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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

ý

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

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2003

 

OR

 

o

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

 

Commission File Number 0-24395

 

bebe stores, inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

California

 

94-2450490

(State or Jurisdiction of

 

(IRS Employer

Incorporation or Organization)

 

Identification Number)

 

 

 

400 Valley Drive

Brisbane, California 94005

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Telephone: (415) 715-3900

 

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 (1) is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 if the Securities Exchange Act).

Yes ý No o

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuers of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE OF $0.001 PER SHARE, 25,655,493 SHARES
OUTSTANDING AS OF APRIL 30, 2003

 



 

bebe stores, inc.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2003, June 30, 2002 and March 31, 2002

 

.

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 and nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002

 

 

 

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

ITEM 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

 

ITEM 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

 

ITEM 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

 

PART II.

OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.

Legal Proceedings

 

 

ITEM 2.

Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds.

 

 

ITEM 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

 

 

ITEM 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

 

ITEM 5.

Other Information

 

 

ITEM 6.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

 

SIGNATURE

 

 

 

CERTIFICATIONS

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

2



 

PART I.      FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1       Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

bebe stores, inc.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

 

As of
MARCH 31,

 

As of
JUNE 30,

 

As of
MARCH 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2002

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

120,833

 

$

123,431

 

$

117,207

 

Short-term marketable securities

 

10,400

 

 

 

Receivables (net of allowance of $259, $190 and $557)

 

5,610

 

2,249

 

2,412

 

Inventories

 

25,686

 

23,357

 

19,861

 

Prepaid and other

 

5,626

 

7,238

 

10,030

 

Total current assets

 

168,155

 

156,275

 

149,510

 

Equipment and leasehold improvements, net

 

53,115

 

50,573

 

50,008

 

Long-term marketable securities

 

7,875

 

 

 

Other assets

 

6,287

 

6,317

 

4,786

 

Total assets

 

$

235,432

 

$

213,165

 

$

204,304

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

13,536

 

$

12,138

 

$

10,731

 

Accrued liabilities

 

12,504

 

10,399

 

10,000

 

Total current liabilities

 

26,040

 

22,537

 

20,731

 

Deferred rent

 

12,268

 

10,087

 

9,177

 

Total liabilities

 

38,308

 

32,624

 

29,908

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock-authorized 1,000,000 shares at $0.001 par value per share; no shares issued and outstanding

 

 

 

 

Common stock-authorized 40,000,000 shares at $0.001 par value per share; issued and outstanding 25,653,593, 25,612,056 and 25,537,084 shares

 

26

 

26

 

26

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

39,077

 

38,624

 

36,700

 

Accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss)

 

65

 

(37

)

(294

)

Retained earnings

 

157,956

 

141,928

 

137,964

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

197,124

 

180,541

 

174,396

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

235,432

 

$

213,165

 

$

204,304

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3



 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

(Amounts in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

Nine Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

 

Net sales

 

$

68,772

 

$

70,611

 

$

243,437

 

$

242,963

 

Cost of sales, including buying and occupancy

 

39,839

 

41,630

 

132,392

 

132,694

 

Gross profit

 

28,933

 

28,981

 

111,045

 

110,269

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

29,258

 

23,408

 

87,014

 

75,723

 

Income (loss) from operations

 

(325

)

5,573

 

24,031

 

34,546

 

Interest income, expense and other, net

 

(552

)

(468

)

(1,597

)

(1,639

)

Earnings before income taxes

 

227

 

6,041

 

25,628

 

36,185

 

Provision for income taxes

 

85

 

2,267

 

9,600

 

13,665

 

Net earnings

 

$

142

 

$

3,774

 

$

16,028

 

$

22,520

 

Basic earnings per share

 

$

0.01

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.63

 

$

0.89

 

Diluted earnings per share

 

$

0.01

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.62

 

$

0.87

 

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

 

25,650

 

25,449

 

25,638

 

25,348

 

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

 

25,897

 

25,956

 

25,885

 

25,967

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4



 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Amounts in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Nine Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

 

Net earnings

 

$

16,028

 

$

22,520

 

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

9,506

 

7,322

 

Tax benefit from stock options exercised

 

60

 

1,364

 

Net loss (gain) on disposal of property

 

(84

)

477

 

Store closing reserve

 

 

(293

)

Deferred rent

 

2,180

 

5,223

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Receivables

 

(4,017

)

(53

)

Inventories

 

(2,319

)

7,900

 

Other assets

 

(124

)

(229

)

Prepaid expenses

 

1,613

 

(347

)

Accounts payable

 

1,397

 

(145

)

Accrued liabilities

 

2,123

 

(2,252

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

26,363

 

41,487

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows used in investing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of equipment and leasehold improvements

 

(11,180

)

(18,454

)

Proceeds from sales of equipment

 

6

 

 

Purchase of marketable securities, net

 

(18,275

)

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(29,449

)

(18,454

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Repayments on capital leases

 

(25

)

(78

)

Net proceeds from issuance of common stock

 

393

 

3,319

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

368

 

3,241

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

 

120

 

(67

)

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

(2,598

)

26,207

 

Cash and cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of period

 

123,431

 

91,000

 

End of period

 

$

120,833

 

$

117,207

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5



 

bebe stores, inc.
 
