 5/8% senior notes from paying cash dividends to the holders upon conversion. Accordingly, the Company issued subordinated notes. For the first six months of fiscal 2002, a total of 10,531 shares with a stated value of $2,954,000 were converted into 105,312 shares of common stock.  The 27,877 shares of Series A Preferred Stock outstanding at March 31, 2002, which were convertible into 278,772 shares of common stock, were determined to be antidilutive and therefore excluded from the EPS computation for the three and six months ended March 31, 2002.  Additionally, in connection with the iMaternity acquisition, the Company issued to the sellers 302,619 shares of Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock (the “Series C Preferred Stock”) with detachable Warrants.  All of the shares of Series C Preferred Stock and the Warrants were outstanding as of March 31, 2002 and were excluded from the EPS computations as their effect would have been antidilutive.  During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, all of the remaining outstanding Series A Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and subordinated notes were redeemed or repurchased  using proceeds generated from the Company’s August 2002 debt and equity offerings.

 

In February 2003, the stockholders of the Company approved an amendment to the Company’s 1987 Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated.   This amendment increased the number of shares of common stock available for issuance upon the exercise of options granted under this plan by 500,000.

 

In March 2003, our Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program, under which we may repurchase up to $10,000,000 of the Company’s outstanding common stock from time to time until March 2005.  Pursuant to this program, as of May 13, 2003, we had repurchased approximately 15,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, of which 6,000 shares had been repurchased through March 31, 2003.

 

5.             STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company follows the intrinsic value method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation in accordance with Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations. The following tables illustrate the effect on net income (loss) and earnings (loss) per share if the Company had accounted for its stock option plans under the fair value method of accounting under SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” as amended by SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation Transition and Disclosure” (in thousands, except per share amounts):

 

			Three Months Ended March 31,						Six Months Ended March 31,
			2003			2002			2003			2002
Net income available to common stockholders, as reported			$	331		$	89		$	3,943		$	1,823
Deduct:	Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under the fair value-based method for all grants, net of tax		$	394		$	211		$	2,750		$	519
Pro forma net income (loss)			$	(63	)	$	(122	)	$	1,193		$	1,304
Diluted EPS:
As reported			$	0.06		$	0.02		$	0.69		$	0.49
Pro forma			$	(0.01	)	$	(0.03	)	$	0.21		$	0.35

 

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Pro forma diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing pro forma net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares outstanding after giving effect to the potential dilution from the exercise of securities, such as stock options, into shares of common stock as if those securities were exercised.  Since the Company had incurred a pro forma loss for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, all of the outstanding stock options and warrants during these periods were determined to be antidilutive, and therefore excluded from the computations.

 

The weighted average fair value of the options granted during the three and six months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 is estimated at $31.45 and $36.65, and $10.21 and $8.20 per share, respectively, on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:

 

		Three Months Ended March 31,				Six Months Ended March 31,
		2003		2002		2003		2002
Volatility		66.9	%	68.3	%	60.7	%	59.6	%
Risk free interest rate		3.0	%	3.0	%	2.7	%	2.1	%
Expected life		10.0 years		10.0 years		9.6 years		8.3 years

 

6.             INVENTORIES

 

Inventories were comprised of the following (in thousands):

 

		March 31, 2003			September 30, 2002
Finished goods		$	63,041		$	64,889
Work-in-progress		4,695			3,740
Raw materials		7,928			8,201
		$	75,664		$	76,830

 

7.             ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities were comprised of the following (in thousands):

 

		March 31, 2003			September 30, 2002
Salaries, wages, and employee benefits		$	7,484		$	7,686
Income taxes payable		265			899
Interest		2,357			2,150
Sales taxes		2,627			1,998
Gift certificates and store credits		1,917			1,504
Rent		1,119			1,603
Insurance		1,258			1,862
Audit and legal		1,834			1,129
Reserves recorded in the iMaternity acquisition (see Note 8)		3,660			4,330
Remaining payout on redemption of Series A Preferred Stock		2,415			3,725
Accrued store construction costs		1,181			3,434
Other		3,020			1,725
		$	29,137		$	32,045

 

Interest payments on the senior notes are made semiannually on February 1^st and August 1^st.

 

8.             ACQUISITION OF IMATERNITY

 

The Company acquired eSpecialty Brands, LLC (“iMaternity”) on October 17, 2001 (the “Acquisition Date”) for $19,748,000, including transaction costs of $875,000.  The acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting, and the results of operations of iMaternity have been included in the Company’s results of operations from the Acquisition Date. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed have been recorded at their estimated fair values.

 

Based on the allocation of purchase price, the application of the purchase method of accounting resulted in $23,093,000 of excess purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net tangible assets acquired of $22,145,000 less assumed liabilities of $16,553,000 and costs to exit certain operations and locations of iMaternity of $8,937,000. The Company recognizes that certain identifiable intangible assets were acquired, primarily trademarks, trade names, and Internet domain names. However, as determined by an independent third party appraiser, based on the nature of the items and use within the Company’s business and industry, no value was assigned to any of the identifiable intangibles. Accordingly, the excess purchase price has been assigned to goodwill.  In addition, in connection with the acquisition, the Company assumed certain liabilities with trade creditors of approximately $2,300,000 that are still in dispute.  With respect to the effect of these trade payables on the allocation of the purchase price, to the extent that these payables are not paid and the associated liability reduced, then goodwill would be reduced.

 

At the Acquisition Date, iMaternity operated a total of 166 Dan Howard and Mothertime maternity clothing stores, including some under the trade name iMaternity, and the online iMaternity.com website. The Company developed a plan in conjunction with the acquisition to close approximately 92 iMaternity stores and convert the remaining acquired locations to the Company’s existing store concepts of Motherhood and Mimi Maternity. Further, the plan included the shutdown of iMaternity’s corporate headquarters and warehouse operation in Chicago, as well as its

 

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manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Costa Rica.  In connection with the plan, the Company recorded severance costs for involuntarily terminated employees of the acquired business of $2,587,000, lease termination fees and related legal costs of $4,200,000, and accrued for other costs to be incurred to complete the exit activities of the acquired business totaling $2,150,000. Approximately 850 employees of the acquired business were expected to be terminated as part of the plan, consisting of 528 corporate and 322 store employees.

