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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 


 

Form 10-Q

 

(Mark one)

ý

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

 

 

 

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2004

 

 

OR

 

 

o

Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

 

 

For the transition period from                           to                          

 


 

Commission File Number        333-106356

 


 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

 

41-2107245

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

 

 

12900 Hall Road, Suite 200, Sterling Heights, MI

 

48313

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

(586) 997-2900

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

NOT APPLICABLE

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 

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 a 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 Exchange 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.

 

Class

 

Outstanding at November 12, 2004

 

 

 

Membership Units

 

100

 

 



 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC

 

INDEX

 

Part I. Financial Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets of the Company as of September 30, 2004 and as of December 31, 2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations of the Company for the three months and the nine months ended September 30, 2004, the three months ended September 30, 2003 and for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations for the Predecessor for the period January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for the Company for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 and the period April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for the Predecessor for the period January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Statement of Changes in Members’ Equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 for the Company

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Condensed 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 and Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.

Changes in Securities, Use of Proceeds and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security-Holders

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 5.

Other Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signature

 

 



 

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.             Financial Statements

 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

As of September 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003

(Dollars in thousands)

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

September 30,
2004

 

December 31,
2003

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

8,829

 

$

16,686

 

Accounts receivable, less reserves of $1,835 and $2,189, respectively

 

65,204

 

55,363

 

Inventories

 

 

 

 

 

Raw materials

 

23,081

 

19,039

 

Work-in-process

 

12,149

 

9,662

 

Finished goods

 

24,481

 

23,075

 

Reserves

 

(4,401

)

(3,448

)

Total inventories

 

55,310

 

48,328

 

Deferred income taxes

 

9,402

 

6,087

 

Other current assets

 

18,060

 

14,987

 

Total current assets

 

156,805

 

141,451

 

Property and equipment, net

 

71,852

 

73,795

 

Goodwill

 

39,596

 

39,596

 

Other intangible assets, net

 

103,103

 

110,156

 

Deferred income taxes

 

474

 

336

 

Other noncurrent assets

 

2,718

 

2,257

 

Total Assets

 

$

374,548

 

$

367,591

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

$

1,886

 

$

1,909

 

Accounts payable

 

42,073

 

33,285

 

Accrued liabilities

 

31,097

 

21,328

 

Deferred income taxes

 

441

 

588

 

Total current liabilities

 

75,497

 

57,110

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noncurrent liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

6,136

 

8,343

 

Other noncurrent liabilities

 

4,089

 

4,151

 

Long-term debt, less current maturities

 

189,184

 

196,905

 

Total noncurrent liabilities

 

199,409

 

209,399

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

Units

 

100,900

 

100,900

 

Other comprehensive income

 

5,516

 

5,690

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(6,774

)

(5,508

)

Total Members’ Equity

 

99,642

 

101,082

 

Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity

 

$

374,548

 

$

367,591

 

 

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

 

1



 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Company

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Three months
ended
September 30,
2004

 

Nine months
ended
September 30,
2004

 

Three months
ended
September 30,
2003

 

Period from
April 15, 2003
through
September 30,
2003

 

Period from
January 1, 2003
through
April 14,
2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

93,749

 

$

298,726

 

$

86,770

 

$

171,000

 

$

101,854

 

Cost of sales

 

74,961

 

232,354

 

65,750

 

128,825

 

76,508

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

18,788

 

66,372

 

21,020

 

42,175

 

25,346

 

Selling, administrative and Product development expenses

 

14,408

 

45,118

 

13,862

 

23,251

 

14,908

 

Stock option compensation

 

 

 

 

 

10,125

 

Transaction expenses

 

 

 

 

 

3,784

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

2,045

 

6,209

 

208

 

208

 

11

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

2,335

 

15,045

 

6,950

 

18,716

 

(3,482

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

(5,456

)

(16,040

)

(5,590

)

(9,114

)

(4,772

)

Loss resulting from debt extinguishment

 

 

 

(326

)

(6,293

)

 

Foreign currency gain (loss), net

 

478

 

(280

)

 

2

 

3,240

 

Other income (expense)

 

29

 

(155

)

61

 

132

 

(84

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

(2,614

)

(1,430

)

1,095

 

3,443

 

(5,098

)

Provision for income taxes

 

(647

)

(164

)

927

 

2,816

 

1,600

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

(1,967

)

$

(1,266

)

$

168

 

$

627

 

$

(6,698

)

 

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

 

2



 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Company

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Nine months
ended
September 30,
2004

 

Period from
April 15, 2003
through
September 30,
2003

 

Period from
January 1, 2003
through
April 14,
2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

(1,266

)

$

627

 

$

(6,698

)

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

16,327

 

5,370

 

3,695

 

Stock option compensation

 

 

 

10,125

 

Loss resulting from debt extinguishment

 

 

6,293

 

 

Deferred taxes

 

(5,196

)

550

 

(87

)

Foreign currency (gain) loss

 

268

 

(2

)

(3,061

)

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

 

206

 

(11

)

68

 

Interest accretion on notes

 

1,024

 

 

 

Changes in assets and liabilities, net

 

(2,693

)

(2,261

)

(1,144

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

 

8,670

 

10,566

 

2,898

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS USED FOR INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

(8,266

)

(5,510

)

(2,512

)

Proceeds from disposals of property & equipment

 

88

 

 

 

Acquisition of predecessor, net of cash acquired

 

 

(108,367

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash (used for) investing activities

 

(8,178

)

(113,877

)

(2,512

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS USED FOR FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of debt

 

 

347,533

 

 

Debt issuance costs

 

 

(13,302

)

 

Net increase (decrease) in revolving loan

 

(7,044

)

(8,903

)

6,426

 

Repayment of debt

 

(1,282

)

(328,767

)

(2,218

)

Issuance of membership units

 

 

100,900

 

 

Distributions to members

 

 

 

(121

)

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

 

(8,326

)

97,461

 

4,087

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes

 

(23

)

3,368

 

(296

)

Net (decrease) increase in cash

 

(7,857

)

(2,482

)

4,177

 

Cash at beginning of period

 

16,686

 

6,830

 

2,653

 

Cash at end of period

 

$

8,829

 

$

4,348

 