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets of bebe stores, inc. (“bebe” or the “Company”) as of March 31, 2003, June 30, 2002 and March 31, 2002, the condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the three months and nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X without audit. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals, except as described below) considered necessary to present fairly the financial position at the balance sheet dates and the results of earnings for three and nine months then ended have been included. The condensed consolidated balance sheet at June 30, 2002, presented herein, was derived from the audited balance sheet included in the Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2002.

 

During the quarter ended March 31, 2003, the Company recorded four unusual items: a write-off of abandoned technology software, a write-off of obsolete inventory, a favorable litigation settlement, and revenue recognition of dormant gift certificates and store credits. The net effect of these adjustments did not have a significant impact on the financial statements.

 

Our business is affected by the pattern of seasonality common to most retail apparel businesses. The results for the current and prior periods are not necessarily indicative of future financial results.

 

Certain notes and other information have been condensed or omitted from the interim condensed consolidated financial statements presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Therefore, these condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2002.

 

MARKETABLE SECURITIES

 

The Company’s marketable securities are classified as “available for sale”. Fluctuations in fair value are included in accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss) on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Marketable securities are comprised of tax-exempt municipal bonds.

 

EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share is computed as net earnings divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issuable through stock options, warrants and other convertible securities.

 

The following is a reconciliation of the number of shares used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

 

6



 

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Nine Months Ended
March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

(In thousands)

 

Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding

 

25,650

 

25,449

 

25,638

 

25,348

 

Incremental shares from the assumed issuance of stock options

 

247

 

507

 

247

 

619

 

Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding

 

25,897

 

25,956

 

25,885

 

25,967

 

 

The number of incremental shares from the assumed issuance of stock options is calculated by applying the treasury stock method.

 

Excluded from the computation of the number of diluted weighted average shares outstanding were antidilutive options of 2,314,930 and 1,175,230 for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and 2,314,930 and 970,230 for the nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

 

SETTLEMENT OF TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT LAWSUIT

 

The Company posted a $3.0 million bond during the three months ended December 31, 2002. The bond, representing an escrow amount pending a full trial, was ordered by the Federal District Court in order to grant a preliminary injunction against May Company and their “be” brand. The bond, which was being held in an interest bearing account, has been released and is included in receivables on the accompanying balance sheet. Also during the quarter, the Company resolved the pending lawsuit to their satisfaction.

 

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities”, which addresses accounting for restructuring and similar costs.  SFAS 146 supersedes previous accounting guidance, principally Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 94-3.  The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS 146 for all restructuring activities initiated after December 31, 2002.  SFAS 146 requires that the liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized when the liability is incurred.  Under Issue 94-3, a liability for an exit cost was recognized at the date of the company’s commitment to an exit plan.  SFAS 146 also establishes that the liability should initially be measured and recorded at fair value.  Accordingly, SFAS 146 may effect the timing of recognizing any future restructuring costs as well as the amounts recognized. The adoption of SFAS 146 did not have an impact on the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure.” SFAS No. 148 amends SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to provide 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 Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 28, Interim Financial Reporting, to require proforma disclosure in interim financial statements by companies that elect to account for stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method prescribed in APB Opinion No. 25. The Company continues to use the intrinsic value method of accounting for stock-based compensation. As a result, the transition provisions will not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

INVENTORIES

 

The Company’s inventories consist of:

 

7



 

 

 

As of March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Raw materials

 

$

7,762

 

$

3,386

 

Merchandise available for sale

 

17,924

 

16,475

 

Inventories

 

$

25,686

 

$

19,861

 

 

STOCK PLAN INFORMATION

 

The Company has various non-qualified stock-based compensation programs, which include stock options and restricted stock awards.

 

The Company has various stock option plans that provide for the granting of stock options to officers, key employees and directors. The Company accounts for stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method prescribed in Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” whereby the options are granted at market price, and therefore no compensation costs are recognized. The Company has elected to retain its current method of accounting as described above and has adopted the SFAS Nos. 123 and 148 disclosure requirements.

 

If compensation expense for the Company’s various stock option plans had been determined based upon the fair values at the grant dates for awards under those plans in accordance with SFAS No. 123, the Company’s pro-forma net earnings, basic and diluted earnings per common share would have been as follows:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

March 30,
2003

 

March 30,
2002

 

March 30,
2003

 

March 30,
2002

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

$

142

 

$

3,774

 

$

16,028

 

$

22,520

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deduct: Stock based employee compensation determined under the fair value method, net of income tax

 

$

(462

)

$

(651

)

$

(2,012

)

$

(2,099

)

Proforma

 

$

(320

)

$

3,123

 

$

14,016

 

$

20,421

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic EPS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

$

0.01

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.63

 

$

0.89

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proforma

 

$

(0.01

)

$

0.12

 

$

0.55

 

$

0.81

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted EPS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

$

0.01

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.62

 

$

0.87

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proforma

 

$

(0.01

)

$

0.12

 

$

0.54

 

$

0.79

 

 

8



 

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

This quarterly report on Form 10-Q, including the following sections, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and the cautionary statements set forth below and those contained in the section entitled “Risks That May Affect Results” identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted in any such forward-looking statements. When used in this report, the words “expects,” “could,” “would,” “may,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” and similar expressions, as well as statements regarding bebe’s focus for the future, are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. We caution investors that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain risk factors identified in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q and other filings we have made with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to the forward-looking statements or reflect events or circumstances after the date of this document. Our fiscal year ends on June 30 of each year.

