KOPPERS INC - 10-Q Quarterly Report

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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

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

For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2004

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 1-12716

Koppers Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Pennsylvania

25-1588399

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

436 Seventh Avenue

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219

(Address of principal executive offices)

(412) 227-2001

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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 periods 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 ¨

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

Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, outstanding at October 20, 2004 amounted to 0.7 million shares.

PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Koppers Inc.

Consolidated Statement of Operations

(In millions)


	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2004		2003		2004		2003
	(Unaudited)				(Unaudited)
Net sales	$	243.8	$	214.4	$	720.7	$	624.8
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales		202.0		181.4		604.0		530.3
Depreciation and amortization		7.9		8.3		24.3		25.3
Selling, general and administrative		15.0		12.8		41.7		40.5
Restructuring charges		—		1.3		—		1.3

Total operating expenses		224.9		203.8		670.0		597.4

Operating profit		18.9		10.6		50.7		27.4
Other income (expense)		—		—		0.1		(0.1	)

Income before interest expense, income taxes, minority interest and cumulative effect of accounting change		18.9		10.6		50.8		27.3
Interest expense		8.7		5.5		26.6		16.0

Income before income taxes and minority interest		10.2		5.1		24.2		11.3
Income taxes		5.8		4.6		13.2		7.5
Minority interest		0.9		0.5		2.8		1.2

Income before cumulative effect of accounting change		3.5		—		8.2		2.6

Cumulative effect of accounting change:
Asset retirement obligations, net of tax of $11.7		—		—		—		(18.1	)

Net income (loss)	$	3.5	$	—	$	8.2	$	(15.5	)

See accompanying notes.

Koppers Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

(In millions)


	September 30, 2004			December 31, 2003
	(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	9.4		$	9.6
Accounts receivable less allowance for doubtful accounts of $1.3 in 2004 and $1.4 in 2003		116.3			99.6
Inventories:
Raw materials		71.0			58.1
Work in process		2.6			4.3
Finished goods		64.8			68.3
LIFO reserve		(15.0	)		(13.2	)

Total inventories		123.4			117.5
Deferred tax benefit		8.9			8.9
Other		9.7			8.1

Total current assets		267.7			243.7
Equity investments		2.7			10.3
Fixed assets		495.4			475.5
Less: accumulated depreciation		(340.7	)		(324.5	)

Net fixed assets		154.7			151.0
Goodwill		35.8			36.5
Deferred tax benefit		48.0			54.9
Other assets		24.1			17.6

Total assets	$	533.0		$	514.0

See accompanying notes.

Koppers Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

(In millions except per share amounts)


	September 30, 2004			December 31, 2003
	(Unaudited)
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	70.0		$	63.8
Accrued liabilities		69.2			60.6
Dividend payable		—			25.0
Revolving credit		16.5			—
Current portion of term loans		1.5			8.0

Total current liabilities		157.2			157.4
Long-term debt:
Revolving credit		31.8			8.9
Term loans		6.4			3.8
Senior Secured Notes due 2013		320.0			320.0

Total long-term debt		358.2			332.7
Other long-term reserves		89.9			93.7

Total liabilities		605.3			583.8
Common stock subject to redemption		—			13.2
Minority interest		10.1			6.1
Senior Convertible Preferred Stock, $.01 par value per share; 10.0 shares authorized; 2.3 shares issued in 2004 and 2003		—			—
Common stock, $.01 par value per share; 37.0 shares authorized, 3.0 shares issued in 2004 and 2003		—			—
Capital in excess of par value		27.0			15.8
Receivable from Director for purchase of common stock		(0.6	)		(0.6	)
Retained earnings (deficit)		(54.0	)		(53.7	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustment		5.5			8.0
Minimum pension liability, net of tax		(14.5	)		(14.5	)

Total accumulated other comprehensive loss		(9.0	)		(6.5	)
Treasury stock, at cost, 2.2 shares in 2004 and 2.1 shares in 2003		(45.8	)		(44.1	)

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	533.0		$	514.0

See accompanying notes.

Koppers Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

(In millions)


	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2004			2003
	(Unaudited)
Cash provided by operating activities	$	13.8		$	11.4
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities:
Capital expenditures		(12.8	)		(9.9	)
Other		0.7			0.7

Net cash (used in) investing activities		(12.1	)		(9.2	)
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities:
Borrowings from revolving credit		194.8			230.0
Repayments of revolving credit		(155.4	)		(236.4	)
Borrowings from long-term debt		—			75.0
Repayment of long-term debt		(6.5	)		(52.3	)
Dividends paid		(33.4	)		(3.1	)
Payment of deferred financing costs		(0.3	)		(3.8	)
Sales of common stock		0.6			—
Purchases of common stock		(2.2	)		(9.1	)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		(2.4	)		0.3
Effect of exchange rates on cash		0.5			1.2

Net increase (decrease) in cash		(0.2	)		3.7
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		9.6			9.5

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	9.4		$	13.2

See accompanying notes.

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

(1) Financial Statements

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States applicable to interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of Koppers Inc. and its subsidiaries’ (“Koppers” or the “Company”) financial position and interim results as of, and for the periods presented have been included. Because Koppers’ business is seasonal, results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of those that may be expected for a full year. The Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet for December 31, 2003 has been summarized from the audited fiscal year 2003 balance sheet.

The financial information included herein should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and related notes in its 2003 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Reclassifications. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the fiscal 2004 presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on net income or stockholders’ equity as previously reported.

(2) Stock Purchases by Directors/Restricted Stock Grants to Senior Management

In August 2004 three members of the Company’s Board of Directors each purchased 5,000 shares of Koppers common stock at the current fair value. Additionally, in August 2004 the Company granted 135,000 restricted stock units to certain officers, of which 20% vested August 31, 2004. The remaining units will vest annually at a rate of 20% per year. The Company recorded $0.4 million of compensation expense for the vesting of restricted stock grants during the third quarter.

(3) Dividend Payments/Stock Repurchases

In July 2004 the Company declared and paid a dividend totaling $8.5 million ($2.86 per share to common and preferred). The Company paid a $25 million dividend ($8.00 per share to common and preferred) in January 2004 which had been declared in December 2003. Additionally, pursuant to a redemption offer the Company repurchased approximately 45,000 shares of common stock in April 2004 for a total of approximately $0.7 million.

(4) Consolidation of Koppers China

In 1999 the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with Tangshan Iron & Steel Co. (“TISCO”) to rehabilitate and operate a tar distillation facility in China. Koppers (China) Carbon and Chemical Co., Limited (“Koppers China”) is 60% owned by the Company and began production of coal tar products in 2001. In June 2001, the Company entered into an agreement with TISCO whereby TISCO assumed control of Koppers China through December 31, 2003. The Company chose to delay development of the carbon pitch export market due to the restructuring of the North American aluminum smelting capacity. In the interim, TISCO assumed responsibility for the joint venture to develop the domestic Chinese market. During this period, TISCO bore all responsibility for the operations and management of the facility, as well as the net income or loss, except for the Company’s

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

pro rata share of depreciation, amortization and income taxes of the joint venture. Accordingly, the Company changed its method of accounting from consolidation to the equity method effective June 2001 to reflect this change in its ability to control Koppers China.

On January 1, 2004, the Company resumed control of Koppers China, which resulted in a consolidation of Koppers China in the Company’s financial statements beginning in the first quarter of 2004. For the three months ended September 30, 2004 sales and net income for Koppers China were $6.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively. Sales and net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 amounted to $20.2 million and $2.3 million, respectively.

(5) Restructuring

Restructuring and impairment charges for 2003 totaled $8.5 million. During the fourth quarter of 2003 the Company determined that capacity rationalization was required in its U.S. Carbon Materials & Chemicals business to increase competitiveness. Accordingly, in December 2003 Koppers ceased production at its carbon materials facility in Woodward, Alabama, resulting in a restructuring charge to fourth quarter 2003 pre-tax income of $3.1 million. Additionally, during the fourth quarter of 2003 the Company concluded that its carbon materials port operation in Portland, Oregon is an impaired facility based on its current and long-term economic prospects as a result of recent negotiations with a significant customer. The impairment charge for this facility resulted in a charge to fourth quarter pre-tax income of $3.1 million. The Company also incurred a $1.0 million charge for the impairment of certain storage tanks which have been permanently idled due to reduced demand for carbon materials products in U.S. markets. In September 2003, the Company closed its Logansport, Louisiana wood treating plant due to deteriorating local market conditions and their impact on volumes and profitability. The closure resulted in a $1.3 million restructuring charge in the third quarter.

Total restructuring and impairment charges for 2003 consisted of cash charges of $0.7 million for severance and non-cash charges of $7.8 million primarily for write downs of fixed assets.

At September 30, 2004 all $0.7 million of the total expected cash charges had been expended and there were no remaining reserves.

(6) Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In May 2004, the FASB issued Staff Position No. 106-2, Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (“FSP 106-2”). This act (the “Act”) was signed into law by the President on December 8, 2003 and introduces a prescription drug benefit plan under Medicare Part D as well as a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health benefit plans that provide a benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. FSP 106-2 provides guidance on how companies should account for the impact of the Act on their postretirement health care plans. To encourage employers to retain or provide postretirement drug benefits, beginning in 2006 the federal government will provide non-taxable subsidy payments to employers that sponsor prescription drug benefits to retirees that are actuarially equivalent to the Medicare benefit. FSP 106-2 is effective for interim or annual financial statements beginning after June 15, 2004. The Company has determined that the benefits provided under its plans are not likely to be actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. Therefore, the Act has been determined to have no impact on the net periodic postretirement benefit cost included in the financial statements.

In December 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132 (revised 2003), Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88 and 106,

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

and a revision of FASB Statement No. 132. This statement requires additional disclosure about the assets, obligations, cash flow and net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. This statement also requires interim disclosure of the net periodic benefit cost and actual or expected employer contributions. The standard was effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2003 and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2003.

