UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, DC  20549
FORM 10-Q
x    QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended December 27, 2014
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:  333-124824
RBC Bearings Incorporated (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware  (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	95-4372080 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
One Tribology Center Oxford, CT (Address of principal executive offices)	06478 (Zip Code)
(203) 267-7001 (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 has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No ¨   Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer þ Accelerated filer ¨ Non-accelerated filer ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company ¨   Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No x
As of January 23, 2015, RBC Bearings Incorporated had 23,375,015 shares of Common Stock outstanding.

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Part I -	FINANCIAL INFORMATION	3
ITEM 1.	Financial Statements	3
ITEM 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	15
ITEM 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	27
ITEM 4.	Controls and Procedures	27
	Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting	27
Part II -	OTHER INFORMATION	28
ITEM 1.	Legal Proceedings	28
ITEM 1A.	Risk Factors	28
ITEM 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	28
ITEM 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	29
ITEM 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	29
ITEM 5.	Other Information	29
ITEM 6.	Exhibits	29

 

 

Part I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

RBC Bearings Incorporated

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

  

		December 27, 2014				March 29, 2014
		(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	119,240			$	121,207
Short-term investments			—				2,419
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $925 at December 27,  2014 and $1,060 at March 29, 2014			66,580				75,642
Inventory			205,198				198,021
Deferred income taxes			11,940				12,611
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			10,468				7,645
Total current assets			413,426				417,545
Property, plant and equipment, net			138,837				137,154
Goodwill			43,439				43,452
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $12,746 at December 27, 2014 and $12,821 at March 29, 2014			12,383				14,617
Other assets			9,162				8,225
Total assets		$	617,247			$	620,993
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable		$	22,946			$	24,326
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities			21,072				17,220
Current portion of long-term debt			1,222				1,274
Total current liabilities			45,240				42,820
Deferred income taxes			9,958				9,779
Long-term debt, less current portion			7,899				9,173
Other non-current liabilities			21,379				20,769
Total liabilities			84,476				82,541
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $.01 par value; authorized shares: 10,000,000 at December 27, 2014 and March 29, 2014; none issued and outstanding			—				—
Common stock, $.01 par value; authorized shares: 60,000,000 at December 27, 2014 and March 29, 2014; issued and outstanding shares: 23,798,955 at December 27, 2014 and 23,524,028 at March 29, 2014			238				235
Additional paid-in capital			259,183				246,152
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)			(6,606	)			2,365
Retained earnings			299,247				301,942
Treasury stock, at cost, 439,690 shares at December 27, 2014 and 317,817 shares at March 29, 2014			(19,291	)			(12,242	)
Total stockholders' equity			532,771				538,452
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		$	617,247			$	620,993

 

See accompanying notes.

 

 

RBC Bearings Incorporated

Consolidated Statements of Operations

(dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

(Unaudited)

 

		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013
Net sales		$	106,322			$	100,546			$	331,861			$	305,168
Cost of sales			64,669				62,050				206,636				185,612
Gross margin			41,653				38,496				125,225				119,556
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative			19,266				18,273				56,779				52,397
Other, net			1,798				566				5,349				3,688
Total operating expenses			21,064				18,839				62,128				56,085
Operating income			20,589				19,657				63,097				63,471
Interest expense, net			288				276				820				770
Other non-operating (income) expense			146				43				(356	)			(164	)
Income before income taxes			20,155				19,338				62,633				62,865
Provision for income taxes			6,104				6,574				19,314				20,860
Net income		$	14,051			$	12,764			$	43,319			$	42,005
Net income per common share:
Basic		$	0.61			$	0.56			$	1.88			$	1.84
Diluted		$	0.60			$	0.55			$	1.85			$	1.81
Weighted average common shares:
Basic			23,090,635				22,908,556				23,057,864				22,841,011
Diluted			23,376,480				23,311,397				23,369,308				23,205,716
Dividends per share			—				—			$	2.00				—

 

See accompanying notes.

 

 

RBC Bearings Incorporated

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

(dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		December 27,  2014				December 28,  2013				December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013
Net income		$	14,051			$	12,764			$	43,319			$	42,005
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments, net of taxes			169				(230	)			567				(689	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes			13				111				(260	)			99
Foreign currency translation adjustments			(3,307	)			1,497				(9,278	)			4,745
Total comprehensive income		$	10,926			$	14,142			$	34,348			$	46,160

 

See accompanying notes.

 

 

RBC Bearings Incorporated

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

		Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income		$	43,319			$	42,005
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation			10,446				9,930
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation			(3,370	)			(1,529	)
Deferred income taxes			851				3,057
Amortization of intangible assets			1,399				1,378
Amortization of deferred financing costs			244				244
Consolidation and restructuring charges			5,026				—
Stock-based compensation			6,231				4,300
Loss on disposition or sale of assets			515				(31	)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable			7,907				2,207
Inventory			(13,022	)			(17,475	)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			(2,084	)			(6,744	)
Other non-current assets			(2,253	)			(2,388	)
Accounts payable			(1,016	)			(553	)
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities			7,452				(536	)
Other non-current liabilities			760				2,100
Net cash provided by operating activities			62,405				35,965
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment			(15,870	)			(22,622	)
Purchase of short-term investments			—				(729	)
Proceeds from sale of short-term investments			2,380				—
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired			—				(17,568	)
Proceeds from sale of assets			600				100
Net cash used in investing activities			(12,890	)			(40,819	)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Exercise of stock options			3,433				3,632
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation			3,370				1,529
Repurchase of common stock			(7,049	)			(662	)
Payment of term loan			(379	)			(250	)
Dividends paid to shareholders			(46,014	)			—
Other, net			(104	)			(83	)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities			(46,743	)			4,166
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash			(4,739	)			2,197
Cash and cash equivalents:
(Decrease)/increase during the period			(1,967	)			1,509
Cash, at beginning of period			121,207				114,480
Cash, at end of period		$	119,240			$	115,989

 

See accompanying notes.

 

 

RBC Bearings Incorporated

Notes to Unaudited Interim Consolidated Financial Statements

(dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

The consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by RBC Bearings Incorporated, a Delaware corporation (collectively with its subsidiaries, the “Company”), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The March 29, 2014 fiscal year end balance sheet data have been derived from the Company’s audited financial statements, but do not include all disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. The interim financial statements included with this report have been prepared on a consistent basis with the Company’s audited financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 29, 2014.

 

These statements reflect all adjustments, accruals and estimates consisting only of items of a normal recurring nature, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for the fair presentation of the consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations for the interim periods presented. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited financial statements and notes thereto included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

The results of operations for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full year. The nine month periods ended December 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013 each include 39 weeks. The amounts shown are in thousands, unless otherwise indicated.

 

Adoption of Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” to clarify existing guidance on revenue recognition. This guidance includes the required steps to achieve the core principle that a company should recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This pronouncement is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016 with no early adoption permitted. The Company has not determined the effect that the adoption of the pronouncement may have on its financial position and/or results of operations.

 

In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, “Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” This update requires additional disclosures about discontinued operations and amends the requirements for reporting discontinued operations. Under this ASU only disposals constituting a major financial or operational impact or that represent a strategic shift should be reported as discontinued operations. This update also requires new disclosures for individually material disposals that do not qualify as discontinued operations. This guidance was adopted by the Company at the beginning of the second quarter of fiscal 2015. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2013-11, "Income Taxes (Topic 740) - Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists.” This ASU requires that companies net their unrecognized tax benefits against all same-jurisdiction net operating losses or tax credits carryforwards that would be used to settle the position with a tax authority. This standard is applicable for all entities that have unrecognized tax benefits when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. It is effective for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. As such, it was adopted by the Company at the beginning of the first quarter of fiscal 2015. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

 

1. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

The components of comprehensive income (loss) that relate to the Company are net income, valuation of available for sale investments, foreign currency translation adjustments and pension plan and postretirement benefits, all of which are presented in the consolidated statements of stockholders' equity and comprehensive income (loss).

