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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


 

(Mark One)

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

 

For the quarterly period ended March 27, 2005

 

OR

 

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

 

For the transition period from             to             

 

Commission file number 1-1370

 


 

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Wisconsin   39-0182330

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

12301 West Wirth Street, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53222

(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

 

414/259-5333

(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 period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes  x    No  ¨

 

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

 

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

 

Class


 

Outstanding at April 29, 2005


COMMON STOCK, par value $0.01 per share   51,593,331 Shares

 



Table of Contents

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

INDEX

 

               Page No.

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION     
     Item 1.   

Financial Statements

    
         

Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets – March 27, 2005 and June 27, 2004

   3
         

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income – Three Months and Nine Months Ended March 27, 2005 and March 28, 2004

   5
         

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows – Nine Months Ended March 27, 2005 and March 28, 2004

   6
         

Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

   7
     Item 2.   

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

   21
     Item 3.   

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   25
     Item 4.   

Controls and Procedures

   25
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION     
     Item 1.   

Legal Proceedings

   26
     Item 6.   

Exhibits

   26
     Signatures    28
     Exhibit Index    29

 

2


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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)

 

ASSETS

 

     March 27,
2005


   June 27,
2004


     (Unaudited)     

CURRENT ASSETS:

             

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 40,755    $ 342,394

Accounts receivable, net

     471,192      230,510

Inventories -

             

Finished products and parts

     327,315      206,638

Work in process

     191,288      124,483

Raw materials

     12,304      6,610
    

  

Total inventories

     530,907      337,731

Deferred income tax asset

     61,485      47,623

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     20,371      23,735
    

  

Total current assets

     1,124,710      981,993
    

  

OTHER ASSETS:

             

Goodwill

     251,395      151,991

Other intangible assets, net

     96,908      217

Prepaid pension

     83,789      81,730

Investments

     45,661      49,259

Deferred loan costs, net

     6,383      6,325

Other long-term assets, net

     11,887      9,096
    

  

Total other assets

     496,023      298,618
    

  

PLANT AND EQUIPMENT:

             

Cost

     974,047      867,987

Less - accumulated depreciation

     544,048      511,445
    

  

Total plant and equipment, net

     429,999      356,542
    

  

     $ 2,050,732    $ 1,637,153
    

  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

3


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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

LIABILITIES & SHAREHOLDERS’ INVESTMENT

 

     March 27,
2005


    June 27,
2004


 
     (Unaudited)        

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

                

Accounts payable

   $ 173,724     $ 120,409  

Accrued liabilities

     233,123       177,025  

Dividends payable

     8,770       —    

Short-term debt

     10,622       3,127  
    


 


Total current liabilities

     426,239       300,561  
    


 


OTHER LIABILITIES:

                

Long-term debt

     486,131       360,562  

Deferred income tax liability

     107,221       70,454  

Accrued pension cost

     22,120       20,603  

Accrued employee benefits

     14,885       14,201  

Accrued postretirement health care obligation

     77,144       38,248  

Other long-term liabilities

     15,780       14,929  
    


 


Total other liabilities

     723,281       518,997  
    


 


SHAREHOLDERS’ INVESTMENT:

                

Common stock -

                

Authorized 120,000* and 60,000 shares, $.01 par value, issued 57,854* and 28,927 shares, respectively

     579       289  

Additional paid-in capital

     54,987       48,657  

Retained earnings

     987,736       927,766  

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     7,293       4,028  

Unearned compensation on restricted stock

     (1,863 )     (1,490 )

Treasury stock, at cost 6,170* shares in FY2005 and 3,382 in FY2004

     (147,520 )     (161,655 )
    


 


Total shareholders’ investment

     901,212       817,595  
    


 


     $ 2,050,732     $ 1,637,153  
    


 



* Share data reflects the 2-for-1 stock split effective October 29, 2004.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended

    Nine Months Ended

 
    

March 27,

2005


   

March 28,

2004


   

March 27,

2005


   

March 28,

2004


 

NET SALES

   $ 840,463     $ 654,681     $ 1,783,158     $ 1,402,060  

COST OF GOODS SOLD

     674,735       486,914       1,440,470       1,083,252  
    


 


 


 


Gross profit on sales

     165,728       167,767       342,688       318,808  

ENGINEERING, SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

     68,244       53,263       228,862       151,333  
    


 


 


 


Income from operations

     97,484       114,504       113,826       167,475  

INTEREST EXPENSE

     (10,240 )     (9,603 )     (27,154 )     (29,031 )

OTHER INCOME, net

     4,930       2,467       13,944       5,175  
    


 


 


 


Income before income taxes

     92,174       107,368       100,616       143,619  

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

     31,350       36,100       34,220       47,700  
    


 


 


 


Income before extraordinary item

     60,824       71,268       66,396       95,919  

EXTRAORDINARY GAIN - NEGATIVE GOODWILL

     19,800       —         19,800       —    
    


 


 


 


NET INCOME

   $ 80,624     $ 71,268     $ 86,196     $ 95,919  
    


 


 


 


EARNINGS PER SHARE DATA*-

                                

Average shares outstanding

     51,194       44,307       51,428       44,430  
    


 


 


 


Income before extraordinary item

     1.19       1.61       1.29       2.16  

Extraordinary gain

     0.38       —         0.38       —    
    


 


 


 


Basic earnings per share

   $ 1.57     $ 1.61     $ 1.67     $ 2.16  
    


 


 


 


Diluted average shares outstanding

     51,710       50,331       51,964       50,428  
    


 


 


 


Income before extraordinary item

     1.18       1.44       1.28       1.97  

Extraordinary gain

     0.38       —         0.38       —    
    


 


 


 


Diluted earnings per share

   $ 1.56     $ 1.44     $ 1.66     $ 1.97  
    


 


 


 


CASH DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER SHARE*

   $ 0.170     $ 0.165     $ 0.510     $ 0.495  
    


 


 


 



* Share data adjusted for effect of 2-for-1 stock split effective October 29, 2004.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

     Nine Months Ended

 
     March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

                

Net income

   $ 86,196     $ 95,919  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities -

                

Extraordinary gain

     (19,800 )     —    

Depreciation and amortization

     54,182       48,167  

Earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

     (12,914 )     (2,807 )

Loss on disposition of plant and equipment

     1,922       4,507  

(Credit) provision for deferred income taxes

     (15,428 )     1,119  

Provision for bad debt

     38,916       —    

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquired assets and liabilities;