 

During fiscal 2002, the Company closed 88 iMaternity stores, of which 75 were included as part of the 92 planned store closures.  Also during fiscal 2002, the Company closed the corporate headquarters and warehouse operation in Chicago, an Internet-related development center in San Diego, California and other domestic warehousing facilities. The iMaternity manufacturing and warehousing operations in Costa Rica have been operationally shut down.  The carrying value of the Costa Rica facility was reduced to its estimated realizable value as of the Acquisition Date, which was determined based on a market survey received from an independent third party, less estimated selling costs, and is classified as “Assets Held for Sale” in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  During the first six months of fiscal 2003, the Company has closed three additional iMaternity stores.  In accordance with its plan, the Company expects to close up to an additional 14 of the acquired iMaternity stores.  The timing of the store closures is dependent primarily upon the Company’s ability to negotiate and complete the lease termination settlements.

 

In connection with the store closures and the shutdown of the various facilities as described above, the Company terminated 820 employees (524 corporate and 296 store employees), to whom $1,687,000 in accrued severance was paid out and charged against the liability as of September 30, 2002.  Included in the severance payouts are quarterly installments made with regard to a non-compete covenant and severance arrangement with a former executive of iMaternity.  The remaining severance accrual of $800,000 and $900,000 as of March 31, 2003 and September 30, 2002, respectively, principally reflects the balance of the non-compete and severance arrangement that is payable ratably on a monthly basis through September 2006.

 

A summary of the charges incurred and reserves recorded in connection with the iMaternity acquisition exit/restructuring activities during fiscal 2002 and the first six months of fiscal 2003 is as follows (in thousands):

 

		Adjustments and Reserves Recorded in Purchase Accounting			Balance as of September 30, 2002			Charges During the Six Months Ended March 31, 2003			Balance as of March 31, 2003
Lease termination fees		$	4,200		$	2,730		$	455		$	2,275
Severance		2,587			900			100			800
Exit and other costs		2,150			700			115			585
		$	8,937		$	4,330		$	670		$	3,660

 

The following table displays the net non-cash assets (liabilities) that were acquired as a result of the iMaternity acquisition (in thousands):

 

Non-cash assets (liabilities):
Inventory		$	6,168
Property, plant and equipment		3,412
Deferred income taxes		11,450
Other current assets		541
Goodwill		23,093
Current liabilities, including transaction costs		(17,473		)
Debt		(8,892		)
Net non-cash assets acquired		18,299
Less: Preferred stock issued		(17,999		)
Warrants issued		(874		)
Cash acquired from the acquisition of iMaternity		$	(574	)

 

The following unaudited pro forma summary (in thousands, except per share amounts) combines the consolidated results of operations of Mothers Work, Inc. and iMaternity as if the transaction occurred as of the beginning of the period presented giving effect to certain adjustments, including recognition of an income tax benefit for operating losses generated by the acquired business, recognition of accrued and unpaid dividends on the Series C Preferred Stock, discount accretion associated with the Series C Preferred Stock, and reduction in depreciation expense as a result of the revaluation of property, plant and equipment. This pro forma summary is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred if the Company and iMaternity had been combined during such period. Moreover, the pro forma summary is not intended to be indicative of the results of operations that may be attained in the future.

 

		Six Months Ended March 31, 2002
Net sales		$	221,447
Operating income		11,523
Net income		2,708
Net income available to common stockholders		1,088
Income per share — basic		$	0.31
Income per share — diluted		$	0.29

 

9.             NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations.” SFAS No. 143 is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2002, and addresses financial accounting and reporting for obligations associated

 

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with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and the associated asset retirement costs. The Company adopted this statement effective October 1, 2002. Adoption of SFAS No. 143 has not had a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” which established a single accounting model, based on the framework established in SFAS No. 121, “Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of,” and resolved significant implementation issues related to SFAS No. 121 and APB Opinion No. 30, “Reporting the Results of Operations-Reporting the Effects of a Disposal of a Segment of a Business, and Extraordinary, Unusual and Infrequently Occurring Events and Transactions.” SFAS No. 144 superceded SFAS No. 121 and portions of APB Opinion No. 30.  The Company adopted this statement effective October 1, 2002.  Adoption of SFAS No. 144 has not had a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections.”  The provisions of this statement related to the rescission of SFAS No. 4 shall be applied by the Company effective October 1, 2002. Any gain or loss on extinguishment of debt that was classified as an extraordinary item in prior periods presented that does not meet the criteria in APB Opinion No. 30 for classification as an extraordinary item shall be reclassified.  As a result, it will be necessary to reclassify the loss on the early extinguishment of debt as additional interest expense for the period ended September 30, 2002.

 

In July 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities.” SFAS No. 146 supersedes Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue No. 94-3, “Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring),” and is effective for transactions initiated after December 31, 2002. Under SFAS No. 146, a company will record a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity when that liability is incurred and can be measured at fair value. A liability is incurred when an event obligates the entity to transfer or use assets. Management does not expect the adoption of this statement to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In November 2002, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness to Others, an interpretation of FASB Statements No. 5, 57 and 107 and a rescission of FASB Interpretation No. 34.” This Interpretation elaborates on the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under guarantees issued. The Interpretation also clarifies that a guarantor is required to recognize, at inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken. The initial recognition and measurement provisions of the Interpretation are applicable to guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002 and are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The disclosure requirements are effective for financial statements of interim and annual periods ending after December 31, 2002.

 

In November 2002, the EITF reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 02-16, “Accounting by a Customer (Including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor.” EITF Issue No. 02-16 provides guidance as to how customers should account for cash consideration received from a vendor. EITF Issue No. 02-16 presumes that cash received from a vendor represents a reduction of the prices of the vendor’s products or services, unless the cash received represents a payment for assets or services provided to the vendor or a reimbursement of costs incurred by the customer to sell the vendor’s products. The provisions of EITF Issue No. 02-16 will apply to all agreements entered into or modified after December 31, 2002. We do not expect the provisions of EITF Issue No. 02-16 to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148.  SFAS No. 148 supersedes SFAS No. 123 and is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002. SFAS No. 148 provides alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation.  In addition, SFAS No. 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. The Company has adopted the disclosure requirements for interim financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2003.  The Company has not completed its evaluation of the alternative methods of transition, and thus has not yet made a determination on whether it will adopt the fair value method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation under the transition guidance of SFAS No. 148. As such, the Company has not yet been able to determine what impact, if any, the adoption of this statement will have on its financial position or results of operations.

