Back to GetFilings.com



Table of Contents

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 

x   Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the period ended April 13, 2003; or

 

¨   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: 0-19797

 


 

WHOLE FOODS MARKET, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Texas

 

74-1989366

(State of incorporation)

 

(IRS employer identification no.)

 

601 N. Lamar

Suite 300

Austin, Texas 78703

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

512-477-4455

 

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  x

 

No  ¨

 

The number of shares of the registrant’s common stock, no par value, outstanding as of April 13, 2003 was 59,444,603 shares.

 



Table of Contents

 

Whole Foods Market, Inc.

Form 10-Q

Table of Contents

 

    

Page Number


Part I. Financial Information

Item 1. Financial Statements

    

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, April 13, 2003 (unaudited) and September 29, 2002

  

3

Condensed Consolidated Income Statements (unaudited), for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and April 14, 2002

  

4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited), for the twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and April 14, 2002

  

5

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

  

6

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

  

9

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

  

13

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

  

13

Part II. Other Information

    

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

  

14

Item 4. Submission of Matters to Vote of Security Holders

  

14

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

  

14

Signature

  

15

Certifications

  

16


 

2


Table of Contents

 

Part 1. Financial Information

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

Whole Foods Market, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

April 13, 2003 (unaudited) and September 29, 2002

(In thousands)

 

Assets

  

2003


  

2002


 

Current assets:

               

Cash and cash equivalents

  

$

97,601

  

$

12,646

 

Trade accounts receivable

  

 

40,800

  

 

30,888

 

Merchandise inventories

  

 

119,404

  

 

108,189

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  

 

23,810

  

 

20,418

 

    

  


Total current assets

  

 

281,615

  

 

172,141

 

Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization

  

 

684,804

  

 

644,688

 

Long-term investments

  

 

2,132

  

 

4,426

 

Goodwill

  

 

80,548

  

 

80,548

 

Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization

  

 

27,880

  

 

22,889

 

Other assets

  

 

12,808

  

 

15,509

 

Net assets of discontinued operations

  

 

—  

  

 

3,000

 

    

  


    

$

1,089,787

  

$

943,201

 

    

  


Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

  

2003


  

2002


 

Current liabilities:

               

Current installments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations

  

$

5,793

  

$

5,789

 

Trade accounts payable

  

 

68,168

  

 

59,710

 

Accrued payroll, bonus and employee benefits

  

 

60,670

  

 

59,359

 

Other accrued expenses

  

 

75,302

  

 

51,440

 

    

  


Total current liabilities

  

 

209,933

  

 

176,298

 

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, less current installments

  

 

165,327

  

 

161,952

 

Other long-term liabilities

  

 

14,603

  

 

15,865

 

    

  


Total liabilities

  

 

389,863

  

 

354,115

 

    

  


Shareholders’ equity:

               

Common stock, no par value, 150,000 shares authorized, 59,738 and 57,988 shares issued, 59,445 and 57,739 shares outstanding in 2003 and 2002, respectively

  

 

400,472

  

 

341,940

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

  

 

681

  

 

(422

)

Retained earnings

  

 

298,771

  

 

247,568

 

    

  


Total shareholders’ equity

  

 

699,924

  

 

589,086

 

    

  


Commitments and contingencies

               
    

  


    

$

1,089,787

  

$

943,201

 

    

  


 

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

 

3


Table of Contents

 

Whole Foods Market, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Income Statements (unaudited)

(In thousands except per share amounts)

 

    

Twelve weeks ended


    

Twenty-eight weeks ended


 
    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


 

Sales

  

$

725,139

 

  

$

622,789

 

  

$

1,648,899

 

  

$

1,403,588

 

Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs

  

 

475,190

 

  

 

404,690

 

  

 

1,084,380

 

  

 

920,767

 

    


  


  


  


Gross profit

  

 

249,949

 

  

 

218,099

 

  

 

564,519

 

  

 

482,821

 

Direct store expenses

  

 

180,896

 

  

 

154,148

 

  

 

414,440

 

  

 

351,445

 

    


  


  


  


Store contribution

  

 

69,053

 

  

 

63,951

 

  

 

150,079

 

  

 

131,376

 

General and administrative expenses

  

 

23,289

 

  

 

22,981

 

  

 

54,465

 

  

 

51,161

 

Pre-opening and relocation costs

  

 

1,951

 

  

 

5,382

 

  

 

5,787

 

  

 

7,621

 

    


  


  


  


Operating income

  

 

43,813

 

  

 

35,588

 

  

 

89,827

 

  

 

72,594

 

Other income (expense):

                                   

Interest expense

  

 

(2,021

)

  

 

(2,473

)

  

 

(4,586

)

  

 

(6,442

)

Investment and other income

  

 

817

 

  

 

597

 

  

 

97

 

  

 

1,128

 

    


