Attached files

file filename
EX-21.1 - LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES - TANDY LEATHER FACTORY INCexhibit21-1.htm
EX-32.1 - SECTION 906 CERTIFICATION - TANDY LEATHER FACTORY INCexhibit32-1.htm
EX-31.2 - RULE 13A-14(A) CERTIFICATION - CFO - TANDY LEATHER FACTORY INCexhibit31-2.htm
EX-31.1 - RULE 13A-14(A) CERTIFICATION - CEO - TANDY LEATHER FACTORY INCexhibit31-1.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

         (Mark One)
        [X]     ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015
OR

        [  ]      TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                    For the transition period ________ to ________

Commission File Number 1-12368
Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
 
75-2543540
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
1900 Southeast Loop 820, Fort Worth, TX  76140
 
817/872-3200
(Address of Principal Executive Offices and Zip Code)
 
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
     
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.0024
 
NASDAQ Global Market
Preferred Share Purchase Rights
 
NASDAQ Global Market

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:   NONE

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes [  ]  No [X]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes [  ]  No [X]

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 if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [X]

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 definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):  Large accelerated filer [  ] Accelerated filer [  ] Non-accelerated filer [  ] Smaller reporting company [X]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes [  ] No [X]

The aggregate market value of the common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $59,091,778 at June 30, 2015 (based on the price at which the common stock was last traded on the last business day of its most recently completed second fiscal quarter).  At March 25, 2016, there were 9,486,978 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on June 7, 2016, are incorporated by reference in Part III of this report.

 
 

 



Item
 
Page
     
Part 1
   
1
  1
1A
  5
1B
  6
2
  6
3
  6
4
  6
     
Part II
   
5
  7
6
  7
7
  8
7A
  12
8
  13
9
  29
9A
  29
9B
  29
     
Part III
   
10
  29
11
  29
12
  29
13
  29
14
  29
     
Part IV
   
15
  29




PART I


General

We are a retailer and wholesale distributor of a broad line of leather and related products, including leather, leatherworking tools, buckles and adornments for belts, leather dyes and finishes, saddle and tack hardware, and do-it-yourself kits. We also manufacture leather lacing and some of our do-it-yourself kits.  During 2015, our consolidated sales totaled $84.2 million of which approximately 14% were export sales.  We maintain our principal offices at 1900 Southeast Loop 820, Fort Worth, Texas 76140.  Our common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol "TLF."

Our company was founded in 1980 as Midas Leathercraft Tool Company, a Texas corporation.  Midas' original business activity focused on the distribution of leathercraft tools.  In addition, the founders of Midas entered into a consulting agreement with Brown Group, Inc., a major footwear retailer, as a result of their proposal to develop a multi-location chain of wholesale stores known as "The Leather Factory."  In 1985, Midas purchased the assets related to The Leather Factory stores from Brown Group, Inc., which then consisted of six wholesale stores.

In 1993, we changed our name to The Leather Factory, Inc.  We reincorporated in the state of Delaware in 1994.  In 2005, we changed our name to Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.

Our Development in Recent Years

We have expanded our wholesale store chain by opening new stores and by making numerous acquisitions of small businesses in strategic geographic locations.  In 1996, we expanded into Canada by acquiring our Canadian distributor, The Leather Factory of Canada, Ltd.

Our retail operations began in 2000, when we acquired the operating assets of two subsidiaries of Tandycrafts, Inc. to form Tandy Leather Company.  In 2002, we opened our first retail store under the "Tandy Leather" name.  Since 2002, we have acquired or opened 85 retail locations and closed three retail stores, for a net of 82 retail stores.

In 2008, we began expanding outside of North America by opening one combination wholesale and retail store in Northampton, United Kingdom.  By 2009, we operated 30 wholesale stores, 75 retail stores, and one international combination wholesale and retail store.  Since 2009, we have closed two wholesale stores, opened nine new retail stores, closed two retail stores, and opened two new international combination wholesale and retail stores.

At December 31, 2015, we operated 28 stores located in North America operating under the Leather Factory name and 82 stores located in North America operating under the Tandy Leather name, and four combination wholesale and retail stores operating under the Tandy Leather Factory name in the United Kingdom, Australia and Spain.

Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. wholly-owns eleven subsidiaries which create three operating segments as follows:

Segment
Subsidiaries included:
Wholesale Leathercraft
The Leather Factory, LP (25 stores)
The Leather Factory of Canada, Ltd (3 stores)
 
Retail Leathercraft
Tandy Leather Company, LP (75 stores)
The Leather Factory of Canada, Ltd (7 stores)
 
International Leathercraft
Tandy Leather Factory UK Ltd. (2 stores)
Tandy Leather Factory Australia Pty Ltd
Tandy Leather Factory Espana, SL

Our growth, measured both by our net sales and net income, occurs as a result of the increase in the number of stores we have and the increase from year to year of the sales in our existing stores.  The following tables provide summary store count information by segment in each of our fiscal years from 1999 to 2015.

STORE COUNT
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999 through 2015

   
Wholesale Leathercraft
Retail Leathercraft
International Leathercraft
 
Year Ended
Opened
Conv. (1)
Closed
Total
Opened (2)
Closed
Total
Opened
Closed
Total
Balance Fwd
     
22
   
N/A
   
N/A
1999
4
-
-
26
-
-
-
-
-
-
2000
2
-
-
28
1*
-
1
-
-
-
2001
2
-
-
30
-
-
1
-
-
-
2002
1
(1)
-
30
14
1*
14
-
-
-
2003
-
-
-
30
12
-
26
-
-
-
2004
-
-
-
30
16
-
42
-
-
-
2005
-
-
-
30
8
-
50
-
-
-
2006
-
(1)
-
29
12
-
62
-
-
-
2007
1^
-
-
30
10
-
72
-
-
-
2008
-
-
-
30
1
-
73
1
-
1
2009
-
-
-
30
2
-
75
-
-
1
2010
-
-
1^
29
1
-
76
-
-
1
2011
-
-
-
29
1
-
77
1
-
2
2012
-
-
-
29
1
-
78
1
-
3
2013
-
-
-
29
3
2
79
-
-
3
2014
-
-
1
28
3
-
82
-
-
3
2015
-
-
-
28
-
-
82
1
-
4

(1) Leather Factory wholesale store converted to a Tandy Leather retail store.
(2)  Includes conversions of Leather Factory wholesale stores to Tandy Leather retail stores.
(*)  The Tandy Leather operation began as a central mail-order fulfillment center in 2000 which was closed in 2002.
(^)  Wholesale store operating as Mid-Continent Leather Sales

No single customer’s purchases represented more than 1/2% of our total sales in 2015.  Sales to our five largest customers represent 1.3%, 1.7% and 2.5% of consolidated sales in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.  Management does not believe the loss of one of these customers would have a significant negative impact on our consolidated operations.