 

10.          GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES

 

Pursuant to the terms of the indenture relating to the $125,000,000 of 11¼% Senior Notes due 2010 (the “New Senior Notes”), Cave Springs, Inc. and the wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries of iMaternity (collectively, the “Guarantor Subsidiaries”) have jointly and severally provided an unconditional guarantee of the obligations of Mothers Work with respect to the New Senior Notes. There are no restrictions on any of the assets of the Guarantor Subsidiaries which would limit their ability to transfer funds to Mothers Work in the form of loans, advances or cash dividends, except as provided by applicable law. None of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries have guaranteed the New Senior Notes. The condensed consolidating financial information for the Company, the Guarantor Subsidiaries, and the Company’s non-guarantor subsidiaries as of and for the six months ended March 31, 2003 as presented below has been prepared from the books and records maintained by the Guarantor Subsidiaries and the Company. The condensed financial information may not be necessarily be indicative of the results of operations or financial position had the Guarantor Subsidiaries operated as independent entities. Certain intercompany sales included in the subsidiary records are eliminated in consolidation. Mothers Work pays all expenditures on behalf of the Guarantor Subsidiaries. An amount due to/due from parent will exist at any time as a result of this activity. The condensed financial information includes the allocation of material amounts of expenses such as corporate services, administration and taxes on income. The allocations are generally based on proportional amounts of sales or assets, and taxes on income are allocated consistent with the asset and liability approach used for consolidated financial statement purposes. Management believes these allocation methods are reasonable.

 

8

 

Mothers Work, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
March 31, 2003
(unaudited)
(in thousands)

 

		Mothers Work (Parent Company)			Guarantor Subsidiaries (U.S. Companies)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Foreign Companies)			Consolidating Eliminations			Mothers Work Consolidated
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	15,685		$	123		$	938		$	—		$	16,746
Trade receivables		5,147			266			—			—			5,413
Inventories		74,054			1,271			339			—			75,664
Deferred income taxes		6,556			—			—			—			6,556
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		7,161			—			—			—			7,161
Total current assets		108,603			1,660			1,277			—			111,540
Property, Plant and Equipment, net		51,183			1,848			827			—			53,858
Assets Held for Sale		—			—			1,200			—			1,200
Other Assets		37,220			388			104			33,295			71,007
Investments in and advances to (from) affiliates		36,368			163,626			(3,506		)	(196,488		)	—
Total assets		$	233,374		$	167,522		$	(98	)	$	(163,193	)	$	237,605
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Line of credit borrowings		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
Current portion of long-term debt		269			—			—			—			269
Accounts payable		22,509			—			—			—			22,509
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		24,906			571			—			3,660			29,137
Total current liabilities		47,684			571			—			3,660			51,915
Long-Term Debt		127,904			—			—			—			127,904
Deferred Rent and Other Liabilities		5,559			—			—			—			5,559
Total liabilities		181,147			571			—			3,660			185,378
Stockholders’ Equity:
Common stockholders’ equity		52,227			166,951			(98		)	(166,853		)	52,227
Total stockholders’ equity		52,227			166,951			(98		)	(166,853		)	52,227
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity		$	233,374		$	167,522		$	(98	)	$	(163,193	)	$	237,605

 

9

 

Mothers Work, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations
For The Six Months Ended March 31, 2003
(unaudited)
(in thousands)

 

		Mothers Work (Parent Company)			Guarantor Subsidiaries (U.S. Companies)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Foreign Companies)			Consolidating Eliminations			Mothers Work Consolidated
Net sales		$	223,508		$	25,324		$	1,575		$	(12,763	)	$	237,644
Cost of goods sold		106,388			5,094			539			—			112,021
Gross profit		117,120			20,230			1,036			(12,763		)	125,623
Selling, general and administrative expenses		117,839			6,032			1,051			(12,763		)	112,159
Operating income (loss)		(719		)	14,198			(15		)	—			13,464
Interest income (expense), net		(11,142		)	3,988			—			—			(7,154		)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries		11,773			—			—			(11,773		)	—
Income (loss) before income taxes		(88		)	18,186			(15		)	(11,773		)	6,310
Income tax provision (benefit)		(4,031		)	6,404			(6		)	—			2,367
Net income (loss)		$	3,943		$	11,782		$	(9	)	$	(11,773	)	$	3,943

 

10

 

Mothers Work, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Cash Flow Statement
For The Six Months Ended March 31, 2003
(unaudited)
(in thousands)

 

		Mothers Work (Parent Company)			Guarantor Subsidiaries (U.S. Companies)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Foreign Companies)			Consolidating Eliminations			Mothers Work Consolidated
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net income (loss)		$	3,943		$	11,782		$	(9	)	$	(11,773	)	$	3,943
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		4,579			138			24			—			4,741
Loss on impairment of long-lived assets		89			—			—			—			89
Loss on disposal of assets		125			—			—			—			125
Deferred income tax provision		2,332			—			—			—			2,332
Tax benefit of stock option exercises		453			—			—			—			453
Amortization of deferred financing costs		184			—			—			—			184
Accretion of discount on notes		67			—			—			—			67
Provision for deferred rent		179			—			—			—			179
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Decrease (increase) in—
Trade receivables		(387		)	(187		)	—			—			(574		)
Inventories		569			749			(152		)	—			1,166
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		(1,472		)	(15		)	(104		)	—			(1,591		)
Intercompany balance		(1,381		)	(12,168		)	1,776			11,773			—
Increase (decrease) in—
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities		680			(59		)	(89		)	—			532
Net cash provided by operating activities		9,960			240			1,446			—			11,646
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures		(9,977		)	(163		)	(702		)	—			(10,842		)
Purchase of intangible assets		(156		)	—			—			—			(156		)
Net cash used in investing activities		(10,133		)	(163		)	(702		)	—			(10,998		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Increase in cash overdrafts		2,951			—			—			—			2,951
Repayment of long-term debt		(176		)	—			—			—			(176		)
Repurchase of common stock		(123		)	—			—			—			(123		)
Payment of issuance costs of common stock		(210		)	—			—			—			(210		)
Payment of issuance costs of long-term debt		(242		)	—			—			—			(242		)
Payment of redemption of Series A Preferred Stock		(1,310		)	—			—			—			(1,310		)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants		449			—			—			—			449
Net cash provided by financing activities		1,339			—			—			—			1,339
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents		1,166			77			744			—			1,987
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period		14,519			46			194			—			14,759
Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period		$	15,685		$	123		$	938		$	—		$	16,746

 

11

 

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Results of Operations

 

The following tables set forth certain operating data as a percentage of net sales and as a percentage change for the periods indicated:

 