$

6,830

 

 

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

 

3



 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN MEMBERS’ EQUITY

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Members’
capital

 

Other
comprehensive
loss

 

Retained
earnings

 

Total
members’
equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2003

 

$

100,900

 

$

5,690

 

$

(5,508

)

$

101,082

 

Currency translation adjustment

 

 

(174

)

 

(174

)

Net (loss)

 

 

 

(1266

)

(1,266

)

Balance at September 30, 2004

 

$

100,900

 

$

5,516

 

$

(6,774

)

$

99,642

 

 

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

 

4



 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

1.                                       BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

On April 15, 2003, substantially all of the equity interests of Advanced Accessory Systems, LLC (the “Predecessor”) were acquired by Castle Harlan Partners IV, L.P. (the “Acquisition”), a private equity investment fund organized and managed by Castle Harlan Inc., a leading private equity firm. CHAAS Holdings, LLC was formed in April 2003 in connection with the Acquisition and is the direct parent of CHAAS Acquisitions, LLC (“CHAAS Acquisitions”) which was formed pursuant to the Acquisition.  Unless the context otherwise requires all information which refers to the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us” refers to CHAAS Acquisitions and its subsidiaries.

 

The financial statements of the Company for periods subsequent to April 14, 2003 are referred to as the financial statements of the “Company.” All financial statements prior to that date are referred to as the financial statements of the “Predecessor.”

 

The Acquisition was accounted for in accordance with the purchase method of accounting.  Accordingly, the purchase price of the Acquisition has been allocated to identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values at the acquisition date.

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements 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.  Accordingly, they do not include all information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the Unites States of America for complete financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003.

 

In the opinion of the Company, the accompanying unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements contain all adjustments, which are normal and recurring in nature, necessary to present fairly its financial position as of September 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003 and the results of its and the Predecessor’s operations for the nine month and three month periods ended September 30, 2004 and 2003.

 

2.                                       COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

Comprehensive income (loss) for the Company and the Predecessor is as follows:

 

 

 

Company

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Three months
ended
September 30,
2004

 

Nine months
ended
September 30,
2004

 

Three months
ended
September 30,
2003

 

Period from
April 15, 2003
through
September 30,
2003

 

Period from
January 1, 2003
through
April 14, 2003

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

(1,967

)

$

(1,266

)

$

168

 

$

627

 

$

(6,698

)

Change in the cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax

 

1,112

 

(174

)

3,373

 

2,462

 

(424

)

Comprehensive income (loss)

 

$

(855

)

$

(1,440

)

$

3,541

 

$

3,089

 

$

(7,122

)

 

3.                                       CURRENCY CONTRACTS

 

We have significant operations in Europe where the functional currency is the Euro.  During 2003, the Euro strengthened considerably against the U.S. dollar and it is our objective to protect reported earnings from volatility in the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rates.  On February 12, 2004, when the Euro to the U.S. Dollar exchange rate was 1.28:1, we entered into a series of foreign currency forward option contracts related to the Euro (“Euro Collar”) which mature quarterly, as summarized below.  On May 12, 2004 when the Euro to US Dollar exchange rate was 1.19:1, we entered into additional foreign currency option contracts also summarized below.  We provided a $1,900 letter of credit in support of the foreign currency option contracts.  To the extent that the quarter end exchange rate falls between the Euro collar exchange rates, fulfillment of the Euro collar exchange contracts will result in offsetting foreign currency gains and losses upon expiration.  For each reporting period we record the fair value, as determined by independent financial institutions, of open obligations and the resultant gains and losses are recorded in the statement of operations.  We recorded an unrealized gain on our foreign currency options in the third quarter of 2004 of $215 and a loss of $80 for the nine months ended September 30, 2004.  These items were recorded in

 

5



 

other income (expense).  Three options having zero value expired during the third quarter and nine options expired during the first nine months of 2004.

 

 

 

Euro Collar Exchange Rates

 

Expiration Date

 

Contract Date

 

Notional Value

 

Purchased
Put Option

 

Sold
Call Option

 

Purchased
Call Option

 

 

 

 

 

(thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2004

 

February 12, 2004

 

3,000

 

$

1.200

 

$

1.354

 

$

1.400

 

March 31, 2005

 

February 12, 2004

 

3,000

 

$

1.200

 

$

1.353

 

$

 

June 28, 2005

 

May 12, 2004

 

3,000

 

$

1.150

 

$

1.242

 

$

1.300

 

 

4.                                       CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING INFORMATION

 

On May 23, 2003, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, Advanced Accessory Systems, LLC and AAS Capital Corporation, issued and sold 10¾% senior notes due 2011, (the “Senior Notes”).  The Senior Notes are guaranteed on a full, unconditional and joint and several basis by the Company and all of the Company’s direct and indirect wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries.  The following condensed consolidating financial information presents the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of (i) the Company (the “Parent”), as if it accounted for its subsidiaries on the equity method, (ii) Advanced Accessory Systems, LLC and AAS Capital Corporation as issuers; (iii) guarantor subsidiaries which are domestic, wholly-owned subsidiaries and include SportRack LLC, Valley Industries, LLC, AASA Holdings, LLC and ValTek, LLC; and (iv) the non-guarantor subsidiaries which are foreign, wholly-owned subsidiaries and include Brink International B.V. and its subsidiaries, SportRack Accessories, Inc. and its subsidiary, and SportRack Automotive GmbH and its subsidiaries. The operating results of the guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries have been allocated a portion of certain corporate overhead costs on a basis consistent with each subsidiary’s relative business activity, including interest on intercompany debt balances.  Since its formation in September 1997, AAS Capital Corporation has had no operations and has no assets or liabilities at September 30, 2004.