 

OVERVIEW

 

We design, develop and produce a distinctive line of contemporary women’s apparel and accessories.  We market our products under the bebe and BEBE SPORT brand names through our 153 bebe retail stores, 6 BEBE SPORT retail stores, and 18 bebe outlet stores located in 30 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, and an on-line store at www.bebe.com. We also sell bebe product to 13 licensed stores in Greece, Israel, United Arab Emirates, Thailand and Singapore. While we attract a broad audience, our target customers are 18 to 35-year-old women who seek current fashion trends interpreted to suit their lifestyle needs. The “bebe look,” with an unmistakable hint of sensuality, appeals to a hip, sophisticated, body-conscious woman who takes pride in her appearance. The bebe customer is a discriminating consumer who demands value in the form of quality and fashion at a competitive price. Our broad product offering includes tops, pants, skirts, dresses, suits, logo, casual sportswear, activewear, outerwear, handbags, fragrances and other accessories. We design and develop the majority of our merchandise in-house. The merchandise is then manufactured to our specifications. The remainder of our merchandise is selected directly from third party manufacturers’ lines.

 

Founded by Manny Mashouf, our current Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, we opened our first store in San Francisco, California in 1976.  In the last five years, we have implemented several strategic initiatives that have contributed to our overall growth. These strategic initiatives address all aspects of our operations and in particular the merchandising, planning, production, design and distribution functions. Our merchandising initiatives focus primarily on expanding our product line to include lifestyle dressing at a competitive price that easily adapts from day to evening.  In addition to offering day to eveningwear, we offer a casual assortment of denim, logo and BEBE SPORT.  The logo product line highlights the bebe logo on a variety of casual silhouettes, enhancing brand awareness and providing younger, “aspirational” customers an entry to the bebe product line at lower price points.  The BEBE SPORT product line is active inspired sportswear featuring cotton knits, fleece, casual active bottoms, sweaters, outerwear and accessories that are easy, sexy and modern. The strategic initiatives that relate to the planning, production, design and distribution functions focus primarily on implementing more sophisticated processes.  Also, these initiatives involve a more disciplined approach to our business operations.

 

We reinforce our brand with a distinctive lifestyle image advertising campaign, using prominent fashion photographers. We believe that our emphasis on non-product specific lifestyle advertising promotes brand awareness and attracts customers who are intrigued by the playfully sensual and evocative imagery. We communicate the images to consumers through a variety of advertising vehicles including fashion magazines, bus shelters, in-store displays, customer mailings and the BEBE SPORT catalog. We further enhance the bebe brand image by designing our on-line and retail stores to create an upscale, inviting boutique environment.

 

9



 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

The preparation of these financial statements requires the appropriate application of certain accounting policies, many of which require us to make estimates and assumptions about future events and their impact on amounts reported in our financial statements and related notes. Since future events and their impact cannot be determined with certainty, the actual results will inevitably differ from our estimates. Such differences could be material to the financial statements. We believe our application of accounting policies, and the estimates inherently required therein, are reasonable. These accounting policies and estimates are constantly reevaluated, and adjustments are made when facts and circumstances dictate a change. Our accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to the financial statements in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2002.

 

We have identified certain critical accounting policies, which are described below:

 

Inventories. Our inventories are stated at the lower of weighted average cost or market. In order to assess that inventory is recorded properly at the lower of cost or market, we make certain assumptions based on historical experience and current information. These assumptions can have a significant impact on current and future operating results and financial position. During the quarter ended March 31, 2003, we recorded a $0.8 million write-off of obsolete inventory. We estimate shortage for the period between the last physical count and balance sheet date. Our estimate can be affected by shortage trends.

 

Long-lived assets. We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances, such as store closures, indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. At the time a decision is made to close a store, we record an impairment charge, if appropriate, or accelerate depreciation over the revised useful life. During the quarter ended March 31, 2003, we recorded a $0.8 million write-off of abandoned information technology projects. We believe at this time that the long-lived assets’ carrying values and useful lives continue to be appropriate.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following table sets forth certain financial data as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

Nine Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

 

Statements of Operations Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

100.0

%

100.0

%

100.0

%

100.0

%

Cost of sales, including buying and occupancy (1)

 

57.9

 

59.0

 

54.4

 

54.6

 

Gross profit

 

42.1

 

41.0

 

45.6

 

45.4

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses (2)

 

42.5

 

33.2

 

35.7

 

31.2

 

Income (loss) from operations

 

(0.4

)

7.8

 

9.9

 

14.2

 

Interest and other expense (income), net

 

(0.8

)

(0.7

)

(0.6

)

(0.7

)

Earnings before income taxes

 

0.4

 

8.5

 

10.5

 

14.9

 

Provision for income taxes

 

0.2

 

3.2

 

3.9

 

5.6

 

Net earnings

 

0.2

%

5.3

%

6.6

%

9.3

%

 


(1)           Cost of sales includes the cost of merchandise, buying costs and occupancy costs.