  


  


  


Income before income taxes

  

 

42,609

 

  

 

33,712

 

  

 

85,338

 

  

 

67,280

 

Provision for income taxes

  

 

17,043

 

  

 

13,485

 

  

 

34,135

 

  

 

26,912

 

    


  


  


  


Net income

  

$

25,566

 

  

$

20,227

 

  

$

51,203

 

  

$

40,368

 

    


  


  


  


Basic earnings per share

  

$

0.44

 

  

$

0.36

 

  

$

0.88

 

  

$

0.73

 

    


  


  


  


Weighted average shares outstanding

  

 

58,696

 

  

 

56,013

 

  

 

58,319

 

  

 

55,554

 

    


  


  


  


Diluted earnings per share

  

$

0.41

 

  

$

0.34

 

  

$

0.83

 

  

$

0.68

 

    


  


  


  


Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted basis

  

 

65,140

 

  

 

63,152

 

  

 

64,910

 

  

 

59,357

 

    


  


  


  


 

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

 

4


Table of Contents

 

Whole Foods Market, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

    

Twenty-eight weeks ended


 
    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                 

Net income

  

$

51,203

 

  

$

40,368

 

Adjustment to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

                 

Depreciation and amortization

  

 

51,315

 

  

 

44,700

 

Loss on disposal of fixed assets

  

 

266

 

  

 

1,947

 

Rent differential

  

 

(204

)

  

 

1,029

 

Change in LIFO reserve

  

 

1,420

 

  

 

1,750

 

Interest accretion on long-term debt

  

 

3,938

 

  

 

3,737

 

Tax benefit related to exercise of employee stock options

  

 

18,238

 

  

 

13,607

 

Impairment loss on long-term investments

  

 

1,412

 

  

 

—  

 

Issuance of common stock to 401(k) plan

  

 

3,119

 

  

 

—  

 

Cooperative patronage dividends received

  

 

3,210

 

  

 

—  

 

Net change in current assets

  

 

(25,661

)

  

 

(5,522

)

Net change in current liabilities

  

 

31,868

 

  

 

14,530

 

    


  


Net cash provided by operating activities

  

 

140,124

 

  

 

116,146

 

    


  


Cash flows from investing activities:

                 

Development costs of new store locations

  

 

(46,254

)

  

 

(52,589

)

Other property, plant and equipment expenditures

  

 

(46,528

)

  

 

(29,026

)

Acquisition of intangible assets

  

 

(6,372

)

  

 

(1,241

)

Payments for purchase of acquired entities, net of cash acquired

  

 

—  

 

  

 

(35,975

)

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

  

 

2,664

 

  

 

—  

 

Proceeds from conversion of long-term investments

  

 

1,000

 

  

 

—  

 

Other investing activities

  

 

—  

 

  

 

(4,753

)

    


  


Net cash used in investing activities

  

 

(95,490

)

  

 

(123,584

)

    


  


Cash flows from financing activities:

                 

Net proceeds from long-term borrowings

  

 

—  

 

  

 

32,000

 

Payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations

  

 

(535

)

  

 

(61,142

)

Issuance of common stock

  

 

37,151

 

  

 

39,492

 

    


  


Net cash provided by financing activities

  

 

36,616

 

  

 

10,350

 

    


  


Cash flows from discontinued operations:

                 

Net cash provided by discontinued operations

  

 

3,705

 

  

 

14,322

 

    


  


Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

  

 

84,955

 

  

 

17,234

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

  

 

12,646

 

  

 

1,843

 

    


  


Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  

$

97,601

 

  

$

19,077

 

    


  


Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

                 

Interest paid

  

$

3,313

 

  

$

2,709

 

    


  


Federal and state income taxes paid

  

$

1,198

 

  

$

11,054

 

    


  


 

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

 

5


Table of Contents

 

Whole Foods Market, Inc.

Notes To Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

(1) Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Whole Foods Market, Inc. (“Company”) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial statements and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. In the opinion of management, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, considered necessary for a fair presentation. Preparing financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Examples include accounting for depreciation and amortization, inventory, allowance for doubtful accounts, long-term investments, team member benefit plans, team member health insurance plans, asset impairment charges, store closure costs, goodwill valuation, income taxes and contingencies. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of results for any other interim period or for a full fiscal year. The information included in this Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis, the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2002.

 

Our fiscal year ends on the last Sunday in September. The first fiscal quarter is sixteen weeks, the second and third quarters each are twelve weeks and the fourth quarter is twelve or thirteen weeks. Where appropriate, we have reclassified prior year financial statements to conform to current year presentation.