Our Operating Segments

We service our customers primarily through the operation of three segments.  We identify those segments based on management responsibility, customer focus, and store location.  The Wholesale Leathercraft segment consists of 28 wholesale stores of which 25 are located in the United States and three are located in Canada.  As of March 1, 2016, the Retail Leathercraft segment consists of 83 Tandy Leather retail stores, of which 76 are located in the United States and seven are located in Canada.  Both of these segments sell leather and leathercraft-related products.  The International Leathercraft segment consists of all stores, wholesale or retail, located outside of North America.  As of March 1, 2016, we had four such stores, two located in the United Kingdom, one located in Australia, and one located in Spain.

Information regarding net sales, gross profit, operating income, and total assets, attributable to each of our segments, is included within Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and within Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data in Note 12, Segment Information, of our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Wholesale Leathercraft

The Wholesale Leathercraft operation distributes its broad product line of leather and leathercraft-related products in the United States and Canada through wholesale stores operating under the name, “The Leather Factory”.   This segment had net sales of $26.8 million, $27.3 million and $27.4 million for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

General We operate wholesale stores in 18 states and three Canadian provinces.  The stores range in size from 2,350 square feet to 22,000 square feet, with the average size of a store being approximately 5,000 square feet.    The type of premises utilized for our wholesale stores is generally light industrial office/warehouse space in proximity to a major freeway or with other similar access.  This type of location typically offers lower rents compared to other more retail-oriented locations.

Business Strategy Our business concept focuses on the wholesale distribution of leather and related accessories to retailers, manufacturers, and end users.  Our strategy is that a customer can purchase the leather, related accessories and supplies necessary to complete his project from a single source.  The size and layout of the stores are planned to allow large quantities of product to be displayed in an easily accessible and visually appealing manner.  Leather is displayed by the pallet where the customer can see and touch it, assessing first-hand the numerous sizes, styles, and grades offered.  The location of the stores is selected based on the location of customers, so that delivery time to customers is minimized.  A two-day maximum delivery time for phone, Internet and mail orders is our goal.

Our wholesale stores serve customers through various means including walk-in traffic, phone, Internet and mail order.  We also employ a distinctive marketing tactic in that we maintain an internally-developed target customer mailing list for use in our aggressive direct mail advertising campaigns.  We staff our stores with experienced managers whose compensation is tied to the operating profit of the store they manage.  Sales are generated by the selling efforts of the store personnel, our direct mail advertising, our website (www.tandyleather.com), and our participation at trade shows.

Customers Our customer base consists of individuals, wholesale distributors, tack and saddle shops, institutions (prisons and prisoners, schools, hospitals), western stores, craft stores and craft store chains, other large volume purchasers, manufacturers, and retailers dispersed geographically throughout the world.  Wholesale sales constitute the majority of our business, although retail customers may purchase products from our wholesale stores.  The Wholesale Leathercraft division’s sales generally do not reflect significant seasonal patterns.  No single customer’s purchases represented more than 2% of this segment’s sales in 2015.

Merchandise  Our products are generally organized into 12 categories.  We carry a wide assortment of products including leather, lace, hand tools, kits, and craft supplies.  We operate a light manufacturing facility in Fort Worth, Texas whose processes generally involve cutting leather into various shapes and patterns using metal dies.  The factory produces approximately 20% of our products and also assembles and repackages products as needed.  Products manufactured in our factory are distributed through our stores under the TejasTM brand name.  We also distribute product under the Tandy LeatherTM, Eco-FloTM, CraftoolTM, and Dr. Jackson'sTM brands.  We develop new products through the ideas and referrals of customers and store personnel as well as the analysis of fads and trends of interest in the market.

We offer an unconditional satisfaction guarantee to our customers.  Simply stated, we will accept product returns for any reason.  We believe this liberal policy promotes customer loyalty.  We offer credit terms to our non-retail customers upon receipt of a credit application and approval by our credit manager.  Generally, our open accounts are net 30 days.

During 2015, 2014, and 2013, Wholesale Leathercraft division sales by product category were as follows:

Product Category
2015 Sales Mix
 
2014 Sales Mix
 
2013 Sales Mix
Belts strips and straps
3%
 
3%
 
3%
Books, patterns, videos
2%
 
2%
 
2%
Buckles
3%
 
3%
 
4%
Conchos^
2%
 
3%
 
3%
Craft supplies
2%
 
2%
 
2%
Dyes, finishes, glues
7%
 
7%
 
7%
Hand tools
16%
 
16%
 
16%
Hardware
8%
 
8%
 
8%
Kits
5%
 
6%
 
7%
Lace
3%
 
3%
 
4%
Leather
44%
 
41%
 
39%
Stamping tools
5%
 
6%
 
5%
 
100%
 
100%
 
100%
^A concho is a metal adornment attached to clothing, belts, saddles, etc., usually made into a pattern of some southwestern or geometric object.

In addition to meeting ordinary operational requirements, our working capital demands are a product of the need to maintain a level of inventory sufficient to fill customer orders as they are received with minimal backorders and the time required to collect our accounts receivable.  Because availability of merchandise and prompt delivery time are important competitive factors for us, we maintain higher levels of inventory than our smaller competitors.  For additional information regarding our cash, inventory, and accounts receivable at the end of 2015 and 2014, see "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
 
Suppliers We purchase merchandise and raw materials from approximately 150 vendors dispersed throughout the United States and in approximately 20 foreign countries. In 2015, our 10 largest vendors accounted for approximately 79% of our inventory purchases.