(2)           Selling, general and administrative expenses primarily consist of non-occupancy store costs, corporate overhead and advertising costs.

 

10



 

We operated 177 stores at March 31, 2003 compared to 161 stores at March 31, 2002. We opened fifteen new stores in the first nine months of fiscal 2003, of which 3 were BEBE SPORT stores, and we expect to open an additional 5 to 8 stores during the remainder of fiscal 2003, of which 3 to 5 will be BEBE SPORT stores.  In addition to our traditional brick-and-mortar stores, we also operate an on-line store, which can be found at www.bebe.com.

 

Net Sales. Net sales decreased to $68.8 million during the three months ended March 31, 2003 from $70.6 million in the same period of the prior year, a decrease of $1.8 million, or 2.5%. Net sales for the quarter included $59.9 million from stores open more than one year. During the quarter comparable store sales decreased 11.0% versus the prior year. Management believes the decrease in comparable store sales was attributed to a decrease in consumer spending, a product assortment with lower average selling prices, store merchandise inventory levels during the quarter that were below the prior year and a shift in the timing of the Easter Holiday. The remaining sales of $8.9 million were generated by stores not included in the comparable store sales base, on-line sales, wholesale sales to international licensees, and royalty revenue from product licensees. For the nine months ended March 31, 2003, net sales increased to $243.4 million from $243.0 million in the same nine-month period of the prior year, an increase of $0.4 million, or 0.2%. Net sales for the nine-month period included $208.7 million from stores open more than one year, representing a 9.6% decrease in comparable store sales versus the prior year. Management believes the decrease in comparable store sales was attributed to a decrease in consumer spending, a product assortment with lower average selling prices, lower store merchandise inventory levels during the second and third quarters compared to the prior year, and missed opportunities in key product categories. The remaining sales of $34.7 million were generated by stores not included in the comparable store sales base, on-line sales, wholesale sales to international licensees, and royalty revenue from product licensees.

 

Gross Profit. Gross profit decreased to $28.9 million during the three months ended March 31, 2003 from $29.0 million for the same three-month period of the prior year. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit increased to 42.1% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2003 from 41.0% in the same three-month period of the prior year. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was the result of higher net merchandise margins offset by negative occupancy leverage. Gross margin was positively impacted as a result of the corporate restructure which included a change in policy with respect to dormant gift certificates and store credits and recognized approximately $0.7 million in revenue and gross profit. Gross profit increased to $111.0 million during the nine months ended March 31, 2003 from $110.3 million for the same nine-month period of the prior year, an increase of $0.7 million, or 0.6%. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit increased to 45.6% for the nine-month period ended March 31, 2003 from 45.4% in the same nine-month period of the prior year. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was the result of higher net merchandise margins offset partially by negative occupancy leverage.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses, which primarily consist of non-occupancy store costs, corporate overhead and advertising costs, increased to $29.3 million during the three months ended March 31, 2003 from $23.4 million in the same period of the prior year, an increase of $5.9 million, or 25.2%. As a percentage of net sales, these expenses increased to 42.5% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2003 from 33.2% in the same three-month period of the prior year. For the nine months ended March 31, 2003, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to $87.0 million from $75.7 million in the same nine-month period of the prior year, an increase of $11.3 million, or 14.9%. As a percentage of net sales, these expenses increased to 35.7% for the nine-month period ended March 31, 2003 from 31.2% in the same nine-month period of the prior year. This increase as a percentage of net sales was largely the result of higher compensation, depreciation, and advertising expenses. Expenses were also impacted by charges related to abandoned information technology projects which were offset by a favorable legal settlement.

 

Interest and Other Expense (Income), Net. We generated approximately $0.6 million of interest and other income (net of other expenses) during the three months ended March 31, 2003 as compared to approximately $0.5 million in the same three-month period of the prior year. For the nine months ended March 31, 2003, we generated approximately $1.6 million of interest and other income (net of other expenses) as compared to approximately $1.6 million in the same nine-month period of the prior year.

 

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Provision for Income Taxes. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2003, was approximately 37.5% as compared to 37.5% in the prior year.

 

Seasonality of Business and Quarterly Results

 

Our business varies with general seasonal trends that are characteristic of the retail apparel industry. As a result, our typical store generates a disproportionate amount of our annual net sales in the first half of our fiscal year (which includes the fall and holiday selling seasons) compared to the second half of our fiscal year. If for any reason our sales were below seasonal norms during the first half of our fiscal year, our annual operating results would be negatively impacted. Because of the seasonality of our business, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Our working capital requirements vary widely throughout the year and generally peak in the first and second fiscal quarters. At March 31, 2003, we had approximately $139.1 million of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities (short-term and long-term) on hand. In addition, we had a revolving line of credit, under which we could borrow or issue letters of credit up to a combined total of $10.0 million. As of March 31, 2003, there were no borrowings under the line of credit, and letters of credit outstanding totaled $1.3 million.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended March 31, 2003 was $26.4 million compared to $41.5 million in the prior year. Cash provided by operating activities is primarily generated by earnings adjusted for depreciation, deferred rent and changes in working capital. The decrease from the prior year is due to lower earnings and changes in working capital items.