		Percentage of Net Sales								% Period to Period Increase (Decrease)
		Three Months Ended March 31,				Six Months Ended March 31,				Three Months Ended March 31,		Six Months Ended March 31,
		2003		2002		2003		2002		2003 vs. 2002		2003 vs. 2002
Net sales		100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	6.1	%	8.4	%
Cost of goods sold		47.0		47.3		47.1		48.2		5.4		6.0
Gross profit		53.0		52.7		52.9		51.8		6.8		10.6
Selling, general and administrative expenses		49.5		48.0		47.2		46.2		9.4		10.8
Operating income		3.5		4.7		5.7		5.6		(19.5	)	8.9
Interest expense, net		3.0		3.3		3.0		3.2		(0.6	)	1.9
Income before income taxes		0.5		1.4		2.7		2.4		(63.8	)	18.1
Income tax provision		0.2		0.6		1.0		0.9		(69.0	)	19.1
Net income		0.3		0.8		1.7		1.5		(59.7	)	17.5
Dividends on preferred stock		—		0.7		—		0.7		NM		NM
Net income available to common stockholders		0.3	%	0.1	%	1.7	%	0.8	%	271.9		116.3

 

The following tables set forth certain information concerning the number of Company stores and leased departments for the periods indicated:

 

		Three Months Ended
		March 31, 2003						March 31, 2002
		Stores		Leased Departments		Total		Stores		Leased Departments		Total
Beginning of period		785		150		935		806		133		939
iMaternity acquired locations, net of related closures		(1	)	—		(1	)	(48	)	—		(48	)
Opened		22		—		22		8		—		8
Closed		(5	)	(2	)	(7	)	(5	)	(1	)	(6	)
End of period		801		148		949		761		132		893

 

		Six Months Ended
		March 31, 2003						March 31, 2002
		Stores		Leased Departments		Total		Stores		Leased Departments		Total
Beginning of period		763		146		909		639		132		771
iMaternity acquired locations, net of related closures		(3	)	—		(3	)	103		—		103
Opened		48		4		52		26		1		27
Closed		(7	)	(2	)	(9	)	(7	)	(1	)	(8	)
End of period		801		148		949		761		132		893

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2003 and 2002

 

Net Sales.  Our net sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 increased 6.1%, a $6.4 million increase, to $111.3 million from $104.9 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2002.  Net sales for the second quarter increased primarily from the addition of new stores, with the total number of our locations increasing to 949 at March 31, 2003 compared to 893 at March 31, 2002. For the quarter ended March 31, 2003, we opened 22 new locations and closed eight locations, including one iMaternity store closed in connection with the consolidation of that acquired store chain. Since the acquisition of iMaternity in October 2001, we have closed a total of 91 of the 166 acquired iMaternity stores where we believed we could transfer a sufficient portion of the sales to our existing stores within the same area while eliminating acquired store expenses and improving inventory utilization. Comparable store sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 increased by 0.2%, based on 825 locations, versus a comparable store sales increase of 3.9% during the second quarter of fiscal 2002, based on 724 locations. The comparable store sales results for the quarter were adversely affected by the difficult retail environment, including the weak economy as further impacted by global political uncertainty, and adverse weather conditions, including severe winter weather in February and a delay in the onset of Spring weather in much of the United States compared to last year.  Sales for the quarter were also somewhat negatively affected by the shift in the timing of Easter from March last year to April this year.

 

12

 

Gross Profit.  Our gross profit for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 increased by 6.8%, a $3.8 million increase, to $59.0 million from $55.2 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2002.  This increase was attributable primarily to our increased sales compared to last year.  Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 improved by approximately 34 basis points (0.34 percentage points of net sales) to 53.0% from 52.7% for the second quarter of fiscal 2002.  The increase in gross margin versus last year primarily reflects the reduction of our product costs as a result of the continued expansion and refinement of our global sourcing initiatives, partially offset by the negative impact on gross margin of adverse weather conditions reducing demand for Spring full price merchandise and increasing demand for Fall markdown merchandise compared to last year.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  Our selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 increased by 9.4%, a $4.7 million increase, to $55.0 million from $50.3 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2002. Compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2002, store wages and related benefit costs increased by $2.6 million and store rent and related expenses increased by $1.7 million, primarily resulting from our new store openings during the past twelve months and increased medical benefits expenses.  In addition, our SG&A expenses for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 include a pre-tax legal expense charge of approximately $0.8 million related to the estimated settlement cost of the previously disclosed purported class action lawsuit filed against us in California.  This charge was recorded as a result of a settlement agreement, which is subject to court approval, reached in March 2003 in connection with this lawsuit. As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses increased to 49.5% for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 compared to 48.0% for the second quarter of fiscal 2002, primarily reflecting increased store payroll, benefits and rent expenses as a percentage of net sales, and the impact of the $0.8 million pre-tax legal charge.  The increase in store expenses as a percentage of net sales primarily reflects the relatively low comparable store sales increase for the quarter as well as the higher store expense ratios of our newer stores.

 

Operating Income.  Our operating income for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 decreased by 19.5%, a $1.0 million decrease, to $3.9 million from $4.9 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2002, because our higher SG&A expenses more than offset the impact of our higher sales volume and improved gross margin. Operating income as a percentage of net sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 decreased to 3.5% from 4.7% for the second quarter of fiscal 2002 because the increase in our SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales exceeded the increase in our gross margin compared to last year’s second quarter.

 

Interest Expense, Net.  Our net interest expense was $3.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002.  The essentially equivalent interest expense for the current and prior year periods reflects the offsetting effects of a somewhat higher overall debt balance compared to last year, due to the net impact of our August 2002 debt and equity offerings, and a $0.3 million non-recurring interest expense credit related to our credit facility.

 

Income Taxes. Our effective income tax rate was a provision of 37.5% for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 compared to a provision of 43.9% for the second quarter of fiscal 2002.   The effective income tax rate of 43.9% for the second quarter of fiscal 2002 was computed based on an estimated annual effective tax rate of 37.2% for fiscal 2002.  The increase in the estimated annual effective tax rate for fiscal 2002 during the second quarter of fiscal 2002 was based on increases in our statutory federal tax rate and our estimated effective state income tax rate.

 

Dividends on Preferred Stock.  Preferred dividends were zero for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 compared to $0.7 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2002, reflecting the redemption of our Series A Preferred Stock and repurchase of our Series C Preferred Stock in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002. Consequently, we will no longer recognize any preferred stock dividends with respect to these two series of preferred stock.  As of March 31, 2003,  $2.4 million has not yet been paid for the redeemed Series A Preferred Stock and will be paid out upon submission of proper documentation from the remaining holders of those shares.

 

Net Income Available to Common Stockholders.  Net income available to common stockholders for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 was $0.3 million, or $0.06 per common share (diluted), compared to $0.1 million, or $0.02 per common share (diluted), for the second quarter of fiscal 2002, representing a 271.9% increase in net income and a 200.0% increase in diluted earnings per share.  The average diluted shares outstanding of 5,660,000 for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 were 52.2% higher than the 3,718,000 shares for the second quarter of fiscal 2002.  The increase in shares reflects the 1,165,0000 common shares issued pursuant to our August 2002 common stock offering, as well as the impact of stock options and warrants exercised during the past twelve months and the increased dilutive effect of outstanding stock options and warrants resulting from the higher average level of our stock price this year compared to last year.  As of March 31, 2003, we had 5,263,138 outstanding common shares, which reflects the retirement of 6,000 shares we repurchased during the month of March 2003 pursuant to our share repurchase program.