 

(2) Earnings Per Share

 

The computation of basic earnings per share is based on the number of weighted average common shares outstanding during the period. The computation of diluted earnings per share includes the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents consisting of common shares deemed outstanding from the assumed exercise of stock options and the assumed conversion of zero coupon convertible subordinated debentures. A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings per share calculations follows (in thousands):

 

    

Twelve weeks ended


  

Twenty-eight weeks ended


    

April 13, 2003


  

April 14, 2002


  

April 13, 2003


  

April 14, 2002


Net income (numerator for basic earnings per share)

  

$

25,566

  

$

20,227

  

$

51,203

  

$

40,368

Interest on 5% zero coupon convertible subordinated debentures, net of income taxes

  

 

1,031

  

 

987

  

 

2,387

  

 

—  

    

  

  

  

Adjusted net income (numerator for diluted earnings per share)

  

$

26,597

  

$

21,214

  

$

53,590

  

$

40,368

    

  

  

  

Weighted average common shares outstanding (denominator for basic earnings per share)

  

 

58,696

  

 

56,013

  

 

58,319

  

 

55,554

Potential common shares outstanding:

                           

Assumed conversion of 5% zero coupon convertible subordinated debentures

  

 

3,285

  

 

3,286

  

 

3,285

  

 

—  

Assumed exercise of stock options

  

 

3,159

  

 

3,853

  

 

3,306

  

 

3,803

    

  

  

  

Weighted average common shares outstanding and potential additional common shares outstanding (denominator for diluted earnings per share)

  

 

65,140

  

 

63,152

  

 

64,910

  

 

59,357

    

  

  

  

Basic earnings per share

  

$

0.44

  

$

0.36

  

$

0.88

  

$

0.73

    

  

  

  

Diluted earnings per share

  

$

0.41

  

$

0.34

  

$

0.83

  

$

0.68

    

  

  

  

 

Options to purchase approximately 1,060,000 shares and 454,000 shares of common stock were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for the twelve and twenty-eight week periods ended April 13, 2003, respectively, because their effect would have been antidilutive. Options to purchase approximately 866,000 shares and 371,000 shares of common stock were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for the twelve and twenty-eight week periods ended April 14, 2002, respectively, because their effect would have been antidilutive. The potential conversion of approximately 3,286,000 shares of common stock related to the zero coupon convertible subordinated debentures was not included in the computations of diluted earnings per share for the twenty-eight week period ended April 14, 2002 because their effect would have been antidilutive.

 

6


Table of Contents

 

(3) Comprehensive Income

 

The Company’s comprehensive income was comprised of net income, unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities and foreign currency translation adjustment, net of income taxes. Comprehensive income, net of related tax effects, was as follows (in thousands):

 

    

Twelve weeks ended


  

Twenty-eight weeks ended


 
    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


  

April 13, 2003


  

April 14, 2002


 

Net income

  

$

25,566

 

  

$

20,227

  

$

51,203

  

$

40,368

 

Unrealized gain (loss), net

  

 

(152

)

  

 

86

  

 

147

  

 

163

 

Foreign currency translation adjustment, net

  

 

531

 

  

 

13

  

 

956

  

 

(36

)

    


  

  

  


Comprehensive income

  

$

25,945

 

  

$

20,326

  

$

52,306

  

$

40,495

 

    


  

  

  


 

(4) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment on a reporting unit level annually, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. We allocate goodwill to one reporting unit for goodwill impairment testing. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2002, we acquired goodwill totaling approximately $8.7 million in connection with the Harry’s Farmer’s Market acquisition.

 

All of the Company’s acquired identifiable intangible assets are subject to amortization. Amortization expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the life of the related agreement, currently one to twenty-six years for contract-based intangible assets and one to five years for marketing-related and other identifiable intangible assets. During the second quarter of fiscal year 2003 we acquired intangible assets totaling approximately $6.4 million, consisting primarily of acquired leasehold rights. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2002, we acquired intangible assets totaling approximately $1.1 million in connection with the Harry’s Farmer’s Market acquisition. Amortization associated with intangible assets totaled approximately $0.7 million and $1.6 million for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003, respectively, and approximately $0.8 million and $2.1 million, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year. The components of intangible assets were as follows (in thousands):

 

    

April 13, 2003


    

September 29, 2002


 
    

Gross carrying amount


  

Accumulated amortization


    

Gross carrying amount


  

Accumulated amortization


 

Contract-based

  

$

34,842

  

$

(9,154

)

  

$

28,710

  

$

(8,276

)

Marketing-related and other

  

$

3,448

  

$

(1,256

)

  

$

4,328

  

$

(1,873

)

    

  


  

  


 

Amortization associated with the net carrying amount of intangible assets at April 13, 2003 is estimated to be $1.3 million for the remainder of fiscal year 2003, $2.9 million in fiscal year 2004, $2.8 million in fiscal year 2005, $2.1 million in fiscal year 2006 and $1.5 million in fiscal year 2007.