In May 2003, the FASB issued Statement No. 150, Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity, effective for the fiscal period beginning after December 15, 2003. Statement No. 150 establishes standards for how an issuer classifies and measures certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. To the extent that the Company is required to purchase shares of common stock, the adoption of Statement No. 150 requires the Company to classify common stock subject to redemption as a liability as of January 1, 2004. Prospectively, changes in the liability with the exception of redemptions will be included in pre-tax income.

Prior to February 27, 2004 the stockholders’ agreement by and among the Company, Saratoga Partners III, L.P. (“Saratoga”), and the Management Investors (as defined below), dated as of December 1, 1997 (as amended, the “Stockholders’ Agreement”), required the Company to redeem shares of common stock owned by officers, directors, and current and former employees of the Company (“Management Investors”) upon a Management Investor’s ceasing for any reason to be employed by the Company. On February 27, 2004 the Stockholders’ Agreement was amended to make the redemption of common stock from such Management Investors at the option of the Company.

The initial adoption of Statement No. 150 resulted in the recognition of a liability in the amount of $13.2 million for shares with a mandatory redemption requirement. At September 30, 2004 after giving effect to the amendment to the Stockholders’ Agreement as noted above, the remaining liability was $1.5 million based on prior commitments to redeem shares. Due to the amendment, $11.2 million was reclassified to capital in excess of par value to reflect the elimination of the mandatory redemption requirement. There was no cumulative effect adjustment as a result of the adoption of Statement No. 150.

In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of ARB No. 51 (“FIN No. 46”). FIN No. 46 requires certain variable interest entities to be consolidated by the primary beneficiary of the entity if the equity investors in the entity do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties. In December 2003, FASB issued a revision to FIN No. 46; for the Company, the revised provisions of FIN No. 46 must be applied for the first interim or annual period beginning after December 15, 2004. The Company does not expect that the adoption of FIN No. 46 will have a material impact on its financial position, cash flows or results of operations.

Asset Retirement Obligations. Effective January 1, 2003 the Company changed its method of accounting for asset retirement obligations in accordance with FASB Statement No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations. Previously, the Company had not been recognizing amounts related to asset retirement obligations. Under the new accounting method, the Company now recognizes asset retirement obligations in the period in which they are incurred if a reasonable estimate of a fair value can be made. The associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset.

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

The cumulative effect of the change on prior years resulted in a charge to income of $18.1 million, net of income taxes of $11.7 million.

The Company recognizes asset retirement obligations for i) the removal and disposal of residues; ii) dismantling of certain tanks required by governmental authorities; iii) cleaning and dismantling costs for owned rail cars; and iv) cleaning costs for leased rail cars and barges. The following table describes changes to the Company’s asset retirement obligation liability at September 30, 2004 and 2003:


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2004			2003			2004			2003
	(In millions)						(In millions)
Asset retirement obligation at beginning of period	$	32.7		$	31.9		$	34.9		$	—
Liability recognized in transition		—			—			—			33.4
Accretion expense		0.5			0.6			1.7			1.8
Effect of fixed asset additions		0.2			0.3			0.7			0.8
Plant closing adjustment		—			1.6			—			1.6
Expenses incurred		(1.8	)		(1.5	)		(5.7	)		(4.7	)

Asset retirement obligation at end of period	$	31.6		$	32.9		$	31.6		$	32.9

(7) Legal Proceedings

The Company is involved in litigation and various proceedings relating to antitrust matters, environmental laws and toxic tort matters, including two cases pending in Texas and several cases pending in Pennsylvania alleging personal injuries from exposure to coal tar pitch.

Government Investigation. The Company is the subject of an ongoing investigation regarding industry competitive practices. On December 4, 2002, European Commission (“EC”) representatives visited the offices of the Company’s subsidiaries located in Nyborg, Denmark and Scunthorpe, England and obtained documents pursuant to legal process as part of an investigation of industry competitive practices concerning pitch, creosote and naphthalene. The United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) also served a subpoena for similar documents at the Company’s headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Company has cooperated with both the EC and DOJ. Recently, DOJ returned the documents which the Company had produced. The Company has also cooperated with the Canadian Competition Bureau (“CCB”). As a result of such cooperation, (i) in February 2003, the EC granted the Company’s request for exemption from penalties for any infringement the EC may find as a result of its investigation concerning pitch; (ii) in April 2003, DOJ granted the Company’s request for exemption from prosecution for any infringement DOJ may find as a result of imports of pitch, creosote and naphthalene, or the purchase for export of coal tar used to produce these products; and (iii) in April 2003, the CCB granted Koppers a provisional guarantee of immunity from fines under the Canadian Competition Act with respect to the supply and sale of tar pitch, naphthalene, creosote oil and carbon black feedstock prior to 2001. These grants of immunity were all granted upon certain conditions, including the continued cooperation of the Company. The grants of immunity by the EC, DOJ and the CCB apply to any government fine or penalty related to each country’s investigation of industry competitive practices. If the Company fails to comply with the applicable conditions attached to these grants of immunity, the Company could be fined. Such fines, if assessed against the Company, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. For example, the EC has the authority to assess fines in an amount up to 10% of a

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

company’s worldwide sales. The DOJ and CCB also have the authority to assess significant fines. The Company is not currently aware of any other government investigations or other claims related to these investigations of industry competitive practices.

Pacific Century. A subsidiary of Koppers Australia has been named as a defendant in a breach of contract and negligence lawsuit filed by Pacific Century in Queensland, Australia related to the sale of approximately 127,000 vineyard trellis posts. The Complaint claims that certain posts were defective in that they either had decay, excessive bark or were less than the minimum specified size. In addition, plaintiff alleges violations of the Australian Timber Utilization and Marketing Act. Plaintiff is seeking damages in the amount of AU$6.6 million (approximately US$4.8 million) for, among other things, the costs of removing and replacing such trellis posts. Plaintiff has also filed a lawsuit against the constructor of the vineyard trellises, which lawsuit has been consolidated with its claim against Koppers. Discovery in the case is ongoing and there can be no assurance that an unfavorable resolution of this matter will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.

(8) Environmental and Other Matters

The Company is subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations and potential liabilities relating to the protection of the environment and human health and safety including, among other things, the cleanup of contaminated sites, the treatment, storage and disposal of wastes, the discharge of effluent into waterways, the emission of substances into the air and various health and safety matters. The Company expects to incur substantial costs for ongoing compliance with such laws and regulations. The Company may also face governmental or third-party claims, or otherwise incur costs, relating to cleanup of, or for injuries resulting from, contamination at sites associated with past and present operations. Koppers accrues for environmental liabilities when a determination can be made that they are probable and reasonably estimable.

Environmental and Other Liabilities Retained or Assumed by Others

The Company has agreements with former owners of certain of its operating locations under which the former owners retained or assumed and agreed to indemnify the Company against certain environmental and other liabilities. The most significant of these agreements was entered into at the Company’s formation on December 28, 1988 (the “Acquisition”). Under the related asset purchase agreement between the Company and Beazer East, subject to certain limitations, Beazer East assumed the responsibility for and agreed to indemnify the Company against certain liabilities, damages, losses and costs, including, with certain limited exceptions, liabilities under and costs to comply with environmental laws to the extent attributable to acts or omissions occurring prior to the Acquisition (the “Indemnity”). Beazer Limited unconditionally guaranteed Beazer East’s performance of the Indemnity pursuant to a guarantee (the “Guarantee”). Beazer Limited became a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Hanson PLC on December 4, 1991. In 1998, Hanson PLC purchased an insurance policy under which the funding and risk of certain environmental and other liabilities relating to the former Koppers Company, Inc. operations of Beazer East (which includes locations purchased from Beazer East by the Company) are underwritten by Centre Solutions (a member of the Zurich Group) and Swiss Re.

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Company entered into an agreement with Beazer East to amend the December 29, 1988 asset purchase agreement to provide, among other things, for the continued tender of pre-closing environmental liabilities to Beazer East through July 2019. As consideration for the agreement, Koppers will pay Beazer East four annual installments totaling $7 million, and provide cost-sharing arrangements at certain of the Company’s operating sites. The cost is being recognized over the term of the new agreement.

Contamination has been identified at 19 of the Company’s owned sites. Three sites owned and operated by the Company in the United States, as well as one former site the Company has sold, are listed on the National Priorities List promulgated under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended (“CERCLA”). The sites include the Company’s Gainesville, Florida wood treating facility; the Galesburg, Illinois wood treating facility; the Florence, South Carolina wood treating facility; and the former Feather River, California wood treating facility, which the Company has sold. Currently, at the properties acquired from Beazer East (which include all of the National Priorities List sites and all but one of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”)-permitted sites), substantially all investigative, cleanup and closure activities are being conducted and paid for by Beazer East directly pursuant to the terms of the Indemnity, and as such the Company cannot estimate the total costs that will be incurred. In addition, many of the Company’s sites are or have been operated under RCRA permits, and remedial and closure activities are being conducted thereunder at several of these sites.

To date, the parties that retained, assumed or agreed to indemnify the Company against the liabilities referred to above have performed their obligations in all material respects. The Company believes that for the last three years amounts paid by Beazer East as a result of its environmental remediation obligations under the Indemnity have averaged in total approximately $8.3 million per year. If for any reason (including disputed coverage or financial incapability) one or more of such parties fail to perform their obligations and the Company is held liable for or otherwise required to pay all or part of such liabilities without reimbursement, the imposition of such liabilities on the Company could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. In addition, if Koppers were required to record a liability with respect to all or a portion of such matters on the Company’s balance sheet, the amount of total liabilities could exceed the book value of assets by an additional amount that could be significant.

Also, contamination has been detected at certain of the Company’s Australian facilities. These sites include the Company’s tar distillation facility in Mayfield, NSW, Australia and its wood protection chemicals facility in Trentham, Victoria, Australia, which has been listed on the Victorian register of contaminated sites. A total of approximately $1.0 million is reserved for the estimated remediation costs at these sites.