                

Increase in accounts receivable

     (176,766 )     (217,725 )

Increase in inventories

     (49,996 )     (121,955 )

Decrease in prepaid expenses and other current assets

     5,960       3,460  

Increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities

     37,615       68,830  

Other, net

     1,908       (10,168 )
    


 


Net cash used in operating activities

     (48,205 )     (130,653 )
    


 


CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

                

Additions to plant and equipment

     (61,027 )     (35,456 )

Proceeds received on disposition of plant and equipment

     758       617  

Proceeds received on sale of certain assets of a subsidiary

     4,050       —    

Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired

     (350,044 )     —    

Investment in joint venture

     (1,500 )     —    

Dividends received

     18,351       3,500  

Refund of cash paid for acquisition

     —         5,686  
    


 


Net cash used in investing activities

     (389,412 )     (25,653 )
    


 


CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

                

Net borrowings (repayments) on loans and notes payable

     131,570       (331 )

Dividends paid

     (17,502 )     (14,667 )

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     19,037       29,415  
    


 


Net cash provided by financing activities

     133,105       14,417  
    


 


EFFECT OF FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     2,873       1,874  
    


 


NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     (301,639 )     (140,015 )

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning

     342,394       324,815  
    


 


CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, ending

   $ 40,755     $ 184,800  
    


 


SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

                

Interest paid

   $ 34,652     $ 33,771  
    


 


Income taxes paid

   $ 11,498     $ 11,867  
    


 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

6


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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

 

General Information

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and therefore do not include all information and footnotes necessary for a fair presentation of financial position, results of operations and cash flows in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. However, in the opinion of Briggs & Stratton, adequate disclosures have been presented to make the information not misleading, and all adjustments necessary to present fair statements of the results of operations and financial position, have been included. All of these adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. These consolidated condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes there-to which were included in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Common Stock

 

On August 4, 2004, Briggs & Stratton’s board approved a two-for-one stock split of its common stock, which became effective on October 29, 2004 following shareholder approval of the amendment to the Briggs & Stratton Corporation Articles of Incorporation. The stock split was distributed on November 9, 2004 to shareholders of record on October 29, 2004. Certain references in the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements to the number of common shares and related per share amounts have been restated to reflect the stock split.

 

Earnings Per Share

 

Basic earnings per share, for each period presented, is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed reflecting the potential dilution that would occur if options or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock at the beginning of the period.

 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Information on earnings per share is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Three Months Ended

   Nine Months Ended

     March 27,
2005


   March 28,
2004


   March 27,
2005


  

March 28,

2004


Net income

   $ 80,624    $ 71,268    $ 86,196    $ 95,919

Adjustments to net income to add after tax interest expense on convertible notes

     —        1,162      —        3,507
    

  

  

  

Adjusted net income used in diluted earnings per share

   $ 80,624    $ 72,430    $ 86,196    $ 99,426
    

  

  

  

Average shares of common stock outstanding*

     51,194      44,307      51,428      44,430

Incremental common shares applicable to common stock options based on the common stock average market price during the period*

     485      351      502      317

Incremental common shares applicable to restricted common stock based on the common stock average market price during the period*

     31      21      34      29

Incremental common shares applicable to convertible notes based on the conversion provisions of the convertible notes*

     —        5,652      —        5,652
    

  

  

  

Diluted average common shares outstanding*

     51,710      50,331      51,964      50,428
    

  

  

  


* Share data adjusted for effect of 2-for-1 stock split effective October 29, 2004.

 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Comprehensive Income

 

Comprehensive income is a more inclusive financial reporting method that includes disclosure of certain financial information that historically has not been recognized in the calculation of net income. Comprehensive income is defined as net income and other changes in shareholders’ investment from transactions and events other than with shareholders. Total comprehensive income is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Three Months Ended

    Nine Months Ended

 
     March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


    March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


 

Net income

   $ 80,624     $ 71,268     $ 86,196     $ 95,919  

Cumulative translation adjustments

     (46 )     (1,402 )     3,473       2,014  

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments

     1,050       8,016       (208 )     (90 )
    


 


 


 


Total comprehensive income

   $ 81,628     $ 77,882     $ 89,461     $ 97,843  
    


 


 


 


 

The components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) are as follows (in thousands):

 

     March 27,
2005


    June 27,
2004


 

Cumulative translation adjustments

   $ 8,331     $ 4,858  

Unrealized gain on derivative instruments

     292       500  

Minimum pension liability adjustment

     (1,330 )     (1,330 )
    


 


Accumulated other comprehensive income

   $ 7,293     $ 4,028  
    


 


 

Derivatives

 

Derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet as assets or liabilities, measured at fair value. Briggs & Stratton enters into derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges to manage its foreign currency exposures. These instruments generally do not have a maturity of more than twelve months. Briggs & Stratton has used interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges to manage its debt portfolio. These instruments generally have maturities and terms consistent with the underlying debt instrument. In April 2004, all interest rate swaps were terminated.

 

Changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recorded on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income or on the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss). The amounts included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) will be reclassified into income when the forecasted transactions occur, generally within the next twelve months. These forecasted transactions represent the exporting of products for which Briggs & Stratton will receive foreign currency and the importing of products for which it will be required to pay in a foreign currency. Changes in the fair value of fair value hedges related to interest rate swaps were recorded as either an increase or decrease to long-term debt. Changes in the fair value of all derivatives deemed to be ineffective are recorded as either income or expense in the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income.