 

(5) Long-Term Debt

 

On March 6, 2003, we amended our credit facility to extend the maturity of our revolving line of credit from July 14, 2003 to October 1, 2004 and reduce the size of the facility from $220 million to $100 million. The credit agreement contains certain restrictive covenants, including the prohibition of the payment of dividends on common stock, and certain affirmative covenants including maintenance of certain financial ratios as defined in the agreement. All outstanding amounts borrowed under this agreement bear interest at our option of either a defined base rate or the LIBOR rate plus a premium. Commitment fees of 0.20% of the undrawn amount are payable under this agreement. At April 13, 2003, no amounts were drawn and approximately $83 million was available under the agreement. At September 29, 2002, no amounts were drawn and approximately $214 million was available under the agreement.

 

7


Table of Contents

 

(6) Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Company follows Accounting Principles Board Opinion 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” and related interpretations in accounting for stock option grants. As required by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) Nos. 123 and 148, we have determined pro forma net income and net income per common share as if compensation costs had been determined based on the fair value of the options granted to team members and then recognized ratably over the vesting period. The fair value of stock option grants has been estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes multiple option pricing model. Had we recognized compensation costs as prescribed by SFAS No. 123, net income and basic and diluted earnings per share would have changed to the pro forma amounts shown below (in thousands):

 

    

Twelve weeks ended


    

Twenty-eight weeks ended


 
    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


 

Reported net income

  

$

25,566

 

  

$

20,227

 

  

$

51,203

 

  

$

40,368

 

Pro forma expense, net of income taxes

  

 

3,428

 

  

 

3,095

 

  

 

8,134

 

  

 

6,823

 

    


  


  


  


Pro forma net income

  

$

22,138

 

  

$

17,132

 

  

$

43,069

 

  

$

33,545

 

    


  


  


  


Basic earnings per share:

                                   

Reported

  

$

0.44

 

  

$

0.36

 

  

$

0.88

 

  

$

0.73

 

Pro forma adjustment

  

 

(0.06

)

  

 

(0.05

)

  

 

(0.14

)

  

 

(0.13

)

    


  


  


  


Pro forma basic earnings per share

  

$

0.38

 

  

$

0.31

 

  

$

0.74

 

  

$

0.60

 

    


  


  


  


Diluted earnings per share:

                                   

Reported

  

$

0.41

 

  

$

0.34

 

  

$

0.83

 

  

$

0.68

 

Pro forma adjustment

  

 

(0.05

)

  

 

(0.05

)

  

 

(0.13

)

  

 

(0.12

)

    


  


  


  


Pro forma diluted earnings per share

  

$

0.36

 

  

$

0.29

 

  

$

0.70

 

  

$

0.56

 

    


  


  


  


 

The assumptions used to calculate the fair value of options granted are evaluated and revised, as necessary, to reflect market conditions and experience.

 

(7) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities”, in July 2002. SFAS 146 requires that a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity is recognized at fair value when the liability is incurred rather than at the date of a commitment to an exit or disposal plan. SFAS No. 146 is effective for exit or disposal activities initiated after December 31, 2002. SFAS No. 146 may impact the timing and amounts recognized for any future exit or disposal activities. The adoption of SFAS No. 146 had no impact on our financial position or results of operations.

 

The FASB issued SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure, an Amendment to FASB Statement No. 123,” which provides alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to a fair value based method of accounting for stock-based compensation. SFAS No. 148 also amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS 123 to require additional disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements. We adopted the disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 148 effective the beginning of the first quarter of fiscal year 2003. The adoption of SFAS No. 148 had no impact on our financial position or results of operations.

 

The Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) issued EITF No. 02-16, “Accounting by a Customer (Including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor.” EITF No. 02-16 provides guidance for the accounting for consideration given to a reseller from a vendor. We adopted EITF No. 02-16 on a prospective basis effective the beginning of the second quarter of fiscal year 2003. The adoption of EITF No 02-16 did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.

 

8


Table of Contents

 

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

 

General

 

Whole Foods Market opened its first store in Texas in 1980 and has expanded its operations to 143 stores as of April 13, 2003. We operate in one reportable segment, natural foods supermarkets. We have one store in Toronto, Canada. All of our remaining operations are domestic. Our results of operations have been and will continue to be materially affected by the timing and number of new store openings. The Company reports its results of operations on a fifty-two or fifty-three week fiscal year ending on the last Sunday in September. The first fiscal quarter is sixteen weeks, the second and third quarters each are twelve weeks and the fourth quarter is twelve or thirteen weeks.