 

6



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET

September 30, 2004

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

16

 

$

 

$

5,393

 

$

3,420

 

$

 

$

8,829

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

 

36,958

 

28,246

 

 

65,204

 

Inventories

 

 

 

22,849

 

32,461

 

 

55,310

 

Deferred income taxes and other current assets

 

23

 

9,100

 

14,567

 

3,772

 

 

27,462

 

Total current assets

 

39

 

9,100

 

79,767

 

67,899

 

 

156,805

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

96

 

30,622

 

41,134

 

 

71,852

 

Goodwill

 

 

 

39,596

 

 

 

39,596

 

Other intangible assets, net

 

 

5,492

 

76,431

 

21,180

 

 

103,103

 

Deferred income taxes and other noncurrent assets

 

 

 

1,499

 

1,693

 

 

3,192

 

Investment in and advances to subsidiaries

 

128,825

 

247,816

 

13,666

 

238

 

(390,545

)

 

Total assets

 

$

128,864

 

$

262,504

 

$

241,581

 

$

132,144

 

$

(390,545

)

$

374,548

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS’ EQUITY 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

$

 

$

 

$

69

 

$

1,817

 

$

 

$

1,886

 

Accounts payable

 

 

 

27,399

 

14,674

 

 

42,073

 

Accrued liabilities and deferred income taxes

 

 

5,472

 

8,994

 

17,072

 

 

31,538

 

Total current liabilities

 

 

5,472

 

36,462

 

33,563

 

 

75,497

 

Deferred income taxes and other noncurrent liabilities

 

 

 

6,163

 

4,062

 

 

10,225

 

Long-term debt, less current maturities

 

 

150,000

 

19,544

 

19,640

 

 

189,184

 

Intercompany debt

 

29,222

 

 

21,154

 

62,360

 

(112,736

)

 

Members’ equity

 

99,642

 

107,032

 

158,258

 

12,519

 

(277,809

)

99,642

 

Total liabilities and members’ equity

 

$

128,864

 

$

262,504

 

$

241,581

 

$

132,144

 

$

(390,545

)

$

374,548

 

 

7



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET

December 31, 2003

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

16

 

$

 

$

12,629

 

$

4,041

 

$

 

$

16,686

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

 

33,142

 

22,221

 

 

55,363

 

Inventories

 

 

 

17,527

 

30,801

 

 

48,328

 

Deferred income taxes and other current assets

 

 

3,821

 

13,778

 

3,475

 

 

21,074

 

Total current assets

 

16

 

3,821

 

77,076

 

60,538

 

 

141,451

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

 

29,476

 

44,319

 

 

73,795

 

Goodwill

 

 

¾

 

39,596

 

¾

 

 

39,596

 

Other intangible assets, net

 

 

6,069

 

81,617

 

22,470

 

 

110,156

 

Deferred income taxes and other noncurrent assets

 

 

33

 

888

 

1,643

 

29

 

2,593

 

Investment in and advances to subsidiaries

 

130,083

 

257,438

 

13,666

 

234

 

(401,421

)

¾

 

Total assets

 

$

130,099

 

$

267,361

 

$

242,319

 

$

129,204

 

$

(401,392

)

$

367,591

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS’ EQUITY 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

$

 

$

 

$

85

 

$

1,824

 

$

 

$

1,909

 

Accounts payable

 

 

 

21,938

 

11,347

 

 

33,285

 

Accrued liabilities and deferred income taxes

 

(14

)

1,365

 

6,109

 

14,456

 

 

21,916

 

Total current liabilities

 

(14

)

1,365

 

28,132

 

27,627

 

 

57,110

 

Deferred income taxes and other noncurrent liabilities

 

 

 

6,163

 

6,331

 

 

12,494

 

Long-term debt, less current maturities

 

150,000

 

28,710

 

18,195

 

 

196,905

 

 

 

Intercompany debt

 

29,213

 

 

25,195

 

67,921

 

(122,329

)

 

Members’ equity

 

100,900

 

115,996

 

154,119

 

9,130

 

(279,063

)

101,082

 

Total liabilities and members’ equity

 

$

130,099

 

$

267,361

 

$

242,319

 

$

129,204

 

$

(401,392

)

$

367,591

 

 

8



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the three months ended September 30, 2004

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net sales

 

$

 

$

 

$

58,712

 

$

35,037

 

$

 

$

93,749

 

Cost of sales

 

 

 

49,588

 

25,373

 

 

74,961

 

Gross profit

 

 

 

9,124

 

9,664

 

 

18,788

 

Selling, administrative and product development expenses

 

 

1,101

 

5,928

 

7,379

 

 

14,408

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

 

1,725

 

320

 

 

2,045

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

(1,101

)

1,471

 

1,965

 

 

2,335

 

Interest expense

 

 

3,746

 

602

 

1,108

 

 

5,456

 

Equity in income (loss) of subsidiaries

 

(1,967

)

 

 

 

1,967

 

 

Foreign currency gain (loss), net

 

 

 

 

478

 

 

478

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

108

 

(79

)

 

29

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

(1,967

)

(4,847

)

977

 

1,256

 

1,967

 

(2,614

)

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

 

 

(1,696

)

386

 

663

 

 

(647

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

(1,967

)

$

(3,151

)

$

591

 

$

593

 

$

1,967

 

$

(1,967

)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the nine months ended September 30, 2004

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net sales

 

$

 

$

 

$

185,067

 

$

113,659

 

$

 

$

298,726

 

Cost of sales

 

 

 

152,526

 

79,828

 

 

232,354

 

Gross profit

 

 

 

32,541

 

33,831

 

 

66,372

 

Selling, administrative and product development expenses

 

 

3,384

 

18,666

 

23,068

 

 

45,118

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

 

5,249

 

960

 

 

6,209

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

(3,384

)

8,626

 

9,803

 

 

15,045

 

Interest expense

 

 

10,406

 

1,843

 

3,791

 

 

16,040

 

Equity in income (loss) of subsidiaries

 

(1,266

)

 

 

 

1,266

 

 

Foreign currency gain (loss)

 

 

 

 

(280

)

 

(280

)

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

(188

)

33

 

 

(155

)

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

(1,266

)

(13,790

)

6,595

 

5,765

 

1,266

 

(1,430

)

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

 

 

(4,826

)

(2,451

)

(2,211

)

 

(164

)

Net income

 

$

(1,266

)

$

(8,964

)

$

4,144

 

$

3,554

 

$

1,266

 

$

(1,266

)

 

9



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the three months ended September 30, 2003

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net sales

 

$

 

$

 

$

57,608

 

$

29,162

 

$

 

$

86,770

 

Cost of sales

 

 

 

44,878

 