Because leather is sold internationally, market conditions abroad are likely to affect the price of leather in the United States.  Outbreaks of mad cow and hoof-and-mouth disease (or foot-and-mouth disease) in any part of the world can influence the price of the leather we purchase.  Because an occurrence of such an event is beyond our control, we cannot predict when and to what extent we could be affected in the future.  Aside from increasing purchases when we anticipate price increases (or possibly delaying purchases if we foresee price declines), we do not attempt to hedge our inventory costs.

Overall, we believe that our relationships with suppliers are strong and do not anticipate any material changes in these supplier relationships.  Due to the number of alternative sources of supply, we do not believe that the loss of any of these principal suppliers would have a material impact on our operations.

Operations Hours of operation are 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday, and from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturdays.  Our stores are closed on Sunday.  The stores maintain uniform prices, except where lower prices are necessary to meet local competition.

Competition Most of our competition comes in the form of small, independently-owned retailers who in most cases are also our customers.  We estimate that there are a few hundred of these small independent stores in the United States and Canada.  We compete on price, availability of merchandise, and delivery time.  While there is competition in connection with a number of our products, to our knowledge there is no direct competition affecting our entire product line.  Our large size relative to most competitors gives us the advantage of being able to purchase large volumes and stock a full range of products in our stores.

Distribution The wholesale stores receive the majority of their inventory from our central warehouse located in Fort Worth, Texas, although occasionally, merchandise is shipped directly from the vendor.  Inventory is shipped to the stores from our central warehouse once a week to meet customer demand without sacrificing inventory turns.  Customer orders are typically filled as received, and we do not have backlogs.

We attempt to maintain the optimum number of items in our product line to minimize out-of-stock situations against carrying costs involved with such an inventory level.  We generally maintain higher inventories of imported items to ensure a continuous supply.  The number of products offered changes every year due to the introduction of new items and the discontinuance of others.  We carry approximately 2,600 items in the current lines of leather and leather-related merchandise.  All items are offered in all stores.

Expansion   We do not believe there is a significant and immediate opportunity for expansion of the Leather Factory wholesale store system in terms of opening additional locations.

Retail Leathercraft

Our Retail Leathercraft segment consists of a growing chain of retail stores operating under the name, “Tandy Leather.”  Tandy Leather Company, established in 1919 as Hinkley-Tandy Leather Company, is the oldest and one of the best-known suppliers of leather and related supplies used in the leathercraft industry.  This retail segment offers a product line of quality tools, leather, accessories, kits, and teaching materials.   It had net sales of $53.7 million, $51.8 million and $47.0 million for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

General   As of March 1, 2016, the Tandy Leather retail chain has 83 stores located in 37 states and six Canadian provinces.  The stores range in size from 1,200 square feet to 9,000 square feet, with the average size of a store being approximately 3,300 square feet.   The type of premises utilized for a retail store is generally an older strip shopping center located at well-known crossroads, making the store easy to find.    In the past several years, we have relocated some of our smaller stores into larger spaces within the same cities as lease terms expire and appropriate larger space is available at acceptable rates.  We expect to limit the number of store relocations in 2016 as we evaluate the benefits gained against the costs of such relocations.

Business Strategy Tandy Leather has long been known for its reputation in the leathercraft industry and its commitment to promoting and developing the craft through education and customer development.  Our commitment to this strategy is evidenced by our re-establishment of the retail store chain throughout the United States and Canada following our acquisition of the assets of Tandy Leather in 2000.  We continue to broaden our customer base by working with various youth organizations and institutions where people are introduced to leathercraft, as well as hosting classes in our stores.

The retail stores serve walk-in, mail, and phone order customers as well as orders generated from our website, www.tandyleather.com.  A two-day maximum delivery time for phone, Internet and mail orders is our goal.  Our retail stores are staffed by knowledgeable sales people whose compensation is based, in part, upon the profitability of their store.  Sales by Tandy Leather are driven by the efforts of the store staff, trade shows, and our direct mail and e-mail marketing program.

Customers Individual retail customers are our largest customer group, representing approximately 60% of Tandy Leather's 2015 sales.  Youth groups, summer camps, schools, and a limited number of wholesale customers complete our customer base.  Like the wholesale stores, the retail stores typically fill orders as they are received, and there is no order backlog.  The retail stores maintain reasonable amounts of inventory to fill these orders.  Tandy Leather’s retail store operations historically generate slightly more sales in the fourth quarter of each year due to the holiday shopping season (28-29% of annual sales), while the other three quarters remain fairly even at 24-25 % of annual sales each quarter.  No single customer’s purchases represented more than 1/2% of Retail Leathercraft’s sales in 2015.

Merchandise Our products are generally organized into 12 categories.  We carry a wide assortment of products including leather, hand tools, kits, dyes, and finishes and stamping tools.  During 2015, 2014 and 2013, Retail Leathercraft division sales by product category were as follows:

Product Category
2015 Sales Mix
 
2014 Sales Mix
 
2013 Sales Mix
Belts strips and straps
5%
 
4%
 
5%
Books, patterns, videos
1%
 
2%
 
2%
Buckles
3%
 
3%
 
3%
Conchos
2%
 
3%
 
3%
Craft supplies
2%
 
2%
 
2%
Dyes, finishes, glues
7%
 
7%
 
7%
Hand tools
16%
 
17%
 
17%
Hardware
8%
 
8%
 
8%
Kits
7%
 
7%
 
8%
Lace
3%
 
3%
 
3%
Leather
41%
 
39%
 
37%
Stamping tools
5%
 
5%
 
5%
 
100%
 
100%
 
100%

As indicated above, the products sold in our retail stores are also sold in our wholesale stores.  Therefore, the discussion above regarding products, their sources, and the working capital requirements for the Wholesale Leathercraft division also apply to the Retail Leathercraft division.  Sales at the retail stores are generally made through cash transactions or through national credit cards.  The retail stores also sell on open account to selected wholesale customers including schools and other institutions and small retailers.  Our terms are generally net 30 days.  Like the wholesale stores, the retail stores have an unconditional return policy.

Operations Hours of operation are 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday, and from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturdays.  Our stores are closed on Sunday.  Selling prices are uniform throughout the retail store system.