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth the Company’s income statements data expressed as a percentage of sales:

 

    

Twelve weeks ended


    

Twenty-eight weeks ended


 
    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


    

April 13, 2003


    

April 14, 2002


 

Sales

  

100.0

%

  

100.0

%

  

100.0

%

  

100.0

%

Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs

  

65.5

 

  

65.0

 

  

65.8

 

  

65.6

 

    

  

  

  

Gross profit

  

34.5

 

  

35.0

 

  

34.2

 

  

34.4

 

Direct store expenses

  

24.9

 

  

24.8

 

  

25.1

 

  

25.0

 

    

  

  

  

Store contribution

  

9.5

 

  

10.3

 

  

9.1

 

  

9.4

 

General and administrative expenses

  

3.2

 

  

3.7

 

  

3.3

 

  

3.6

 

Pre-opening and relocation costs

  

0.3

 

  

0.9

 

  

0.4

 

  

0.5

 

    

  

  

  

Income from operations

  

6.0

 

  

5.7

 

  

5.4

 

  

5.2

 

Other income (expense):

                           

Interest expense

  

(0.3

)

  

(0.4

)

  

(0.3

)

  

(0.5

)

Investment and other income

  

0.1

 

  

0.1

 

  

0.0

 

  

0.1

 

    

  

  

  

Income before income taxes

  

5.9

 

  

5.4

 

  

5.2

 

  

4.8

 

Provision for income taxes

  

2.4

 

  

2.2

 

  

2.1

 

  

1.9

 

    

  

  

  

Net income

  

3.5

%

  

3.2

%

  

3.1

%

  

2.9

%

    

  

  

  

Figures may not add due to rounding.

 

Sales

 

Sales increased 16.4% and 17.5% for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003, respectively, compared to the same periods of the prior fiscal year. These increases were driven by comparable store sales growth of approximately 7.0% and 9.0%, respectively, and weighted average year-over-year square footage growth of approximately 12%. Sales of a store are deemed to be comparable commencing in the fifty-third full week after the store was opened or acquired. Identical store sales, which excludes relocations and remodels with expansions of square footage greater than 20%, increased approximately 6.4% and 8.5% for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003, respectively. Extreme weather across several major markets, the outbreak of war and the shift of Easter and related sales from the second quarter in the prior fiscal year to the third quarter in the current fiscal year negatively impacted comparable store sales during the twelve weeks ended April 13, 2003. Comparable and identical store sales increases generally resulted from an increase in the number of customer transactions and higher average transaction amounts, reflecting an increase in market share as the stores mature in a particular market. These increases are due to such factors as customers increasing their amount of purchases with us over time, improvements in overall store execution, stronger brand awareness and increased sales of perishable products.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit consists of sales less cost of goods sold and occupancy costs plus contribution from non-retail distribution and food preparation operations. The Company’s gross profit as a percentage of sales for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 was approximately 34.5% and 34.2%, respectively, compared to approximately 35.0% and 34.4%, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year. These declines were primarily due to higher occupancy costs, increased spoilage resulting from weather-related stores closures and the impact of certain market-specific pricing strategies. These strategies are not isolated to the twelve weeks ended April 13, 2003, but in previous periods they have generally been offset by improvements in other markets. Typically margins increase due to various factors including increased national buying and category management, which lower the cost of product purchased on a national basis. Additionally, continued improvement in store execution with respect to product procurement, merchandising and controlling shrink typically positively affects gross profit. Gross profit margins tend to be lower for new stores and increase as stores mature, reflecting lower shrink as volumes increase, as well as increasing experience levels and operational efficiencies of the store teams.

 

9


Table of Contents

 

Store Contribution

 

Store contribution consists of gross profit less direct store expenses. For all stores, store contribution as a percentage of sales decreased 75 and 26 basis points to approximately 9.5% and 9.1% for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003, respectively, compared to approximately 10.3% and 9.4%, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year. For the 130 stores in the comparable store base, store contribution as a percentage of sales was approximately 10.1% and 9.8% for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003, respectively, reflecting a 10 and 30 basis point decrease in direct store expenses, respectively. For all stores, direct store expenses as a percentage of sales was approximately 24.9% and 25.1% for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003, respectively, compared to approximately 24.8% and 25.0%, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year. Direct store expense as a percentage of sales tends to be higher for new stores and decrease as stores mature, reflecting increasing operational productivity of the store teams.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales were approximately 3.2% and 3.3% for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003, respectively, compared to approximately 3.7% and 3.6%, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year. These decreases reflect a strong focus on leveraging general and administrative expenses during our planning process and favorable execution of our plan. Whole Foods Market has historically been able to expand without significant increases in general and administrative costs.

 

Pre-opening and Relocation Costs

 

Pre-opening costs include costs associated with hiring and training personnel, supplies and certain occupancy and miscellaneous costs related to new locations and major expansions. Relocation costs consist of moving costs, remaining lease payments, accelerated depreciation costs and other costs associated with replaced facilities. Pre-opening costs for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 consist primarily of costs associated with the opening of five new stores and the development of seven stores during the first fiscal quarter and the opening of three new stores and the development of four stores during the second fiscal quarter. Relocation costs for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 consist primarily of costs associated with the relocation of one non-retail facility during each of the first and second fiscal quarters. In the prior fiscal year, pre-opening and relocation costs for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks consisted primarily of costs associated with our opening of one new store and the relocation of one store during the first fiscal quarter and the opening of three new stores, the development of three new stores, the relocation of two non-retail facilities and an approximate $1.5 million write-off associated with the decision to relocate a store in the Dallas market during the second fiscal quarter.