20,872

 

 

65,750

 

Gross profit

 

 

 

12,730

 

8,290

 

 

21,020

 

Selling, administrative and product development expenses

 

 

1,386

 

6,385

 

6,091

 

 

13,862

 

Amortization of Intangible Assets

 

 

 

208

 

 

 

208

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

(1,386

)

6,137

 

2,199

 

 

6,950

 

Interest expense

 

 

3,599

 

1,206

 

785

 

 

5,590

 

Loss resulting from debt extingushment

 

 

 

 

326

 

 

326

 

Equity in income (loss) of subsidiaries

 

168

 

 

 

 

(168

)

 

Foreign currency gain (loss), net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

(7

)

68

 

 

61

 

Income before income taxes

 

168

 

(4,985

)

4,924

 

1,156

 

(168

)

1,095

 

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

 

 

(1,747

)

1,723

 

951

 

 

927

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

168

 

$

(3,238

)

$

3,201

 

$

205

 

$

(168

)

$

168

 

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net sales

 

$

 

$

 

$

108,383

 

$

62,617

 

$

 

$

171,000

 

Cost of sales

 

 

 

84,197

 

44,628

 

 

128,825

 

Gross profit

 

 

 

24,186

 

17,989

 

 

42,175

 

Selling, administrative and product development expenses

 

 

1,197

 

9,868

 

12,186

 

 

23,251

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

 

208

 

 

 

208

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

(1,197

)

14,110

 

5,803

 

 

18,716

 

Interest expense

 

715

 

5,653

 

1,492

 

1,254

 

 

9,114

 

Loss resulting from debt extingushment

 

550

 

 

4,060

 

1,683

 

 

6,293

 

Equity in income (loss) of subsidiaries

 

1,892

 

 

 

 

(1,892

)

 

Foreign currency gain (loss), net

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

7

 

125

 

 

132

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

627

 

(6,850

)

8,567

 

2,991

 

(1,892

)

3,443

 

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

 

 

(2,400

)

2,998

 

2,218

 

 

2,816

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

627

 

$

(4,450

)

$

5,569

 

$

773

 

$

(1,892

)

$

627

 

 

10



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the Period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003

 

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net sales

 

$

 

$

67,769

 

$

34,085

 

$

 

101,854

 

Cost of sales

 

 

52,853

 

23,655

 

 

76,508

 

Gross profit

 

 

14,916

 

10,430

 

 

25,346

 

Selling, administrative and product development expenses

 

(834

)

8,331

 

7,411

 

 

14,908

 

Stock option compensation

 

10,125

 

 

 

 

10,125

 

Transaction expenses

 

3,784

 

3,784

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

6

 

5

 

 

11

 

Operating income (loss)

 

(13,075

)

6,579

 

3,014

 

 

(3,482

)

Interest expense

 

3,495

 

93

 

1,184

 

 

4,772

 

Equity in income of subsidiaries

 

9,872

 

 

 

(9,872

)

 

Foreign currency gain, net

 

 

3

 

3,237

 

 

3,240

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

(27

)

(57

)

 

(84

)

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

(6,698

)

6,462

 

5,010

 

(9,872

)

(5,098

)

Provision for income taxes

 

 

 

1,600

 

 

1,600

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

(6,698

)

$

6,462

 

$

3,410

 

$

(9,872

)

$

(6,698

)

 

11



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the nine months ended September 30, 2004

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

 

$

(9

)

$

(9,526

)

$

12,571

 

$

5,634

 

$

 

$

8,670

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

 

(96

)

(5,651

)

(2,519

)

 

(8,266

)

Proceeds from Disposals

 

 

 

88

 

 

 

88

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used for investing activities

 

 

(96

)

(5,563

)

(2,519

)

 

(8,178

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in intercompany debt

 

9

 

9,622

 

(4,039

)

(5,592

)

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in revolving loan

 

 

 

(10,127

)

3,083

 

 

(7,044

)

Repayment of debt

 

 

 

(78

)

1,204

 

 

(1,282

)

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

 

9

 

9,622

 

(14,244

)

(3,713

)

 

(8,326

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes

 

 

 

 

(23

)

 

(23

)

Net increase (decrease) in cash

 

 

 

(7,236

)

(621

)

 

(7,857

)

Cash at beginning of period

 

16

 

 

12,629

 

4,041

 

 

16,686

 

Cash at end of period

 

$

16

 

$

 

$

5,393

 

$

3,420

 

$

 

$

8,829

 

 

12



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

Parent

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/ adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

 

$

(215

)

$

(7,405

)

$

12,593

 

$

5,593

 

$

 

$

10,556

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired

 

(108,367

)

 

 

 

 

(108,367

)

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

 

 

(3,306

)

(2,204

)

 

(5,510

)

Net cash used for investing activities

 

(108,367

)

 

(3,306

)

(2,204

)

 

(113,877

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in intercompany debt

 

8,248

 

817

 

7,641

 

(16,706

)

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of debt

 

55,000

 

150,000

 

88,916

 

53,617

 

 

347,533

 

Debt issuance costs

 

(550

)

(6,595

)

(4,377

)

(1,780

)

 

(13,302

)

Net decrease in revolving loan

 

 

 

(8,416

)

(487

)

 

(8,903

)

Repayment of debt

 

(55,000

)

(140,000

)

(92,256

)

(41,511

)

 

(328,767

)

Issuance of membership units

 

100,900

 

 

 

 

 

100,900

 

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

 

108,598

 

4,222

 

(8,492

)

(6,867

)

 

97,461

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes

 

 

 

 

3,368

 

 

3,368

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash

 

16

 

(3,183

)

795

 

(110

)

 

(2,482

)

Cash at beginning of period

 

 

4,056

 

83

 

2,691

 

 

6,830

 

Cash at end of period

 

$

16

 

$

873

 

$

878

 

$

2,581

 

$

 

$

4,348

 

 

13



 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003

 

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Issuers

 

Guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Non-guarantor
subsidiaries

 

Eliminations/
adjustments

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

(Dollar amounts in thousands)

 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

 

$

(6,163

)

$

5,750

 

$

3,311

 

$

 

$

2,898

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

 

(1,222

)

(1,290

)

 

(2,512

)