 

Net cash used by investing activities for the nine-month period ended March 31, 2003 was $29.4 million primarily due to the opening of new stores, investments in management information systems, and the increase in marketable securities.  We opened fifteen new stores in the first nine months of fiscal 2003, of which 3 were BEBE SPORT stores, and we expect to open an additional 5 to 8 stores during the remainder of fiscal 2003, of which 3 to 5 will be BEBE SPORT stores.

 

We estimate that total capital expenditures will be approximately $14.0 million to $16.0 million in fiscal 2003.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities was $0.4 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2003 and was primarily derived from proceeds from stock option exercises.

 

We believe that our cash on hand, together with cash flows generated from operations, will be sufficient to meet our capital and operating requirements through fiscal 2003. Our future capital requirements, however, will depend on numerous factors, including without limitation, the size and number of new and expanded stores and/or store concepts, investment costs for management information systems, corporate office and distribution center expansions, potential acquisitions and/or joint ventures, stock repurchase, and future results of operations.

 

Inflation

 

We do not believe that inflation has had a material effect on the results of operations in the recent past. However, we cannot assure that our business will not be affected by inflation in the future.

 

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RISKS THAT MAY AFFECT RESULTS

 

Factors that might cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward looking statements discussed elsewhere in this report, as well as affect our ability to achieve our financial and other goals, include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESS:

 

1.     If we misjudge our customers’ acceptance of, or demand for, our products, our sales and profitability may be negatively impacted. Our success depends on our ability to develop or select the right products, present a balanced product assortment and manage our inventory with the demand for such merchandise. Our ability to accurately predict the demand for our products is further affected by uncertainties created by the slowed economy, recent international affairs and consumer spending fluctuations. If we miscalculate our customers’ product preferences or the demand for our products, we may be faced with significant excess inventory or lack of inventory. This could result in excess fabric for some products and missed opportunities for others. This may result in weak sales and markdowns and/or write-offs, which would impair our profitability.

 

2.     If we are not able to consistently show increases in net sales and net earnings or are not able to operate on a profitable basis, our stock price may be negatively affected. We cannot guarantee that we will generate net earnings increases period to period or that we will remain profitable in the future. In the past five years, profitability rates have varied widely from quarter-to-quarter and from year-to-year. In particular, in fiscal 2000 we experienced a significantly lower rate of growth in earnings than experienced in the prior three fiscal years. Although we were profitable, in fiscal 2001, fiscal 2002 and for the nine months ended March 31, 2003, we experienced a decrease in earnings versus the prior year.

 

Our future results of operations will depend on a number of factors including, but not limited to, our ability to:

 

      effectively manage the number and timing of new store openings;

      identify and capitalize upon changing fashion trends;

      identify, hire and retain qualified management and other personnel;

      utilize owned raw material;

      maintain appropriate inventory levels;

      obtain needed raw materials;

      identify and negotiate favorable leases for successful store locations;

      maximize comparable store sales performance;

      control inventory shrinkage results;

      control operating costs; and

      produce finished goods in a timely manner.

 

In addition, future results of operations will depend on factors outside of our control, such as general economic conditions (including the global uncertainties related to the ongoing conflicts), availability of third party sourcing and raw materials, and actions of competitors.

 

3.     If we are unable to obtain raw materials or find manufacturing facilities, our financial condition may be harmed. We do not own any manufacturing facilities and therefore depend on a limited number of third parties to manufacture our products. Independent manufacturers make merchandise designed by the bebe in-house design team with raw materials purchased from independent mills and other suppliers. We place all of our orders for production of merchandise and raw materials by purchase order and do not have any long-term contracts with any manufacturer or supplier. We compete with many other companies for production facilities and raw materials. If we fail to obtain sufficient quantities of raw materials, it would have a harmful effect on our financial condition. Furthermore, we have received in the past, and may receive in the future, shipments of products from manufacturers that fail to conform to our quality control standards. In such event, unless we are able to obtain replacement products in a timely manner, we may lose sales. If we fail to maintain favorable relationships with these production facilities and to obtain an adequate supply of quality raw materials on commercially reasonable terms, it could harm our business and

 

13



 

results of operations. Furthermore, we cannot assure that these production facilities will not supply similar raw materials to or manufacture similar products for our competitors.

 

4.     If we are not able to effectively manage our growth, our profitability may be negatively impacted. Our continued growth depends, to a significant degree, on our ability to identify sites and open and operate new stores on a profitable basis. We expect to open 20 to 23 stores in fiscal 2003, of which 6 to 8 are BEBE SPORT stores. Our plan to expand successfully depends on a number of factors, including but not limited to, the following:

 

      the availability of desirable locations;

      the ability to identify suitable locations;

      the ability to negotiate acceptable leases for such locations;

      the ability to manage the expansion of the store base;

      the ability to source inventory adequate to meet the needs of new stores;

      the ability to operate stores profitably once opened;

      the development of adequate management information systems to support expanded activity;

      the ability to recruit and retain new employees;

      the availability of capital; and

      general economic and business conditions affecting consumer confidence and spending.