 

Interest Expense

 

Interest expense consists of costs related to the convertible subordinated debentures, senior notes payable and bank line of credit, net of capitalized interest associated with new store development. Net interest expense for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 totaled approximately $2.0 million and $4.6 million, respectively, compared to approximately $2.5 million and $6.4 million, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year. These decreases are primarily due to lower interest rates and no amounts outstanding under the Company’s bank line of credit during fiscal year 2003. Capitalized interest for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 totaled approximately $0.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively, compared to approximately $0.5 million and $0.8 million, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year.

 

Investment and Other Income

 

Investment and other income consists primarily of interest, rental, other income and investment gains and losses. Investment and other income for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 totaled approximately $0.8 million and $0.1 million, respectively, compared to approximately $0.6 million and $1.1 million, respectively, for the same periods of the prior fiscal year. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2003, the Company recognized a pre-tax impairment charge of approximately $1.4 million on our investment in Gaiam, Inc.

 

Discontinued Operations

 

Pursuant to a formal plan adopted in fiscal year 2000, the NatureSmart nutritional supplements business has been segregated from continuing operations and reported as discontinued operations in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. Discontinued operations had no impact on the accompanying condensed consolidated income statements for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and April 14, 2002. Cash flows from discontinued operations in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 include proceeds totaling approximately $3.6 million from the sale of property in Westminster, Colorado and the release of NatureSmart acquisition proceeds held in escrow. Cash flows from discontinued operations for the twenty-eight weeks ended April 14, 2002 include net proceeds totaling approximately $15 million from the sale of the facility in Thornton, Colorado that was used by NatureSmart.

 

10


Table of Contents

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources and Changes in Financial Condition

 

We generated cash from operating activities of approximately $140.1 million and $116.1 million for the twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and April 14, 2002, respectively. Cash flows from operating activities resulted primarily from our net income plus non-cash expenses, income tax benefits that resulted from the exercise of team member stock options and changes in operating working capital.

 

On March 6, 2003, we amended our credit facility to extend the maturity of our revolving line of credit from July 14, 2003 to October 1, 2004 and reduce the size of the facility from $220 million to $100 million. The Company believes the reduced facility better matches its currently projected cash needs. The credit agreement contains certain restrictive covenants, including the prohibition of the payment of dividends on common stock, and certain affirmative covenants including maintenance of certain financial ratios as defined in the agreement. All outstanding amounts borrowed under this agreement bear interest at our option of either a defined base rate or the LIBOR rate plus a premium. Commitment fees of 0.20% of the undrawn amount are payable under this agreement. At April 13, 2003, no amounts were drawn and approximately $83 million was available under the agreement. At September 29, 2002, no amounts were drawn and approximately $214 million was available under the agreement. The Company has zero coupon convertible subordinated debentures outstanding with a carrying value of approximately $148.0 million at April 13, 2003. The debentures have an effective yield to maturity of 5 percent and a principal amount at maturity on March 2, 2018 of approximately $309 million. The debentures are redeemable for cash on at least 30 days’ notice at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, for issue price plus accrued original issue discount. The debentures are convertible at the option of the holder, at any time on or prior to maturity, unless previously redeemed or otherwise purchased. The debentures have a conversion rate of 10.640 shares per $1,000 principal amount at maturity, representing approximately 3,285,000 shares of common stock. Debentures may be redeemed at the option of the holder March 2, 2003, March 2, 2008 or March 2, 2013 for a purchase price equal to issue price plus accrued original issue discount totaling approximately $147 million, $188 million and $241 million, respectively. The Company, at its option, may elect to pay any such purchase price in cash or in shares of common stock, or any combination thereof. On January 31, 2003 the Company mailed notice to the holders of its outstanding zero coupon convertible subordinated debentures informing such holders they had the right to surrender the debentures for repurchase by the Company on March 2, 2003 for $476.74 per $1,000 principal amount at maturity, and that such purchase price would be paid entirely in cash. No debentures were redeemed on March 2, 2003. We also have outstanding at April 13, 2003 approximately $22.9 million of senior unsecured notes that bear interest at 7.29% payable quarterly. Principal on the senior notes is payable in annual installments of approximately $5.7 million through May 16, 2006. Net cash provided by financing activities was approximately $36.6 million and $10.4 million for the twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and April 14, 2002, respectively.