  Net cash used for investing activities

 

 

(1,222

)

(1,290

)

 

(2,512

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in intercompany debt

 

3,474

 

(4,495

)

1,021

 

 

 

Net increase in revolving loan

 

6,426

 

 

 

 

6,426

 

Repayment of debt

 

 

(27

)

(2,191

)

 

(2,218

)

Distributions to members

 

(121

)

 

 

 

(121

)

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

 

9,779

 

(4,522

)

(1,170

)

 

4,087

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes

 

 

 

(296

)

 

(296

)

Net increase (decrease) in cash

 

3,616

 

6

 

555

 

 

4,177

 

Cash at beginning of period

 

440

 

77

 

2,136

 

 

2,653

 

Cash at end of period

 

$

4,056

 

$

83

 

$

2,691

 

$

 

$

6,830

 

 

14



 

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

 

The following discussion of our results of operations and financial condition should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.  This Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements.  Discussions containing forward-looking statements may be found in the material set forth above, in the material set forth below, as well as in this Form 10-Q generally. Forward looking statements generally can be identified by the use of terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “forecast,” “project,” “will be,” “continue” or variations of such terms, or the use of these terms in the negative.  Our actual results may differ significantly from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, and such differences may be material.  General risks that may impact the achievement of such forecasts include, but are not limited to: compliance with new laws and regulations, general economic conditions in the markets in which we operate, fluctuation in demand for our products and in the production of vehicles for which we are a supplier, significant raw material price fluctuations, labor disputes with our employees or of our significant customers or suppliers, changes in consumer preferences, dependence on significant automotive customers, the level of competition in the automotive supply industry, pricing pressure from automotive customers, our substantial leverage, limitations imposed by our debt facilities, changes in the popularity of particular vehicle models or towing and rack systems, the loss of programs on particular vehicle models, risks associated with conducting business in foreign countries and other business factors.  Any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties.  Actual events or results may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements.  All of these forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by our management which, although believed to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain.  Given these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.  The company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

 

OVERVIEW

 

We are one of the world’s largest designers and manufacturers of exterior accessories for the automotive original equipment manufacturers (“OEM”) market and after market.  We design and manufacture a wide array of both rack systems and towing systems and related accessories.  Our broad offering of rack systems includes fixed and detachable racks, roof boxes and accessories, which can be installed on vehicles to carry items such as bicycles, skis, luggage, surfboards, and sailboards.  Our towing products and accessories include trailer hitches, trailer balls, ball mounts, electrical harnesses, safety chains and locking pins.  Our products are sold as standard accessories or options for a variety of light vehicles.

 

Company Background

 

On April 15, 2003, substantially all of the equity interests of the Predecessor were acquired by Castle Harlan Partners IV, L.P., a private equity investment fund organized and managed by Castle Harlan Inc., a leading private equity firm. CHAAS Holdings, LLC was formed in April 2003 by Castle Harlan Partners IV, L.P. in connection with the Acquisition and is the indirect parent of CHAAS Acquisitions.

 

Unless the context otherwise requires, all information which refers to “we”, “our” or “us” refers to CHAAS Acquisitions and its subsidiaries.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2004 Compared to the Three Months Ended September 30, 2003.

 

Net sales. Net sales for the third quarter of 2004 were $93.7 million, representing an increase of $6.9 million, or 8.0%, compared with net sales of $86.8 million for the third quarter of 2003.  This increase includes approximately $2.2 million due to the increase of the average exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the currencies used by our foreign subsidiaries, primarily in Europe.  The balance of the increase in net sales reflects an increase in sales to our OEM customers of approximately $722,000, an increase of approximately $2.5 million representing revenue from surcharges for steel imposed primarily on products sold to aftermarket customers and other increases in aftermarket sales of $1.5 million.  Sales to OEM customers were higher due to new program launches for SportRack in Europe and for Valley in North America.

 

Gross profit. Gross profit for the third quarter of 2004 was $18.8 million, which represents a decrease of $2.2 million, or 10.6%, compared with gross profit of $21.0 for the third quarter of 2003.  Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 20.0% for the third quarter of 2004 and was 24.2% for the third quarter of 2003.  The decrease in gross profit and gross margin percentage reflects higher costs for steel and aluminum, price decreases to our OEM customers and higher rent expense.  The price of steel remained high

 

15



 

during the third quarter of 2004 due to several factors including increased demand for steel products from China, the weakened U.S. Dollar, the consolidation of the steel producing industry and a reduction in overall production capacity. During the quarter, increased cost of steel resulted in lower gross profit of approximately $736,000 net of recovery through the introduction of steel surcharges on some of our aftermarket towing systems products. In order to secure future business with certain of our OEM customers we granted price decreases on several products.  These reduced prices totaled approximately $1.6 million during the third quarter.

 

Selling, administrative and product development expenses. Selling, administrative and product development expenses for the third quarter of 2004 were $14.4 million representing an increase of $546,000, or 3.9%, compared with selling, administrative and product development expenses of $13.9 million for the third quarter of 2003.  This increase is primarily due to higher selling expenses at Brink, which includes the effect of a weaker U.S. dollar exchange rate against the Euro, and higher corporate expenses.

 

Amortization of intangible assets.  Amortization of intangible assets for the third quarter of 2004 was $2.0 million representing an increase of $1.8 million compared with amortization of intangible assets of $208,000 for the third quarter of 2003.  The increase in amortization results from amortization of intangible assets identified in the allocation of the Acquisition purchase price over their respective economic lives.

 

Operating income. Our operating income for the third quarter of 2004 was $2.3 million representing a decrease of $4.6 million, or 66.4%, compared with operating income of $7.0 million for the third quarter of 2003.  The decrease resulted from decreased gross profit, increased amortization of intangible assets and increased selling, administrative and product development expenses.

 

Interest expense.  Interest expense for the third quarter of 2004 was $5.5 million representing a decrease of $134,000, or 2.4%, compared with interest expense of $5.6 million for the third quarter of 2003.  This decrease reflects the slightly lower level of debt outstanding during the third quarter of 2004 relative to the third quarter of 2003.