 

The following summarizes the activity within each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):

 

		Currency Translation				Pension and Postretirement Liability				Investments				Total
Balance at March 29, 2014		$	8,837			$	(6,732	)		$	260			$	2,365
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (net of taxes)			(9,278	)			—				72				(9,206	)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)			—				567				(332	)			235
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)			(9,278	)			567				(260	)			(8,971	)
Balance at December 27, 2014		$	(441	)		$	(6,165	)			—			$	(6,606	)

 

2. Net Income Per Common Share

 

Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding.

 

Diluted net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the sum of the weighted-average number of common shares and dilutive common share equivalents then outstanding using the treasury stock method. Common share equivalents consist of the incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options.

 

 

The table below reflects the calculation of weighted-average shares outstanding for each period presented as well as the computation of basic and diluted net income per common share:

 

		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013
Net income		$	14,051			$	12,764			$	43,319			$	42,005
Denominator for basic net income  per common share—weighted-average shares outstanding			23,090,635				22,908,556				23,057,864				22,841,011
Effect of dilution due to employee stock options			285,845				402,841				311,444				364,705
Denominator for diluted net income per common share — weighted-average shares outstanding			23,376,480				23,311,397				23,369,308				23,205,716
Basic net income per common share		$	0.61			$	0.56			$	1.88			$	1.84
Diluted net income per common share		$	0.60			$	0.55			$	1.85			$	1.81

 

At December 27, 2014, 419,250 employee stock options and no restricted shares have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share. At December 28, 2013, 193,500 employee stock options and no restricted shares have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share. The inclusion of these employee stock options and unvested restricted stock shares would be anti-dilutive.

 

3. Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

 

Short-term investments are comprised of equity securities and are measured at fair value by using quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.

 

4. Inventory

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, using the first-in, first-out method, and are summarized below:

 

		December 27, 2014				March 29, 2014
Raw materials		$	19,175			$	18,001
Work in process			49,312				46,134
Finished goods			136,711				133,886
		$	205,198			$	198,021

 

 

 

5. Intangible Assets

 

						December 27, 2014								March 29, 2014
		Weighted Average Useful Lives				Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization				Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization
Product approvals			15			$	4,068			$	2,303			$	6,266			$	3,099
Customer relationships and lists			13				9,017				4,200				9,417				4,018
Trade names			13				2,102				1,324				2,230				1,237
Distributor agreements			5				722				722				722				722
Patents and trademarks			15				7,586				2,888				7,077				2,422
Domain names			10				437				288				437				255
Other			4				1,197				1,021				1,289				1,068
Total						$	25,129			$	12,746			$	27,438			$	12,821

 

Amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets for the three and nine month periods ended December 27, 2014 was $435 and $1,399, respectively. Amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets for the three and nine month periods ended December 28, 2013 was $541 and $1,378, respectively. A gross carrying amount of $2,776 and related amortization of $1,469 was written off in the three month period ended September 27, 2014 due to the consolidation of the Company’s United Kingdom (“U.K.”) facility. Estimated amortization expense for the remaining three months of fiscal 2015, the five succeeding fiscal years and thereafter is as follows:

 

2015		$	434
2016			1,808
2017			1,698
2018			1,575
2019			1,351
2020			1,245
2021 and thereafter			4,272

 

6. Debt

 

The balances payable under all borrowing facilities are as follows:

 

		December 27, 2014				March 29, 2014
Notes payable		$	9,121			$	10,447
Total debt			9,121				10,447
Less: current portion			1,222				1,274
Long-term debt		$	7,899			$	9,173

 

On October 1, 2012, Schaublin purchased the land and building, which it occupied and had been leasing, for 14,067 CHF (approximately $14,910). Schaublin obtained a 20 year fixed rate mortgage of 9,300 CHF (approximately $9,857) at an interest rate of 2.9%. The balance of the purchase price of 4,767 CHF (approximately $5,053) was paid from cash on hand. The balance on this mortgage as of December 27, 2014 was 8,254 CHF, or $8,370.

 

On November 30, 2010, the Company entered into a new credit agreement (the “JP Morgan Credit Agreement”) and related security and guaranty agreements with certain banks, J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. and KeyBank National Association as Co-Lead Arrangers and Joint Lead Book Runners. The JP Morgan Credit Agreement provides Roller Bearing Company of America, Inc. (“RBCA”), as borrower, with a $150,000 five-year senior secured revolving credit facility which can be increased by up to $100,000, in increments of $25,000, under certain circumstances and subject to certain conditions (including the receipt from one or more lenders of the additional commitment).

 

 

Amounts outstanding under the JP Morgan Credit Agreement generally bear interest at the prime rate or LIBOR plus a specified margin, depending on the type of borrowing being made. The applicable margin is based upon the Company’s consolidated ratio of net debt to adjusted EBITDA, measured at the end of each quarter. As of December 27, 2014, the Company’s margin is 0.5% for prime rate loans and 1.5% for LIBOR rate loans.

 

The JP Morgan Credit Agreement requires the Company to comply with various covenants, including among other things, financial covenants to maintain the following: (1) a ratio of consolidated net debt to adjusted EBITDA, not to exceed 3.25 to 1; and (2) a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio not to exceed 1.5 to 1. The credit agreement allows the Company to, among other things, make distributions to shareholders, repurchase its stock, incur other debt or liens, or acquire or dispose of assets provided that the Company complies with certain requirements and limitations of the agreement. As of December 27, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all such covenants.

 

Approximately $3,698 of the JP Morgan Credit Agreement is being utilized to provide letters of credit to secure RBCA’s obligations relating to certain insurance programs. As of December 27, 2014, RBCA had the ability to borrow up to an additional $146,302 under the JP Morgan Credit Agreement.

 

7. Income Taxes

 

The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, various states and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to state or foreign income tax examinations by tax authorities for years ending before April 1, 2006. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax examination by the Internal Revenue Service for fiscal years ending before March 31, 2012. A U.S. federal corporate income tax examination by the Internal Revenue Service for the fiscal year ended April 2, 2011 was deemed effectively settled in the Company’s first quarter of the fiscal year ended March 29, 2014. An Internal Revenue Service examination for the Company’s fiscal year ended March 30, 2013 commenced in the Company’s second quarter of fiscal 2015; there is no defined conclusion date.

 

The effective income tax rates for the three month periods ended December 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013, were 30.3% and 34.0%. In addition to discrete items, the effective income tax rates for these periods are different from the U.S. statutory rates due to a special manufacturing deduction in the U.S. and foreign income taxed at lower rates which decrease the rate, and state income taxes which increases the rate.

 

The effective income tax rate for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 of 30.3% includes discrete items of $698 which are comprised substantially of the reversal of unrecognized tax benefits associated with the expiration of the statutes of limitation and the conclusion of state income tax audits, the recognition of interest on unrecognized tax positions and the recognition of benefits for federal law changes. The effective income tax rate without discrete items for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 would have been 33.7%. The effective income tax rate for the three month period ended December 28, 2013 of 34.0% includes discrete items of $56 which are substantially comprised of the reversal of unrecognized tax benefits associated with the expiration of statutes of limitations as well as the recognition of interest on unrecognized tax positions. The effective income tax rate without discrete items for the three month period ended December 28, 2013 would have been 34.3%. The Company believes it is reasonably possible that some of its unrecognized tax positions may be effectively settled within the next twelve months due to the closing of audits and the statute of limitations expiring in varying jurisdictions. The decrease, pertaining primarily to credits and state tax, is estimated to be approximately $631.