Competition Our competitors are generally small local craft stores that carry a limited line of leathercraft products.  Several national retail chains, including those that are customers in our Wholesale Leathercraft division, also carry leathercraft products on a very small scale relative to their overall product line.  We compete on price, availability of merchandise, and depth of our product line.  To our knowledge, our store chain is the only one in existence solely specializing in leathercraft.

Distribution The retail stores receive their inventory from our central warehouse located in Fort Worth, Texas.  The stores generally restock their inventory once a week with a shipment from the warehouse.  Retail Leathercraft’s inventory turns are higher than Wholesale Leathercraft’s because the Wholesale Leathercraft calculation includes the central warehouse inventory whereas the Retail Leathercraft calculation includes only the inventory in the Tandy Leather retail stores.

Expansion   We intend to expand the Tandy Leather retail store chain to between 100 and 120 stores throughout North America as it makes financial sense to do so. Of the 82 stores opened as of December 31, 2015, 11 were independent leathercraft stores that we acquired.  Separately, these acquisitions are not material.  The other 71 stores have been new stores opened by us.

International Leathercraft

Our International Leathercraft segment consists of company-owned stores located outside of North America.  The first store in this segment opened in the United Kingdom in 2008.  As of December 31, 2015, the segment consisted of four wholesale/retail combination stores:  two in the United Kingdom, (the newest one having been opened in October 2015), one in Australia and one in Spain.  The stores operate under the Tandy Leather Factory trade name.  This segment had net sales of approximately $3.7 million, $4.3 million and $3.9 million in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.  We intend to open more stores internationally, specifically in Europe, as the opportunities present themselves, but we have not determined a specific time schedule for said openings.

Business Strategy   The business concept for our International Leathercraft division is a blending of our Leather Factory and Tandy Leather business strategies – the wholesale distribution of leather and related accessories to retailers, manufacturers, and other businesses, as well as the promotion and continuance of leathercraft through education and development of the retail customers.  The stores average 7,000 square feet and are located in light industrial areas.  We seek to maintain sufficient inventory so that our customers can purchase the leather, related accessories, and supplies necessary to complete their projects from one supplier.  The layout of the store is such that large quantities of product can be displayed in an easily accessible and visually appealing manner.  The store services walk-in, mail, and phone order customers as well as orders generated from our website, www.tandyleather.com.  Sales are driven by the efforts of the store staff, trade shows, and our direct mail and e-mail marketing programs.

Customers   The growing customer base consists of individuals, wholesale distributors, equine-related shops, cobblers, dealers, and retailers dispersed geographically throughout Europe, Australia, and Asia.  Retail sales generally occur via cash transactions or through national credits cards.  We also sell on open account to selected wholesale customers including dealers, manufacturers, and retailers.  Like our North American stores, our international stores have an unconditional return policy.  No single customer’s purchases represented more than 3% of International Leathercraft’s sales in 2015.

Our Authorized Sales Center (“ASC”) program was developed to create a presence in geographic areas where we do not have a company-owned store.  An unrelated person operating an existing business could become an ASC by submitting an application and upon approval, placing a minimum initial order and meeting minimum annual purchase amounts.  In exchange, the benefits to the ASC are free advertising in various sales flyers produced and distributed by us, preferred pricing on certain products, advance notice of new products, and priority shipping and handling of orders.  We currently have 6 ASC’s located in Europe.

Merchandise   The products sold in our international stores are also sold in our North America stores.  Therefore, the discussion above regarding products, their sources, and the working capital requirements for the Wholesale and Retail Leathercraft divisions also apply here.

Operations   Hours of operation are 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday, and from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturdays.  Our stores are closed on Sunday.  Selling prices are consistent with our US pricing, adjusted for currency fluctuation.

Competition Our competitors are generally small, independently-owned retailers who, in some cases, are also our customers.  We compete on price, availability of merchandise, and delivery time.  While there is competition in connection with a number of the products we carry, to our knowledge there is no direct competition affecting our entire product line.  We believe our ability to stock a full range of products gives us an advantage over most local competitors.

Distribution   The international stores receive the majority of inventory from our central warehouse located in Fort Worth, Texas, although occasionally, merchandise is shipped directly from the vendor.  Inventory is shipped from our warehouse to the store several times per month to meet customer demand without sacrificing inventory turns.  Customer orders are typically filled as received, and we typically do not have backlogs.
 
Expansion   We intend to expand further internationally by opening additional stores, although the timing of any store openings has not been determined.  We intend to grow our customer base throughout Europe as well as other parts of the world to support any such additional stores. 

For more information about our business and our reportable segments, see Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” on page 8.
 
 
Additional Information

Compliance With Environmental Laws Our compliance with federal, state and local environmental protection laws has not had, and is not expected to have, a material effect on our capital expenditures, earnings, or competitive position.

Employees As of December 31, 2015, we employed 584 people, 488 of whom were employed on a full-time basis.  We are not a party to any collective bargaining agreements.  Overall, we believe that relations with employees are good.

Intellectual Property   We own approximately 120 registered trademarks, including federal trade name registrations for "Tandy Leather Factory,” “The Leather Factory," "Tandy Leather Company," and “Tandy.”  We also own approximately 60 registered foreign trademarks worldwide.  We own approximately 600 registered copyrights in the United States covering more than 800 individual works relating to various products.  We also own several United States patents for specific belt buckles and leather-working equipment.  These rights are valuable assets, and we defend them as necessary.

International Operations Information regarding our revenues from the United States and abroad and our long-lived assets are found in Note 12 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, Segment Information.  For a description of some of the risks attendant to our foreign operations, see Item 1.A “Risk Factors” on page 5.

Our Website and Availability of SEC Reports We file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").  These reports include our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to these filings.  The public may read any of these filings at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC  20549 on official business days during the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.  In addition, the public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.  Further, the SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information concerning us.  You can connect to this site at www.sec.gov.

Our corporate website is located at www.tandyleather.com.  We make copies of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, proxy statements and any amendments thereto filed with or furnished to the SEC available to investors on or through our website free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file them with or furnish them to the SEC.  Our SEC filings can be found on the Investor Relations page of our website through the "SEC Filings" link.  In addition, certain other corporate governance documents are available on our website through the "Corporate Governance" link.