 

9


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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Segment and Geographic Information

 

Briggs & Stratton operates in two reportable business segments that are managed separately based on fundamental differences in their operations. Summarized segment data is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Three Months Ended

    Nine Months Ended

 
     March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


    March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


 

NET SALES:

                                

Engines

   $ 604,866     $ 581,915     $ 1,233,852     $ 1,174,111  

Power Products

     323,650       125,637       714,912       348,800  

Inter-Segment Eliminations

     (88,053 )     (52,871 )     (165,606 )     (120,851 )
    


 


 


 


Total*

   $ 840,463     $ 654,681     $ 1,783,158     $ 1,402,060  
    


 


 


 



*  International Sales (included in the above)

                                

Engines

   $ 144,846     $ 121,813     $ 301,650     $ 274,767  

Power Products

     28,472       705       43,591       8,215  
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 173,318     $ 122,518     $ 345,241     $ 282,982  
    


 


 


 


GROSS PROFIT ON SALES:

                                

Engines

   $ 133,710     $ 156,450     $ 266,636     $ 279,823  

Power Products

     34,741       14,146       76,788       42,107  

Inter-Segment Eliminations

     (2,723 )     (2,829 )     (736 )     (3,122 )
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 165,728     $ 167,767     $ 342,688     $ 318,808  
    


 


 


 


INCOME FROM OPERATIONS:

                                

Engines

   $ 85,522     $ 110,019     $ 95,374     $ 148,731  

Power Products

     14,685       7,314       19,188       21,866  

Inter-Segment Eliminations

     (2,723 )     (2,829 )     (736 )     (3,122 )
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 97,484     $ 114,504     $ 113,826     $ 167,475  
    


 


 


 


 

Warranty

 

Briggs & Stratton recognizes the cost associated with its standard warranty on Engines and Power Products at the time of sale. The amount recognized is based on historical failure rates and current claim cost experience. The following is a reconciliation of the changes in accrued warranty costs for the reporting period (in thousands):

 

Balance, June 27, 2004

   $ 43,148  

Balance Related to Acquistions

     12,273  

Payments

     (27,476 )

Provision for Current Year Warranties

     30,197  

Provision for Prior Year Warranties

     (238 )
    


Balance, End of Period

   $ 57,904  
    


 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Stock Options

 

Briggs & Stratton has an Incentive Compensation Plan that is accounted for under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”. Under the plan, no compensation cost has been recognized. Had compensation cost for this plan been determined consistent with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” and SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure”, the Company’s net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the following pro forma amounts (in thousands, except per share data):

 

     Three Months Ended

    Nine Months Ended

 
     March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


    March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


 

Net income as reported:

   $ 80,624     $ 71,268     $ 86,196     $ 95,919  

Basic EPS:

                                

Deduct employee compensation expense determined under a fair value based method, net of related tax effects

     (1,322 )     (1,145 )     (3,784 )     (2,767 )
    


 


 


 


Income Available to Common Stockholders:

     79,302       70,123       82,412       93,152  

Diluted EPS:

                                

Add reduction in interest expense related to convertible debt

     —         1,162       —         3,507  
    


 


 


 


Income Available to Common Stockholders:

   $ 79,302     $ 71,285     $ 82,412     $ 96,659  
    


 


 


 


Earnings per share*:

                                

As reported

   $ 1.57     $ 1.61     $ 1.67     $ 2.16  

Pro forma

   $ 1.55     $ 1.58     $ 1.60     $ 2.10  

Diluted earnings per share*:

                                

As reported

   $ 1.56     $ 1.44     $ 1.66     $ 1.96  

Pro forma

   $ 1.55     $ 1.42     $ 1.59     $ 1.92  

* Share data adjusted for effect of 2-for-1 stock split effective October 29, 2004.

 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

 

Pension and Postretirement Benefits

 

Briggs & Stratton has noncontributory, defined benefit retirement plans and postretirement plans covering certain employees. The following tables summarize the plans’ income and expense for the periods indicated (in thousands):

 

     Pension Benefits

    Other Postretirement Benefits

     Three Months Ended

    Three Months Ended

     March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


    March 27,
2005


   March 28,
2004


Components of Net Periodic (Income) Expense:

                             

Service cost-benefits earned

   $ 3,243     $ 3,274     $ 678    $ 167

Interest cost on projected benefit obligation

     13,611       12,772       4,176      2,636

Expected return on plan assets

     (17,700 )     (18,114 )     —        —  

Amortization of:

                             

Transition obligation

     —         2       12      35

Prior service cost

     785       770       8      7

Actuarial loss

     194       152       3,531      2,017
    


 


 

  

Net periodic (income) expense

   $ 133     $ (1,144 )   $ 8,405    $ 4,862
    


 


 

  

     Pension Benefits

    Other Postretirement Benefits

     Nine Months Ended

    Nine Months Ended

     March 27,
2005


    March 28,
2004


    March 27,
2005


   March 28,
2004


Components of Net Periodic (Income) Expense:

                             

Service cost-benefits earned

   $ 9,730     $ 9,869     $ 2,050    $ 1,255

Interest cost on projected benefit obligation

     40,833       38,317       12,527      8,074

Expected return on plan assets

     (53,100 )     (54,343 )     —        —  

Amortization of:

                             

Transition obligation

     —         6       35      35

Prior service cost

     2,355       2,310       23      23

Actuarial loss

     582       455       10,687      6,265
    


 


 

  

Net periodic (income) expense

   $ 400     $ (3,386 )   $ 25,322    $ 15,652
    


 


 

  

 

Employer Contributions:

 

Briggs & Stratton does not expect to make any contributions to the pension plans in fiscal 2005.

 

Estimated Benefit Payments for Unfunded Plans:

 

Briggs & Stratton expects to make benefit payments of approximately $1.5 million for its non-qualified pension plan during fiscal 2005. As of March 27, 2005, Briggs & Stratton had made payments of approximately $1.1 million. Briggs & Stratton anticipates benefit payments of approximately $27.9 million for its other postretirement benefit plans during fiscal 2005. As of March 27, 2005, Briggs & Stratton had made payments of approximately $20.9 million.

 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Acquisitions

 

On July 7, 2004, Briggs & Stratton and its subsidiary, Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC (“BSPPG”) acquired Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc. (“Simplicity”). Simplicity designs, manufactures and markets a wide variety of premium yard and garden tractors, lawn tractors, riding mowers, snow throwers, attachments, and other lawn and garden products like rototillers and chipper shredders. The purchase price included $246.6 million of cash, a $5.9 million liability for future tax benefits, and $130.1 million of liabilities assumed. The cash paid included $17.8 million of cash acquired and $9.3 million of direct acquisition costs.

 

The Simplicity acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. The purchase price was allocated on a preliminary basis to identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values, with the excess purchase price recorded as goodwill. Final adjustments to the purchase price allocation, which will include the resolution of certain tax matters, are not expected to be material to the consolidated financial statements.