 

 

8. Reportable Segments

 

The Company operates through operating segments for which separate financial information is available, and for which operating results are evaluated regularly by the Company's chief operating decision maker in determining resource allocation and assessing performance. Those operating segments with similar economic characteristics and that meet all other required criteria, including nature of the products and production processes, distribution patterns and classes of customers, are aggregated as reportable segments. Certain other operating segments that do not exhibit the common attributes mentioned above and do not meet the quantitative thresholds for separate disclosure are combined and disclosed as "Other".

 

The Company has four reportable business segments, Plain Bearings, Roller Bearings, Ball Bearings and Other, which are described below. Within the Plain Bearings, Roller Bearings and Ball Bearings reportable segments, the Company has not aggregated any operating segments. Within the Other reportable segment, the Company has aggregated operating segments because they do not meet the quantitative threshold for separate disclosure.

 

Plain Bearings. Plain bearings are produced with either self-lubricating or metal-to-metal designs and consists of several sub-classes, including rod end bearings, spherical plain bearings and journal bearings. Unlike ball bearings, which are used in high-speed rotational applications, plain bearings are primarily used to rectify inevitable misalignments in various mechanical components.

 

Roller Bearings. Roller bearings are anti-friction bearings that use rollers instead of balls. The Company manufactures four basic types of roller bearings: heavy duty needle roller bearings with inner rings, tapered roller bearings, track rollers and aircraft roller bearings.

 

Ball Bearings. The Company manufactures four basic types of ball bearings: high precision aerospace, airframe control, thin section and commercial ball bearings which are used in high-speed rotational applications.

 

 

Other. Other consists of three operating locations that do not fall into the above segmented categories. The Company’s precision machine tool collets provide effective part holding and accurate part location during machining operations. Additionally, the Company provides machining for integrated bearing assemblies and aircraft components for the commercial and defense aerospace markets and tight-tolerance, precision mechanical components for use in the motion control industry.

 

Segment performance is evaluated based on segment net sales and operating income. Items not allocated to segment operating income include corporate administrative expenses and certain other amounts.

 

 

		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28,  2013				December 27, 2014				December 28,  2013
Net External Sales
Plain		$	53,770			$	52,991			$	171,101			$	162,909
Roller			31,358				27,284				96,627				85,911
Ball			14,038				13,054				41,676				33,709
Other			7,156				7,217				22,457				22,639
		$	106,322			$	100,546			$	331,861			$	305,168
Gross Margin
Plain		$	20,283			$	19,350			$	63,567			$	62,292
Roller			12,695				10,739				36,285				35,981
Ball			5,724				4,839				16,511				11,884
Other			2,951				3,568				8,862				9,399
		$	41,653			$	38,496			$	125,225			$	119,556
Selling, General & Administrative Expenses
Plain		$	4,777			$	4,725			$	14,127			$	13,278
Roller			1,507				1,664				4,758				5,171
Ball			1,345				1,379				3,952				3,036
Other			1,072				945				2,933				3,064
Corporate			10,565				9,560				31,009				27,848
		$	19,266			$	18,273			$	56,779			$	52,397
Operating Income
Plain		$	15,881			$	14,521			$	49,384			$	48,255
Roller			10,366				9,182				27,815				30,631
Ball			4,254				3,157				12,121				7,085
Other			1,920				2,608				5,954				6,465
Corporate			(11,832	)			(9,811	)			(32,177	)			(28,965	)
		$	20,589			$	19,657			$	63,097			$	63,471
Geographic External Sales
Domestic		$	89,605			$	84,421			$	278,038			$	257,044
Foreign			16,717				16,125				53,823				48,124
		$	106,322			$	100,546			$	331,861			$	305,168
Intersegment Sales
Plain		$	924			$	1,078			$	2,944			$	2,982
Roller			4,811				4,075				14,850				13,325
Ball			432				481				1,690				1,391
Other			7,380				6,351				22,408				19,602
		$	13,547			$	11,985			$	41,892			$	37,300

 

All intersegment sales are eliminated in consolidation.

 

 

9. Acquisitions

 

On October 7, 2013, the Company acquired the net assets of Turbine Components Inc. (“TCI”) for approximately $3,925. Located in San Diego, California, TCI is an FAA certified aircraft gas turbine repair station and manufacturer of precision components for aerospace markets. TCI’s net sales for calendar year 2012 were approximately $4,000. The purchase price allocation is as follows: accounts receivable ($585), inventory ($125), fixed assets ($1,231), goodwill ($2,821), intangible assets ($441), other non-current assets ($127), other current liabilities ($641), and noncurrent liabilities ($766). The purchase price allocation, which resulted in goodwill of $2,821, is deductible for tax purposes. TCI is included in the Plain Bearings segment. In connection with the acquisition the Company agreed to a contract for additional contingent consideration that is dependent on the outcome of future events. The contingent consideration is based on a market valuation formula and will be payable five years from the acquisition date. The current fair value of the contingent consideration is determined to be $469. Proforma net sales and net income inclusive of TCI are not materially different from the amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

 

On August 16, 2013, the Company acquired Climax Metal Products Company (“CMP”) located in Mentor, Ohio for $13,646. The purchase price included $10,672 in cash and $2,974 of debt. CMP is a manufacturer of precision shaft collars, rigid couplings, keyless locking devices, and bearings for the industrial markets. CMP’s net sales for the calendar year 2012 were approximately $14,100. The purchase price allocation is as follows: accounts receivable ($1,206), inventory ($4,509), other current assets ($73), fixed assets ($2,466), goodwill ($5,623), intangible assets ($3,904), other non-current assets ($10), other current liabilities ($2,171), and noncurrent liabilities ($1,974). The purchase price allocation, which resulted in goodwill of $5,623, is not deductible for tax purposes. CMP is included in the Ball Bearings segment. Proforma net sales and net income inclusive of CMP are not materially different from the amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

 

On March 1, 2013, RBCA and SWP acquired Western Precision Aero LLC (“WPA”), a manufacturer of precision components and gears for the aerospace and industrial markets located in Garden Grove, California for $2,628. The purchase price included $1,408 in cash and $1,220 of debt. The purchase price allocation is as follows: accounts receivable ($646), inventory ($1,369), other current assets ($66), fixed assets ($1,290), intangible assets ($645), other non-current assets ($24), other current liabilities ($1,085) and a gain on acquisition ($327). The Company believes that it was able to acquire WPA for less than the fair value of its assets because of (i) the Company’s unique position as a market leader in the aerospace and industrial bearing market and (ii) the seller’s distressed operations. This addition expands the Company’s offering to customers and expands its portfolio into the aerospace and industrial markets. WPA is included in the Plain Bearings segment.