 
Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following table sets forth information concerning our executive officers as of March 25, 2016:

 
Name and Age
 
Position
 
Served as Executive Officer Since
     
Shannon L. Greene, 50
Interim Chief Executive Officer since February 2016; Chief Financial Officer since May 2000; Treasurer and Chief Accounting Officer since 2001
2000
     
Mark J. Angus, 55
Interim President since February 2016; Senior Vice President and Assistant Secretary since June 2008; Operational Vice President of Merchandising since June 1993
2008
     
William M. Warren, 72
Secretary and Corporate Counsel
1993


Shannon L. Greene has served as our interim Chief Executive Officer since February 2016, following the resignation of Jon Thompson, former Chief Executive Officer and President.  Ms. Greene has also served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since May 2000 and director since January 2001.  Ms. Greene is also our Chief Accounting Officer.  Ms. Greene, a certified public accountant, also serves on our 401(k) Plan committee.

Mark J. Angus has served as interim President since February 2016, following the resignation of Jon Thompson, former Chief Executive Officer and President.  Mr. Angus has also served as our Senior Vice President since June 2008 and as director since July 2009.  He has served as Vice President of Merchandising since January 1993.

William M. Warren has served as Secretary and General Counsel since 1993.  Since 1979, Mr. Warren has been President and Director of Loe, Warren, Rosenfield, Kaitcer, Hibbs, Windsor & Lawrence, P.C., a law firm located in Fort Worth, Texas.

All officers are elected annually by the Board of Directors to serve for the ensuing year.

Risks to Our Industry

Our business may be negatively impacted by general economic conditions in the United States and abroad.

Our performance is subject to worldwide economic conditions and their impact on levels of consumer spending that affect not only the ultimate consumer, but also small businesses and other retailers.  Specialty retail, and retail in general, is heavily influenced by general economic cycles.  Purchases of non-essential, discretionary products tend to decline in periods of recession or uncertainty regarding future economic prospects, as disposable income declines.  During periods of economic uncertainty, we may not be able to maintain or increase our sales to existing customers, make sales to new customers, open and operate new stores, maintain sales levels at our existing stores, maintain or increase our international operations on a profitable basis, maintain our earnings from operations as a percentage of net sales, or generate sufficient cash flows to fund our operational and liquidity needs.  The United States and global economies have suffered from economic uncertainty for the past several years, and there continues to be global concern that we may be entering into another recessionary period.  While consumer spending in the United States has stabilized recently, it could deteriorate in the future.  As a result, our operating results may be adversely and materially affected by downward trends or uncertainty in the United States or global economies.

Increases in the price of leather and other items we sell or a reduction in availability of those products could increase our cost of goods and decrease our profitability.

The prices we pay our suppliers for our products are dependent in part on the market price for leather, metals, and other products.  The cost of these items may fluctuate substantially, depending on a variety of factors, including demand, supply conditions, transportation costs, government regulation, economic climates, political considerations, and other unpredictable factors.  Leather prices world-wide have been on the rise for the past several years and the outlook for future prices is uncertain.  Increases in these costs, together with other factors, will make it difficult for us to sustain the gross margin level we have achieved in recent years and result in a decrease in our profitability unless we are able to pass higher prices on to our customers or reduce costs in other areas.  Accordingly, such increases in costs could adversely affect our business and our results of operations.

Further, involvement by the United States in war and other military operations in the Middle East and other areas abroad could disrupt international trade and affect our inventory sources.  Finally, livestock diseases such as mad cow could reduce the availability of hides and leathers or increase their cost.  The occurrence of any of these events could adversely affect our business and our results of operations.

Risks Related to Our Business

We may be unable to sustain our past growth or manage our future growth, which may have a material adverse effect on our future operating results.

We have experienced modest sales and earnings growth recently.  Many specialty retailers have experienced periods of growth in sales and earnings followed by periods of declining sales and losses.  Our business may be similarly affected in the future.  We anticipate that our future growth will depend on a number of factors, including consumer preferences, the strength and protection of our brand, the market success of our current and future products, the success of our growth strategies, and our ability to manage our future growth.  Further, our future success will depend substantially on the ability of our management team to manage our growth effectively, optimizing our operational, administrative, financial, and legal procedures in order to maximize profitability.  If we fail to manage our growth effectively, our future operating results could be adversely affected.

Our profitability may decline as a result of increasing pressure on margins.

Our industry is subject to significant pricing pressure caused by many factors, including fluctuations in the cost of the leathers and metal products that we purchase and changes in consumer spending patterns and acceptance of our products.  Changes in consumers’ product preferences or lack of acceptance of our products whose costs have increased may prohibit us from passing those increases on to customers which could cause our gross margin to decline.  If our product costs increase and our sale prices do not, our future operating results could be adversely affected unless we are able to offset such gross margin declines with comparable reductions in operating costs.

We may be unsuccessful in implementing our planned international expansion, which could impair the value of our brand, harm our business and negatively affect our results of operation.

We plan to grow our net sales and net earnings from our International Leathercraft segment by opening stores in various international markets.  As we expand outside of North America, we may incur significant costs relating to starting up, maintaining, and expanding foreign operations.  Such costs may include, but are not limited to, obtaining locations for stores, hiring personnel, and travel expenses.  We may be unable to open and operate new stores successfully and as a result, our growth may be limited, unless we are able to identify desirable sites for store locations, negotiate acceptable lease terms, hire, train, and retain competent store personnel; manage inventory effectively to meet the needs and demands of customers on a timely basis, manage foreign currency risk effectively, and achieve acceptable operating margins from the new stores.  We may not successfully open new stores or our new stores may not be profitable.  If we are unable to successfully open new stores or our new stores are not profitable, our business and our results of operations could be adversely affected.

As we continue to increase our international operations, we face the possibility of greater losses from a number of risks inherent in doing business in international markets and from a number of factors which are beyond our control, such as political instability or acts of terrorism, which disrupt trade with the countries in which our suppliers or customers are located; local business practices that do not conform to legal or ethical guidelines; restrictions or regulations relating to imports or exports; additional or increased customs duties, tariffs, taxes, and other charges on imports; significant fluctuations in the value of the dollar against foreign currencies; social, legal or economic instability in the foreign markets in which we do business, which could influence our ability to sell our products in these markets; and restrictions on the transfer of funds between the United States and foreign jurisdictions.  The occurrence of any of these events could adversely affect our business and our results of operations.