Grenada. The Company, together with various co-defendants (including Beazer East), has been named as a defendant in four toxic tort lawsuits in various state courts in Mississippi and in two toxic tort lawsuits in federal court in Mississippi arising from the operation of the Grenada, Mississippi wood treating plant, which plant has been owned by the Company since 1988 (“Grenada”). The Complaints allege that plaintiffs were exposed to harmful levels of various toxic chemicals, including creosote and pentachlorophenol, as a result of soil, surface water and groundwater contamination and air emissions from the Grenada facility and, in the state court cases, from an adjacent manufacturing facility operated by Heatcraft, Inc. In the state court actions, each plaintiff seeks compensatory damages from the defendants of at least $5 million for each of seven counts and punitive damages of at least $10 million for each of three counts. There are approximately 115 plaintiffs in the state court actions. In the Beck

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

federal case, there are a total of approximately 110 plaintiffs. Each plaintiff in the Beck case seeks compensatory damages from the defendants in an unspecified amount and punitive damages of $20 million each for four counts. In the Ellis federal case, there are approximately 1,130 plaintiffs., Each plaintiff in the Ellis case seeks compensatory damages from the defendants of at least $5 million for each of seven counts and punitive damages of at least $10 million for each of three counts. Based on the Company’s experience in defending previous toxic tort cases (including its victory in similar litigation involving its Green Spring, West Virginia wood treating facility (“Green Spring”) and its recent dismissal without prejudice from similar litigation involving its Somerville, Texas wood treating facility noted below), the Company does not believe that the damages sought by the plaintiffs in the state court and federal court actions are supported by the facts of the cases. The Company is seeking to transfer venue of the state court cases to Grenada County, Mississippi. The venue issue is currently on appeal to the Mississippi Supreme Court. During the pendency of the appeal, discovery in the state court cases has been stayed. Discovery in the Ellis federal court case has also been stayed. However, discovery with respect to 12 plaintiffs is proceeding in the Beck federal case. Although the Company intends to vigorously defend these cases, there can be no assurance that an unfavorable resolution of this matter will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.

Somerville. Koppers, along with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Rail Way Company and Solvents and Chemicals, Inc., was named initially in a total of 11 toxic tort lawsuits for a total of approximately 30 plaintiffs that were filed in various state courts in Texas by individuals claiming to be residents of Somerville, Texas. The Complaints alleged that the plaintiffs suffered personal injuries resulting from exposure to chemicals used at the Somerville, Texas wood treating plant, which plant has been owned by the Company since 1995 (“Somerville”). The plaintiffs sought actual damages and punitive damages in an unspecified amount from the defendants. The Company has been voluntarily dismissed without prejudice by the plaintiffs from all of the Somerville lawsuits. The lawsuits are proceeding against the remaining defendants.

There are no additional contingencies, other than those disclosed herein, for which the Company believes a material additional loss is reasonably possible.

Other Environmental Matters

In October 1996, the Company received a Clean Water Act information request from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”). This information request asked for comprehensive information on discharge permits, applications for discharge permits, discharge monitoring reports and the analytical data in support of the reports and applications. EPA subsequently alleged that the Company violated various provisions of the Clean Water Act. Koppers subsequently agreed, among other things, to a $2.9 million settlement, payable in three installments. The first two payments, totaling $1.0 million each, were made in April 2004 and 2003, respectively.

Additionally, during an investigation initiated by the Company at the Company’s Woodward Coke facility prior to its closure in January 1998, it was discovered that certain environmental records and reports related to the discharge of treated process water contained incomplete and inaccurate information. Corrected reports were submitted to the State of Alabama and EPA, which resulted in a Complaint against the Company by EPA alleging certain civil and criminal violations of applicable environmental laws. The Company subsequently entered into a plea agreement which provides, among other things, for the payment by the Company of a $2.1 million fine payable to the government and $0.9 million in restitution payable to the Black Warrior-Cahaba Rivers Land Trust in three equal

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

annual installments beginning in December 2002. The Company’s plea was entered in August 2002 and the sentencing of the Company occurred in December 2002. At the sentencing, the court, among other things, approved the terms of the plea agreement previously negotiated between the Company and EPA. The first two payments, totaling $1.0 million each, were made in December 2003 and 2002, respectively. A failure on the Company’s part to comply with the terms of the compliance agreement, plea agreement and probation could lead to significant additional costs and sanctions, including the potential for the Company’s suspension or debarment from governmental contracts.

(9) Comprehensive Income


	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2004		2003		2004			2003
	(In millions)				(In millions)
Net income (loss)	$	3.5	$	—	$	8.2		$	(15.5	)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized currency translation gain (loss)		2.9		1.6		(2.5	)		13.6

Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	6.4	$	1.6	$	5.7		$	(1.9	)

(10) Product Warranty Reserves

The Company accrues for product warranty reserves based on historical loss experience and sales of extended warranties on certain products. The following chart illustrates activity in these reserves:


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2004			2003			2004			2003
	(In millions)						(In millions)
Beginning warranty reserve	$	6.0		$	5.4		$	5.7		$	5.3
Warranty expense charged to reserve		0.4			0.3			1.0			0.5
Cash expenditures for warranty claims		(0.1	)		(0.1	)		(0.4	)		(0.2	)

Ending warranty reserve	$	6.3		$	5.6		$	6.3		$	5.6

(11) Pension Expense

The following table provides the components of net periodic benefit cost for the three months ended September 30, 2004 and 2003 (U.S. plans only):


	Pension Benefits						Other Benefits
	2004			2003			2004			2003
	(In millions)						(In millions)
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	$	0.9		$	0.8		$	0.1		$	0.1
Interest cost		1.7			1.8			0.4			0.2
Expected return on plan assets		(1.5	)		(1.2	)		—			—
Amortization of prior service cost		0.1			0.1			(0.1	)		(0.1	)
Amortization of loss		0.3			0.5			—			—

Net periodic benefit cost	$	1.5		$	2.0		$	0.4		$	0.2

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

The following table provides the components of net periodic benefit cost for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 and 2003 (U.S. plans only):


	Pension Benefits						Other Benefits
	2004			2003			2004			2003
	(In millions)						(In millions)
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	$	3.3		$	2.4		$	0.2		$	0.3
Interest cost		6.4			5.4			0.7			0.6
Expected return on plan assets		(5.8	)		(3.6	)		—			—
Amortization of prior service cost		0.4			0.3			(0.2	)		(0.3	)
Amortization of loss		1.1			1.5			—			—
Curtailment charge		0.2			—			—			—

Net periodic benefit cost	$	5.6		$	6.0		$	0.7		$	0.6

In the first quarter of 2004 the Company’s Board of Directors amended the salaried pension plan for U.S. employees to reduce benefits effective June 1, 2004. The amendment resulted in a curtailment charge of $0.2 million in the first quarter. The estimated effect on pension expense for fiscal 2004 as a result of the amendment is a reduction of approximately $0.9 million.

(12) Subsidiary Guarantors

The Company’s payment obligations under the 9⁷/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2013 (the “New Notes”) are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by Koppers (the parent) 100%-owned subsidiaries, Koppers Australia Pty Ltd. (the “Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries”), and Koppers Industries of Delaware, Inc. (the “Other Guarantor Subsidiaries”). The Notes have not been guaranteed by Koppers Assurance, Inc., Koppers Europe, KSA Limited Partnership, Koppers Arch Investments Pty Ltd., or Koppers (China) Carbon and Chemical Co., Limited (collectively, the “Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”). The principal elimination entries eliminate investments in subsidiaries and intercompany balances and transactions.

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2004

(In millions)


	Parent		Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries		Other Guarantor Subsidiaries			Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries		Consolidating Adjustments			Consolidated
Net sales	$	149.7	$	33.5	$	2.9		$	64.3	$	(6.6	)	$	243.8
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales including depreciation and amortization		134.4		27.1		—			54.9		(6.5	)		209.9
Selling, general and administrative		8.2		2.5		—			4.4		(0.1	)		15.0

Total operating expenses		142.6		29.6		—			59.3		(6.6	)		224.9

Operating profit		7.1		3.9		2.9			5.0		—			18.9
Other income (expense)		8.9		—		3.2			—		(12.0	)		—

Income before interest expense, income taxes and minority interest		16.0		3.9		6.1			5.0		(12.1	)		18.9
Interest expense (income)		8.9		0.8		(0.3	)		0.4		(1.1	)		8.7
Income tax provision		3.6		1.2		0.1			0.9		—			5.8
Minority interest		—		—		—			0.9		—			0.9

Net income (loss)	$	3.5	$	1.9	$	6.3		$	2.8	$	(11.0	)	$	3.5

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004

(In millions)


	Parent		Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries		Other Guarantor Subsidiaries			Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries		Consolidating Adjustments			Consolidated
Net sales	$	438.7	$	96.5	$	8.3		$	195.1	$	(17.9	)	$	720.7
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales including depreciation and amortization		400.9		78.8		—			166.3		(17.7	)		628.3
Selling, general and administrative		22.1		7.0		—			12.7		(0.1	)		41.7

Total operating expenses		423.0		85.8		—			179.0		(17.8	)		670.0

Operating profit		15.7		10.7		8.3			16.1		(0.1	)		50.7
Other income (expense)		26.0		—		18.0			—		(43.9	)		0.1

Income before interest expense, income taxes and minority interest		41.7		10.7		26.3			16.1		(44.0	)		50.8
Interest expense (income)		26.5		2.9		(0.8	)		1.1		(3.1	)		26.6
Income tax provision		7.0		2.7		0.2			3.3		—			13.2
Minority interest		—		—		—			2.8		—			2.8

Net income (loss)	$	8.2	$	5.1	$	26.9		$	8.9	$	(40.9	)	$	8.2

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2003

(In millions)


	Parent		Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries		Other Guarantor Subsidiaries			Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating Adjustments			Consolidated
Net sales	$	138.2	$	28.4	$	2.6		$	50.5		$	(5.3	)	$	214.4
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales including depreciation and amortization		127.6		22.8		0.1			44.5			(5.3	)		189.7
Selling, general and administrative		6.8		2.0		—			4.0			—			12.8
Restructuring charges		1.3		—		—			—			—			1.3