 

10. Consolidation and Restructuring of Operations

 

In the second quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company reached a decision to consolidate the manufacturing capacity of its United Kingdom (U.K.) facility into its other manufacturing facilities. This decision was based on the Company’s intent to better align manufacturing abilities and product development. The consolidation of this facility into the European and South Carolina operations will strengthen and bring improved manufacturing scale to those operations. As a result the Company recorded a charge of $6,382 associated with the consolidation of operations in the second quarter of fiscal 2015 attributable to the Roller Bearings segment. The $6,382 charge includes $3,707 of inventory rationalization costs, $1,319 in impairment of intangibles, $427 loss on fixed assets disposals, $286 in employee related costs and $643 of other costs related to the consolidation of operations. The inventory rationalization costs were recorded in cost of sales in the income statement. All other costs were recorded under operating expenses in the other, net category of the income statement. The pre-tax charge of $6,382 was offset with an associated discrete tax benefit of $3,131. The Company determined that the market approach was the most appropriate method to estimate the fair value for the inventory and equipment using comparable sales data and actual quotes from potential buyers in the market place. The consolidation of the majority of operations was completed in the second quarter of fiscal 2015. Additional charges of $88 were recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2015.

 

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company consolidated its Texas facility into the South Carolina operation in order to strengthen and bring critical engineering and manufacturing mass to the large bearing product line. As a result, the Company recorded a pre-tax charge of $1,787 in fiscal 2014 and $6,738 in fiscal 2013 under operating expenses in the Other, net category of the income statement associated with this consolidation and restructuring. The Company leased the building to a third party in July 2014.

 

 

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

 

Cautionary Statement As To Forward-Looking Information

 

The information in this discussion contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections. All statements other than statements of historical facts, included in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q regarding our strategy, future operations, future financial position, future revenues, projected costs, prospects and plans and objectives of management are “forward-looking statements” as the term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

 

The words “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “projects,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements that we make. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: (a) the bearing industry is highly competitive, and this competition could reduce our profitability or limit our ability to grow; (b) the loss of a major customer could result in a material reduction in our revenues and profitability; (c) weakness in any of the industries in which our customers operate, as well as the cyclical nature of our customers’ businesses generally, could materially reduce our revenues and profitability; (d) future reductions or changes in U.S. government spending could negatively affect our business; (e) fluctuating or interruption to supply, and availability of raw materials, components and energy resources could materially increase our costs or reduce our revenues, cash flow from operations and profitability; (f) our products are subject to certain approvals, and the loss of such approvals could materially reduce our revenues and profitability; (g) restrictions in our indebtedness agreements could limit our growth and our ability to respond to changing conditions; (h) work stoppages and other labor problems could materially reduce our ability to operate our business; (i) our business is capital intensive and may consume cash in excess of cash flow from our operations; (j) unexpected equipment failures, catastrophic events or capacity constraints may increase our costs and reduce our sales due to production curtailments or shutdowns; (k) we may not be able to continue to make the acquisitions necessary for us to realize our growth strategy; (l) the costs and difficulties of integrating acquired businesses could impede our future growth; (m) we depend heavily on our senior management and other key personnel, the loss of whom could materially affect our financial performance and prospects; (n) our international operations are subject to risks inherent in such activities; (o) currency translation risks may have a material impact on our results of operations; (p) we may be required to make significant future contributions to our pension plan; (q) we may incur material losses for product liability and recall related claims; (r) environmental regulations impose substantial costs and limitations on our operations, and environmental compliance may be more costly than we expect; (s) our intellectual property and other proprietary rights are valuable, and any inability to protect them could adversely affect our business and results of operations; in addition, we may be subject to infringement claims by third parties; (t) cancellation of orders in our backlog of orders could negatively impact our revenues; (u) if we fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud; (v) provisions in our charter documents may prevent or hinder efforts to acquire a controlling interest in us; (w) health care reform could adversely affect our operating results; and (x) we may not pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is contained in our periodic filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, the risks identified under the heading “Risk Factors” set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 29, 2014. Our forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures or investments we may make. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update or alter any forward-looking statement. The following section is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed information, including our financial statements and the notes thereto, which appears elsewhere in this Quarterly Report.

 

 

Overview

 

We are a well known international manufacturer of highly engineered precision plain, roller and ball bearings. Our precision solutions are integral to the manufacture and operation of most machines and mechanical systems, reduce wear to moving parts, facilitate proper power transmission and reduce damage and energy loss caused by friction. While we manufacture products in all major bearing categories, we focus primarily on the higher end of the bearing market where we believe our value added manufacturing and engineering capabilities enable us to differentiate ourselves from our competitors and enhance profitability. We believe our unique expertise has enabled us to garner leading positions in many of the product markets in which we primarily compete. We have been providing bearing solutions to our customers since 1919. Under the leadership of our current management team, we have significantly broadened our end markets, products, customer base and geographic reach. We currently operate 28 facilities of which 25 are manufacturing facilities in four countries.

 

Demand for bearings generally follows the market for products in which bearings are incorporated and the economy as a whole. Purchasers of bearings include industrial equipment and machinery manufacturers, producers of commercial and military aerospace equipment such as missiles and radar systems, agricultural machinery manufacturers, construction, energy, mining and specialized equipment manufacturers and automotive and commercial truck manufacturers. The markets for our products are cyclical, and general market conditions could negatively impact our operating results. We have endeavored to mitigate the cyclicality of our product markets by entering into sole-source relationships and long-term purchase orders, through diversification across multiple market segments within the aerospace and defense and diversified industrial segments, by increasing sales to the aftermarket and by focusing on developing highly customized solutions.

 

Outlook

 

Our backlog, as of December 27, 2014, was $217.5 million compared to $218.6 million as of December 28, 2013. Our net sales for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 increased 8.7% compared to the same period last fiscal year. Our aerospace and defense markets increased 3.2% mainly driven by the commercial aircraft builders compared to last fiscal year. The diversified industrial market increased 16.5% driven by volume increases in mining, oil and gas, and the general industrial markets.

 

Management believes that operating cash flows and available credit under the credit facilities will provide adequate resources to fund internal and external growth initiatives for the foreseeable future. As of December 27, 2014, we had cash and cash equivalents of $119.2 million of which approximately $42.8 million was cash held by our foreign operations. We expect that our undistributed foreign earnings will be re-invested indefinitely for working capital, internal growth and acquisitions for and by our foreign entities.

 

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth the various components of our consolidated statements of operations, expressed as a percentage of net sales, for the periods indicated that are used in connection with the discussion herein.

 

		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013
Statement of Operations Data:
Net sales			100.0	%			100.0	%			100.0	%			100.0	%
Gross margin			39.2				38.3				37.7				39.2
Selling, general and administrative			18.1				18.2				17.1				17.2
Other, net			1.7				0.5				1.6				1.2
Operating income			19.4				19.6				19.0				20.8
Interest expense, net			0.3				0.3				0.2				0.3
Other non-operating (income) expense			0.1				0.1				(0.1	)			(0.1	)
Income before income taxes			19.0				19.2				18.9				20.6
Provision for income taxes			5.8				6.5				5.8				6.8
Net income			13.2				12.7				13.1				13.8

 

Segment Information

 

We have four reportable product segments: Plain Bearings, Roller Bearings, Ball Bearings and Other. Other consists of three operating locations that do not fall into the above segmented categories, primarily machine tool collets, machining for integrated bearing assemblies and aircraft components and tight-tolerance, precision mechanical components. Within the Plain Bearings, Roller Bearings and Ball Bearings segments, we have not aggregated any operating segments. Within the Other reportable segment, we have aggregated operating segments because they do not meet the quantitative threshold for separate disclosure.

 

Three Month Period Ended December 27, 2014 Compared to Three Month Period Ended December 28, 2013

 

Net Sales.