 

Six Months Ended March 31, 2003 and 2002

 

Net Sales.  Our net sales for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased 8.4%, a $18.4 million increase, to $237.6 million from 219.3 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002.  Net sales for the first six months increased due to the addition of new stores and, to a lesser extent, an increase in comparable store sales.  Comparable store sales for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased by 2.4%, based on 736 locations, versus a comparable store sales increase of 0.3% during the first six months of fiscal 2002, based on 679 locations. For the six months ended March 31, 2003, we opened 52 new locations and closed 12 locations, including three iMaternity stores closed in connection with the consolidation of the acquired store chain.

 

Gross Profit.    Our gross profit for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased 10.6%, a $12.0 million increase, to $125.6 million compared to $113.6 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002, due to increased sales and improved gross margin compared to last year. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased by 104 basis points to 52.9% from 51.8% in the comparable period of fiscal 2002. The improvement in gross margin versus last year primarily reflects our continued success at reducing product costs through our global sourcing initiatives.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.    Our selling, general and administrative expenses for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased by 10.8%, a $10.9 million increase, to $112.2 million from $101.3 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002. Compared to the first six months of fiscal 2002, store wages and related benefit costs increased by $4.5 million and store rent and related expenses increased by $3.2 million, primarily resulting from our new store openings during the past twelve months and increased medical benefits expenses.   In addition, our SG&A

 

13

 

expenses for the first six months of fiscal 2003 include the pre-tax legal expense charge of approximately $0.8 million.  As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses increased to 47.2% for the first six months of fiscal 2003 compared to 46.2% for the first six months of fiscal 2002, primarily reflecting increased store payroll, benefits and rent expenses as a percentage of net sales, and the impact of the $0.8 million pre-tax legal charge.  The increase in store expenses as a percentage of net sales primarily reflects the relatively low comparable store sales increase for the first six months as well as the higher store expense ratios of our newer stores.

 

Operating Income.    Our operating income for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased by 8.9%, a $1.1 million increase, to $13.5 million compared to $12.4 million in the first six months of fiscal 2002, due to the higher sales volume and improved gross margin, partially offset by higher SG&A expenses. Operating income as a percentage of net sales for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased slightly to 5.7% from 5.6% in the comparable period of fiscal 2002 because the increase in our gross margin slightly exceeded the increase in our percentage of net sales compared to last year.

 

Interest Expense, Net.    Our net interest expense for the first six months of fiscal 2003 increased by 1.9%, or $0.1 million, to $7.2 million compared to $7.0 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002. The increase reflects the somewhat higher overall debt balance compared to last year due to the net impact of our August 2002 debt and equity offerings and a $0.3 million non-recurring interest expense credit related to our credit facility.

 

Income Taxes.    Our effective income tax rate was a provision of 37.5% for the first six months of fiscal 2003 compared to 37.2% for the first six months of fiscal 2002. The change in the effective income tax rate primarily reflects an increase in our effective state income tax rate.

 

Dividends on Preferred Stock.  Preferred dividends were zero for the first six months of fiscal 2003 compared to $1.5 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002, reflecting the redemption of our Series A Preferred Stock and repurchase of our Series C Preferred Stock in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002.

 

Net Income Available to Common Stockholders.  Net income available to common stockholders for the first six months of fiscal 2003 was $3.9 million, or $0.69 per common share (diluted), compared to $1.8 million, or $0.49 per common share (diluted), for the first six months of fiscal 2002, representing a 116.3% increase in net income and a 40.8% increase in diluted earnings per share.  The average diluted shares outstanding of 5,691,000 for the first six months of fiscal 2003 were 51.2% higher than the 3,764,000 shares for the first six months of fiscal 2002, due to the shares issued in our August 2002 common stock offering as well as the impact of stock options and warrants exercised during the past 12 months and the increased dilutive effect of outstanding stock options and warrants compared to last year.

 

14

 

Seasonality

 

Our business, like that of certain other retailers, is seasonal. A significant portion of our net sales and profits are typically realized during the first and third fiscal quarters, corresponding to the holiday and Spring selling seasons. Results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year.  Quarterly results may fluctuate materially depending upon, among other things, the timing of new store openings, net sales and profitability contributed by new stores, increases or decreases in comparable store sales, adverse weather conditions, shifts in the timing of certain holidays and promotions, changes in inventory and production levels and the timing of deliveries of inventory, and changes in our merchandise mix.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our cash needs have primarily been for (i) debt service on our senior notes and our credit facility, (ii) capital expenditures, including leasehold improvements, fixtures and equipment for new stores, store relocations and expansions, and existing stores, as well as for our distribution and corporate facilities and information systems, and (iii) working capital, including inventory to support our new stores as well as existing stores. We have historically financed these capital requirements from cash flows from operations and borrowings under our credit facility.

 

In August 2002, we completed debt and equity offerings whereby we issued $125.0 million of 11 1/4% senior notes due 2010 (the “New Senior Notes”) and 1,165,000 new shares of common stock (including the full exercise of the over-allotment option by the underwriters of our common stock offering), and used the net proceeds (i) to repay the $92.0 million of 12 5/8% senior notes (the “Old Senior Notes”) plus accrued and unpaid interest; (ii) to repay subordinated notes issued to former holders of shares of our Series A Preferred Stock in lieu of accrued and unpaid dividends; (iii) to redeem all of the outstanding shares of our Series A Preferred Stock and to purchase, through an offer to purchase, all of the outstanding shares of our Series C Preferred Stock, in each case, for a price which included all accrued and unpaid dividends; (iv) to repay the outstanding borrowings under our credit facility and (v) for general corporate purposes.  We received net proceeds from these debt and equity offerings of approximately $147.9 million, after deducting fees and expenses of the offerings.  We used approximately $92.6 million of the net proceeds of the offerings for the repurchase of our Old Senior Notes, including accrued and unpaid interest and related fees and expenses.  We used approximately $2.6 million for the repayment of subordinated notes that had been issued in lieu of cash dividends on shares of Series A Preferred Stock previously converted into common stock. We used approximately $13.4 million to redeem all of the outstanding Series A Preferred Stock, including accrued and unpaid dividends, of which $11.0 million has been paid as of March 31, 2003, and $2.4 million will be paid out upon submission of proper documentation from the remaining holders of the Series A Preferred Stock.  The $2.4 million amount is reflected in our consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2003 in accrued expenses and other current liabilities.  We used approximately $20.9 million of the net proceeds from the offerings for the repurchase of all of the outstanding Series C Preferred Stock issued to the sellers of iMaternity in October 2001, including accrued and unpaid dividends. The remaining $18.4 million of net proceeds from the offerings were used to repay all of the outstanding borrowings under the credit facility, with the balance invested in short-term investments and available for general corporate purposes.  The net proceeds of approximately $147.9 million from the debt and equity offerings includes approximately $0.6 million of cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options by certain selling stockholders in conjunction with the equity offering.