Total operating expenses		135.7		24.8		0.1			48.5			(5.3	)		203.8

Operating profit		2.5		3.6		2.5			2.0			—			10.6
Other income (expense)		6.0		—		1.5			(0.1	)		(7.4	)		—

Income (loss) before interest expense, income taxes and minority interest		8.5		3.6		4.0			1.9			(7.4	)		10.6
Interest expense (income)		5.7		0.7		(0.4	)		0.3			(0.8	)		5.5
Income tax provision (benefit)		2.8		1.1		—			0.7			—			4.6
Minority interest		—		—		—			0.5			—			0.5

Net income (loss)	$	—	$	1.8	$	4.4		$	0.4		$	(6.6	)	$	—

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003

(In millions)


	Parent			Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries		Other Guarantor Subsidiaries			Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating Adjustments			Consolidated
Net sales	$	390.3		$	84.4	$	7.4		$	158.6		$	(15.9	)	$	624.8
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales including depreciation and amortization		362.8			68.4		0.1			140.2			(15.9	)		555.6
Selling, general and administrative		22.0			5.8		—			12.7			—			40.5
Restructuring charges		1.3			—		—			—			—			1.3

Total operating expenses		386.1			74.2		0.1			152.9			(15.9	)		597.4

Operating profit		4.2			10.2		7.3			5.7			—			27.4
Other income (expense)		17.2			—		12.2			(0.4	)		(29.1	)		(0.1	)

Income (loss) before interest expense, income taxes and minority interest		21.4			10.2		19.5			5.3			(29.1	)		27.3
Interest expense (income)		16.7			0.6		(1.1	)		0.9			(1.1	)		16.0
Income tax provision (benefit)		2.1			3.0		—			2.4			—			7.5
Minority interest		—			—		—			1.2			—			1.2

Income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change		2.6			6.6		20.6			0.8			(28.0	)		2.6
Cumulative effect of accounting change:
Asset retirement obligations, net of tax of $11.7		(18.1	)		—		—			—			—			(18.1	)

Net income (loss)	$	(15.5	)	$	6.6	$	20.6		$	0.8		$	(28.0	)	$	(15.5	)

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

September 30, 2004

(In millions)


	Parent			Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries		Other Guarantor Subsidiaries		Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating Adjustments			Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—		$	3.2	$	—	$	6.2		$	—		$	9.4
Accounts receivable, net		118.3			18.9		254.1		61.3			(336.3	)		116.3
Inventories		68.1			25.6		—		29.7			—			123.4
Deferred tax benefit		8.9			—		—		—			—			8.9
Other		5.3			1.1		—		3.3			—			9.7

Total current assets		200.6			48.8		254.1		100.5			(336.3	)		267.7
Equity investments		279.9			13.6		23.9		—			(314.7	)		2.7
Fixed assets, net		90.4			22.2		—		42.1			—			154.7
Goodwill		12.0			14.3		—		9.5			—			35.8
Deferred tax benefit		41.0			—		4.9		2.1			—			48.0
Other assets		22.3			—		—		1.8			—			24.1

Total assets	$	646.2		$	98.9	$	282.9	$	156.0		$	(651.0	)	$	533.0

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	255.2		$	50.0	$	1.1	$	100.0		$	(336.3	)	$	70.0
Accrued liabilities		41.3			8.1		1.6		18.2			—			69.2
Revolving credit		16.5			—		—		—			—			16.5
Current portion of term loans		1.5			—		—		—			—			1.5

Total current liabilities		314.5			58.1		2.7		118.2			(336.3	)		157.2
Long-term debt		344.0			—		3.8		10.4			—			358.2
Other long-term liabilities		70.1			1.4		—		18.4			—			89.9

Total liabilities		728.6			59.5		6.5		147.0			(336.3	)		605.3
Minority interest		—			—		—		10.1			—			10.1
Stockholders’ equity (deficit)		(82.4	)		39.4		276.4		(1.1	)		(314.7	)		(82.4	)

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	646.2		$	98.9	$	282.9	$	156.0		$	(651.0	)	$	533.0

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

December 31, 2003

(In millions)


	Parent			Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries		Other Guarantor Subsidiaries		Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating Adjustments			Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	0.4		$	4.3	$	—	$	4.9		$	—		$	9.6
Accounts receivable, net		106.9			17.2		228.4		52.4			(305.3	)		99.6
Inventories		66.8			26.3		—		24.4			—			117.5
Deferred tax benefit		8.9			—		—		—			—			8.9
Other		1.3			3.2		—		3.6			—			8.1

Total current assets		184.3			51.0		228.4		85.3			(305.3	)		243.7
Equity investments		256.3			14.2		24.3		7.3			(291.8	)		10.3
Fixed assets, net		93.7			25.8		—		31.5			—			151.0
Goodwill		12.0			14.9		—		9.6			—			36.5
Deferred tax benefit		47.8			—		5.0		2.1			—			54.9
Other assets		17.2			—		—		0.4			—			17.6

Total assets	$	611.3		$	105.9	$	257.7	$	136.2		$	(597.1	)	$	514.0

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	222.2		$	52.7	$	1.0	$	93.2		$	(305.3	)	$	63.8
Accrued liabilities		59.7			7.9		1.2		16.8			—			85.6
Current portion of term loans		8.0			—		—		—			—			8.0

Total current liabilities		289.9			60.6		2.2		110.0			(305.3	)		157.4
Long-term debt		326.0			—		3.8		2.9			—			332.7
Other long-term liabilities		71.3			2.1		—		20.3			—			93.7

Total liabilities		687.2			62.7		6.0		133.2			(305.3	)		583.8
Common stock subject to redemption		13.2			—		—		—			—			13.2
Minority interest		—			—		—		6.1			—			6.1
Stockholders’ equity (deficit)		(89.1	)		43.2		251.7		(3.1	)		(291.8	)		(89.1	)

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)	$	611.3		$	105.9	$	257.7	$	136.2		$	(597.1	)	$	514.0

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004

(In millions)


	Parent			Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries			Other Subsidiary Guarantors		Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating Adjustments		Consolidated
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	15.7		$	0.1		$	—	$	(2.0	)	$	—	$	13.8
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities:								—
Capital expenditures		(9.5	)		(1.1	)		—		(2.2	)		—		(12.8	)
Other		0.3			0.2			—		0.2			—		0.7

Net cash (used in) investing activities		(9.2	)		(0.9	)		—		(2.0	)		—		(12.1	)
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities:
Net borrowings of revolving credit		34.5			—			—		4.9			—		39.4
Net (repayments) of long-term debt		(6.5	)		—			—		—			—		(6.5	)
Dividends paid		(33.4	)		—			—		—			—		(33.4	)
Payment of deferred financing costs		(0.3	)		—			—		—			—		(0.3	)
Sales of common stock		0.6			—			—		—			—		0.6
Purchases of common stock		(2.2	)		—			—		—			—		(2.2	)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		(7.3	)		—			—		4.9			—		(2.4	)
Effect of exchange rates on cash		0.5			(0.3	)		—		0.3			—		0.5

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		(0.3	)		(1.1	)		—		1.2			—		(0.2	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		0.4			4.3			—		4.9			—		9.6

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	0.1		$	3.2		$	—	$	6.1		$	—	$	9.4

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003

(In millions)


	Parent			Australian Guarantor Subsidiaries			Other Guarantor Subsidiaries		Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating Adjustments		Consolidated
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	10.2		$	2.9		$	—	$	(1.7	)	$	—	$	11.4
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities:
Capital expenditures		(7.4	)		(1.0	)		—		(1.5	)		—		(9.9	)
Other		0.4			0.2			—		0.1			—		0.7

Net cash (used in) investing activities		(7.0	)		(0.8	)		—		(1.4	)		—		(9.2	)
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities:
Net borrowings (repayments) of revolving credit		(5.8	)		(0.6	)		—		—			—		(6.4	)
Borrowings from long-term debt		75.0			—			—		—			—		75.0
Net (repayments) of term debt		(51.5	)		(0.8	)		—		—			—		(52.3	)
Dividends paid		(3.1	)		—			—		—			—		(3.1	)
Payment of deferred financing costs		(3.8	)		—			—		—			—		(3.8	)
Purchases of common stock		(9.1	)		—			—		—			—		(9.1	)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		1.7			(1.4	)		—		—			—		0.3
Effect of exchange rates on cash		(0.8	)		0.6			—		1.4			—		1.2

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		4.1			1.3			—		(1.7	)		—		3.7
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		0.8			2.6			—		6.1			—		9.5

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	4.9		$	3.9		$	—	$	4.4		$	—	$	13.2

Koppers Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

(13) Segment Information

The following table sets forth certain sales and operating data, net of all inter-segment transactions, for the Company’s businesses for the periods indicated. Intersegment revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2004 and 2003 were $9.3 million and $7.2 million, respectively, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 and 2003 were $25.9 million and $20.3 million, respectively.


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2004			2003			2004			2003
	(Dollars in millions)
Net sales:
Carbon Materials & Chemicals	$	141.5		$	118.8		$	418.4		$	357.0
Railroad & Utility Products		102.3			95.6			302.3			267.8

Total	$	243.8		$	214.4		$	720.7		$	624.8
Percentage of net sales:
Carbon Materials & Chemicals		58.0	%		55.4	%		58.1	%		57.1	%
Railroad & Utility Products		42.0	%		44.6	%		41.9	%		42.9	%

Total		100.0	%		100.0	%		100.0	%		100.0	%
Gross margin (after depreciation and amortization):
Carbon Materials & Chemicals		17.2	%		14.6	%		15.2	%		13.1	%
Railroad & Utility Products		9.1	%		8.3	%		9.6	%		9.1	%

Total		13.9	%		11.5	%		12.8	%		11.1	%
Operating profit:
Carbon Materials & Chemicals	$	14.2		$	8.6		$	35.2		$	18.8
Railroad & Utility Products		4.4			2.6			15.5			10.5
All Other		0.3			(0.6	)		—			(1.9	)

Total	$	18.9		$	10.6		$	50.7		$	27.4

ITEM 2.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Cautionary Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

Certain written and oral statements made from time to time by Koppers in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and may include, but are not limited to, statements about sales levels, restructuring, profitability and anticipated expenses and cash outflows. Koppers is including this Cautionary Statement to make applicable and take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as “believe”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “continue”, “plans”, “intends”, “likely” or other similar words or phrases. Management cautions you that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements.