 

Foreign currency gain (loss). We had a foreign currency gain in the third quarter of 2004 of $478,000 compared to no foreign currency gain or loss in the third quarter of 2003.  This gain is primarily attributable to the U.S. dollar denominated intercompany indebtedness of Brink, whose functional currency is the Euro.  During the third quarter of 2004 the U.S. Dollar weakened in comparison with the Euro.  The intercompany indebtedness for our foreign subsidiaries other than Brink are deemed to be permanently invested and therefore changes in the intercompany balances for these subsidiaries caused by foreign currency fluctuations have been recorded in the currency translation adjustment account and included in other comprehensive income.  Our Predecessor’s foreign currency gains and losses were primarily related to the intercompany indebtedness of our foreign subsidiaries including Brink.

 

Provision for income taxes. During the third quarter of 2004 we recorded a loss before income taxes of $2.6 million and recorded an income tax benefit of $647,000.  The effective tax rate differs from the U.S. federal income tax rate primarily due to changes in valuation allowances on the deferred tax assets of SportRack Accessories and differences in the tax rates of foreign countries. Prior to April 2003 our Predecessor and certain of its domestic subsidiaries had elected to be taxed as limited liability companies for federal income tax purposes.  As a result of this election, the Predecessor’s domestic taxable income accrued to the individual members.  Certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and foreign subsidiaries were subject to income taxes in their respective jurisdictions. Effective on April 20, 2003 we filed an election for all our domestic subsidiaries to be treated as regular corporations and therefore they are now subject to federal income tax.  During the third quarter of 2003 we had net income before taxes of $1.1 million and recorded a provision of $927,000.

 

Net income (loss).  We recorded a net loss of $2.0 million in the third quarter of 2004 and net income of $168,000 in the third quarter of 2003. The decrease of $2.1 million is primarily due to lower operating income in 2004 compared to 2003.  This was partially offset by the loss resulting from debt extinguishment in 2003 and the foreign currency gain and the tax benefit in 2004 compared to the provision for income taxes in 2003.

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004 for the Company Compared to the Period April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 for the Company and the Period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 for the Predecessor.

 

Net sales. Net sales for the first nine months of 2004 were $298.7 million.  Net sales for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and for the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 were $171.0 million and $101.9 million respectively.  This increase of  $25.9 million, or 9.5%, includes approximately $8.3 million due to the increase of the average exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the currencies used by our foreign subsidiaries, primarily in Europe.  The balance of the increase in net sales reflects an increase in sales to our OEM customers of approximately $10.5 million, an increase of approximately $3.1 million in sales to our automotive aftermarket customers and an increase of approximately $4.4 million representing revenue from surcharges for steel imposed primarily on products sold to aftermarket customers.  Sales to OEM customers were higher due to new program launches for SportRack in Europe and for Valley in North America.  These increases were partially offset by decreased prices

 

16



 

and lower volumes on existing programs. Aftermarket sales were slightly higher in the hitch (Valley) and accessory (SportRack) product lines in North America.

 

Gross profit. Gross profit for the first nine months of 2004 was $66.4 million.  Gross profit for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and for the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 was $42.2 million and $25.3 million, respectively.  This decrease of $1.1 million resulted from a decrease in the gross profit percentage partially offset by higher net sales.  Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 22.2% for the first nine months of 2004, 24.7% for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and 24.9% for the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003. The decreased gross margin percentage reflects higher costs for steel and aluminum, price decreases to our OEM customers and higher rent expense. The price of steel increased dramatically during the first three quarters of 2004 due primarily to several factors including increased demand for steel products from China, the consolidation of the steel producing industry and a reduction in overall production capacity.  In addition to the higher prices we also experienced delays in procurement of some steel components.  During the first nine months of 2004 increased cost of steel resulted in lower gross profit of approximately $3.1 million net of recovery through the introduction of steel surcharges on some of our aftermarket towing systems products.  In order to secure future business with certain of our OEM customers we granted price decreases on several products.  These reduced prices totaled approximately $2.4 million during the first nine months. Gross profit was further reduced by approximately $900,000 in increased rent expense for two manufacturing facilities that were included in a sale and leaseback transaction during the fourth quarter of 2003.

 

Selling, administrative and product development expenses.  Selling, administrative and product development expenses for the first nine months of 2004 were $45.1 million.  Selling, administrative and product development expenses for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and from the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 were $23.3 million and $14.9 million, respectively.  This increase of $6.9 million, or 18.2% is primarily due to higher administrative expenses of $2.1 million, higher selling expenses of $1.1 million, $1.7 million resulting from an increase in the average exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the Euro, the inclusion of management fees to Castle Harlan since April 15, 2003 which resulted in a net increase of $870,000 in 2004 and $590,000 in increased product development costs.

 

Stock option compensation.  During the period from April 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003, holders of all outstanding membership units and warrants exercised their options to purchase membership units of our Predecessor prior to the acquisition.  In connection with the transaction, our Predecessor recorded stock option compensation during this period of $10.1 million, representing the fair market value of the underlying units less the related exercise price and the recorded value of the warrants.

 

Transaction expenses.  During the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003, our Predecessor incurred $3.8 million in expenses related to the acquisition, including legal, accounting and other advisor fees.

 

Amortization of intangible assets.  Amortization of intangible assets was $6.2 million for the first nine months of 2004.  Amortization of intangible assets for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and from the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 was $208,000 and $11,000, respectively.  The increase in amortization primarily results from amortization related to intangible assets identified in the allocation of the Acquisition purchase price.

 

Operating income.  Our operating income was $15.0 million for the first nine months of 2004 and $18.7 million for the period form April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003.  We had an operating loss for the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 of  $3.5 million.  This decrease of $189,000 resulted from an increase in amortization of intangible assets, decreased gross profit and increased selling, administrative and product development expenses in 2004.  These were partially offset by stock option compensation and transaction expenses of $10.1 million and $3.8 million, respectively, that were incurred in 2003.

 

Interest expense.  Interest expense for the first nine months of 2004 was $16.0 million.  Interest expense for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and for the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 was $9.1 million and $4.8 million, respectively.  This increase of  $2.2 million, or 15.5% is due to the higher level of debt outstanding resulting from our purchase of the Predecessor on April 15, 2003.