 

The New Senior Notes were issued at 98.719% of their face amount, resulting in an annual effective interest rate of 11.50%.  Interest on the New Senior Notes is payable semi-annually in cash on February 1^st and August 1^st, and commenced on February 1, 2003.  The New Senior Notes were issued by Mothers Work, are senior unsecured obligations of Mothers Work, and are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by all of our domestic subsidiaries.  See Note 10 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”  The New Senior Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part at any time on or after August 1, 2006 at 105.625% of their face amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, declining ratably to 100% of their face amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, on and after August 1, 2009.  Additionally, before August 1, 2005, we may redeem, at our option, up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the New Senior Notes with the proceeds from equity offerings at 111.25% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.  The New Senior Notes impose certain restrictions on our ability to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends, repurchase stock, and enter into other various types of transactions.

 

Cash and cash equivalents increased by $2.0 million during the first six months of fiscal 2003 compared to a decrease of $7.6 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002.  Cash provided by operations was $11.6 million for the first six months of fiscal 2003, a decrease of $0.7 million from the $12.3 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002.  During the first six months of fiscal 2003, we used cash provided by operations primarily to pay for $10.8 million of capital expenditures.  During the first six months of fiscal 2002, we used our cash provided by operations, along with excess cash balances, primarily to reduce borrowings under our credit facility by $11.9 million and to repay outstanding iMaternity debt of $8.9 million assumed upon our acquisition of iMaternity in October 2001.

 

For the first six months of fiscal 2003, we spent $10.8 million on capital expenditures, including $7.3 million on furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements principally for new store facilities, as well as improvements to existing stores, and $3.5 million for our distribution and corporate facilities and information systems. In comparison, we spent a total of $3.2 million on capital expenditures in the first six months of fiscal 2002, of which $2.8 million was spent for new store facilities, as well as improvements to existing stores and $0.4 million on distribution and corporate facilities and information systems.  The increase in capital expenditures primarily reflects the increased number of our new store openings compared to a year ago, as well as expenditures to expand the capacity and throughput of our distribution center and increased investment in our management information systems, including the continued rollout of our new proprietary point-of-sale system.

 

In March 2003, our Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program, under which we may repurchase up to $10.0 million of the Company’s outstanding common stock from time to time until March 2005.  Pursuant to this program, as of May 13, 2003, we had repurchased approximately 15,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, of which 6,000 shares had been repurchased through March 31, 2003.

 

We have a $60 million credit facility that includes a $56.0 million borrowing base revolving line of credit and approximately $4 million to support a special purpose letter of credit facility. This $60 million credit facility matures on September 15, 2004.  In October 2001, the credit facility was amended and restated primarily to increase the collateral base to include the assets acquired in our purchase of iMaternity.  On August 5, 2002, we

 

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further amended the credit facility to, among other things, permit the consummation of the debt and equity offerings and the use of proceeds thereof, and modify the covenants in order to increase the annual capital expenditures limit to $30.0 million and permit acquisitions, capital stock repurchases and early redemptions of senior notes within specified limits. The amendment also added an unused facility fee of 10 basis points per annum.  Interest on direct borrowings under the credit facility is currently based on the lender’s prime rate or, at our election, an alternative rate of LIBOR plus 200 basis points for all or part of the direct borrowings outstanding. At March 31, 2003, there were no direct borrowings under the credit facility.  Borrowings under the credit facility would have borne interest at the rate of between approximately 3.38% and 4.25% per annum as of March 31, 2003.  Amounts available for direct borrowings, net of letters of credit outstanding, are limited to the lesser of (a) the unused portion of the credit facility or (b) the Aggregate Adjusted Availability (“AAA”) as defined in the agreement based on a percentage of eligible inventory, receivables and cash. The credit facility is secured by a security interest in our accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, fixtures, cash and other assets. There are no financial covenant requirements in the agreement unless the AAA falls below $10.0 million. In such event, we would have to achieve minimum cash flow, as defined in the agreement, of not less than zero. During the first six months of fiscal 2003 and all of fiscal 2002, we have exceeded the AAA minimum.  As of March 31, 2003, outstanding borrowings under the credit facility consisted of no direct borrowings and $3.1 million in letters of credit, with AAA and available borrowings of $51.8 million, compared to $20.4 million of direct borrowings and $2.8 million in letters of credit, with AAA and available borrowings of $28.0 million as of March 31, 2002. In addition, pursuant to the special purpose letter of credit facility, as of March 31, 2003 we have an outstanding $3.4 million standby letter of credit to collateralize an outstanding industrial revenue bond and a $1.0 million letter of credit to collateralize a government mortgage note.

 

Management of the Company believes that our current cash and working capital positions, expected operating cash flows and available borrowing capacity under the credit facility will be sufficient to fund our working capital, capital expenditures and debt repayment requirements and to fund stock repurchases, if any, for the foreseeable future.

 

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. These generally accepted accounting principles require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period.

 

Our significant accounting policies were described in Note 2 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained in the Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2002.  We believe that the following discussion addresses our critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations and require management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.  If actual results were to differ significantly from estimates made, the reported results could be materially affected.  However, the Company is not currently aware of any reasonably likely events or circumstances that would result in materially different results.

 

The Company’s senior management has reviewed these critical accounting policies and estimates and Management’s Discussion and Analysis regarding them with its audit committee.

 

Inventories.  We value our inventories, which consist primarily of maternity apparel, at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out method (FIFO) and includes the cost of merchandise and freight. A periodic review of inventory quantities on hand is performed in order to determine if inventory is properly positioned at the lower of cost or market. Factors related to current inventories such as future consumer demand and fashion trends, current analysis of merchandise based on receipt date, current and anticipated retail markdowns or wholesale discounts, and class or type of inventory are analyzed to determine estimated net realizable values.  Criteria utilized by the Company to quantify aging trends include factors such as amount of merchandise received within the past twelve months, merchandise received more than one year before with quantities on-hand in excess of 12 months of sales, and merchandise currently selling below cost.  A provision is recorded to reduce the cost of inventories to the estimated net realizable values, if required. Inventories as of March 31, 2003 and September 30, 2002 totaled $75.7 million and $76.8 million, respectively, representing approximately 31.8% and 32.9% of total assets, respectively. Given the significance of inventories to the Company’s consolidated financial statements, the determination of net realizable values is considered to be a critical accounting estimate. Any significant unanticipated changes in the factors noted above could have a significant impact on the value of our inventories and our reported operating results.