		Three Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				$ Change				%  Change
Plain Bearings		$	53.8			$	53.0			$	0.8				1.5	%
Roller Bearings			31.3				27.3				4.0				14.9	%
Ball Bearings			14.0				13.0				1.0				7.5	%
Other			7.2				7.2				—				0.0	%
Total		$	106.3			$	100.5			$	5.8				5.7	%

 

Net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 were $106.3 million, an increase of 5.7% from $100.5 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2014. The increase in net sales was mainly the result of a 13.9% increase in industrial sales driven by construction, oil and gas and the general industrial markets. Aerospace and defense decreased 0.3% mainly due to a decrease in defense and distribution.

 

The Plain Bearings segment achieved net sales of $53.8 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014, an increase of $0.8 million compared to $53.0 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. This increase was mainly attributable to a favorable impact in volume of $1.1 million offset by an unfavorable impact in foreign exchange of $0.3 million. The main contributors were oil and gas, and the general industrial markets.

 

 

The Roller Bearings segment achieved net sales of $31.3 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014, an increase of $4.0 million, compared to $27.3 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. Net sales to the diversified industrial sector increased by $4.6 million and net sales to the aerospace and defense sector decreased by $0.6 million. This segment was primarily affected by higher volume in construction, oil and gas, and the general industrial sector.

 

The Ball Bearings segment achieved net sales of $14.0 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014, an increase of $1.0 million, or 7.5%, compared to $13.0 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. Net sales to the aerospace and defense sector increased by $1.5 million offset by a decrease in the diversified industrial sector of $0.5 million.

 

The Other segment, which is focused mainly on the sale of machine tool collets and precision components, achieved net sales of $7.2 million for the three month periods ended December 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013.

 

Gross Margin.

		Three Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				$ Change				%  Change
Plain Bearings		$	20.3			$	19.4			$	0.9				4.8	%
Roller Bearings			12.7				10.7				2.0				18.2	%
Ball Bearings			5.7				4.8				0.9				18.3	%
Other			3.0				3.6				(0.6	)			(17.3	)%
Total		$	41.7			$	38.5			$	3.2				8.2	%

 

Gross margin for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 was $41.7 million compared to $38.5 million for the same period last year. Gross margin as a percentage of net sales was 39.2% in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to 38.3% for the same period last year.

 

Gross margin for the Plain Bearings segment was $20.3 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014, versus $19.4 million for the comparable period in fiscal 2014. This was a 4.8% increase mainly due to favorable impacts in volume of $0.4 million, product mix of $0.2 million, cost efficiencies of $0.6 million offset by an unfavorable impact from foreign currency of $0.3 million.

 

The Roller Bearings segment reported gross margin of $12.7 million, or 40.5% of net sales, in the three month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $10.7 million, or 39.4%, in the same period in the prior fiscal year. The increase in gross margin was mostly attributable to favorable impacts from volume of $0.4 million, product mix of $0.5 million and cost efficiencies of $1.1 million.

 

The Ball Bearings segment reported gross margin of $5.7 million, or 40.8% of net sales, in the three month period ended December 27, 2014 versus $4.8 million, or 37.1%, in the same period in fiscal 2014. The increase of $0.9 million was mainly attributable to favorable impacts of $0.5 million of volume and $0.4 million of cost efficiencies.

 

During the three month period ended December 27, 2014, the Other segment reported gross margin of $3.0 million, or 41.2% of net sales, compared to $3.6 million, or 49.4%, for the same period in the prior fiscal year. The decrease was mainly due to volume.

 

 

Selling, General and Administrative.

		Three Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28,  2013				$ Change				% Change
Plain Bearings		$	4.8			$	4.7			$	0.1				1.1	%
Roller Bearings			1.5				1.7				(0.2	)			(9.4	)%
Ball Bearings			1.3				1.4				(0.1	)			(2.5	)%
Other			1.1				0.9				0.2				13.4	%
Corporate			10.6				9.6				1.0				10.5	%
Total		$	19.3			$	18.3			$	1.0				5.4	%

 

SG&A for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 was $19.3 million, an increase of $1.0 million from $18.3 million for the same period last year. The increase of $1.0 million was primarily attributable to an increase of $0.6 million in incentive stock compensation expenses and $0.4 million in other items. As a percentage of net sales, SG&A was 18.1% for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to 18.2% for the same period last year.

 

Other, Net. Other operating expenses for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 totaled $1.8 million compared to $0.6 million for the same period last year. For the third quarter of fiscal 2015, other operating expenses consisted of $0.4 million of amortization of intangibles, $0.1 million in costs associated with consolidation and restructuring and $1.5 million associated with acquisition activity offset by $0.2 million of other income. The $1.5 million of acquisition activity was legal, accounting, tax and environmental due diligence expenses on investigating a large transformational acquisition target. The Company was not successful in winning the final bid in the auction process. For the same period last year, other operating expenses consisted of $0.5 million of amortization of intangibles and $0.1 million in other expenses.

 

Operating Income.

		Three Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28,  2013				$ Change				% Change
Plain Bearings		$	15.9			$	14.5			$	1.4				9.4	%
Roller Bearings			10.4				9.2				1.2				12.9	%
Ball Bearings			4.2				3.2				1.0				34.7	%
Other			1.9				2.6				(0.7	)			(26.4	)%
Corporate			(11.8	)			(9.8	)			(2.0	)			20.6	%
Total		$	20.6			$	19.7			$	0.9				4.7	%

 

Operating income for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 was $20.6 million compared to operating income of $19.7 million for the same period last year. As a percentage of net sales, operating income was 19.4% compared to 19.6% for the same period last year. Excluding the costs associated with the consolidation and restructuring and acquisition activity, operating income would have been $22.2 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to $19.7 million for the same period last year. Excluding these items, operating income as a percentage of net sales would have been 20.9% compared to 19.6% for the same period last year.

 

The Plain Bearings segment achieved an operating income of $15.9 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $14.5 million in the comparable period in fiscal 2014. The increase of $1.4 million was mainly due to favorable impacts in volume of $0.4 million, product mix of $0.2 million and cost efficiencies of $1.1 million offset by an unfavorable impact from foreign currency of $0.3 million.

 

 

The Roller Bearings segment achieved an operating income of $10.4 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $9.2 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. This segment was favorably impacted by $0.4 million of volume, $0.3 million of product mix and $0.5 million of cost efficiencies.

 

The Ball Bearings segment achieved an operating income of $4.2 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $3.2 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. The increase of $1.0 million was mainly attributable to favorable impacts of $0.5 million of volume and $0.5 million of cost efficiencies.

 

The Other segment achieved an operating income of $1.9 million in the three month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $2.6 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. The decrease was mainly due to unfavorable impacts from a volume decrease of $0.5 million and higher SG&A costs of $0.2 million.

 

Interest Expense, Net. Interest expense, net was $0.3 million for both the third quarter of fiscal 2015 and the same period last year.

 

Income Before Income Taxes. Income before taxes increased by $0.9 million to $20.2 million for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $19.3 million for the three month period ended December 28, 2013.

 

Income Taxes. Income tax expense for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 was $6.1 million compared to $6.6 million for the three month period ended December 28, 2013. Our effective income tax rate for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 was 30.3% compared to 34.0% for the three month period ended December 28, 2013. The effective income tax rate for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 of 30.3% includes discrete items of $0.7 million which are comprised substantially of the reversal of unrecognized tax benefits associated with the expiration of the statutes of limitation and the conclusion of state income tax audits, the recognition of interest on unrecognized tax positions and the recognition of benefits for federal law changes. The effective income tax rate without discrete items for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 would have been 33.7%. The effective income tax rate of 34.0% for the prior year quarter includes discrete items in the amount of $0.1 million which are substantially comprised of the reversal of unrecognized tax benefits associated with the expiration of statutes of limitations along with the recognition of interest on unrecognized tax positions. The effective income tax rate without these discrete items would have been 34.3%.