 

In selected markets, we have opened and plan to open flagship stores that will be larger and more expensive to operate than existing stores. If these flagship stores do not generate sufficient revenues to cover their higher costs, our financial results could be negatively affected.

 

We cannot ensure that we will achieve our planned expansion on a timely and profitable basis. In addition, most of our new store openings in fiscal 2003 will be in existing markets. These openings may affect the existing stores’ net sales volumes and profitability. Furthermore, we will need to hire experienced executive personnel to support the planned improvements and expansions of our business. We cannot assure that we will be successful in hiring such personnel in a time frame necessary to manage and support our expansion plans.

 

5.     Our success depends on our key employees, the loss of whom could disrupt our business. We depend upon the expertise and execution of our key employees, particularly Manny Mashouf, our founder, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and majority shareholder. Except for Mr. Mashouf, we do not carry “key person” life insurance policies on any of our employees. If we lose the services of Mr. Mashouf or any key officers or employees, it could harm our business and results of operations.

 

Our success depends also on our ability to attract and retain experienced employees and our ability to utilize all of our employees’ strengths. There is substantial competition for experienced personnel, which we expect to continue. We compete for experienced personnel with companies that have greater financial resources than we do. In the past, we have experienced significant turnover of our executive management team and retail store personnel. If we fail to attract, motivate and retain qualified personnel, or capitalize on such persons’ expertise, it could harm our business and results of operations.

 

6.     If we are not able to effectively upgrade and expand our management information systems, our operations may be harmed. We have in the past and will continue in the future to make significant investments to improve existing management information systems and implement new systems in the areas of production, merchandise allocation, financial and distribution functions. We cannot assure that these enhancements will be successfully implemented. If we fail to implement and integrate such systems, it can have a harmful effect on our results of operations.

 

7.     If an independent manufacturer violates labor or other laws, or is accused of violating any such laws, or if their labor practices diverge from those generally accepted as ethical, it could harm our business and brand image. While we maintain a policy to monitor the operations of our independent

 

14



 

manufacturers by having an independent firm inspect these manufacturing sites, and all manufacturers are contractually required to comply with such labor practices, we cannot control the actions or the public’s perceptions of such manufacturers, nor can we assure that these manufacturers will conduct their businesses using ethical or legal labor practices. Apparel companies can be held jointly liable for the wrongdoings of the manufacturers of their products.  While we do not control the manufacturer’s employees employment conditions or business practices, and the manufacturers act in their own interest, they may act in a manner that results in negative public perceptions of us and/or employee allegations or court determinations that we are jointly liable. Currently, there are two litigation matters pending that involve labor disputes. Although the amount of liability with respect to these actions cannot be accurately predicted, in the opinion of management, any such liability will not individually or in the aggregate have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

8.     We depend on third party apparel manufacturers, and our sales may be negatively affected if the manufacturers do not perform acceptably. We develop a portion of our merchandise in conjunction with third party apparel manufacturers. In some cases, we select merchandise directly from these manufacturers’ lines. We do not have long-term contracts with any third party apparel manufacturers and purchase all of the merchandise from such manufacturers by purchase order. Furthermore, we have received in the past, and may receive in the future, shipments of products from manufacturers that fail to conform to our quality control standards. In such event, unless we are able to obtain replacement products in a timely manner, we may lose sales. We cannot assure you that third party manufacturers (1) will not supply similar products to our competitors, (2) will not stop supplying products to us completely or (3) will supply products that satisfy our quality control standards.

 

9.     Our business is seasonal and as a result our sales volumes and levels of profitability fluctuate on a quarterly basis. We tend to generate larger sales and, to an even greater extent, profitability levels in the first and second quarters, which include the fall and holiday selling seasons, of our fiscal year. If for any reason sales are below seasonal norms during the first and second quarters of our fiscal year our quarterly and annual results of operations would be harmed. Our quarterly financial performance may also fluctuate widely as a result of a number of other factors such as:

 

      the number and timing of new store openings;

      acceptance of product offerings;

      timing of product deliveries;

      actions by competitors; and

      effectiveness of advertising campaigns.

 

Due to these factors, we believe that quarter to quarter comparisons of our operating results are not necessarily meaningful and that these comparisons cannot be relied upon as indicators of future performance.

 

10.  Any serious disruption at our major facilities could have a harmful effect on our business. We currently operate our corporate office in Brisbane, California, and a distribution facility in Benicia, California.  We also operate a technology support center in Sacramento, California, and a design studio and production facility in Los Angeles, California. Any serious disruption at these facilities whether due to the construction, relocation, employment needs of these facilities, fire, earthquake, terrorist acts or otherwise would harm our operations and could have a harmful effect on our business and results of operations. Furthermore, we have little experience operating essential functions away from our main corporate offices and are uncertain what effect operating such satellite facilities might have on business, personnel and results of operations.