 

Loss resulting from debt extinguishment.  On May 23, 2003, our subsidiaries issued $150 million of our 10¾% Senior Notes due 2011, the proceeds of which were used to repay a senior subordinated bridge note and a portion of our credit facility (see — “Debt and Credit Sources” below).  As a result we incurred an extinguishment loss of $6.3 million.

 

Foreign currency gain (loss). We had a foreign currency loss for the first nine months of 2004 of $280,000.  We had foreign currency gains during the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003, of $2,000 and $3.2 million, respectively. The foreign currency loss is primarily attributable to the U.S. dollar denominated intercompany indebtedness of Brink, whose functional currency is the Euro.  During the first nine months of 2004 the U.S. Dollar at first strengthened in comparison with the Euro and then weakened, resulting in a small net strengthening for the period.  The intercompany indebtedness for our foreign subsidiaries other than Brink is deemed to be permanently invested and therefore changes in

 

17



 

the intercompany balances for these subsidiaries caused by foreign currency fluctuations have been recorded in the currency translation adjustment account and included in other comprehensive income.  Our Predecessor’s foreign currency gains and losses were primarily related to the intercompany indebtedness of our foreign subsidiaries including Brink.  During the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 the U.S. dollar weakened in relation to the Euro and the Canadian dollar resulting in the foreign currency gain recorded in those periods.

 

Provision for income taxes. During the first nine months of 2004 we had a loss before income taxes of $1.4 million and recorded an income tax benefit of $164,000.  The effective tax rate differs from the U.S. federal income tax rate primarily due to changes in valuation allowances on the deferred tax assets of SportRack Accessories and differences in the tax rates of foreign countries. Prior to April 2003 our Predecessor and certain of its domestic subsidiaries had elected to be taxed as limited liability companies for federal income tax purposes.  As a result of this election, the Predecessor’s domestic taxable income accrued to the individual members.  Certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and foreign subsidiaries were subject to income taxes in their respective jurisdictions. Effective on April 20, 2003 we filed an election for all our domestic subsidiaries to be treated as regular corporations and therefore they are now subject to federal income tax. During the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 we had net income before taxes of $3.4 million and recorded a provision of $2.8 million.  During the period from January 1, 2003 through April 15, 2003 we had a loss before income taxes of $5.1 million and recorded a provision for income taxes of $1.6 million.

 

Net income (loss).  We had net loss of $1.3 million for the first nine months of 2004, net income of $627,000 for the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and a net loss of $6.7 million for the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003. The increase of $4.8 million is due to higher operating income in 2004, the loss resulting from debt extinguishment in 2003 and the tax benefit in 2004 relative to the tax expense in 2003.  These were partially offset by higher interest expense in 2004 and the foreign currency loss in 2004 as compared with a foreign currency gain in 2003.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Our principal liquidity requirements are to service our debt and meet our working capital and capital expenditure needs.  Our indebtedness at September 30, 2004 was $191.1 million including current maturities of $1.9 million.  We expect to be able to meet our liquidity requirements for the foreseeable future through cash provided by operations and through borrowings available under our revolving credit facilities.

 

Working Capital and Cash Flows

 

Working capital and key elements of the consolidated statement of cash flows are:

 

 

 

Company

 

 

 

 

 

September 30,
2004

 

December 31,
2003

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Working Capital

 

$

81,308

 

$

84,341

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Nine months
ended
September 30,
2004

 

Period from
April 15, 2003
through
September 30,
2003

 

Period from
January 1, 2003
through
April 14, 2003

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows provided by operating activities

 

$

8,670

 

$

10,566

 

$

2,898

 

Cash flows (used for) investing activities

 

$

(8,178

)

$

(113,877

)

$

(2,512

)

Cash flows provided by (used for) financing activities

 

$

(8,326

)

$

97,461

 

$

4,087

 

 

18



 

Working capital

 

Working capital decreased by $3.0 million to $81.3 million at September 30, 2004 from $84.3 million at December 31, 2003.  This is due primarily to a decrease in cash of $7.9 million, an increase in accounts payable of $8.7 million and an increase in other current liabilities of $9.9 million. These increases were partially offset by an increase in accounts receivable of $9.7 million, an increase in inventories of $7.0 million, an increase in deferred tax assets of $3.3 million and an increase in other current assets of $3.0 million.

 

Increases in accounts payable reflected increased purchasing activities to support the increased sales volume.   The increase in accrued expenses is primarily due to an increase in accrued interest on our $150 million of Senior Notes.  The increase in accounts receivable was attributable to the timing of payments from OEM customers and to increased sales levels in the third quarter of 2004 as compared with the fourth quarter 2003.  Inventory increased primarily for our aftermarket products to support seasonally higher sales for the period as compared with the period prior to December 31, 2003. Differences in sales levels between the two periods are primarily due to increased sales to automotive OEMs and seasonal sales levels of our aftermarket products.  Our aftermarket products have higher sales in the second and third quarters and lower sales in the fourth and first quarters.

 

Operating Activities

 

Our operations provided $8.7 million in cash during the first nine months of 2004 compared to $10.6 million for the period April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and $2.9 million for the period January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003.  The decrease of $4.8 million is primarily due to decreased net income before depreciation and amortization and before expenses for stock option compensation and debt extinguishment of $15.1 million during the first nine months of 2004 as compared to $19.4 million in the first nine months of 2003 and an increase in deferred tax assets in 2004 of $5.7 million.  These uses are primarily offset by a foreign currency loss in the first nine months of 2004 of $268,000 compared to a gain in the first nine months of 2003 of $3.1 million and a smaller increase in working capital excluding cash for the same periods.

 

Investing Activities

 

Cash flow used for investing activities for the first nine months of 2004 and 2003 included acquisitions of property and equipment of $8.3 million and $8.0 million, respectively, and were primarily for the expansion of capacity, productivity and process improvements and maintenance.  Cash flows used for investing activities for the first nine months of 2003 also included the Acquisition totaling $108.4 million.

 

Financing Activities

 

During the first nine months of 2004 financing cash flows included a reduction in borrowings under the revolving line of credit of $7.0 million and repayment of debt of $1.3 million.