 

Net Income. Net income increased by $1.3 million to $14.1 million for the three month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $12.8 million for the three month period ended December 28, 2013. Excluding the after tax impact of costs associated with consolidation and restructuring, acquisition activity costs and the discrete tax benefits, net income would have been $14.4 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2015, an increase of $1.6 million over the same period last year.

 

Nine Month Period Ended December 27, 2014 Compared to Nine Month Period Ended December 28, 2013

 

Net Sales.

		Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				$ Change				%  Change
Plain Bearings		$	171.1			$	162.9			$	8.2				5.0	%
Roller Bearings			96.6				85.9				10.7				12.5	%
Ball Bearings			41.7				33.7				8.0				23.6	%
Other			22.5				22.7				(0.2	)			(0.8	)%
Total		$	331.9			$	305.2			$	26.7				8.7	%

 

 

Net sales for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 were $331.9 million, an increase of $26.7 million, or 8.7%, compared to $305.2 million for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013. Excluding the $6.0 million and $2.1 million impacts of CMP and TCI which were acquired in August 2013 and October 2013, respectively, net sales increased $18.6 million compared to the nine month period ended December 28, 2013. Of this increase, $0.5 million was due to a favorable foreign exchange rate impact. Exclusive of acquisitions, net sales to the diversified industrial markets increased 12.1% in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to the same period last fiscal year, mainly driven by higher activity in mining, oil and gas, and the general industrial markets. Net sales to aerospace and defense customers increased by 3.2% in the period, primarily from commercial aircraft build rates and defense.

 

The Plain Bearings segment achieved net sales of $171.1 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014, an increase of $8.2 million, or 5.0%, compared to $162.9 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. Excluding the $2.1 million impact of TCI, the net sales increase of $6.1 million for this segment was attributable to increased volume of $5.8 million and a favorable exchange rate impact of $0.3 million. Exclusive of acquisitions, net sales to aerospace and defense customers increased 5.0% and net sales to diversified industrial markets increased 1.1%.

 

The Roller Bearings segment achieved net sales of $96.6 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014, an increase of $10.7 million, or 12.5%, compared to $85.9 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. Net sales to diversified industrial markets increased 22.5% and net sales to aerospace and defense customers increased 3.2%.

 

The Ball Bearings segment achieved net sales of $41.7 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014, an increase of $8.0 million, or 23.6%, compared to $33.7 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. Excluding the $6.0 million impact of CMP, the net sales increase was primarily related to increased volume to aerospace and defense customers.

 

The Other segment, which is focused mainly on the sale of machine tool collets and precision components, achieved net sales of $22.5 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014, a decrease of $0.2 million compared to $22.7 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year.

 

Gross Margin.

		Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				$ Change				% Change
Plain Bearings		$	63.5			$	62.3			$	1.2				2.0	%
Roller Bearings			36.3				36.0				0.3				0.8	%
Ball Bearings			16.5				11.9				4.6				38.9	%
Other			8.9				9.4				(0.5	)			(5.7	)%
Total		$	125.2			$	119.6			$	5.6				4.7	%

 

Gross margin was $125.2 million, or 37.7% of net sales, in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014, versus $119.6 million, or 39.2% of net sales, for the same period in fiscal 2014. Excluding the impact of the consolidation and restructuring of the U.K. facility, gross margin would have been $128.9 million, or 38.9%, in fiscal 2015.

 

Gross margin for the Plain Bearings segment was $63.5 million, or 37.2% of net sales, in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 versus $62.3 million, or 38.2% for the comparable period in fiscal 2014. The acquisition of TCI contributed $0.1 million to this improved performance. Excluding this impact, this segment was favorably impacted by a $1.1 million increase in volume.

 

 

The Roller Bearings segment reported gross margin of $36.3 million, or 37.6% of net sales, in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $36.0 million, or 41.9%, in the same period in the prior fiscal year. Gross margin was unfavorably impacted by $3.7 million of costs primarily related to the consolidation and restructuring of the U.K. facility offset by favorable product mix of $1.7 million, cost efficiencies of $1.1 million and a volume increase of $1.2 million.

 

The Ball Bearings segment reported gross margin of $16.5 million, or 39.6% of net sales, in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 versus $11.9 million, or 35.3%, in the same period in fiscal 2014. The acquisition of CMP contributed $2.7 million to this improved performance. Excluding this impact, this segment’s performance was primarily attributable to cost efficiencies of $1.2 million and increased volume of $0.7 million.

 

During the nine month period ended December 27, 2014, the Other segment reported gross margin of $8.9 million, or 39.5% of net sales, compared to $9.4 million, or 41.5%, for the same period in the prior fiscal year.

 

Selling, General and Administrative.

		Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				$ Change				% Change
Plain Bearings		$	14.1			$	13.3			$	0.8				6.4	%
Roller Bearings			4.8				5.2				(0.4	)			(8.0	)%
Ball Bearings			4.0				3.0				1.0				30.2	%
Other			2.9				3.1				(0.2	)			(4.3	)%
Corporate			31.0				27.8				3.2				11.4	%
Total		$	56.8			$	52.4			$	4.4				8.4	%

 

SG&A expenses increased by $4.4 million, or 8.4%, to $56.8 million for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $52.4 million for the same period in fiscal 2014. The increase of $4.4 million was primarily attributable to an increase of $1.9 million in incentive stock compensation expense, $2.4 million related to the addition of two acquisitions and $0.1 million in other costs. As a percentage of net sales, SG&A was 17.1% for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to 17.2% for the same period in fiscal 2014.

 

Other, Net. Other, net for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 was expense of $5.3 million, an increase of $1.6 million, compared to expense of $3.7 million for the same period in fiscal 2014. For the first nine months of fiscal 2015 other operating expenses consisted of $2.8 million related to the consolidation of operations, $1.4 million of amortization of intangibles, $1.5 million associated with acquisition activity, offset by other income of $0.4 million. For the nine month period ended December 28, 2013, other operating expenses consisted of $1.7 million associated with the consolidation and restructuring of the large bearing facilities, $1.4 million of amortization of intangibles, $0.5 million of costs associated with acquisitions and $0.1 million of other expenses.

 

Operating Income.

		Nine Months Ended
		December 27, 2014				December 28, 2013				$ Change				% Change
Plain Bearings		$	49.4			$	48.3			$	1.1				2.3	%
Roller Bearings			27.8				30.6				(2.8	)			(9.2	)%
Ball Bearings			12.1				7.1				5.0				71.1	%
Other			6.0				6.5				(0.5	)			(7.9	)%
Corporate			(32.2	)			(29.0	)			(3.2	)			11.1	%
Total		$	63.1			$	63.5			$	(0.4	)			(0.6	)%

 

 

Operating income was $63.1 million, or 19.0% of net sales, in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $63.5 million, or 20.8% of net sales, in the comparable period in fiscal 2014. Excluding the impact of the consolidation and restructuring of the U.K. and Texas facilities and of the costs associated with acquisitions, operating income would have been $71.1 million in fiscal 2015 compared to $65.4 million in fiscal 2014.

 

The Plain Bearings segment achieved an operating income of $49.4 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $48.3 million for the same period last fiscal year.

 

The Roller Bearings segment achieved an operating income of $27.8 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $30.6 million in the comparable period in fiscal 2014. This segment was unfavorably impacted by $6.5 million of costs primarily related to the consolidation of operations offset by favorable impacts from manufacturing efficiencies of $0.8 million, increased volume of $1.2 million and product mix of $1.7 million.