 

The following table summarizes the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:

 

     (In thousands)

Assets Acquired:

      

Current assets

   $ 122,294

Property, plant and equipment

     62,960

Goodwill

     98,289

Other intangible assets

     98,120

Other noncurrent assets

     866
    

Total assets

     382,529
    

Liabilities Assumed:

      

Current liabilities

     47,916

Deferred tax liabilities

     45,002

Post retirement benefits

     36,665

Other noncurrent liabilities

     502
    

Total liabilities

     130,085
    

Net assets

   $ 252,444
    

 

Other intangible assets are comprised of trademarks, patents and customer relationships. Patents have been assigned an estimated weighted average useful life of thirteen years. The customer relationships have been assigned an estimated useful life of twenty-five years. The patent and customer relationships are being amortized on a straight-line basis. The trademarks and goodwill, which are considered to have an indefinite life and will not be amortized, will be tested annually for impairment.

 

The following table summarizes pro forma results for the three and nine months ended March 28, 2004, as though the business combination had been completed at the beginning of the earliest comparable period (in thousands, except per share data):

 

     Three Months Ended

   Nine Months Ended

    

March 28,

2004


  

March 28,

2004


Net sales

   $ 744,338    $ 1,617,639

Net income

   $ 73,415    $ 96,373

Basic earnings per share

   $ 1.66    $ 2.17

Diluted earnings per share

   $ 1.48    $ 1.98

 

13


Table of Contents

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

On February 11, 2005, Briggs & Stratton Corporation and its subsidiary, Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC (collectively “Briggs”) acquired certain assets of Murray, Inc. and Murray Canada Co. (collectively “Murray”) and entered into a transition supply agreement (“TSA”). The TSA gives Briggs the right to purchase finished lawn, garden and snow products from Murray for a period up to eighteen months. The cash purchase price was $121.3 million, including direct acquisition costs of $0.4 million. The Company financed the acquisition through the issuance of $125 million variable rate Term Notes due February 11, 2008, with no prepayment penalty. The Term Notes have financial and operating restrictions consistent with our other debt agreements, as disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K. Although no liabilities were assumed pursuant to the asset purchase agreement, there are certain consumer and customer related obligations incident to the acquisition that have been considered. In addition, there were certain obligations created by the TSA that have been considered in our preliminary purchase accounting.

 

The Murray acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. The purchase price was allocated on a preliminary basis to identifiable assets acquired and liabilities recognized (as discussed above) based upon their estimated fair values. The estimated fair value of Murray assets acquired exceeded the acquisition cost by $19.8 million, after all tax considerations, and this amount was recognized as an extraordinary gain in the current quarter. Final adjustments to the purchase price allocation are not expected to be material to the consolidated financial statements.

 

The following table summarizes the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities recognized at the date of acquisition:

 

     (In thousands)

Assets Acquired:

      

Accounts receivable

   $ 78,409

Inventory

     83,665
    

Total assets

     162,074
    

Liabilities Recognized:

      

Federal and state taxes payable

     10,200

Rebates

     4,241

Warranty

     3,500

TSA obligations

     3,052
    

Total liabilities

     20,993
    

Net assets

   $ 141,081
    

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement 123R, “Share-Based Payment,” to be effective for annual periods beginning after June 15, 2005; thereby, becoming effective for Briggs & Stratton in the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Statement 123R requires all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized as an operating expense in the income statement. The cost is recognized over the requisite service period based on fair values measured on grant dates. The new standard may be adopted using either the modified prospective transition method or the modified retrospective method. We are currently evaluating our share-based employee compensation programs, the potential impact of this statement on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, and the alternative adoption methods.

 

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Table of Contents

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Financial Information of Subsidiary Guarantor of Indebtedness

 

In June 1997, Briggs & Stratton issued $100 million of 7.25% senior notes. In May 2001, the Company issued $275 million of 8.875% senior notes and in February 2005, the Company issued $125 million of variable rate term notes. In addition, Briggs & Stratton has a $350 million revolving credit facility that expires in May 2009 that is used to finance seasonal working capital needs.

 

Under the terms of Briggs & Stratton’s 8.875% senior notes, 7.25% senior notes, variable rate term notes and the revolving credit agreement (collectively, the “Domestic Indebtedness”), BSPPG and effective July 7, 2004, its wholly owned subsidiary Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc., are joint and several guarantors of the Domestic Indebtedness (the “Guarantor”). The guarantees are full and unconditional guarantees. Additionally, if at any time a domestic subsidiary of Briggs & Stratton constitutes a significant domestic subsidiary, then such domestic subsidiary will also become a guarantor of the Domestic Indebtedness. Currently, all of the Domestic Indebtedness is unsecured. If Briggs & Stratton were to fail to make a payment of interest or principal on its due date, the Guarantor is obligated to pay the outstanding Domestic Indebtedness. Briggs & Stratton had the following outstanding amounts related to the guaranteed debt (in thousands):

 

     March 27, 2005
Carrying Amount


   Maximum
Guarantee


8.875% Senior Notes, due March 15, 2011

   $ 271,589    $ 275,000

Variable Rate Term Notes, due February 11, 2008

   $ 125,000    $ 125,000

7.25% Senior Notes, due September 15, 2007

   $ 89,542    $ 90,000

Revolving Credit Facility, expiring May 2009

   $ 9,850    $ 350,000

 

15


Table of Contents

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

BALANCE SHEET

As of March 27, 2005

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


   Guarantor
Subsidiary


   Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


   Eliminations

    Consolidated

Current Assets

   $ 633,214    $ 507,663    $ 296,242    $ (312,409 )   $ 1,124,710

Investment in Subsidiaries

     751,417      —        —        (751,417 )     —  

Non-Current Assets

     474,110      436,456      15,456      —         926,022
    

  

  

  


 

     $ 1,858,741    $ 944,119    $ 311,698    $ (1,063,826 )   $ 2,050,732
    

  

  

  


 

Current Liabilities

   $ 312,149    $ 170,937    $ 237,611    $ (300,328 )   $ 420,369

Payable to Seller

     —        5,870      —        —         5,870

Long-Term Debt

     486,131      —        —        —         486,131

Other Long-Term Obligations

     147,168      89,680      302      —         237,150

Shareholders’ Investment

     913,293      677,632      73,785      (763,498 )     901,212
    

  

  

  


 

     $ 1,858,741    $ 944,119    $ 311,698    $ (1,063,826 )   $ 2,050,732
    

  

  

  


 

 