 

Furthermore, merchandise is typically shipped as soon as possible after receipt in our distribution center using third-party carriers. If these third-party carriers are unable to deliver shipments to some or all of our stores in a timely or cost efficient manner or if shipments are slowed due to actual or threats of terrorist attacks, our business and results of operations may be harmed.

 

15



 

11.  If we are not able to successfully develop product lines or new store concepts or acquire businesses that extend our product lines, our ability to expand our revenue base may be impaired. From time to time, we may introduce new categories of products or new store concepts or acquire businesses. For example, we have tested a new concept store format, BEBE SPORT, in which our product offering is limited to active inspired sportswear branded with the “bebe” and “BEBE SPORT” logo. If this limited product offering is not successful, our ability to expand into additional markets with this concept store may be impaired.

 

12.  If we are not able to successfully protect our existing copyrights and trademarks, our ability to capitalize on the value of our brand name may be impaired. We have to ensure our licensees are using the intellectual property correctly or the goodwill associated with these trademarks will be diluted which will have an impact on our business.

 

We are seeking to register our trademarks in targeted international markets, which we believe represents large potential markets for our products. In some of these markets, local companies currently have registered competing marks, and/or regulatory obstacles exist that may prevent us from obtaining a trademark for the bebe name or related names. In such countries, we may be unable to use the bebe name unless we purchase the right or obtain a license to use the bebe name. We may not be able to register trademarks in these international markets, purchase the right or obtain a license to use the bebe name on commercially reasonable terms. If we fail to obtain trademark, ownership or license rights, it would limit our ability to expand into certain international markets or enter such markets with the bebe name, and to capitalize on the value of our brand.

 

Furthermore in some jurisdictions, despite successful registration of our trademarks, third parties may allege infringement and bring actions against us.

 

13.  Legislative actions and potential new accounting pronouncements are likely to cause our general and administrative expenses to increase and impact our future financial position and results of operations. In order to comply with the newly adopted Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as well as proposed changes to listing standards by Nasdaq, and proposed accounting changes by the Securities and Exchange Commission, we may be required to hire additional personnel and additional outside legal, accounting and advisory services, all of which could cause our general and administrative costs to increase. Proposed changes in the accounting rules, including legislative and other proposals to account for employees stock options as compensation expense among others, could increase the expenses we report under GAAP and adversely affect our operating results.

 

RISKS RELATING TO OUR INDUSTRY:

 

1.  If economic conditions continue to deteriorate, it could have a prolonged negative impact on our business, sales and profitability. The retail apparel industry is subject to substantial cyclical variation. A recession in the general economy or a decline in consumer spending in the apparel industry could harm our financial performance. Consumers generally purchase less apparel and related merchandise during recessionary periods and consumer spending may decline at other times. We believe that the current economic downturn has affected our sales. A continued economic slowdown or downturn would have a negative effect on our financial condition. We cannot ensure that our customers would continue to make purchases during such times.

 

2.  We face significant competition in the retail and apparel industry, which could harm our sales and profitability. The retail and apparel industries are highly competitive and are characterized by low barriers to entry. We expect competition in our markets to increase. The primary competitive factors in our markets are:

 

      brand name recognition;

      sourcing strategies;

      product styling;

      product quality;

 

16



 

      product presentation;

      product pricing;

      timeliness of product development and delivery to market;

      store ambiance;

      customer service; and

      convenience.

 

We compete with traditional department stores, specialty store retailers, business to consumer websites, off-price retailers and direct marketers for, among other things, raw materials, market share, retail space, finished goods, sourcing and personnel. Because many of these competitors are larger and have substantially greater financial, distribution and marketing resources than we do, we may lack the resources to adequately compete with them. If we fail to compete in any way, it could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

3.  If we fail to deal with the risks inherent in the fashion and apparel industry, our profitability and brand image may be impaired. The apparel industry is subject to rapidly evolving fashion trends, shifting consumer demands and intense competition. If we misinterpret the current fashion trends or if we fail to respond to shifts in consumer tastes, demand for bebe products, profitability and brand image could be impaired. Also, we cannot assure that our competitors will not carry similar designs, which would undermine bebe’s distinctive image and may harm our brand image. Our future success partly depends on our ability to anticipate, identify and capitalize upon emerging fashion trends, including products, styles, fabrics and colors. In addition, our success depends on our ability to distinguish ourselves within the women’s apparel market.

 

RISKS RELATING TO OUR COMMON STOCK:

 

1.  Our stock price may fluctuate because of the small number of shares that can be publicly traded and the low average daily trading volumes. The vast majority of our outstanding shares of our common stock are not registered and are subject to trading restrictions. As of March 31, 2003, only 4,882,395 shares of our common stock were available to be publicly traded, and as a result, our average daily trading volumes are relatively low, and our stock price is vulnerable to market swings due to large purchases, sales and short sales of our common stock.

 

2.  Because a principal shareholder controls the company, other shareholders may not be able to influence the direction the company takes. As of March 31, 2003, Manny Mashouf, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, beneficially owned approximately 81.0% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. As a result, he alone can control the election of directors and the outcome of all issues submitted to the shareholders. This may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire shares, may discourage acquisition bids, and could limit the price that certain investors might be willing to pay for shares of our common stock. This concentration of stock ownership may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of our company.