Overview

The Company’s businesses and results of operations are impacted by various competitive and other factors including i) raw materials availability, in particular the amount and quality of coal tar available in global markets; ii) global restructuring in the Carbon Materials & Chemicals business including the curtailment of aluminum production in the Pacific Northwest in part as a result of historically high energy prices; iii) competitive conditions in global carbon pitch markets, particularly the United States and European carbon pitch markets; iv) anticipated reductions in naphthalene pricing in Europe and China for at least the remainder of 2004; and v) low margins in the utility pole business.

Results of Operations

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Quarters Ended September 30, 2004 and 2003.

Net Sales. Net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2004 were higher than 2003 as both business segments reported sales increases. Net sales for Carbon Materials & Chemicals increased due in part to approximately $6.0 million in sales from Australian and European operations as a result of the strength of these foreign currencies relative to the dollar. Also, the consolidation of Koppers China as of January 1, 2004 resulted in incremental sales of $6.3 million for the quarter compared to the prior year. Additionally, sales pricing for furnace coke increased by 25% compared to the prior year, which more than offset an 8% reduction in volumes. This resulted from a temporary inability to source raw materials as a result of flooding. Sales prices for phthalic anhydride increased by 37% from the prior year, and carbon pitch volumes and pricing increased by 2% and 4%, respectively. Net sales for Railroad & Utility Products increased compared to the prior year as an increase in prices of 7% more than offset a reduction in volumes of 5%.

Gross Margin after Depreciation and Amortization. As a percent of net sales, gross profit after depreciation and amortization increased for both business segments. Gross margin for Carbon Materials & Chemicals increased due to the increases in pricing for furnace coke and phthalic anhydride as noted above. These increases more than offset a $0.5 million charge for the settlement of a contract dispute with a customer. Gross margin for Railroad & Utility Products increased due primarily to an increase in volumes of higher margin treating services compared to the prior year.

Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization for 2004 decreased compared to the prior year due primarily to restructuring activities in 2003 which reduced depreciation expense by approximately $0.3 million in the third quarter of 2004.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense. Selling, general and administrative expense as a percent of net sales increased primarily as a result of an increase of $1.1 million for management incentive and restricted stock compensation expense in the U.S.

Restructuring charges. In September 2003 the Company closed its Logansport, Louisiana wood treating plant due to deteriorating local market conditions and their impact on volumes and profitability. The closure resulted in a $1.3 million restructuring charge in the third quarter of 2003.

Interest expense. Interest expense increased due to the refinancing of the Company’s debt in 2003 which resulted in significantly higher debt levels.

Income Taxes. The Company’s effective income tax rate for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 decreased due primarily to the composition of earnings among U.S. and foreign operations.

Net Income. Net income for 2004 compared to the same period last year increased due to the consolidation of Koppers China, higher pricing in certain products in 2004, and a lack of restructuring charges, which more than offset higher interest expense in 2004.

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004 and 2003.

Net Sales. Net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 were higher than 2003 as both business segments reported sales increases. Net sales for Carbon Materials & Chemicals increased due in part to approximately $25.7 million in sales from Australian and European operations as a result of the strength of these foreign currencies relative to the dollar. Also, the consolidation of Koppers China as of January 1, 2004 resulted in incremental sales of $20.2 million compared to the prior year. Additionally, sales volumes and pricing for phthalic anhydride increased by 5% and 21%, respectively, and sales prices for furnace coke and carbon pitch increased by 21% and 6%, respectively. Net sales for Railroad & Utility Products increased compared to the prior year due primarily to increases of 5% and 7% in volumes and prices, respectively, for railroad crossties. The increase in volumes for railroad crossties was due in part to the exit from the wood treating business of the Company’s largest competitor.

Gross Margin after Depreciation and Amortization. As a percent of net sales, gross profit after depreciation and amortization increased for both Carbon Materials & Chemicals and Railroad & Utility Products. Gross margin for Carbon Materials & Chemicals increased due to the increases in volumes and pricing for phthalic anhydride and the increases in pricing for furnace coke and carbon pitch noted above. These increases more than offset a $0.5 million charge for the settlement of a contract dispute with a customer. Gross margin for Railroad & Utility Products increased due primarily to higher volumes for railroad crossties.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense. Selling, general and administrative expense as a percent of net sales decreased primarily as a result of higher sales in the current year, $1.2 million of bad debt write-offs and $0.7 million of severance charges in the prior year, which offset an increase of $1.1 million of management incentive and restricted stock compensation expense in the U.S. in the current year.

Interest expense. Interest expense increased due to the refinancing of the Company’s debt in 2003 which resulted in significantly higher debt levels.

Income Taxes. The Company’s effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 decreased due primarily to the composition of earnings among U.S. and foreign operations.

Cumulative Effect of Accounting Change. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company changed its method of accounting for asset retirement obligations in accordance with FASB Statement No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations. Previously, the Company had not been recognizing amounts related to asset retirement obligations. Under the new accounting method, Koppers now recognizes asset retirement obligations in the period in which they are incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. The associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset. The cumulative effect of the change on prior years resulted in a charge to income of $18.1 million, net of income taxes of $11.7 million.

Net Income. Net income for 2004 compared to the same period last year increased due primarily to the January 1, 2003 adoption of SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations, which resulted in a cumulative effect adjustment for 2003. Additionally, higher volumes and pricing in certain products, $2.3 million of net income from the consolidation of China, and lack of restructuring charges in 2004 more than offset higher interest expense in 2004.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company’s liquidity needs are primarily for debt service, working capital, capital maintenance and acquisitions. The Company believes that its cash flow from operations and available borrowings under its bank credit facilities will be sufficient to fund its anticipated liquidity requirements for at least the next twelve months. In the event that the foregoing sources are not sufficient to fund its expenditures and service its indebtedness, Koppers would be required to raise additional funds.

The indenture governing the 9⁷/8% Senior Secured Notes due 2013 (the “New Notes”) contains various affirmative and negative covenants, subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions, including but not limited to covenants relating to incurring or guaranteeing additional debt and issuing certain types of preferred stock; paying dividends on capital stock or redeeming, repurchasing or retiring capital stock or subordinated debt; making investments; creating liens on the Company’s assets; entering into sale and leaseback transactions; selling assets; engaging in transactions with affiliates; creating restrictions on the ability of restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other payments to the Company; consolidating, merging or transferring all or substantially all of the Company’s assets and the assets of the Company’s subsidiaries; and transferring or issuing shares of stock of subsidiaries. The indenture governing the New Notes has a covenant that limits the incurrence of additional indebtedness unless on the date of the incurrence of additional indebtedness the Consolidated Coverage Ratio (defined therein) will be, after giving effect to the incurrence thereof and the application of the proceeds thereof, greater than 2.0 to 1.0. The indenture defines Consolidated Coverage Ratio as the ratio of (a) the aggregate amount of EBITDA for the period of the most recent four consecutive fiscal quarters ending at least 45 days prior to the date of such determination to (b) Consolidated Interest Expense (defined therein) for such four fiscal quarters.

The Company is currently in compliance with all covenants in the indenture governing the New Notes. Koppers anticipates continued compliance with these covenants. Failure to comply with the covenants contained in the indenture governing the New Notes may result in an event of default. The indenture governing the New Notes also contains various other events of default, including but not limited to those related to non-payment of principal, interest or fees; certain bankruptcy-related events; invalidity of liens; non-payment of certain legal judgments; and cross defaults with certain other indebtedness.

The covenants related to the term loan and the revolving credit facility also include financial covenants that require Koppers to maintain certain financial ratios, including the following:

•

the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, calculated as of the end of each fiscal quarter for the four fiscal quarters then ended, shall not be less than 1.05 to 1.0. The Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio at September 30, 2004 was 1.35 to 1.00.

•

the Total Leverage Ratio, calculated as of the end of each fiscal quarter for the four fiscal quarters then ended, shall not exceed the ratios set forth below for the periods specified below:


Fiscal Quarters Ended		Ratio
September 30, 2004 through December 31, 2004		5.00 to 1.00
March 31, 2005 through September 30, 2005		4.75 to 1.00
December 31, 2005 through September 30, 2006		4.50 to 1.00
December 31, 2006 and thereafter		4.25 to 1.00

•

the Total Leverage Ratio at September 30, 2004 was 4.51 to 1.00.

•

the Senior Leverage Ratio, calculated as of the end of each fiscal quarter for the four fiscal quarters then ended, shall not exceed the ratios set forth below for the periods specified below:


Fiscal Quarters Ended		Ratio
September 30, 2004 and thereafter		1.50 to 1.00

•

the Senior Leverage Ratio at September 30, 2004 was .70 to 1.00.

Subsidiary Pledges. The terms of the New Notes provide that the collateral securing the New Notes will never include the securities of any subsidiary to the extent the par value, book value as carried by the Company or the market value of the securities (the “Applicable Value”) is equal to or greater than 20% of the aggregate principal amount of the New Notes outstanding (the “Collateral Threshold”). Rule 3-16 of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act of 1933 requires the presentation of a subsidiary’s stand-alone, audited financial statements if the subsidiary’s capital stock secures an issuer’s notes and the par value, book value or market value of the securities equals or exceeds the Collateral Threshold. The indenture governing the New Notes and the security documents provide that the collateral will never include the capital stock of any subsidiary to the extent the Applicable Value of the securities is equal to or greater than the Collateral Threshold. As a result, the Company will not be required to present separate financial statements of any of its subsidiaries under Rule 3-16.