 

The Ball Bearings segment achieved an operating income of $12.1 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $7.1 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. The acquisition of CMP contributed $1.7 million to this improved performance. Excluding this impact, the increase was mostly attributable to cost efficiencies of $2.5 million and increased volume of $0.8 million.

 

The Other segment achieved an operating income of $6.0 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $6.5 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year.

 

Interest Expense, Net. Interest expense, net was $0.8 million in the nine month periods ended December 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013.

 

Other Non-Operating (Income) Expense. Other non-operating income was $0.3 million in the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to income of $0.2 million in the same period last fiscal year. The change of $0.1 million was primarily due to the impact of foreign exchange rates on foreign currency deposits.

 

Income Before Income Taxes. Income before taxes decreased by $0.3 million to $62.6 million for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $62.9 million for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013.

 

Income Taxes. Income tax expense for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 was $19.3 million compared to $20.9 million for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013. Our effective income tax rate for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 was 30.8% compared to 33.2% for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013. The effective income tax rate for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 of 30.8% includes discrete items in the amount of $3.8 million which are substantially comprised of items associated with the consolidation and restructuring of the Company’s U.K. manufacturing facility, along with the reversal of unrecognized tax benefits associated with the expiration of the statutes of limitation, the conclusion of state income tax audits, the recognition of interest on unrecognized tax positions and the recognition of benefits for federal law change. The effective income tax rate without these discrete items and without other associated consolidated and restructuring expenses pertaining to the Company’s U.K. manufacturing facility would have been 33.5%. The effective income tax rate for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013 of 33.2% includes discrete items in the amount of $0.6 million which are substantially comprised of the reversal of unrecognized tax benefits associated with the expiration of statutes of limitations and the conclusion of income tax audits as well as the recognition of interest on unrecognized tax positions. The effective income tax rate without these discrete items would have been 34.1%. In addition to discrete items, the effective income tax rates are different from U.S. statutory rates due to a special manufacturing deduction in the U.S. and foreign income taxed at lower rates which decrease the rate, and an officers’ compensation adjustment and state income taxes which increase the rate.

 

 

Net Income. Net income increased by $1.3 million to $43.3 million for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $42.0 million for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013. Excluding the after tax impact of costs associated with the consolidation and restructuring of facilities, net income would have been $46.9 million for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to $42.7 million for the same period last year.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our business is capital intensive. Our capital requirements include manufacturing equipment and materials. In addition, we have historically fueled our growth in part through acquisitions. We have historically met our working capital, capital expenditure requirements and acquisition funding needs through our net cash flows provided by operations, various debt arrangements and sale of equity to investors. We believe that operating cash flows and available credit under the credit facilities will provide adequate resources to fund internal and external growth initiatives for the foreseeable future.

 

Liquidity

 

On October 1, 2012, Schaublin purchased the land and building, which it currently occupies and had been leasing, for 14.1 million CHF (approximately $14.9 million). Schaublin obtained a 20 year fixed rate mortgage for 9.3 million CHF (approximately $9.9 million) at an interest rate of 2.9%. The balance of the purchase price of 4.8 million CHF (approximately $5.1 million) was paid from cash on hand. As of December 27, 2014, the balance on this mortgage was 8.3 million CHF, or $8.4 million.

 

On November 30, 2010, we and RBCA entered into a new credit agreement (the “JP Morgan Credit Agreement”) and related security and guaranty agreements with certain banks, J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. and KeyBank National Association as Co-Lead Arrangers and Joint Lead Book Runners. The JP Morgan Credit Agreement provides RBCA with a $150.0 million five-year senior secured revolving credit facility which can be increased by up to $100.0 million, in increments of $25.0 million, under certain circumstances and subject to certain conditions (including the receipt from one or more lenders of the additional commitment).

 

Amounts outstanding under the JP Morgan Credit Agreement generally bear interest at the prime rate, or LIBOR plus a specified margin, depending on the type of borrowing being made. The applicable margin is based on our consolidated ratio of net debt to adjusted EBITDA from time to time. Currently, our margin is 0.5% for prime rate loans and 1.5% for LIBOR rate loans.

 

The JP Morgan Credit Agreement requires us to comply with various covenants, including among other things, financial covenants to maintain the following: (1) a ratio of consolidated net debt to adjusted EBITDA not to exceed 3.25 to 1; and (2) a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio not to exceed 1.5 to 1. As of December 27, 2014, we were in compliance with all such covenants.

 

The JP Morgan Credit Agreement allows us to, among other things, make distributions to shareholders, repurchase our stock, incur other debt or liens, or acquire or dispose of assets provided that we comply with certain requirements and limitations of the credit agreement. Our obligations under the JP Morgan Credit Agreement are secured by a pledge of substantially all of our and RBCA’s assets and a guaranty by us of RBCA’s obligations.

 

Approximately $3.7 million of the JP Morgan Credit Agreement is being utilized to provide letters of credit to secure RBCA’s obligations relating to certain insurance programs. As of December 27, 2014, RBCA had the ability to borrow up to an additional $146.3 million under the JP Morgan Credit Agreement.

 

Our ability to meet future working capital, capital expenditures and debt service requirements will depend on our future financial performance, which will be affected by a range of economic, competitive and business factors, particularly interest rates, cyclical changes in our end markets and prices for steel and our ability to pass through price increases on a timely basis, many of which are outside of our control. In addition, future acquisitions could have a significant impact on our liquidity position and our need for additional funds.

 

 

From time to time we evaluate our existing facilities and operations and their strategic importance to us. If we determine that a given facility or operation does not have future strategic importance, we may sell, partially or completely, relocate production lines, consolidate or otherwise dispose of those operations. Although we believe our operations would not be materially impaired by such dispositions, relocations or consolidations, we could incur significant cash or non-cash charges in connection with them.

 

On May 16, 2014, our Board declared a special dividend to shareholders of $2.00 per common share or a total of approximately $46.0 million. The special dividend was paid on June 13, 2014, to shareholders of record on May 30, 2014. The ex-dividend date was May 28, 2014. The Board opted for a special dividend payment, rather than a regular reoccurring dividend to allow greater flexibility given our pipeline of attractive growth opportunities. The Board, will however, consider the use of additional special cash dividends in the future as circumstances warrant.

 

As of December 27, 2014, we had cash and cash equivalents of $119.2 million of which approximately $42.8 million was cash held by our foreign operations. We expect that our undistributed foreign earnings will be re-invested indefinitely for working capital, internal growth and acquisitions for and by our foreign entities.

 

Cash Flows

 

Nine Month Period Ended December 27, 2014 Compared to the Nine Month Period Ended December 28, 2013

 

In the nine month period ended December 27, 2014, we generated cash of $62.4 million from operating activities compared to $36.0 million for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013. The increase of $26.4 million was mainly a result of an increase in net income of $1.3 million, the increase of non-cash charges of $4.0 million and a favorable net change in operating assets and liabilities of $21.1 million. The change in working capital investment was primarily attributable to favorable impacts in accounts receivable of $5.7 million, inventory of $4.5 million, prepaid and other current assets of $4.6 million, accrued expenses and other current liabilities of $8.0 million and other non-current assets of $0.1 million, offset by unfavorable impacts in accounts payable of $0.5 million and other non-current liabilities of $1.3 million. Inventory turnover remained at 1.7 for the nine month periods ended December 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013. Days sales outstanding decreased to 59 at December 27, 2014 as compared to 61 at December 28, 2013.

 

Cash used in investing activities for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 included $15.9 million for capital expenditures offset by $2.4 million from the sale of short-term investments and $0.6 million from the sale of assets. Cash used in investing activities for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013 included $22.6 million for capital expenditures, $0.7 million for the purchase of short-term investments and $17.6 million related to the acquisition of businesses.