We may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the opening of additional stores in North America or we may be unable to obtain sufficient new locations on acceptable terms to meet our growth plans.  Further, we may fail to hire and train qualified managers to oversee the stores opened.
 
Our strategy to grow our business partially depends on continuing to successfully open new stores in North America.  The success of this strategy will depend largely upon our ability to find a sufficient number of suitable locations and our ability to recruit, hire, and train qualified personnel to operate our new stores.
 
Our long-term expansion plans in North America call for us to open new stores both in new geographic areas and in or near the areas where we have existing stores. To the extent that we open stores in markets where we already have existing stores, we may experience reduced net sales at those existing stores. Also, if we expand into new geographic areas, those stores may not be received as well as, or achieve net sales or profitability levels comparable to those of, our existing stores in our estimated time periods, or at all. If our stores fail to achieve, or are unable to sustain, acceptable net sales and profitability levels, our business may be materially harmed and we may incur costs associated with closing or relocating stores.  In addition, our current expansion plans are only estimates, and the actual number of stores we open each year and in total and the actual number of suitable locations for our new stores could differ significantly from these estimates. If we are unable to successfully open new stores or our new stores are not profitable, our business and our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Our success depends on the continued protection of our trademarks and other proprietary intellectual property rights.

Our trademarks and other intellectual property rights are important to our success and competitive position, and the loss of or inability to enforce our trademark and other proprietary intellectual property rights could harm our business.  We devote substantial resources to the establishment and protection of our trademark and other proprietary intellectual property rights on a worldwide basis.  Despite any precautions we may take to protect our intellectual property, policing unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult, expensive, and time consuming, and we may be unable to adequately protect our intellectual property or determine the extent of any unauthorized use.  Our efforts to establish and protect our trademark and other proprietary intellectual property rights may not be adequate to prevent imitation or counterfeiting of our products by others, which may not only erode sales of our products but may also cause significant damage to our brand name.  Further, we could incur substantial costs in legal actions relating to our use of intellectual property or the use of our intellectual property by others.  Even if we are successful in these actions, the costs we incur could have a material adverse effect on us.

Foreign currency fluctuations could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations.

We generally purchase our products in U.S. dollars.  However, we source a large portion of our products from countries other than the United States.  The cost of these products may be affected by changes in the value of the applicable currencies.  Changes in currency exchange rates may also affect the U.S. dollar value of the foreign currency denominated prices at which our international business will sell products.  Furthermore, the majority of our international sales are generally derived from sales in foreign countries.  This revenue, when translated into U.S. dollars for consolidated reporting purposes, could be materially affected by fluctuations in the U.S. dollar, negatively impacting our results of operations and our ability to generate revenue growth.

Our business could be harmed if we are unable to maintain our brand image.

Tandy Leather is one of the most recognized brand names in our industry.  Our success to date has been due in large part to the strength of that brand.  If we are unable to provide quality products and exceptional customer service to our customers, including education, which Tandy Leather has traditionally been known for, our brand name may be impaired which could adversely affect our operating results.
 
Other uncertainties, which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control, may occur as well and may adversely affect our business and our results of operations.
 
 

Not applicable.
 
 

We lease our store locations, with the exception of our flagship store located in Fort Worth, Texas.  The majority of our stores have initial lease terms of at least five years.  The leases are generally renewable, with increases in lease rental rates in some cases.  We believe that all of our properties are adequately covered by insurance.  The properties leased by us are described in Item 1 in the description of each of our three operating segments.  We own the 22,000 square foot building that houses our flagship store.  Further, we own our corporate headquarters, which includes our central warehouse and manufacturing facility, sales, advertising, administrative, and executive offices.  The facility consists of 191,000 square feet located on approximately 30 acres.

The following table summarizes the locations of our leased premises as of December 31, 2015:

State
Wholesale Leathercraft
Retail Leathercraft
International
Alabama
-
1
n/a
Alaska
-
1
n/a
Arizona
2
3
n/a
Arkansas
-
1
n/a
California
3
8
n/a
Colorado
1
3
n/a
Connecticut
-
1
n/a
Florida
1
3
n/a
Georgia
-
1
n/a
Idaho
-
1
n/a
Illinois
1
1
n/a
Indiana
-
2
n/a
Iowa
1
-
n/a
Kansas
1
-
n/a
Kentucky
-
1
n/a
Louisiana
1
1
n/a
Maryland
-
1
n/a
Massachusetts
-
1
n/a
Michigan
1
1
n/a
Minnesota
-
2
n/a
Missouri
1
2
n/a
Montana
1
-
n/a
Nebraska
-
1
n/a
Nevada
-
2
n/a
New Mexico
1
1
n/a
New York
-
1
n/a
North Carolina
-
2
n/a
Ohio
1
2
n/a
Oklahoma
-
2
n/a
Oregon
1
2
n/a
Pennsylvania
1
2
n/a
South Carolina
-
1
n/a
South Dakota
-
1
n/a
Tennessee
-
3
n/a
Texas
5
12
n/a
Utah
1
3
n/a
Virginia
-
1
n/a
Washington
1
2
n/a
Wisconsin
-
1
n/a
Wyoming
-
1
n/a

Canadian locations:
     
Alberta
1
1
n/a
British Columbia
-
1
n/a
Manitoba
1
-
n/a
Nova Scotia
-
1
n/a
Ontario
1
2
n/a
Quebec
-
1
n/a
Saskatchewan
-
1
n/a

International locations:
     
United Kingdom
n/a
n/a
2
Australia
n/a
n/a
1
Spain
n/a
n/a
1

 

See discussion of Legal Proceedings in Note 9 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

 

Not applicable.

PART II


Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Market using the symbol “TLF.”  The high and low trading prices for each calendar quarter during the last two fiscal years are as follows:

2015
High
Low
 
2014
High
Low
4th quarter
$7.88
$6.85
 
4th quarter
$9.70
$8.61
3rd quarter
$8.63
$6.76
 
3rd quarter
$9.59
$8.96
2nd quarter
$8.90
$8.39
 
2nd quarter
$9.80
$8.74
1st quarter
$9.03
$7.89
 
1st quarter
$9.95
$8.42

There were approximately 326 stockholders of record on March 25, 2016.