 

The following table shows payments due by period on contractual obligations as of April 13, 2003 (in thousands):

 

    

Total


  

Less than 1 Year


  

1-5 Years


  

After 5 Years


Convertible debt*

  

$

148,048

  

$

—  

  

$

148,048

  

$

—  

Senior notes

  

 

22,857

  

 

5,714

  

 

17,143

  

 

—  

Capital lease obligations (including interest)

  

 

56

  

 

14

  

 

42

  

 

—  

Operating lease obligations

  

$

1,331,141

  

$

72,681

  

$

340,737

  

$

917,723

    

  

  

  

 

*   Assumes convertible debentures will be redeemed at the option of the holder on March 2, 2008.

 

The following table shows expirations per period on commercial commitments as of April 13, 2003 (in thousands):

 

    

Total


  

Less than

1 Year


  

1-5 Years


  

After

5 Years


Credit facility

  

$

100,000

  

$

—  

  

$

100,000

  

$

—  

    

  

  

  

 

We periodically make other commitments and become subject to other contractual obligations that we believe to be routine in nature and incidental to the operation of the business. Management believes that such routine commitments and contractual obligations do not have a material impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

11


Table of Contents

 

Our principal historical capital requirements have been the funding of the development or acquisition of new stores and acquisition of property and equipment for existing stores. The required cash investment for new stores varies depending on the size of the new store, geographic location, degree of work performed by the landlord and complexity of site development issues. Over the past three fiscal years, our new store investment has averaged approximately $8.6 million per location. This excludes new store inventory of approximately $750,000, a portion of which is financed by our vendors. As of May 7, 2003, we had signed leases for 27 stores averaging approximately 43,000 square feet in size. We will incur additional capital expenditures during the remainder of fiscal year 2003 in connection with ongoing equipment upgrades and resets at existing stores and continued development of management information systems. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2002, the Company completed the acquisition of three Harry’s Farmer’s Market perishables superstores in Atlanta, Georgia in exchange for approximately $36 million in cash plus the assumption of certain liabilities. Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $95.5 million and $123.6 million for the twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and April 14, 2002, respectively. Absent any significant cash acquisition or change in status of the Company’s outstanding zero coupon convertible bond issue, we expect planned expansion and other anticipated working capital and capital expenditure requirements will be funded by cash generated from operations. We continually evaluate the need to establish other sources of working capital and will seek those considered appropriate based upon the Company’s needs and market conditions.

 

On October 11, 2002, United Natural Foods acquired Blooming Prairie Cooperative, a cooperative natural foods distributor in which the Company was a member, for cash consideration of $30 million. Allocation and distribution of proceeds from the sale to members has not been completed by Booming Prairie, and therefore although we expect a gain as a result of this transaction, we will account for any such gain when realized.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results may differ from these estimates. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions and factors that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate the continued appropriateness of our accounting policies and resulting estimates to make adjustments we consider appropriate under the facts and circumstances.

 

We have chosen accounting policies that we believe are appropriate to report accurately and fairly our operating results and financial position, and we apply those accounting policies in a consistent manner. We believe that the following accounting policies are the most critical in the preparation of our financial statements because they involve the most difficult, subjective or complex judgments about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.

 

Insurance and Self-Insurance Reserves

 

The Company uses a combination of insurance and self-insurance plans to provide for the potential liabilities for workers’ compensation, general liability, property insurance, director and officers’ liability insurance, vehicle liability and employee health care benefits. Liabilities associated with the risks that are retained by the Company are estimated, in part, by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other actuarial assumptions. While we believe that our assumptions are appropriate, the estimated accruals for these liabilities could be significantly affected if future occurrences and claims differ from these assumptions and historical trends.

 

Inventory Valuation

 

We value our inventories, both retail and wholesale, at the lower of cost or market. Cost is principally determined by the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method. LIFO cost was determined using the retail method for approximately 55% of inventories for both the twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and the fifty–two weeks ended September 29, 2002 and using the item cost method for approximately 43% and 42% of inventories for the twenty-eight weeks ended April 13, 2003 and the fifty–two weeks ended September 29, 2002, respectively. The excess of estimated current costs over LIFO carrying value was approximately $8.6 million and $7.1 million at April 13, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively. Under the retail inventory method, the valuation of inventories at cost and the resulting gross margins are determined by applying a cost-to-retail ratio for various groupings of similar items to the retail value of inventories. Inherent in the retail inventory method calculations are certain management judgments and estimates, including shrinkage, which could impact the ending inventory valuation at cost as well as the resulting gross margins. Costs for the balance of inventories, consisting of the manufactured inventories of Allegro Coffee Company, are determined by the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method. We believe we have the appropriate inventory valuation controls in place to minimize the risk that inventory values would be materially misstated.