BALANCE SHEET

As of June 27, 2004

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


   Guarantor
Subsidiary


   Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


   Eliminations

    Consolidated

Current Assets

   $ 739,007    $ 243,300    $ 227,786    $ (228,100 )   $ 981,993

Investment in Subsidiaries

     352,207      —        —        (352,207 )     —  

Non-Current Assets

     471,395      175,439      8,326      —         655,160
    

  

  

  


 

     $ 1,562,609    $ 418,739    $ 236,112    $ (580,307 )   $ 1,637,153
    

  

  

  


 

Current Liabilities

   $ 226,627    $ 111,992    $ 180,791    $ (218,849 )   $ 300,561

Long-Term Debt

     360,562      —        —        —         360,562

Other Long-Term Obligations

     148,574      9,861      —        —         158,435

Shareholders’ Investment

     826,846      296,886      55,321      (361,458 )     817,595
    

  

  

  


 

     $ 1,562,609    $ 418,739    $ 236,112    $ (580,307 )   $ 1,637,153
    

  

  

  


 

 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

STATEMENT OF INCOME

For the Three Months Ended March 27, 2005

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


    Guarantor
Subsidiary


    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


    Eliminations

    Consolidated

 

Net Sales

   $ 587,013     $ 332,930     $ 43,055     $ (122,535 )   $ 840,463  

Cost of Goods Sold

     458,363       299,889       37,416       (120,933 )     674,735  
    


 


 


 


 


Gross Profit

     128,650       33,041       5,639       (1,602 )     165,728  

Engineering, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

     40,365       19,775       8,104       —         68,244  
    


 


 


 


 


Income (Loss) from Operations

     88,285       13,266       (2,465 )     (1,602 )     97,484  

Interest Expense

     (10,175 )     (3 )     (18 )     (44 )     (10,240 )

Other Income (Expense), Net

     28,653       304       159       (24,186 )     4,930  
    


 


 


 


 


Income Before Income Taxes

     106,763       13,567       (2,324 )     (25,832 )     92,174  

Provision for Income Taxes

     36,299       5,177       34       (10,160 )     31,350  
    


 


 


 


 


Income Before Extraordinary Item

     70,464       8,390       (2,358 )     (15,672 )     60,824  

Extraordinary Gain

     —         19,800       —         —         19,800  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Income (Loss)

   $ 70,464     $ 28,190     $ (2,358 )   $ (15,672 )   $ 80,624  
    


 


 


 


 


 

STATEMENT OF INCOME

For the Nine Months Ended March 27, 2005

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


    Guarantor
Subsidiary


    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


    Eliminations

    Consolidated

 

Net Sales

   $ 1,191,345     $ 755,666     $ 120,287     $ (284,140 )   $ 1,783,158  

Cost of Goods Sold

     946,024       680,358       94,963       (280,875 )     1,440,470  
    


 


 


 


 


Gross Profit

     245,321       75,308       25,324       (3,265 )     342,688  

Engineering, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

     149,609       56,985       22,268       —         228,862  
    


 


 


 


 


Income from Operations

     95,712       18,323       3,056       (3,265 )     113,826  

Interest Expense

     (26,440 )     (27 )     (90 )     (597 )     (27,154 )

Other Income (Expense), Net

     43,161       260       170       (29,647 )     13,944  
    


 


 


 


 


Income Before Income Taxes

     112,433       18,556       3,136       (33,509 )     100,616  

Provision for Income Taxes

     38,227       7,150       833       (11,990 )     34,220  
    


 


 


 


 


Income Before Extraordinary Item

     74,206       11,406       2,303       (21,519 )     66,396  

Extraordinary Gain

     —         19,800       —         —         19,800  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Income

   $ 74,206     $ 31,206     $ 2,303     $ (21,519 )   $ 86,196  
    


 


 


 


 


 

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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

STATEMENT OF INCOME

For the Three Months Ended March 28, 2004

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


    Guarantor
Subsidiary


    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


    Eliminations

    Consolidated

 

Net Sales

   $ 560,741     $ 120,930     $ 45,120     $ (72,110 )   $ 654,681  

Cost of Goods Sold

     413,658       107,630       34,280       (68,654 )     486,914  
    


 


 


 


 


Gross Profit

     147,083       13,300       10,840       (3,456 )     167,767  

Engineering, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

     39,957       6,059       7,247       —         53,263  
    


 


 


 


 


Income from Operations

     107,126       7,241       3,593       (3,456 )     114,504  

Interest Expense

     (9,494 )     —         (10 )     (99 )     (9,603 )

Other Income (Expense), Net

     5,715       (14 )     271       (3,505 )     2,467  
    


 


 


 


 


Income Before Income Taxes

     103,347       7,227       3,854       (7,060 )     107,368  

Provision for Income Taxes

     34,678       3,194       827       (2,599 )     36,100  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Income

   $ 68,669     $ 4,033     $ 3,027     $ (4,461 )   $ 71,268  
    


 


 


 


 


 

STATEMENT OF INCOME

For the Nine Months Ended March 28, 2004

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


    Guarantor
Subsidiary


    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


    Eliminations

    Consolidated

 

Net Sales

   $ 1,132,809     $ 327,769     $ 111,352     $ (169,870 )   $ 1,402,060  

Cost of Goods Sold

     873,137       288,220       86,777       (164,882 )     1,083,252  
    


 


 


 


 


Gross Profit

     259,672       39,549       24,575       (4,988 )     318,808  

Engineering, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

     116,058       17,918       17,357       —         151,333  
    


 


 


 


 


Income from Operations

     143,614       21,631       7,218       (4,988 )     167,475  

Interest Expense

     (28,733 )     (2 )     (50 )     (246 )     (29,031 )

Other Income (Expense), Net

     19,007       (44 )     331       (14,119 )     5,175  
    


 


 


 


 


Income Before Income Taxes

     133,888       21,585       7,499       (19,353 )     143,619  

Provision for Income Taxes

     44,451       8,240       1,491       (6,482 )     47,700  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Income

   $ 89,437     $ 13,345     $ 6,008     $ (12,871 )   $ 95,919  
    


 


 


 


 


 

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Table of Contents

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the Nine Months Ended March 27, 2005

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


    Guarantor
Subsidiary


    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


    Eliminations

    Consolidated

 

Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Operating Activities

   $ (89,661 )   $ 39,120     $ (4,379 )   $ 6,715     $ (48,205 )
    


 


 


 


 


Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

                                        

Additions to Plant and Equipment

     (45,094 )     (9,222 )     (6,711 )     —         (61,027 )