As a result of the provisions in the indenture and security documents relating to subsidiary securities, holders of the New Notes may at any time in the future lose a portion of their security interest in the securities of any of the Company’s other subsidiaries if the Applicable Value of that stock were to become equal to or greater than the Collateral Threshold. As stated above, Applicable Value is defined as the greatest of book value, par value and market value of a subsidiary’s securities. Currently, all of the capital stock of all of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries other than Worldwide Ventures Corp. and all of the Company’s subsidiaries other than 35% of the voting capital stock of Koppers Europe ApS constitute collateral for the New Notes.

The Company has based its determination of which subsidiary’s capital stock currently constitutes collateral upon the book value, par value and estimated market value of the capital stock of each of its subsidiaries as of September 30, 2004 and the operations of these subsidiaries since that date. The Applicable Value for the capital stock of each of the Company’s subsidiaries is the greater of the book value and estimated market value, as the value of each subsidiary’s capital stock is nominal and therefore has not impacted the Company’s calculation of Applicable Value. The Net Fair Value and Net

Book Value calculations each include an allocation of corporate debt to the subsidiaries. Set forth in the table below is the Applicable Value of each subsidiary’s capital stock as of September 30, 2004:


Subsidiary	Applicable Value as of September 30, 2004			Net Fair Value as of September 30, 2004			Net Book Value as of September 30, 2004
	(in millions)
Worldwide Ventures Corp.(1)	$	77.0		$	77.0		$	20.8
Koppers Australia Holding Company Pty Ltd.(2)		54.9			54.9			18.8
Koppers Australia Pty Ltd.		54.9			54.9			18.8
Koppers Redemption Inc.		—			—			—
Koppers Industries of Delaware		22.6			16.2			22.6
Koppers Assurance Inc.		(20.8	)		(20.8	)		(36.3	)
Concrete Products		—			(0.1	)		—
Concrete Partners		2.2			(4.9	)		2.2
Koppers Europe ApS		12.3			12.3			(5.8	)

(1)

The assets of Worldwide Ventures Corp. include the stock of Koppers Europe ApS and Koppers Australia Holding Company Pty Ltd. and, therefore, include the Applicable Value, net fair value and net book value of Koppers Europe ApS and Koppers Australia Holding Company Pty Ltd.

(2)

The assets of Koppers Australia Holding Company Pty Ltd. include the stock of Koppers Australia Pty Ltd. and, therefore, the Applicable Value, net fair value and net book value of Koppers Australia Holding Company Pty Ltd. include the Applicable Value, net fair value and net book value of Koppers Australia Pty Ltd.

Based upon the foregoing, the Applicable Value of the capital stock of Worldwide Ventures Corp. exceeded the Collateral Threshold of $64.0 million as of September 30, 2004. Further, the Company believes that, based upon the significant differences between the Applicable Value of the capital stock of Worldwide Ventures Corp. and the Collateral Threshold as of September 30, 2004 (there have been no significant changes in the operations of Worldwide Ventures Corp. since that date), the Company has determined that the Applicable Value of the capital stock of Worldwide Ventures Corp. currently exceeds the Collateral Threshold. As a result, the pledge of capital stock of Worldwide Ventures Corp. is automatically reduced to the extent that the Applicable Value exceeds the Collateral Threshold.

The Applicable Value of the capital stock of the Company’s other subsidiaries did not exceed the Collateral Threshold as of September 30, 2004. Further, as there have been no significant changes in the operations of each of these subsidiaries since September 30, 2004, the Company has determined that the Applicable Value of the capital stock of each of these subsidiaries currently remains below the Collateral Threshold.

In respect of Koppers Industries of Delaware, Concrete Products and Concrete Partners, the Applicable Value of their common stock was based upon book value. Book value of a subsidiary’s capital stock is calculated as of each preceding period end and represents the original purchase price of the subsidiary’s capital stock plus any income earned less any losses and any transfers of assets.

In respect of Worldwide Ventures Corp., Koppers Australia Holding Company Pty Ltd., Koppers Australia Pty Ltd., Koppers Redemption Inc., Koppers Assurance Inc. and Koppers Europe ApS, the Applicable Value of their common stock was based upon estimated market value. The Company has calculated the estimated market value of its subsidiaries’ capital stock by determining the earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, of each subsidiary for the twelve months ended September 30, 2004, and multiplying this EBITDA by a multiple the Company used for purposes of valuing its common stock. The Company retains an independent appraisal firm for purposes of calculating the market value of the Company’s common stock annually on a going concern

basis, as provided for in the Stockholders’ Agreement, and in connection with determining equity-based compensation, and the Company has used the midpoint of the range used by such firm. The Company determined that using this multiple is a reasonable and appropriate means for determining fair value of its subsidiaries’ capital stock.

As described above, the Company has used EBITDA of each of its subsidiaries solely for purposes of determining the estimated market value of their capital stock to determine whether that capital stock is included in the collateral. EBITDA is not a recognized financial measure under U.S. GAAP and does not purport to be an alternative to operating income as an indicator of operating performance or to cash flows from operating activities as a measure of liquidity. Additionally, EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s consolidated results as reported under U.S. GAAP. Because not all companies use identical calculations, the presentation of EBITDA also may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. An evaluation should be made of the adjustments and the reasons the Company considers them appropriate for analysis for determining estimated market value of the capital stock of the Company’s subsidiaries.

A change in the Applicable Value of the capital stock of any of the Company’s subsidiaries could result in a subsidiary’s capital stock that was previously excluded from collateral becoming part of the collateral or a subsidiary’s capital stock that was previously included in collateral being excluded. The following table reflects the amount by which the Applicable Value of each subsidiary’s capital stock as of September 30, 2004 would have to increase in order for a portion of that subsidiary’s capital stock to no longer constitute collateral or, in the case of Worldwide Ventures Corp., would have to decrease in order for the capital stock of Worldwide Ventures Corp. which is currently not collateral to become collateral:


Subsidiary	Change in Applicable Value
	(in millions)
Worldwide Ventures Corp.	$	(13.0	)
Koppers Australia Holding Company Pty Ltd.		9.1
Koppers Australia Pty Ltd.		9.1
Koppers Redemption Inc.		64.0
Koppers Industries of Delaware		41.4
Koppers Assurance Inc.		84.8
Concrete Products		64.0
Concrete Partners		61.8
Koppers Europe ApS		51.7

As of September 30, 2004, the Company had $9.4 million of cash and cash equivalents and $42.1 million of unused revolving credit availability for working capital purposes after restrictions by various debt covenants and letter of credit commitments. As of September 30, 2004, $17.4 million of commitments were utilized by outstanding standby letters of credit.

Net cash provided by operating activities increased compared to the prior year as higher net income and an increase in the utilization of deferred taxes were partially offset by an increase in working capital in the first nine months of 2004 ($17.2 million) compared to the first nine months of 2003 ($16.3 million), a $7.2 million increase in pension funding in 2004 for U.S. pension benefits, a $2.0 million payment for the extension of the indemnity agreement with Beazer (see “…Environmental and Other Matters”) and an increase of $1.0 million in expenditures for asset retirement obligations.

Capital expenditures were higher than the prior year due primarily to capital expenditures to increase capacity in the U.S. railroad crossties business as a result of increased demand.

Net cash used in financing activities in 2004 related to revolver borrowings of $39.4 million to provide for the payment of $33.4 million in dividends, the repayment of $6.5 million of the term loan and the purchase of $2.2 million of common stock. Net cash provided by financing activities in the prior year related to net borrowings of term debt to finance an increase in working capital, payment of a dividend and purchases of stock from retirees.

Legal Matters

Government Investigation. The Company is the subject of an ongoing investigation regarding industry competitive practices. On December 4, 2002, European Commission (“EC”) representatives visited the offices of the Company’s subsidiaries located in Nyborg, Denmark and Scunthorpe, England and obtained documents pursuant to legal process as part of an investigation of industry competitive practices concerning pitch, creosote and naphthalene. The United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) also served a subpoena for similar documents at the Company’s headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Company has cooperated with both the EC and DOJ. Recently, DOJ returned the documents which the Company had produced. The Company has also cooperated with the Canadian Competition Bureau (“CCB”). As a result of such cooperation, (i) in February 2003, the EC granted the Company’s request for exemption from penalties for any infringement the EC may find as a result of its investigation concerning pitch; (ii) in April 2003, DOJ granted the Company’s request for exemption from prosecution for any infringement DOJ may find as a result of imports of pitch, creosote and naphthalene, or the purchase for export of coal tar used to produce these products; and (iii) in April 2003, the CCB granted Koppers a provisional guarantee of immunity from fines under the Canadian Competition Act with respect to the supply and sale of tar pitch, naphthalene, creosote oil and carbon black feedstock prior to 2001. These grants of immunity were all granted upon certain conditions, including the continued cooperation of the Company. The grants of immunity by the EC, DOJ and the CCB apply to any government fine or penalty related to each country’s investigation of industry competitive practices. If the Company fails to comply with the applicable conditions attached to these grants of immunity, the Company could be fined. Such fines, if assessed against the Company, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. For example, the EC has the authority to assess fines in an amount up to 10% of a company’s worldwide sales. The DOJ and CCB also have the authority to assess significant fines. The Company is not currently aware of any other government investigations or other claims related to these investigations of industry competitive practices.

Other Matters

Dividend Payments and Stock Redemption. In July 2004 the Company declared and paid a dividend totaling $8.5 million ($2.86 per share to common and preferred). The Company paid a $25 million dividend ($8.00 per share to common and preferred) in January 2004 which had been declared in December 2003. Additionally, pursuant to a redemption offer the Company repurchased approximately 45,000 shares of common stock in April 2004 for a total of approximately $0.7 million.