 
ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

We are exposed to market risks, which include changes in U.S. interest rates and, to a lesser extent, foreign exchange rates. We do not engage in financial transactions for trading or speculative purposes.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

We currently maintain a portfolio of fixed and variable investments consisting of cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities and long-term marketable securities, which are affected by changes in market interest rates.  According to our investment policy, we may invest in taxable and tax exempt instruments.  In addition, the policy establishes limits on credit quality, maturity, issuer and type of instrument.  Marketable securities are classified as “available for sale”.  Fluctuations in fair value are included in accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss) on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. 

 

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Marketable securities are comprised of tax-exempt municipal bonds.  We do not use derivative financial instruments in our investment portfolio.

 

All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase are considered to be cash equivalents.  The remaining investments are considered short-term marketable securities if maturities range between four and twelve months or long term marketable securities if maturities range between thirteen and twenty four months.

 

The following table lists our cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities and long-term marketable securities at March 31, 2003:

 

 

 

2003

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Cash equivalents

 

$

115,219

 

$

115,219

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

1.87

%

 

 

Short-term marketable securities

 

10,400

 

10,400

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

2.63

%

 

 

Long-term marketable securities

 

7,875

 

7,875

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

2.72

%

 

 

Total

 

$

133,494

 

$

133,494

 

 

We posted a $3.0 million bond during the three months ended December 31, 2002. The bond, representing an escrow amount pending a full trial, was ordered by the Federal District Court in order to grant a preliminary injunction against the May Department Stores Company and their “be” brand. The bond, which was being held in an interest bearing account, has been released and is included in receivables on the accompanying balance sheet. For more information about this litigation, see “Legal Proceedings” below.

 

The interest payable on our bank line of credit is based on variable interest rates and therefore affected by changes in market interest rates. If interest rates rose .425 percentage points (a 10% change from the bank’s reference rate as of March 31, 2003), our results from operations and cash flows would not be materially affected.

 

Foreign Currency Risks

 

We enter into a significant amount of purchase obligations outside of the U.S. which are settled in U.S. Dollars and, therefore, have only minimal exposure to foreign currency exchange risks. We also operate a subsidiary with a base currency other than the U.S. Dollar. This subsidiary represented less than two percent of total revenues for the quarter ended March 31, 2003 and, therefore, presents only minimal exposure to foreign currency exchange risks. We do not hedge against foreign currency risks and believe that foreign currency exchange risk is immaterial.

 

ITEM 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

(a)           Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-14(c) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, within the 90 day period prior to the filing date of this report. Based on this evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of that date.

 

(b)           There have been no significant changes (including corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies or material weaknesses) in our internal controls or in other factors that could

 

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significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of the evaluation referenced in paragraph (a) above.

 

PART II  OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

From time to time, we may be involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations. As of the date of this filing, other than as mentioned below, we are not engaged in any legal proceedings that are expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

The lawsuit we filed on August 16, 2002 in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri (the “Court”) against May Department Stores Company (“May Company”) has been settled to our satisfaction.  This was a civil action for preliminary and permanent injunctive relief and damages sought against May Company for trademark infringement, trademark dilution, unfair competition and false designation of origin, arising, in part under the Lanham Act.  This action also arose under the statutes and common law of the State of Missouri involving trademark infringement and dilution.  We were seeking (i) a permanent injunction prohibiting May Company from using or permitting the use of the name “be” and all other names which are confusingly similar to the bebe marks; (ii) an accounting and disgorgement of May Company’s profits; (iii) an award of punitive damages; and (iv) any other relief including prejudgment interest, post-judgment interest and costs that the Court deems just and proper.

 

The Court had ordered a $3.0 million bond which was being held in an interest bearing account but has since been released.

 

Along with approximately one hundred other parties, we were named in a class action suit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court (case No. BC294155) concerning the substance of one of the questions on our employment application. At present, we have not been formally served.

 

ITEM 2.  CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 3.  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

 

(a) Exhibits.  The following is a list of exhibits filed as part of this Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Exhibit Number

 

Description

 

 

 

99.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer

99.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer

 

(b) Reports on Form 8-K.

 

None.

 

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SIGNATURE

 

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

 

Dated May 15, 2003

 

bebe stores, inc.

 

/s/    John Kyees

 

 

John Kyees, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer

 

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CERTIFICATIONS

 

I, Manny Mashouf, certify that:

 

1.             I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of bebe stores, inc. (the “Registrant”);

 

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; and

 

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) have designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material 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) have evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

 

(C) have presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based upon our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

 

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

 

(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 disclosure controls and procedures; 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 the disclosure controls and procedures subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

Date: May 15, 2003

/s/ Manny Mashouf

 

 

Manny Mashouf

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

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I, John Kyees, certify that:

 

1.             I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of bebe stores, inc. (the “Registrant”);

 

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; and

 

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) have designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material 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) have evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

 

(C) have presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based upon our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

 

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

 

(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 disclosure controls and procedures; 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 the disclosure controls and procedures subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

 

Date: May 15, 2003

/s/ John Kyees

 

 

John Kyees

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
Number

 

Description

99.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer

99.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer

 

23