 

12


Table of Contents

 

Risk Factors

 

We wish to caution you that there are risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to be materially different from those indicated by forward-looking statements that we make from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, news releases, reports, proxy statements, registration statements and other written communications, as well as oral forward-looking statements made from time to time by representatives of our Company. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those listed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 29, 2002. These risks and uncertainties and additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may cause our business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows to be materially adversely affected. Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this analysis are forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to general business conditions, the timely development and opening of new stores, the impact of competition, and other factors which are often beyond the control of the Company. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Except as discussed below, there have been no material changes in the Company’s market risk exposures from those reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 29, 2002.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

We are exposed to cash flow and fair value risk from changes in interest rates, which may affect the income that we earn and the carrying value of our cash and cash equivalents. As of April 13, 2003 we have short-term investments totaling approximately $90 million that are included in cash and cash equivalents on our condensed balance sheets. At April 13, 2003 an unrealized gain of approximately $28,000 on these short-term investments is included as a component of shareholders’ equity.

 

Market Risk

 

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2003, our equity interest in Gaiam.com was converted into $1.0 million in cash and 250,000 shares of Gaiam, Inc. common stock pursuant to the merger of a subsidiary of Gaiam, Inc. into Gaiam.com. There are restrictions on the Company’s ability to resell these shares during the two years after the merger. Subsequent to this transaction, we recognized losses totaling approximately $1.4 million for other-than-temporary impairment of our unrestricted and restricted investments in Gaiam, Inc. common stock due to a sustained decline in market value of the stock below our carrying value. This impairment charge was recorded to adjust our investments in Gaiam, Inc. to quoted market value. As of April 13, 2003 we have investments in Gaiam, Inc. of approximately $2.1 million, with an unrealized loss of approximately $162,000 included as a component of shareholders’ equity.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in its reports filed pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, the Company recognizes that any controls and procedures can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily is required to apply judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

 

Based upon their evaluation of those controls and procedures performed within 90 days of the filing date of this report, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Company concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were adequate.

 

There were no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of their evaluation, and no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses which required corrective actions were identified.

 

13


Table of Contents

 

Part II. Other Information

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, the Company is involved in lawsuits that we consider to be in the normal course of business which have not resulted in any material losses to date.

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to Vote of Security Holders

 

On March 31, 2003, the Company held its annual meeting of shareholders at which shareholders were asked the following:

 

(i)   to elect to the Board of Directors two directors to serve a three-year term expiring at the annual meeting of shareholders in 2006;

 

(ii)   to approve an amendment to the Company’s 1992 Incentive Stock Option Plan for Team Members (“Team Member Plan”) to increase the number of shares of the Company’s common stock reserved for issuance under the Team Member Plan from 16.4 million shares to 19.3 million shares;

 

(iii)   to declassify the Board of Directors so that all directors are elected annually, such declassification to be carried out in a non-binding manner that does not affect the unexpired terms of directors previously elected.

 

Voting results were as follows:

 

         

For


  

Against


  

Abstaining


(i)

  

Director elections:

              
    

    Dr. John B. Elstrott

  

48,115,530

  

54,035

  

9,000,521

    

    Dr. Ralph Z. Sorenson

  

48,105,860

  

63,705

  

9,000,521

(ii)

  

Amendment to Team Member Plan

  

44,788,498

  

12,255,500

  

126,488

(iii)

  

Declassification of the Board of Directors

  

28,126,536

  

18,080,547

  

311,881

 

Item 6(a). Exhibits

 

Exhibit 99.1—Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002

 

Exhibit 99.2—Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002

 

Item 6(b). Reports on Form 8-K

 

The Company filed a report on Form 8-K dated January 31, 2003 stating the Company mailed a notice to the holders of its outstanding Zero Coupon Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2018 in accordance with the terms of the Debentures.

 

14


Table of Contents

 

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.

 

Whole Foods Market, Inc.

Registrant

 

Date: May 23, 2003

     

By: /s/ Glenda Flanagan        

           

Glenda Flanagan

Executive Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

(Duly authorized officer and

principal financial officer)

 

15


Table of Contents

 

CERTIFICATIONS

 

I, John P. Mackey, certify that:

 

1)   I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Whole Foods Market, Inc.

 

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

 

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

 

4)   The registrant’s other certifying officers 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 have:

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

5)   The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

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

 

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

 

6)   The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

Date: May 23, 2003

     

By:

 

/s/ John P. Mackey

               

John P. Mackey

Chief Executive Officer

 

16


Table of Contents

 

CERTIFICATIONS

 

I, Glenda Flanagan, certify that:

 

1)   I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Whole Foods Market, Inc.

 

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

 

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

 

4)   The registrant’s other certifying officers 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 have:

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

5)   The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

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

 

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

 

6)   The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

Date: May 23, 2003

     

By:

 

/s/ Glenda Flanagan

               

Glenda Flanagan

Chief Financial Officer

 

17