Stock Purchases by Directors/Restricted Stock Grants to Senior Management. In August 2004 three members of the Company’s Board of Directors each purchased 5,000 shares of Koppers common stock at the current fair value of $13.14 per share. Additionally, in August 2004 the Company granted 135,000 restricted stock units to certain officers, of which 20% vested August 31, 2004. The remaining units will vest annually at a rate of 20% per year. The Company recorded $0.4 million of compensation expense for the vesting of restricted stock grants during the third quarter.

Pension Funding. The Company expects to contribute a minimum of approximately $13.1 million to its U.S. defined benefit pension plans in 2004. The Company’s estimates of its defined benefit pension plan contributions reflect the provisions of the Pension Funding Equity Act of 2004, which was enacted in April 2004. Of the $13.1 million minimum amount the Company expects to contribute to its defined benefit pension plans in 2004, the Company contributed approximately $6.5 million during the three months ended September 30, 2004 and a total of $10.5 million through the nine months ended September 30, 2004.

Restructuring Reserves. During 2003 the Company incurred restructuring and impairment charges of $8.5 million, of which $0.7 were cash charges for severance and related charges. At September 30, 2004 all of the cash charges have been paid and there are no remaining reserves.

Consolidation of Koppers China. In 1999 the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with TISCO to rehabilitate and operate a tar distillation facility in China. Koppers China is 60% owned by the Company and began production of coal tar products in 2001. In June 2001, the Company entered into an agreement with TISCO whereby TISCO assumed control of Koppers China through December 31, 2003. The Company chose to delay development of the carbon pitch export market due to the restructuring of the North American aluminum smelting capacity. In the interim, TISCO assumed responsibility for the joint venture to develop the domestic Chinese market. During this period, TISCO bore all responsibility for the operations and management of the facility, as well as the net income or loss, except for the Company’s pro rata share of depreciation, amortization and income taxes of the joint venture. Accordingly, the Company changed its method of accounting from consolidation to the equity method effective June 2001 to reflect this change in its ability to control Koppers China.

On January 1, 2004, the Company resumed control of Koppers China, which resulted in the consolidation of Koppers China in the Company’s financial statements beginning in the first quarter of 2004. For the three months ended September 30, 2004 sales and net income for Koppers China were $6.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively. Sales and net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 amounted to $20.2 million and $2.3 million, respectively. The Company anticipates that the profitability of Koppers China will be negatively impacted by the slowing of the Chinese economy and lower selling prices for certain products in the near term.

Interest Rate Swap. In January 2004 the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement for $50 million of the New Notes in order to protect a portion of the debt against changes in fair value due to changes in the benchmark interest rate. The agreement is designed to receive fixed 9.875% and pay floating six-month LIBOR rates plus a spread of 5.395% with semiannual settlements through

October 2013. Changes in the fair value of the interest rate swap are expected to offset changes in the fair value of the New Notes. The impact on the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2004 was to lower interest expense by approximately $0.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively. If no market rate changes occur for the remainder of 2004 the expected impact is to lower interest expense for year 2004 by a total of approximately $1.3 million. The fair value of the swap agreement at September 30, 2004 was a liability of $0.7 million.

New Legislation. Subsequent to September 30, 2004 the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 was passed. Management is in the process of evaluating the impact to the Company and its subsidiaries.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to use judgment in making estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues and expenses, assets and liabilities, and the disclosure of contingent liabilities. The following accounting policies are based on, among other things, judgments and assumptions made by management that include inherent risks and uncertainties. Management’s estimates are based on the relevant information available at the end of each period.

Long-Lived Assets. Management periodically evaluates the net realizable value of long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment, based on a number of factors including operating results, projected future cash flows and business plans. The Company records long-lived assets at the lower of cost or fair value, with fair value based on assumptions concerning the amount and timing of estimated future cash flows. Since judgment is involved in determining the fair value of fixed assets, there is risk that the carrying value of the Company’s long-lived assets may be overstated.

Goodwill. Effective January 1, 2002 the Company adopted SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, under which goodwill is no longer amortized but is assessed for impairment at least on an annual basis. In making this assessment, management relies on various factors including operating results, estimated future cash flows, and business plans. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and in management’s judgment in applying them to the analysis of goodwill impairment. Since management’s judgment is involved in performing goodwill impairment analyses, there is risk that the carrying value of goodwill is overstated.

Goodwill valuations are performed using an average of actual and projected operating results of the relevant reporting units. Changes in economic and operating conditions impacting these assumptions could result in goodwill impairments in future periods. Additionally, disruptions to the Company’s business such as prolonged recessionary periods or unexpected significant declines in operating results of the relevant reporting units could result in charges for goodwill and other asset impairments in future periods.

Revenue Recognition. The Company recognizes revenue from product sales at the time of shipment or when title passes to the customer. The Company recognizes revenue related to the procurement of certain untreated railroad crossties upon transfer of title, which occurs upon delivery to our plant and acceptance by the customer. Service revenue, consisting primarily of wood treating services, is recognized at the time the service is provided.

Inventories. In the United States, Carbon Materials & Chemicals (excluding furnace coke) and Railroad & Utility Products inventories are valued at the lower of cost, utilizing the last-in, first-out basis, or market. Inventories outside the U.S. are valued at the lower of cost, utilizing the first-in, first-out basis, or market. Market represents replacement cost for raw materials and net realizable value for work in process and finished goods.

Accrued Insurance. The Company is insured for property, casualty and workers’ compensation insurance up to various stop loss amounts after meeting required retention levels. Losses are accrued based upon estimates of the liability for the related retentions for claims incurred using certain actuarial assumptions followed in the insurance industry and based on the Company’s experience. In the event the Company incurred a significant number of losses beyond the coverage retention limits, additional expense beyond the actuarial projections would be required.

Pension and Postretirement Benefits. Accounting for pensions and other postretirement benefits involves estimating the cost of benefits to be provided far into the future and allocating that cost over the time period each employee works. This calculation requires extensive use of assumptions regarding inflation, investment returns, mortality, medical costs, employee turnover and discount rates. In determining the expected return on plan assets assumptions, the Company evaluates long-term actual return information, the mix of investments that comprise plan assets and estimates of future investment returns. In selecting rates for current and long-term health care assumptions, the Company takes into consideration a number of factors including the Company’s actual health care cost increases, the design of the Company’s benefit programs, the characteristics of the Company’s active and retiree populations and expectations of inflation rates. Since these items require management’s judgment, the related liabilities currently recorded by the Company could be lower or higher than amounts ultimately required to be paid.

Accounts Receivable. Koppers maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. In circumstances where the Company becomes aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, a specific reserve for bad debts is recorded against amounts due. If the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an inability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

Environmental Liabilities. Koppers is subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations and potential liabilities relating to the protection of the environment and human health and safety including, among other things, the cleanup of contaminated sites, the treatment, storage and disposal of wastes, the discharge of effluent into waterways, the emission of substances into the air and various health and safety matters. The Company expects to incur substantial costs for ongoing compliance with such laws and regulations. Koppers may also face governmental or third-party claims, or otherwise incur costs, relating to cleanup of, or for injuries resulting from, contamination at sites associated with past and present operations. The Company accrues for environmental liabilities when a determination can be made that they are probable and reasonably estimable.

Legal Matters. The Company records liabilities related to legal matters when an adverse outcome is probable and reasonably estimable. To the extent the Company anticipates favorable outcomes to these matters which ultimately result in adverse outcomes, the Company could incur material adverse impacts on earnings and cash flows. Since such matters require significant judgments on the part of management, the recorded liabilities could be lower than what is ultimately required. In instances in which an adverse outcome is reasonable possible but not probable, disclosure of the contingency is made.

Asset Retirement Obligations. The Company measures asset retirement obligations based upon the applicable accounting guidance, using certain assumptions including estimates regarding the recovery of residues in storage tanks. In the event that operational or regulatory issues vary from the Company’s estimates, the Company could incur additional significant charges to income and increases in cash expenditures related to the disposal of those residues.

Deferred Tax Assets. At September 30, 2004 the Company’s balance sheet includes $56.9 million of deferred tax assets. The Company has determined that no reserve is required for these

deferred tax assets, based on future earnings projections. To the extent that the Company encounters unexpected difficulties in market conditions, adverse changes in regulations affecting the Company’s businesses and operations, adverse outcomes in legal and environmental matters, or any other unfavorable conditions, the projections for future taxable income may be overstated and the Company may be required to record a valuation allowance related to these deferred tax assets which could have a material adverse effect on income in the future.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In May 2004, the FASB issued Staff Position No. 106-2, Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (“FSP 106-2”). This Act was signed into law by the President on December 8, 2003 and introduces a prescription drug benefit plan under Medicare Part D as well as a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health benefit plans that provide a benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. FSP 106-2 provides guidance on how companies should account for the impact of the Act on their postretirement health care plans. To encourage employers to retain or provide postretirement drug benefits, beginning in 2006 the federal government will provide non-taxable subsidy payments to employers that sponsor prescription drug benefits to retirees that are actuarially equivalent to the Medicare benefit. FSP 106-2 is effective for interim or annual financial statements beginning after June 15, 2004. The Company has determined that the benefits provided under its plans are not likely to be actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. Therefore, the Act has been determined to have no impact on the net periodic postretirement benefit cost included in the financial statements.

In December 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132 (revised 2003), Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88 and 106, and a revision of FASB Statement No. 132. This statement requires additional disclosure about the assets, obligations, cash flow and net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. This statement also requires interim disclosure of the net periodic benefit cost and actual or expected employer contributions. The standard is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2003 and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2003.

Prior to February 27, 2004 the Stockholders’ Agreement required the Company to redeem shares of common stock owned by officers, directors, and current and former employees of the Company upon a Management Investor’s ceasing for any reason to be employed by the Company. On February 27, 2004 the Stockholders’ Agreement was amended to make the redemption of common stock from such Management Investors at the option of the Company.