 

Long-Lived Assets.  Our long-lived assets consist principally of store leasehold improvements and are included in the “Property, Plant and Equipment, net” line item in our consolidated balance sheets. These long-lived assets are recorded at cost and are amortized using the straight-line method, which deducts equal amounts of costs from earnings every year over the lesser of the applicable store lease term or the estimated useful life of the leasehold improvements. The typical initial lease term for our stores is ten years.  Net property, plant and equipment as of March 31, 2003 and September 30, 2002 totaled $53.9 million and $50.5 million, respectively, representing approximately 22.7% and 21.6% of total assets, respectively.

 

In assessing potential impairment of these assets, we periodically evaluate the historical and forecasted operating results and cash flows on a store-by-store basis. Newly-opened stores may take time to generate positive operating and cash flow results. Factors such as (i) store type, that is, company store or leased department, (ii) store concept, that is, Motherhood, Mimi Maternity, or A Pea in the Pod, (iii) store location, for example, urban area versus suburb, (iv) current marketplace awareness of our brands, (v) local customer demographic data and (vi) current fashion trends are all considered in determining the time frame required for a store to achieve positive financial results, which is assumed to be within two years from the date a store location is opened. If economic conditions are substantially different from our expectations, the carrying value of certain of our long-lived assets may become impaired.  In the second quarter of fiscal 2003, we recorded $89,000 in write-downs of long-lived assets.

 

Goodwill.  The purchase method of accounting for business combinations requires the Company to make use of estimates and judgments to allocate the purchase price paid for acquisitions to the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets.  Goodwill represents the excess of the aggregate purchase price over the fair value of net assets of an acquired entity.  As of both March 31, 2003 and September 30, 2002, goodwill totaled $52.7 million, representing approximately 22.2% and 22.6% of total assets, respectively.  In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards, or SFAS, No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS No. 142 requires that goodwill no longer be amortized, but instead be tested for impairment at least annually or as impairment indicators arise. Prior to our adoption of SFAS No. 142 on October 1, 2001, goodwill was amortized using the straight-line method over a period of 20 years.

 

The impairment test requires the Company to compare the fair value of business reporting units to their carrying value, including assigned goodwill.  SFAS No. 142 required an initial impairment test within six months after adoption by the Company and annually thereafter.  In addition, goodwill is tested more frequently if changes in circumstances or the occurrence of events indicate impairment exists.  In assessing potential impairment of goodwill, we have determined that we have one reporting unit for purposes of applying SFAS No. 142 based on our reporting structure. The fair value of our single reporting unit is determined based on the fair market value of our outstanding common stock on a control basis. The Company performed the initial adoption impairment test in early fiscal 2002.  The results of the initial impairment test and the annual impairment test performed as of September 30, 2002 indicated fair value amounts exceeded carrying amounts by a substantial margin.  If any significant unanticipated change in the fair value of our outstanding common stock on a control basis occurs, our goodwill may become impaired.

 

Accounting for Income Taxes.  As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. This process requires us to estimate our actual current tax exposure together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items, such as depreciation of property and equipment and valuation of inventories, for tax and accounting purposes.  We determine our provision for income taxes based on taxes as currently in effect. Legislation changes currently proposed by certain states in which we operate, if enacted, could increase the transactions or activities subject to tax. Any such legislation that becomes law could result in an increase in our income tax expense and our income taxes paid, which could have a materially adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

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The temporary differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheets. We must then assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income. Actual results could differ from this assessment if adequate taxable income is not generated in future periods. Deferred tax assets as of March 31, 2003 and September 30, 2002 totaled $18.4 million and $20.7 million, respectively, representing approximately 7.7% and 8.9% of total assets, respectively. To the extent we believe that recovery of the deferred tax assets is not more likely than not, we must establish a valuation allowance. To the extent we establish a valuation allowance or increase the allowance in a period, we must include an expense within the tax provision in the statement of operations.

 

Accounting for Contingencies.  From time to time, we are named as a defendant in legal actions arising from our normal business activities.  We account for contingencies such as these in accordance with SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies.”  SFAS No. 5 requires us to record an estimated loss contingency when information available prior to issuance of our financial statements indicates that it is probable that an asset has been impacted or a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated.  SFAS No 5. further states that when there is a range of loss and no amount within that range is a better estimate than any other, then the minimum amount of the range shall be accrued.  Accounting for contingencies arising from contractual or legal proceedings requires management to use its best judgment when estimating an accrual related to such contingencies, which includes consultation with the Company’s legal counsel. As of March 31, 2003, accruals for loss contingencies includes a charge of $0.8 million because we entered into a settlement agreement (that is still subject to court approval) in connection with the previously disclosed employment-related action filed against us in California.  As additional information becomes known, our accrual for a loss contingency could fluctuate, thereby creating variability in our results of operations from period to period. Likewise, an actual loss arising from a loss contingency which significantly exceeds the amount accrued for in our financial statements could have a material adverse impact on our operating results for the period in which such actual loss becomes known.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

Some of the information in this report, including the information incorporated by reference (as well as information included in oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by us), contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: changes in consumer spending patterns, raw material price increases, consumer preferences and overall economic conditions, the impact of competition and pricing, availability of suitable store locations, continued availability of capital and financing, ability to hire and develop senior management and sales associates, ability to develop and source merchandise and ability to receive production from foreign sources on a timely basis, potential stock repurchases and other factors referenced in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, including those set forth under the caption “Risk Factors.”

 

In addition, these forward-looking statements necessarily depend upon assumptions, estimates and dates that may be incorrect or imprecise and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements included in this report do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. Forward-looking statements can be identified by, among other things, the use of forward-looking terms such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “pro forma,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “continues,” “could,” “estimates,” “plans,” “potential,” “predicts,” “goal,” “objective,” or the negative of any of these terms, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of outlook, plans, goals, strategy or intentions. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made. We assume no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting these forward-looking statements.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Mothers Work is exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates.  We have not entered into any market sensitive instruments for trading purposes.  The analysis below presents the sensitivity of the market value of our financial instruments to selected changes in market interest rates.  The range of changes presented reflects our view of changes that are reasonably possible over a one-year period.