Proceeds Received on Disposition of Plant and Equipment

     557       10       191       —         758  

Proceeds Received on Sale of Briggs & Stratton Canada

     —         —         4,050       —         4,050  

Cash Paid for Acquistion, Net of Cash Acquired

     (719 )     (332,662 )     (16,663 )     —         (350,044 )

Cash Investment in Subsidiary

     (369,148 )     —         (12,469 )     381,617       —    

Investment in Joint Venture

     (1,500 )     —         —         —         (1,500 )

Dividends Received

     18,674       —         (323 )     —         18,351  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

     (397,230 )     (341,874 )     (31,925 )     381,617       (389,412 )
    


 


 


 


 


Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

                                        

Net Borrowings (Repayments) on Loans and Notes Payable

     177,691       (44,969 )     11,317       (12,469 )     131,570  

Dividends Paid

     (17,455 )     —         (5,801 )     5,754       (17,502 )

Capital Contributions Received

     —         349,542       32,075       (381,617 )     —    

Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options

     19,037       —         —         —         19,037  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities

     179,273       304,573       37,591       (388,332 )     133,105  
    


 


 


 


 


Effect of Exchange Rate Changes

     —         —         2,873       —         2,873  
    


 


 


 


 


Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

     (307,618 )     1,819       4,160       —         (301,639 )

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning

     326,809       4,007       11,578       —         342,394  
    


 


 


 


 


Cash and Cash Equivalents, Ending

   $ 19,191     $ 5,826     $ 15,738     $ —       $ 40,755  
    


 


 


 


 


 

19


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BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the Nine Months Ended March 28, 2004

(In thousands)

 

     Briggs & Stratton
Corporation


    Guarantor
Subsidiary


    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries


    Eliminations

    Consolidated

 

Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Operating Activities

   $ (81,486 )   $ (49,779 )   $ (17,308 )   $ 17,920     $ (130,653 )
    


 


 


 


 


Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

                                        

Additions to Plant and Equipment

     (30,052 )     (4,506 )     (898 )     —         (35,456 )

Proceeds Received on Disposition of Plant and Equipment

     556       61       —         —         617  

Dividends Received

     3,725       —         —         —         3,725  

Refund of Cash Paid for Acquisition

     5,686       —         (225 )     —         5,461  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

     (20,085 )     (4,445 )     (1,123 )     —         (25,653 )
    


 


 


 


 


Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

                                        

Net Borrowings (Repayments) on Loans and Notes Payable

     (52,251 )     52,762       17,078       (17,920 )     (331 )

Dividends Paid

     (14,667 )     —         —         —         (14,667 )

Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options

     29,415       —         —         —         29,415  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities

     (37,503 )     52,762       17,078       (17,920 )     14,417  
    


 


 


 


 


Effect of Exchange Rate Changes

     —         (675 )     2,549       —         1,874  
    


 


 


 


 


Net Decrease in Cash and Cash Equivalents

     (139,074 )     (2,137 )     1,196       —         (140,015 )

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning

     304,103       1,575       19,137       —         324,815  
    


 


 


 


 


Cash and Cash Equivalents, Ending

   $ 165,029     $ (562 )   $ 20,333     $ —       $ 184,800  
    


 


 


 


 


 

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Table of Contents

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

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

 

The following is management’s discussion and analysis of Briggs & Stratton’s financial condition and results of operations for the periods included in the accompanying consolidated condensed financial statements:

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

SALES

 

Consolidated net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2005 totaled $840 million, an increase of $186 million or 28% when compared to fiscal 2004. The increase is attributable primarily to the inclusion of $108 million in sales from Simplicity and the inclusion of $72 million in sales of Murray product, both acquired in the current fiscal year.

 

Third quarter net sales for the Engine Segment were $605 million in fiscal 2005 and $582 million in fiscal 2004. The 4%, or $23 million, improvement is the result of a 12% increase in engine shipments that contributed $56 million and a $15 million benefit from favorable exchange rate on Euro denominated sales. These increases were partially offset by an engine mix that favored lower priced product resulting in a net sales reduction of $27 million, lower service parts and component sales of $13 million and an increase in sales incentives in the period. The engine mix and sales incentives were the expected reversals of the favorable experience from the first half of the year. The reduction in service parts and component sales reflects the efforts of our independent distribution network to reduce its inventories in the current year.

 

Third quarter Power Products Segment sales were $324 million versus $126 million in the same period a year ago. The $198 million improvement is primarily the result of the inclusion of $108 million of sales from Simplicity and $72 million in net sales from the Murray asset acquisition. The remaining increase was the result of generator and pressure washer volume increases. Generator net sales increased 15% while unit volume increased 12%. Generator demand continues to be strong due to continued replenishment of inventory caused by the major hurricane activity in this year’s first fiscal quarter. Net sales growth also reflects price increases instituted in January 2005. Pressure washer net sales increased 17% while unit volume increased 29%. The volume growth reflects the build-up of redesigned product at retail in anticipation of spring and summer demand, as well as the placement of incremental SKU’s at retail. The sales mix of pressure washers favored smaller, lower priced units.

 

Consolidated net sales for the nine-months ended March 27, 2005 totaled $1,783 million, an increase of $381 million or 27%. This increase reflects the inclusion of $260 million in net sales from Simplicity and $72 million of net sales of Murray product in the current year.

 

Nine-months sales for the Engine Segment totaled $1,234 million in fiscal 2005 versus $1,174 million in the prior year, a 5% or $60 million improvement. The main drivers for the net sales increases were; $40 million from an engine unit shipment increase of 4% and $33 million from favorable price and Euro exchange rates. Offsetting these increases were lower service parts and component sales of $14.3 million, primarily in the third quarter.

 

Power Products Segment net sales for nine-months were $715 million compared to $349 million in the prior year. As previously discussed, this increase reflects the inclusion of sales from our Simplicity and Murray acquisitions of $260 million and $72 million, respectively. The remaining improvement was the result of a generator sales increase of 20% due to a volume increase as a result of hurricane activity in the first fiscal quarter. Pressure washer sales were up 3% on a 9% unit volume increase. The mix of pressure washer sales favored smaller, lower priced units.