 

During the period from April 15, 2003 through September 30, 2003 financing cash flows included the proceeds from the issuance of membership units totaling $100.9 million and proceeds from borrowing related to our purchase of the Predecessor on April 15, 2003, including $106.0 million borrowed under a new credit facility, a $55.0 million convertible senior subordinated bridge note and a $10.0 subordinated promissory note issued by the sellers of Advanced Accessory Systems, LLC (see “Debt and Credit Sources” below).   A portion of these proceeds were used to pay debt issuance costs and pay a portion of our Predecessor’s indebtedness, including all amounts due under its then existing credit facility.  On May 23, 2003 we sold $150.0 million of our Senior Notes due 2011 which proceeds were used to refinance the convertible senior subordinated note and a portion of loans under the new credit facility.   We also borrowed an additional $2.3 million under our revolving loans.

 

During the period from January 1, 2003 through April 14, 2003 our Predecessor made $2.2 million in regularly scheduled principal payments on its term notes under its then existing credit facility, borrowed $6.4 million on its revolving facility and made distributions to its members totaling $121 thousand.

 

19



 

Debt and Credit Sources

 

Our indebtedness at September 30, 2004 was $191.1 million.  We expect that its primary sources of cash will be from operating activities and borrowings under its revolving credit facilities.  As of September 30, 2004, we had borrowings under the revolving credit facilities totaling $10.6 million and had $38.1 million of available borrowing capacity.  Standby letters of credit totaling $2.9 million provided as security for our U.S. workers compensation program and $1.9 million providing security to a financial institution for foreign currency instruments reduced borrowing availability.  As of September 30, 2004, we were in compliance with the various covenants under the debt agreements pursuant to which we have borrowed or may borrow money.

 

Our ability to satisfy our debt obligations will depend upon our future operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business, and other factors, certain of which are beyond our control, as well as the availability of revolving credit borrowings under our current or successor credit facilities.  We anticipate that, based on current and expected levels of operations, our operating cash flow, together with borrowings under the revolving credit facility, should be sufficient to meet our debt service, working capital and capital expenditure requirements for the foreseeable future, although no assurances can be given in this regard, including as to the ability to increase revenues or profit margins. If we are unable to service our indebtedness, we will be forced to take actions such as reducing or delaying acquisitions and/or capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing our indebtedness, or seeking additional equity capital. There is no assurance that any of these remedies can be effected on satisfactory terms, if at all, including, whether, and on what terms, we could raise equity capital.  See the introductory paragraph of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

International Operations

 

We conduct operations in several foreign countries including Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.  Net sales from international operations during the first three quarters of 2004 were $113.7 million, or 38.0% of our net sales. At September 30, 2004, assets associated with these operations were approximately 35.3% of total assets, and we had indebtedness denominated in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar of approximately $21.5 million.

 

Our international operations may be subject to volatility because of currency fluctuations, inflation and changes in political and economic conditions in these countries.  Most of the revenues and costs and expenses of our operations in these countries are denominated in the local currencies. The financial position and results of operations of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency.

 

Currency contracts

 

We have significant operations in Europe where the functional currency is the Euro.  By the end of 2003 the Euro strengthened considerably against the U.S. dollar and it is our objective to protect reported earnings from volatility in the Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rates.  On February 12, 2004, when the Euro to the U.S. Dollar exchange rate was 1.28:1, we entered into a series of foreign currency forward option contracts related to the Euro (“Euro Collar”), which mature quarterly on a staggered basis, as summarized below.  On May 12, 2004 when the Euro to US Dollar exchange rate was 1.19:1, we entered into additional foreign currency option contracts also summarized below.  We provided a $1.9 million letter of credit in support of the foreign currency option contracts.  To the extent that the quarter end exchange rate falls between the Euro collar exchange rates, fulfillment of the Euro collar exchange contracts will result in offsetting foreign currency gains and losses upon expiration.  For each reporting period we record the fair value, as determined by independent financial institutions, of open obligations and the resultant gains and losses are recorded in the statement of operations.  We recorded an unrealized gain on our foreign currency options in the third quarter of 2004 of $215,000 and a loss of $80,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2004.  These items were recorded in other income (expense).  Three options having zero value expired during the third quarter and nine options expired during the first nine months of 2004.

 

 

 

Euro Collar Exchange Rates

 

Expiration Date

 

Contract Date

 

Notional Value

 

Purchased
Put Option

 

Sold
Call Option

 

Purchased
Call Option

 

 

 

 

 

(thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2004

 

February 12, 2004

 

3,000

 

$

1.200

 

$

1.354

 

$

1.400

 

March 31, 2005

 

February 12, 2004

 

3,000

 

$

1.200

 

$

1.353

 

$

 

June 28, 2005

 

May 12, 2004

 

3,000

 

$

1.150

 

$

1.242

 

$

1.300

 

 

20



 

Item 3.             Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

In February 2004, we executed several foreign currency option contracts.  See “ – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Currency Contracts”.

 

Item 4.             Controls and Procedures

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the Company has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2004, and, based on their evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that these controls and procedures are effective.  There were no significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls during the quarter.

 

Disclosure controls and procedures are the Company’s controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.  Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION AND SIGNATURE

 

Item 1.             Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we are subject to routine legal proceedings incidental to the operation of our business.  The outcome of any threatened or pending proceedings is not expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, operating results or cash flows, based on our current understanding of the relevant facts.  The Company maintains insurance coverage against claims in an amount that it believes to be adequate.

 

Item 2.             Changes in Securities, Use of Proceeds and Issuer Purchases of Equity Security

 

None

 

Item 3.             Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None

 

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

 

None

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

None

 

21



 

Item 6.             Exhibits

 

Exhibit 31.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

 

 

Exhibit 31.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

 

 

Exhibit 32.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant To 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant To Section 906 Of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act Of 2002

 

 

 

Exhibit 32.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant To 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant To Section 906 Of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act Of 2002

 

22



 

SIGNATURE

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAAS ACQUISITIONS, LLC

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:   November 12, 2004

 

/s/ Ronald J. Gardhouse

 

 

 

Ronald J. Gardhouse

 

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

(Principal Financial Officer
and Authorized Signatory)

 

23



 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit

 

Description

 

 

 

31.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

 

 

31.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

 

 

32.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

32.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

24