Environmental and Other Matters

The Company is subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations and potential liabilities relating to the protection of the environment and human health and safety including, among other things, the cleanup of contaminated sites, the treatment, storage and disposal of wastes, the discharge of effluent into waterways, the emission of substances into the air and various health and safety matters. Koppers expects to incur substantial costs for ongoing compliance with such laws and regulations. The Company may also face governmental or third-party claims, or otherwise incur costs, relating to cleanup of, or for injuries resulting from, contamination at sites associated with past and present operations. The Company accrues for environmental liabilities when a determination can be made that they are probable and reasonably estimable.

Environmental and Other Liabilities Retained or Assumed by Others

The Company has agreements with former owners of certain of its operating locations under which the former owners retained or assumed and agreed to indemnify the Company against certain environmental and other liabilities. The most significant of these agreements was entered into at the Acquisition. Under the related asset purchase agreement between the Company and Beazer East, subject to certain limitations, Beazer East assumed the responsibility for and agreed to indemnify the Company against certain liabilities, damages, losses and costs, including, with certain limited exceptions, liabilities under and costs to comply with environmental laws to the extent attributable to acts or omissions occurring prior to the Acquisition. Beazer Limited unconditionally guaranteed Beazer East’s performance of the Indemnity pursuant to the Guarantee. Beazer Limited became a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Hanson PLC on December 4, 1991. In 1998, Hanson PLC purchased an insurance policy under which the funding and risk of certain environmental and other liabilities relating to the former Koppers Company, Inc. operations of Beazer East (which includes locations purchased from Beazer East by the Company) are underwritten by Centre Solutions (a member of the Zurich Group) and Swiss Re.

The Indemnity provides different mechanisms, subject to certain limitations, by which Beazer East is obligated to indemnify the Company with regard to certain environmental and other liabilities and imposes certain conditions on the Company before receiving such indemnification. In July 2004, the Company entered into an agreement with Beazer East to amend the December 29, 1988 asset purchase agreement to provide, among other things, for the continued tender of pre-closing environmental liabilities to Beazer East through July 2019. As consideration for the agreement, Koppers will pay Beazer East four annual installments totaling $7 million, and provide cost-sharing arrangements at certain of the Company’s operating sites.

Contamination has been identified at 19 of the Company’s owned sites. Three sites owned and operated by the Company in the United States, as well as one former site the Company recently sold, are listed on the National Priorities List promulgated under CERCLA. The sites include the Company’s Gainesville, Florida wood treating facility; the Galesburg, Illinois wood treating facility; the Florence, South Carolina wood treating facility; and the former Feather River, California facility, which was

recently sold. Currently, at the properties acquired from Beazer East (which include all of the National Priorities List sites and all but one of the RCRA-permitted sites), substantially all investigative, cleanup and closure activities are being conducted and paid for by Beazer East pursuant to the terms of the Indemnity. In addition, many of the Company’s sites are or have been operated under RCRA permits, and remedial and closure activities are being conducted thereunder at several of these sites.

To date, the parties that retained, assumed or agreed to indemnify the Company against the liabilities referred to above have performed their obligations in all material respects. The Company believes that for the last three years amounts paid by Beazer East as a result of its environmental remediation obligations under the Indemnity have averaged in total approximately $8.3 million per year. If for any reason (including disputed coverage or financial incapability) one or more of such parties fail to perform their obligations and the Company is held liable for or otherwise required to pay all or part of such liabilities without reimbursement, the imposition of such liabilities on the Company could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. In addition, if the Company were required to record a liability with respect to all or a portion of such matters on the Company’s balance sheet, the amount of the Company’s total liabilities could exceed the book value of the Company’s assets by an additional amount that could be significant.

Also, contamination has been detected at certain of the Company’s Australian facilities. These sites include the Company’s tar distillation facility in Mayfield, NSW, Australia and its wood protection chemicals facility in Trentham, Victoria, Australia, which has been listed on the Victorian register of contaminated sites. A total of $1.0 million is reserved for the estimated remediation costs at these sites.

Grenada. The Company, together with various co-defendants (including Beazer East), has been named as a defendant in four toxic tort lawsuits in various state courts in Mississippi and in two toxic tort lawsuits in federal court in Mississippi arising from the operation of Grenada. The Complaints allege that plaintiffs were exposed to harmful levels of various toxic chemicals, including creosote and pentachlorophenol, as a result of soil, surface water and groundwater contamination and air emissions from the Grenada facility and, in the state court cases, from an adjacent manufacturing facility operated by Heatcraft, Inc. In the state court actions, each plaintiff seeks compensatory damages from the defendants of at least $5 million for each of seven counts and punitive damages of at least $10 million for each of three counts. There are a total of approximately 115 plaintiffs in the state court actions. In the Beck federal case, there are a total of approximately 110 plaintiffs. Each plaintiff in the Beck case seeks compensatory damages from the defendants in an unspecified amount and punitive damages of $20 million for each of four counts. In the Ellis federal case, there are approximately 1,130 plaintiffs. Each plaintiff in the Ellis case seeks compensatory damages from the defendants of at least $5 million for each of seven counts and punitive damages of at least $10 million for each of three counts. Based on the Company’s experience in defending previous toxic tort cases (including its victory in similar litigation involving Green Spring and its recent dismissal without prejudice from similar litigation involving Somerville as noted below), the Company does not believe that the damages sought by the plaintiffs in the state court and federal court actions are supported by the facts of the cases. The Company is seeking to transfer venue of the state court cases to Grenada County, Mississippi. The venue issue is currently on appeal to the Mississippi Supreme Court. During the pendency of the appeal, discovery in the state court cases has been stayed. Discovery in the federal court cases has also been stayed. However, discovery with respect to 12 plaintiffs is proceeding in the Beck federal case. Although the Company intends to vigorously defend these cases, there can be no assurance that an unfavorable resolution of this matter will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.

Somerville. The Company, along with Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Rail Way Company and Solvents and Chemicals, Inc., was named in a total of 11 toxic tort lawsuits for a total of approximately

30 plaintiffs that were filed in various state courts in Texas by individuals claiming to be residents of Somerville, Texas. The complaints alleged that plaintiffs have suffered personal injuries resulting from exposure to chemicals used at Somerville. The plaintiffs sought actual damages and punitive damages in an unspecified amount from the defendants. The Company has been voluntarily dismissed without prejudice by the plaintiffs from all of the Somerville lawsuits. The lawsuits are proceeding against the remaining defendants.

Other Environmental Matters

In October 1996, the Company received a Clean Water Act information request from EPA. This information request asked for comprehensive information on discharge permits, applications for discharge permits, discharge monitoring reports and the analytical data in support of the reports and applications. EPA subsequently alleged that the Company violated various provisions of the Clean Water Act. Koppers subsequently agreed, among other things, to a $2.9 million settlement, payable in three installments. The first two payments, totaling $1.0 million each, were made in April 2004 and 2003, respectively.

Additionally, during an investigation initiated by the Company at its Woodward Coke facility prior to its closure in January 1998, it was discovered that certain environmental records and reports related to the discharge of treated process water contained incomplete and inaccurate information. Corrected reports were submitted to the State of Alabama and EPA, which resulted in a Complaint against the Company by EPA alleging certain civil and criminal violations of applicable environmental laws. The Company subsequently entered into a plea agreement which provides, among other things, for the payment by Koppers of a $2.1 million fine payable to the government and $0.9 million in restitution payable to the Black Warrior-Cahaba Rivers Land Trust in three equal annual installments beginning in December 2002. The Company’s plea was entered in August 2002 and the sentencing occurred in December 2002. At the sentencing, the court, among other things, approved the terms of the plea agreement previously negotiated between the Company and EPA. The first two payments, totaling $1.0 million each, were made in December 2003 and 2002, respectively. A failure on the Company’s part to comply with the terms of the compliance agreement, plea agreement and probation could lead to significant additional costs and sanctions, including the potential for the Company’s suspension or debarment from governmental contracts.

ITEM 4.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As of September 30, 2004 an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2004. There have been no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to September 30, 2004.

PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Pacific Century. A subsidiary of Koppers Australia has been named as a defendant in a breach of contract and negligence lawsuit related to the sale of vineyard trellis posts.

Government Investigation. The Company has been involved in investigations initiated by the European Commission, the United States Department of Justice and the Canadian Competition Bureau related to competitive practices for some of its products.

See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” for additional information regarding these matters.

The Company is involved in various other proceedings incidental to the ordinary conduct of its business. The Company believes that none of these other proceedings will have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.

ITEM 2.

UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

On August 15, 2004, 15,000 shares of Koppers common stock were sold to three directors of Koppers at an aggregate offering price of $197,100. The sale of such securities to only Directors of the Company is a private placement under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

On August 18, 2004 restricted stock units relating to 135,000 shares of common stock, par value $.01 per share, of the Company were issued to certain senior executive officers of the Company under the Company’s Restricted Stock Unit Plan. The restricted stock units vest over time. Neither the restricted stock units nor the common stock to be issued in connection therewith were issued for monetary consideration, but rather for services performed by such officers. The issuance of such securities without monetary consideration should not be considered a sale under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or alternatively, the issuance of such securities to only senior executive of the Company is a private placement under section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

ITEM 4.

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

There were no matters submitted to a shareholder vote during the third quarter of 2004.

ITEM 6.

EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a) Exhibits:



10.34		2004 Restricted Stock Unit Plan.

31.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K:

i) Form 8-K dated July 13, 2004 regarding a press release announcing the declaration of a dividend with respect to Koppers Common and Preferred Stock.

ii) Form 8-K dated July 15, 2004 regarding an agreement entered into by Koppers and Beazer East, Inc. to amend the December 29, 1988 asset purchase agreement between the parties to provide, among other things, for the continued tender of pre-closing environmental liabilities to Beazer East, Inc. through July 2019.

iii) Form 8-K dated August 5, 2004 regarding a press release announcing second quarter results of the Company.

SIGNATURES

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


	Koppers Inc. (Registrant)

Date: November 2, 2004	By:	/s/ BRIAN H. MCCURRIE
		Brian H. McCurrie, Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer, Principal Accounting Officer)