 

Cash used in financing activities was $46.7 million for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014 compared to providing $4.2 million for the nine month period ended December 28, 2013. The nine month period ended December 27, 2014 incurred $46.0 million from cash dividends paid to shareholders, $7.0 million from the repurchase of common stock, $0.4 million of payments on notes payable and $0.1 million from payments on capital lease obligations offset by $3.4 million from the exercise of stock options and $3.4 million in excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation. The nine month period ended December 28, 2013 included $3.6 million from the exercise of stock options and $1.5 million in excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation offset by $0.6 million from the repurchase of common stock and $0.3 million of payments on notes payable.

 

 

Capital Expenditures

 

Our capital expenditures were $15.9 million for the nine month period ended December 27, 2014. In addition, we expect to make additional capital expenditures of $3.0 to $6.0 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 in connection with our existing business. We expect to fund fiscal 2015 capital expenditures principally through existing cash, internally generated funds and debt. We may also make substantial additional capital expenditures in connection with acquisitions.

 

Obligations and Commitments

 

As of December 27, 2014, there were no material changes in capital lease, operating lease or pension and postretirement obligations as compared to such obligations and liabilities as of March 29, 2014.

 

Other Matters

 

Critical Accounting Estimates

 

Preparation of our financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. We believe the most complex and sensitive judgments, because of their significance to the Consolidated Financial Statements, result primarily from the need to make estimates about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our fiscal 2014 Annual Report, incorporated by reference in our fiscal 2014 Form 10-K, describe the significant accounting estimates and policies used in preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements. Actual results in these areas could differ from management’s estimates. There have been no significant changes in our critical accounting estimates during the first nine months of fiscal 2015.

 

 

ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We are exposed to market risks, which arise during the normal course of business from changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates.

 

Interest Rates. We currently have no variable rate debt outstanding under the credit agreement. If we do incur variable rate debt in the future, we would evaluate the impact of interest rate changes on our net income and cash flow and take appropriate action to limit our exposure.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates. As a result of our operations in Europe, we are exposed to risk associated with fluctuating currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar, the Euro, the Swiss Franc, the Polish Zloty and the British Pound Sterling. Our Swiss operations utilize the Swiss Franc as the functional currency, our French operations utilize the Euro as the functional currency, our Polish operations utilize the Polish Zloty as the functional currency and our English operations utilize the British Pound Sterling as the functional currency. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in earnings. Approximately 14% of our net sales were impacted by foreign currency fluctuations in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to approximately 13% in the same period in fiscal 2014. We expect that this proportion is likely to increase as we seek to increase our penetration of foreign markets, particularly within the aerospace and defense markets. Foreign currency transaction exposure arises primarily from the transfer of foreign currency from one subsidiary to another within the group, and to foreign currency denominated trade receivables. Unrealized currency translation gains and losses are recognized upon translation of the foreign subsidiaries’ balance sheets to U.S. dollars. Because our financial statements are denominated in U.S. dollars, changes in currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and other currencies have had, and will continue to have, an impact on our earnings. We periodically enter into derivative financial instruments in the form of forward exchange contracts to reduce the effect of fluctuations in exchange rates on certain third-party sales transactions denominated in non-functional currencies. Based on the accounting guidance related to derivatives and hedging activities, we record derivative financial instruments at fair value. For derivative financial instruments designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on these hedges is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”), and is reclassified into earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings. As of December 27, 2014, we had no derivatives.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We have no off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

ITEM 4.    Controls and Procedures

 

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)) as of December 27, 2014. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of December 27, 2014, our disclosure controls and procedures were (1) designed to ensure that information relating to our Company required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported to our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and (2) effective, in that they provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

No change in our internal control over financial reporting occurred during the three month period ended December 27, 2014 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act).

 

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we are involved in litigation and administrative proceedings which arise in the ordinary course of our business. We do not believe that any litigation or proceeding in which we are currently involved, either individually or in the aggregate, is likely to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, operating results, cash flow or prospects.

 

Our wholly owned subsidiary, RBC Aircraft Products, Inc. is a plaintiff in a lawsuit against Precise Machining & Manufacturing LLC currently pending in the United States District Court, District of Connecticut’s Case Number 3:10 CV 878 (SRU). A jury award against Precise Machining & Manufacturing LLC and in favor of RBC Aircraft Products, Inc. in the amount of $2,986,089 was entered on April 9, 2013. Precise Machining & Manufacturing LLC subsequently filed a motion for judgment in its favor as a matter of law and a motion for a new trial. On May 5, 2014 the presiding judge surprisingly overturned the jury verdict and granted a motion for a new trial. RBC Aircraft Products, Inc. subsequently filed a motion for Certification of Judgment, which was unopposed by Precise Machining & Manufacturing LLC, which was granted on July 28, 2014 and allows RBC Aircraft Products, Inc. to immediately appeal the judges’ decision to overturn the jury verdict to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. The overturning of a jury verdict is highly unusual and RBC Aircraft Products, Inc. believes there is no credible support for doing so in this matter and expects to be successful with its appeal.

 

We expect to prevail in this appeal above; however, as litigation is inherently unpredictable, there can be no assurance in this regard. Any monetary recovery from this lawsuit will be recognized only if and when it is received by the Company.

 

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

 

There have been no material changes to our risk factors and uncertainties during the nine month period ended December 27, 2014. For a discussion of the Risk Factors, refer to Part I, Item 2, “Cautionary Statement As To Forward-Looking Information,” contained in this report and Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended March 29, 2014.

 

ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities

 

None.

 

Use of Proceeds

 

Not applicable.

 

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

On February 7, 2013, our board of directors authorized us to repurchase up to $50.0 million of our common stock, from time to time on the open market, in block trade transactions and through privately negotiated transactions in compliance with Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b-18 depending on market conditions, alternative uses of capital and other relevant factors. Purchases may be commenced, suspended, or discontinued at any time without prior notice.

 

Total share repurchases for the three months ended December 27, 2014 are as follows:

 

Period		Total number of shares purchased				Average price paid per share				Number of shares purchased  as part of the publicly announced program				Approximate dollar value of shares still available to be purchased under the program (000’s)
09/28/2014 – 10/25/2014			41,475			$	56.06				41,475			$	41,094
10/26/2014 – 11/22/2014			38				62.88				38				41,092
11/23/2014 – 12/27/2014			16				62.76				16			$	41,091
Total			41,529			$	56.07				41,529

 

 

ITEM 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5.

Other Information

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 6.

Exhibits

 

Exhibit Number		Exhibit Description
31.01		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a).
31.02		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a).
32.01		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 and Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(b).*
32.02		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 and Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(b).*

 

 

*           This certification accompanies this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, is not deemed filed with the SEC and is not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (whether made before or after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q), irrespective of any general incorporation language contained in such filing.

 

 

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.

 

	RBC Bearings Incorporated
		(Registrant)
	By:	/s/ Michael J. Hartnett
		Name:	Michael J. Hartnett
		Title:	Chief Executive Officer
		Date:	February 5, 2015
	By:	/s/ Daniel A. Bergeron
		Name:	Daniel A. Bergeron
		Title:	Chief Financial Officer
		Date:	February 5, 2015

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit Number		Exhibit Description
31.01		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a).
31.02		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a).
32.01		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 and Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(b).*
32.02		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 and Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(b).*

 

*           This certification accompanies this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, is not deemed filed with the SEC and is not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (whether made before or after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q), irrespective of any general incorporation language contained in such filing.