 

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GROSS PROFIT MARGIN

 

The consolidated gross profit margin decreased to 20% from 26% experienced in the preceding year’s third quarter. Engine Segment margins decreased from 27% in the prior year to 22% in the current year. This decline in margin was driven primarily by a $23 million increase in manufacturing costs. The majority of the cost increases reflect $16 million from increased prices on aluminum and steel. We are anticipating raw material and component costs to remain at these higher levels for the remainder of the fiscal year. The remaining increase in manufacturing costs is attributable to $7 million in increased overhead costs, such as utilities and fringe benefits, which were not offset by our ongoing cost reduction efforts. Lower production volume, resulting in $6 million of lower fixed costs absorption, also contributed to the lower Engine Segment margins. Pricing initiatives and a stronger Euro, offset by a negative mix of product that favored lower margined units, contributed $12 million to the Engine Segment margins in the third quarter, but this was not enough to overcome the cost increases. Power Products Segment margins were 11% in the third quarter of fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004. The acquisition of Simplicity contributed margins of $17 million (7% gross margin) after the application of purchase accounting on acquired inventory. Murray sales in the third quarter were at zero margin after the application of purchase accounting. This reduced the overall segment margin by 3%. The margin on generators and pressure washers improved between years due to lower spending on manufacturing costs in the quarter, an 11% increase in unit production driven primarily by anticipated demand for pressure washers, and a favorable mix of higher margined pressure washers.

 

The consolidated gross profit margin for the nine-month period decreased from 22% in the prior year to 19% in the current year. The Engine Segment margin decreased from 24% in fiscal 2004 to 22% in fiscal 2005. Manufacturing cost increases of $56 million consisting primarily of increased aluminum and steel prices, were only partially offset by pricing initiatives and a favorable Euro exchange rate. Power Products Segment margins for the nine-month period decreased from 12% in the prior year to 11% in the current year. The acquisition of Simplicity contributed $38 million (6% gross margin) after the application of purchase accounting on acquired inventory. Murray sales were at zero margin after the application of purchase accounting. This reduced the overall segment margin by 1%. The margins on the generator and pressure washer business were flat between years. The impact of lower production volumes and manufacturing cost increases were offset by the increased generator sales volume and price increases.

 

ENGINEERING, SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

 

Engineering, selling, general and administrative expenses were $68 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2005 versus $53 million in fiscal 2004. The $15 million increase is attributable to the inclusion of Simplicity expenses in the current year.

 

This category increased $78 million for the nine-month comparative periods. The write-down of the trade receivable from Murray accounts for $39 million of the increase. The remaining increase is attributable to the inclusion of $39 million in expenses of Simplicity.

 

INTEREST EXPENSE

 

Interest expense was $10 million in the third quarters of fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004. Interest expense decreased $2 million for the nine-month comparative periods. The decrease is attributable to lower borrowings between years.

 

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

 

The effective tax rate for the third quarter of fiscal 2005 and 2004 was 34%. The effective tax rate was 34% for the fiscal 2005 nine-month period and 33% in the prior year. The increase in the rate in the current year reflects decreases in foreign income and state tax credits and the elimination of the tax benefit from the closing of a tax audit year.

 

 

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EXTRAORDINARY GAIN

 

The extraordinary gain in the third quarter of fiscal 2005 represents the difference between the estimated fair value of the selected assets acquired from Murray and the cash paid, after all tax considerations.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Cash used in operating activities for the nine-month period of fiscal 2005 was $48 million, a decrease of $83 million from fiscal 2004, driven by reduced working capital requirements. The nine-month period of fiscal 2005 experienced less of an inventory build-up than the prior year. This was driven primarily by lower generator and pressure washer inventories in the current year. In addition, receivables were lower between years attributable to the elimination of the Murray receivable.

 

In the nine-month period of fiscal 2005, we used $389 million in investing activities compared to $26 million in fiscal 2004. $350 million of cash was used on acquisitions in the current year. The acquisition of Simplicity used $229 million of cash and $121 million of cash was used for the acquisition of selected Murray assets. Planned increases in capital spending of $26 million and an investment in a joint venture of $2 million were partially offset by cash received on the sale of certain assets of a subsidiary. In the prior year, we received $6 million as a refund of a portion of the cash paid for the BSPPG acquisition in fiscal 2001. The amount was to adjust the original purchase price for the actual value received in acquired receivables and inventory. No such refund was received in the current year. In 2005 we received $13 million in cash dividends from our equity investment in Metal Technologies, Inc., the entity that acquired our two ductile iron foundries in August 1999. These were our first dividends from this investment.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities was $133 million in fiscal 2005, a $119 million increase from the net cash provided by financing activities in fiscal 2004. The increase is attributable primarily to the issuance of $125 million of Term Notes used to finance the acquisition of selected Murray assets in the current year. Increased dividend payments of $3 million and lower cash from stock option activity in the current year of $10 million, were partially offset by increased net borrowings under pre-existing loan agreements of $7 million.

 

FUTURE LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

On March 18, 2005 we increased the maximum amount available under our Revolving Credit Facility to $350 million from $275 million. The amended agreement expires in May 2009.

 

The $125 million of Term Notes issued on February 11, 2005, require a payment of $40 million on August 11, 2006 with the remainder due February 11, 2008, there is no prepayment penalty. These Notes were used to finance the acquisition of selected Murray assets. We do not believe the Term Notes or the acquisition of selected assets of Murray will significantly alter our future liquidity and capital needs.

 

We acquired Simplicity in July 2004, using available cash. We do not believe the acquisition of Simplicity will significantly alter our future liquidity and capital needs given its profitability and existing receivable financing arrangements.

 

We have remaining authorization to buy up to 1.8 million shares of our stock in open market or private transactions under the June 2000 Board of Directors’ authorization to repurchase up to 2.0 million shares. We did not purchase any shares in the first nine-months of fiscal 2005.

 

Management expects cash outflows for capital expenditures to be approximately $80 to $87 million in fiscal 2005. These anticipated expenditures provide for continued investments in equipment and new products. These expenditures will be funded using available cash.

 

Management believes that available cash, the credit facility, cash generated from operations, existing lines of credit and access to debt markets will be adequate to fund our capital requirements for the foreseeable future.

 

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OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

 

There have been no material changes since the September 9, 2004 filing of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

 

There have been no material changes since the September 9, 2004 filing of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K other than the issuance of $125 million in variable rate Term Notes with $40 million due August 11, 2006 and the remainder due February 11, 2008. As of March 27, 2005, the interest rate on these notes was 4.04%. As a result, the Company will incur additional interest expense of approximately $1.9 million, $5.1 million, $3.7 million and $2.1 million in fiscal years 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively on these notes.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

There have been no material changes in Briggs & Stratton’s critical accounting policies since the September 9, 2004 filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K. As discussed in our annual report, the preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Future events and their effects cannot be determined with absolute certainty. Therefore, the determination of estimates requires the exercise of judgment. Actual results can differ from those estimates, and such differences may be material to the financial statements.