We did not sell any shares of our equity securities during our fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 that were not registered under the Securities Act.

We did not purchase any shares of our common stock during the fourth quarter of 2015, although we are authorized to do so through a stock purchase program permitting us to repurchase up to 1.2 million shares of our common stock at prevailing market prices.  We announced the program on August 10, 2015. Purchases under the program commenced on August 24, 2015 and will terminate on August 9, 2016.  See Note 11 to our Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this report.

On June 9, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a $0.25 per share special one-time cash dividend that was paid to our stockholders of record at the close of business on July 7, 2014.  The dividend, totaling $2.5 million, was paid to our stockholders on August 8, 2014.  Our Board of Directors will determine future cash dividends after giving consideration to our then existing levels of profit and cash flow, capital requirements, current and forecasted liquidity, as well as financial and other business conditions existing at the time.  This policy is subject to change based on future industry and market conditions, as well as other factors.

The following table sets forth information regarding our equity compensation plans (including individual compensation arrangements) that authorize the issuance of shares of our common stock.  The information is aggregated in two categories:  plans previously approved by our stockholders and plans not approved by our stockholders.  The table includes information for officers, directors, employees, and non-employees.  All information is as of December 31, 2015.

 
 
Plan Category
Column (a)
Number of Securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights
Column (b)
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights
Column (c)
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in Column (a))
 
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders
 
128,833
 
$7.08
 
252,315
 
Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders
 
-
 
-
 
-
TOTAL
128,833
$7.08
252,315

 

The selected financial data presented below are derived from and should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes.  This information should also be read in conjunction with "Item 7 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”  Data in prior years has not been restated to reflect acquisitions, if any, which occurred in subsequent years.

Income Statement Data,
Years ended December 31,
 
2015
 
 
2014
 
 
2013
 
 
2012
 
 
2011
Net sales
$84,161,200
 
$83,430,912
 
$78,284,585
 
$72,720,624
 
$66,102,947
Gross profit
52,071,060
 
52,124,757
 
49,328,024
 
45,905,674
 
40,337,159
Income from operations
10,474,700
 
11,958,029
 
11,266,790
 
9,144,005
 
7,706,650
Net income from continuing operations
6,402,405
 
7,706,921
 
7,265,717
 
5,596,070
 
4,753,969
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(1,368)
Net income
$6,402,405
 
$7,706,921
 
$7,265,717
 
$5,596,070
 
$4,752,601
Net income per share from continuing operations
                 
              Basic
$0.64
 
$0.76
 
$0.71
 
$0.55
 
$0.47
              Diluted
$0.63
 
$0.75
 
$0.71
 
$0.55
 
$0.47
Net income per share including discontinued operations
                 
              Basic
$0.64
 
$0.76
 
$0.71
 
$0.55
 
$0.47
              Diluted
$0.63
 
$0.75
 
$0.71
 
$0.55
 
$0.47
Weighted average common shares outstanding for:
                 
Basic EPS
10,077,506
 
10,203,063
 
10,176,492
 
10,157,395
 
10,156,442
Diluted EPS
10,102,760
 
10,241,121
 
10,216,438
 
10,175,346
 
10,182,098
                   
Cash dividend declared per common share
-
 
$0.25
 
-
 
$0.25
 
-
                   
Balance Sheet Data, as of December 31,
2015
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
2011
Cash and certificates of deposit
$10,962,615
 
$10,636,530
 
$11,082,679
 
$7,705,182
 
$11,189,484
Total assets
64,566,926
 
62,873,874
 
56,398,566
 
49,087,672
 
45,502,915
Long-term debt, including current portion
3,863,307
 
5,643,125
 
2,598,750
 
3,105,000
 
3,307,500
Total Stockholders’ Equity
$50,972,176
 
$49,123,012
 
$44,621,542
 
$37,521,017
 
$34,433,801



We intend for the following discussion to provide you with information that will assist you in understanding our financial statements, the changes in key items in those financial statements from year to year and the primary factors that accounted for those changes, as well as how particular accounting principles affect our financial statements.  This discussion also provides information about the financial results of the various segments of our business so you may better understand how those segments and their results affect our financial condition and results of operations as a whole.  Finally, we have identified and discussed trends known to management that we believe are likely to have a material effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

This discussion should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and the notes accompanying those financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  You are also urged to consider the information under the caption "Summary of Critical Accounting Policies."

Summary

We are the world's largest specialty retailer and wholesale distributor of leather and leathercraft-related items.  Our operations are centered on operating retail and wholesale stores.  We have built our business by offering our customers quality products in one location at competitive prices.  The key to our success is our ability to grow our base business.  We grow that business by opening new locations and by increasing sales in our existing locations.  We intend to continue to expand both domestically and internationally.

We operate in three segments.  Wholesale Leathercraft, consisting of our Leather Factory-branded stores, is our oldest segment with sales of $26.8 million in 2015.  Historically, in normal economic conditions, this division has generally offered steady but very modest increases in sales.  Sales in 2015 declined 2% compared to 2014, with the same stores’ sales increasing 1%.  Sales to our national account customer group, which consisted of large national store chains, ended in April 2014 as the result of our intentional decision to discontinue certain products from our product line that these customers purchased due to unsatisfactory gross profit margins.  Sales at our stores are showing signs of growth as consumer confidence slowly improves, despite the flat to modest growth of the U.S. economy.   We closed one Leather Factory store in 2014.