 

At March 31, 2003, the principal components of our debt portfolio were the $125.0 million of New Senior Notes due 2010 and the $60 million credit facility, both of which are denominated in U.S. dollars.  The fair value of the debt portfolio is referred to as the “debt value.”  The New Senior Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 11¼%.  While a change in market interest rates would not affect the interest incurred or cash flow related to this fixed rate portion of the debt portfolio, the debt value would be affected.

 

Our revolving credit facility carries a variable interest rate that is tied to market indices.  At March 31, 2003, we had no direct borrowings and $3.1 million of letters of credit outstanding under our credit facility (plus an additional $4.4 million of letters of credit outstanding under a special purpose letter of credit facility).  Direct borrowings under the credit facility would have borne interest at a rate between approximately 3.38% and 4.25% per annum as of March 31, 2003.  Any future borrowings under the credit facility would, to the extent of outstanding borrowings, be affected by changes in market interest rates. A change in market interest rates on the variable portion of the debt portfolio impacts the interest incurred and cash flows, but does not impact the value of the financial instrument.

 

The sensitivity analysis as it relates to the fixed portion of our debt portfolio assumes an instantaneous 100 basis point change in interest rates from their levels at March 31, 2003 with all other variables held constant.  A 100 basis point increase in market interest rates would result in a decrease in the debt value of the New Senior Notes by $6.0 million at March 31, 2003.  Conversely, a 100 basis point decline in market interest rates would cause the debt value to increase by $6.3 million at March 31, 2003.

 

Other than as described above, we do not believe that the market risk exposure on other financial instruments is material.

 

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

We carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our internal review committee and our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-14(c) and 15d-14(c) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of a date within 90 days prior to the date of filing this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (the “Evaluation Date”). Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in our Exchange Act reports was recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the applicable time periods.  Since the Evaluation Date, there have been no significant changes in internal controls or, to our knowledge, in other factors that could significantly affect these controls including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

On July 17, 2002, a purported class action was filed against the Company in the Superior Court of California for Los Angeles County. The complaint alleged that, under California law, certain former and current employees should have received overtime compensation, meal breaks and rest breaks. In March 2003, the Company, without admitting liability, entered into a settlement agreement in connection with this action.  The agreement is subject to court approval.  The Company, as previously disclosed, incurred a charge of approximately $800,000 relating to this settlement during the three months ended March 31, 2003.

 

The Company is currently a party to an action alleging similar claims under Washington law in Spokane County Superior Court. The plaintiffs in the Washington case are seeking unspecified actual damages, penalties and attorneys’ fees. On or about April 23, 2003, one purported subclass of the plaintiffs accepted a settlement arrangement in the amount of $50,000, plus attorney’s fees and costs incurred through such date.  At this stage in these proceedings, the Company is unable to predict the outcome of the remaining claims in the Washington case, which it continues to vigorously defend.

 

In addition, from time to time, the Company is named as a defendant in legal actions arising from its normal business activities. Although the amount of any liability that could arise with respect to currently pending actions, including the matters specifically described above, cannot be accurately predicted, the Company does not believe that the resolution of any pending action will have a material adverse effect on its financial position.

 

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

 

At the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on February 7, 2003, the stockholders of the Company elected two directors of the Company; approved an amendment to the Mothers Work 1987 Stock Option Plan to authorize the Company to grant options to purchase up to an additional 500,000 shares; approved an amendment to the Company’s restated Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock, $.01 par value, from 10 million to 20 million; and, ratified the appointment of KPMG LLP as the Company’s independent auditors for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2003.

 

Mr. William A. Schwartz and Mr. Stanley C. Tuttleman were elected to serve as directors at the meeting.  The voting results were 3,587,814 shares for and 352,134 shares abstained for Mr. Schwartz and 3,681,990 shares for and 257,958 shares abstained for Mr. Tuttleman. Dan W. Matthias, Elam M. Hitchner, III, Rebecca C. Matthias, Joseph A. Goldblum and David Schlessinger also continue to serve their terms as directors.  The vote ratifying the amendment to the Mothers Work 1987 Stock Option Plan was 1,917,938 shares for, 1,216,060 shares against and 803,684 abstained. The vote ratifying the amendment to the Mothers Work restated Certificate of Incorporation was 3,759,189 shares for, 182,957 shares against and 802 abstained.  The vote ratifying the appointment of KPMG LLP as independent auditors was 3,869,511 shares for, 69,949 shares against and 789 abstained.

 

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Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

(a)   Exhibits.

 

Exhibit No.		Description
3.3		Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company dated February 11, 2003.
3.4		Amendment to the Certificate of Designation of the Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock of the Company dated February 11, 2003.
*4.7		Amendment No. 4 to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement dated February 14, 2003 between the Company and StockTrans, Inc. (Exhibit 4.7 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 14, 2003).
10.25		Amendment to the Company’s 1987 Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated, effective as of November 13, 2002.
10.26		Amendment Agreement dated as of March 14, 2003 between the Company and Dan W. Matthias
10.27		Amendment Agreement dated as of March 14, 2003 between the Company and Rebecca C. Matthias
99.1		Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
99.2		Certification of the Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

* Incorporated by reference.

 

 

(b)   Report on Form 8-K.

 

The Company filed a Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 19, 2003 under Item 5—Other Events disclosing that it had amended its Amended and Restated Rights Agreement dated as of March 17, 1997, as amended, between the Company and StockTrans, Inc. to increase the number of shares of the Company’s Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock available for issuance under the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement from 10,000 shares to 300,000 shares.

 

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Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

	MOTHERS WORK, INC.
Date: May 15, 2003	By:	/s/ DAN W. MATTHIAS
		Dan W. Matthias
		Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Date: May 15, 2003	By:	/s/ EDWARD M. KRELL
		Edward M. Krell Senior
		Vice President— Chief Financial Officer

 

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CERTIFICATIONS

 

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

 

I, Dan W. Matthias, certify that:

 

1.             I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Mothers Work, Inc.;

 

2.             Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

 

3.             Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

 

4.             The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

 

a)             designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

 

b)            evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

 

c)             presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

 

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

 

a)             all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

 

b)            any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

 

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

 

May 15, 2003		/s/ Dan W. Matthias
Date		Dan W. Matthias
		Chief Executive Officer

 

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CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

 

I, Edward M. Krell, certify that:

 

1.             I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Mothers Work, Inc.;

 

2.             Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

 

3.             Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

 

4.             The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

 

a)             designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

 

b)            evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

 

c)             presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

 

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

 

a)             all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

 

b)            any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

 

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

 

May 15, 2003		/s/ Edward M. Krell
Date		Edward M. Krell
		Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer

 

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