 

The most significant accounting estimates inherent in the preparation of our financial statements include estimates as to the recovery of accounts receivable and inventory reserves, as well as those used in the determination of liabilities related to customer rebates, pension obligations, post-retirement benefits, warranty, product liability, health insurance and taxation. Various assumptions and other factors underlie the determination of these significant estimates. The process of determining significant estimates is fact specific and takes into account factors such as historical experience, current and expected economic conditions, product mix, and, in some instances, actuarial techniques. Briggs & Stratton re-evaluates these significant factors as facts and circumstances change.

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This report contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate”, “approval”, “believe”, “conditions”, “determine”, “estimate”, “evaluate”, “expect”, “forecast”,

 

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“if”, “intend”, “may”, “negotiate”, “objective”, “outcome”, “plan”, “project”, “seek”, “subject to”, “think”, “will”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current views and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that include, among other things, the ability to successfully forecast demand for our products and appropriately adjust our manufacturing and inventory levels; changes in our operating expenses; changes in interest rates; the effects of weather on the purchasing patterns of consumers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs); actions of engine manufacturers and OEMs with whom we compete; the seasonal nature of our business; changes in laws and regulations, including environmental, tax, pension funding and accounting standards; work stoppages or other consequences of any deterioration in our employee relations; work stoppages by other unions that affect the ability of suppliers or customers to manufacture; acts of war or terrorism that may disrupt our business operations or those of our customers and suppliers; changes in customer and OEM demand; changes in prices of purchased raw materials and parts that we purchase; changes in domestic economic conditions, including housing starts and changes in consumer disposable income; changes in foreign economic conditions, including currency rate fluctuations; new facts that come to light in the future course of litigation proceedings which could affect our assessment of those matters; a successful transition supply agreement with Murray; the actions of other suppliers and the customers of Murray; the ability to successfully realize the maximum market value of acquired assets; work stoppages or other consequences of any deterioration in Murray’s employee relations; and other factors that may be disclosed from time to time in our SEC filings or otherwise. Some or all of the factors may be beyond our control. We caution you that any forward-looking statement reflects only our belief at the time the statement is made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made.

 

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

There have been no material changes since the September 9, 2004 filing of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

The Company’s management, with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

 

INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITE M 1. Legal Proceedings

 

Briggs & Stratton is subject to various unresolved legal actions which arise in the normal course of its business, the most prevalent of which relate to product liability (including asbestos-related liability) and patent and trademark matters.

 

On June 3, 2004, eight individuals who claim to have purchased lawnmowers in Illinois and Minnesota filed a lawsuit (Ronnie Phillips et al. v. Sears Roebuck Corporation et al., No. 04-L-334 (20th Judicial Circuit, St. Clair County, IL)) against the Company and other defendants alleging that the horsepower labels on the products they purchased were inaccurate. The plaintiffs seek certification of a class of all persons in the United States who, beginning January 1, 1995 through the present, purchased a lawnmower containing a two stroke or four stroke gas combustion engine up to 20 horsepower that was manufactured by the defendants. The complaint seeks an injunction, compensatory and punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees. The Company intends to vigorously defend this case. On April 20, 2005, the court issued a Stay with respect to this case pending settlement negotiations.

 

Although it is not possible to predict with certainty the outcome of these unresolved legal actions or the range of possible loss, Briggs & Stratton believes these unresolved legal actions will not have a material effect on its financial position or results of operations.

 

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit
Number


 

Description


10.1        Asset Purchase Agreement, dated January 25, 2005, by and among Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC, Briggs & Stratton Canada Inc., Murray, Inc. and Murray Canada Co. (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 25, 2005)
10.2        Transition Supply Agreement, dated February 11, 2005, between Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC and Murray, Inc. (Form of Transition Supply Agreement filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 25, 2005)
10.3 (a)   Term Loan Agreement, dated February 11, 2005, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation and LaSalle Bank N.A., as syndication agent, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 11, 2005)
10.3 (b)   Term Loan Agreement Amendment, dated March 18, 2005, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation, various financial institutions and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 18, 2005)
10.4 (a)   Multicurrency Credit Agreement dated May 28, 2004, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation, the financial institutions party hereto, and LaSalle Bank National Association, M&I Marshall & Ilsley Bank and U.S. Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, issuing bank and swing line bank (Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 18, 2005)
10.4 (b)   Multicurrency Credit Agreement Amendment dated March 18, 2005, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation, various financial institutions and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 18, 2005)
31.1        Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Filed herewith)
31.2        Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Filed herewith)
32.1        Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Furnished herewith)
32.2        Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Furnished herewith)

 

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SIGNATURES

 

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

 

    BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION
                                (Registrant)
Date: May 4, 2005  

/s/ James E. Brenn


    James E. Brenn
    Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and
    Duly Authorized Officer

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
Number


  

Description


10.1         Asset Purchase Agreement, dated January 25, 2005, by and among Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC, Briggs & Stratton Canada Inc., Murray, Inc. and Murray Canada Co. (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 25, 2005)
10.2         Transition Supply Agreement, dated February 11, 2005, between Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC and Murray, Inc. (Form of Transition Supply Agreement filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 25, 2005)
10.3 (a)    Term Loan Agreement, dated February 11, 2005, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation and LaSalle Bank N.A., as syndication agent, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 11, 2005)
10.3 (b)    Term Loan Agreement Amendment, dated March 18, 2005, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation, various financial institutions and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 18, 2005)
10.4 (a)    Multicurrency Credit Agreement dated May 28, 2004, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation, the financial institutions party hereto, and LaSalle Bank National Association, M&I Marshall & Ilsley Bank and U.S. Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, issuing bank and swing line bank (Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 18, 2005)
10.4 (b)    Multicurrency Credit Agreement Amendment dated March 18, 2005, among Briggs & Stratton Corporation, various financial institutions and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 18, 2005)
31.1         Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Filed herewith)
31.2         Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Filed herewith)
32.1         Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Furnished herewith)
32.2         Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Furnished herewith)

 

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