Tandy Leather has long been known for its retail leathercraft store chain.  These retail stores comprise our Retail Leathercraft segment. This segment has experienced the greatest increases in sales  ($53.7 million in 2015, up from $51.8 million in 2014) and is our largest source of revenues.  We expect to grow the number of stores to approximately 100 in the future from 82 stores in operation at the end of 2015.  Our pace of store openings has slowed in the last five years due to the general economic conditions in the U.S. and because of the lack of personnel qualified for store manager positions.  We expect to continue to open stores domestically but have not committed to a specific time frame.  While the store opening schedule has slowed, we have relocated some existing stores as current lease terms near expiration into larger spaces so that a larger amount of product is available to customers.  While we believe the store relocation strategy has been somewhat successful, it has not achieved the return on investment that we were expecting, although there are a number of factors beyond the store size that contributed to that lack of return.  While we are not opposed to the occasional store relocation when warranted, we believe that opening new stores is a more effective strategy to grow our sales.  While we do not expect a significant number of store openings to occur in 2016, we will focus on personnel training and development in order to increase the rate at which stores are opened in 2017 and beyond.

Our International Leathercraft segment consists of company-owned stores located outside of North America.  At December 31, 2015, four combination retail/wholesale stores, with two located in the United Kingdom, and one each in Australia and Spain, comprised this segment.  It is our intention to open more stores in this segment once we have a sufficient customer base to support additional stores.

On a consolidated basis, gross profit margin as a percent of total net sales, a key indicator of costs, decreased minimally in 2015 compared to 2014.  Operating expenses increased at a faster pace than that of sales in 2015, increasing by 4% from 2014.  Operating expenses increased at a slower pace than that of sales in 2014, increasing 6% from 2013.

We reported consolidated net income for 2015 of $6.4 million.  Consolidated net income for 2014 and 2013 was $7.7 million and $7.3 million, respectively.  We use our cash flow to fund our operations, to fund the opening of new stores and to purchase necessary property and equipment.  We paid one-time dividends in 2014 and 2012 to our stockholders, totaling $2.5 million each year.  At the end of 2015, our stockholders’ equity had increased to $51.0 million from $49.1 million the previous year.

Comparing the December 31, 2015 balance sheet with the prior year’s balance sheet, we increased our investment in inventory from $32.9 million to $33.6 million while total cash increased from $10.6 million to $11.0 million.

Net Sales

Net sales for the three years ended December 31, 2015 were as follows:

Year
Wholesale Leathercraft
Retail Leathercraft
InternationalLeathercraft
Total Company
Increase from Prior Year
2015
$26,754,165
$53,714,432
$3,692,603
$84,161,200
0.9%
2014
$27,285,884
$51,805,944
$4,339,084
$83,430,912
6.6%
2013
$27,384,614
$46,995,902
$3,904,069
$78,284,585
7.7%

Our net sales increased by 0.9% in 2015 when compared with 2014 and increased by 6.6% in 2014 when compared with 2013. In 2015, our Retail Leathercraft segment reported a sales increase compared to the prior year while our Wholesale Leathercraft and International Leathercraft segments reported sales declines.  The decline in sales in our Wholesale Leathercraft segment was due to the elimination of our national account customer group and the closing of one store, impacting sales for a portion of 2014 but all of 2015.  The decline in sales in our International Leathercraft segment was primarily due to the change in foreign currency rates between 2015 and 2014.  In 2014, our Retail and International Leathercraft segments reported sales increases compared to the prior year while our Wholesale Leathercraft segment reported a sales decrease due to the elimination of our national account customer group.

Costs and Expenses

In general, our gross profit as a percentage of sales (our gross margin) fluctuates based on the mix of customers we serve, the mix of products we sell, and our ability to source products globally.  Our negotiations with suppliers for lower pricing are an on-going process, and we have varying degrees of success in those endeavors.  Sales to retail customers tend to produce higher gross margins than sales to wholesale customers due to the difference in pricing levels.  Therefore, as retail sales increase in the overall sales mix, higher gross margins tend to follow.  Finally, there is significant fluctuation in gross margins between the various merchandise categories we offer.  As a result, our gross margins can vary depending on the mix of products sold during any given time period.

For 2015, our cost of sales increased slightly as a percentage of total net sales when compared to 2014, resulting in a decrease in consolidated gross profit margin from 62.5% to 61.9%.  Our 2014 cost of sales as a percentage of our total net sales increased slightly as a percentage of total net sales when compared to 2013, resulting in a decrease in consolidated gross profit margin from 63.0% to 62.5%.  Fluctuations in gross margin are primarily due to customer mix and product mix.  Wholesale sales are at a lower gross margin than that of retail sales.  Leather sales are at a lower gross margin than that of non-leather sales.  Therefore, as wholesale sales increase at a faster pace than that of retail sales, or we sell a higher percentage of leather compared to non-leather, our gross margin decreases accordingly.

Our gross margins for the three years ended December 31, 2015 were as follows:

Year
Wholesale Leathercraft
Retail Leathercraft
International Leathercraft
Total Company
2015
69.5%
58.2%
60.5%
61.9%
2014
67.4%
59.6%
65.7%
62.5%
2013
67.3%
60.5%
63.3%
63.0%

Our operating expenses increased as a percentage of total net sales to 49.4% in 2015 when compared with 48.2% in 2014.  This increase indicates that our operating expenses grew faster than our sales during this period.  2015 operating expenses were $1.4 million higher than those of 2014.  Significant expense fluctuations in 2015 compared to 2014 are as follows:

Expense
2015 amount
Incr (Decr) over 2014
Employee compensation and benefits
$20.1 million
$216,000
Advertising and marketing
$5.8 million
$660,000
Rent and utilities
$5.7 million
$181,000
Legal, professional and other outside fees
$1.1 million
156,000
Depreciation
$1.5 million
130,000

The increase in employee compensation is due primarily to an increase in the cost of employee benefits and an increase in employee headcount at the stores.  Advertising and marketing expenses rose due to an increase in trade shows attended.  The increase in rent and utilities expense is the result of the relocations of selected stores into larger space.
 
Our operating expenses decreased as a percentage of total net sales to 48.3% in 2014 when compared with 48.6% in 2013.  This decrease indicates that our operating expenses grew slower than our sales during this period.  2014 operating expenses were $2.2 million higher than those of 2013.  Significant expense fluctuations in 2014 compared to 2013 are as follows:

Expense
2014 amount
Incr (Decr) over 2013
Employee compensation and benefits
$20.0 million
$1.1 million
Advertising and marketing
$5.7 million
$739,000
Rent and utilities
$4.8 million
$476,000
Legal and professional fees
$747,000
($447,000)
Depreciation
$1.4 million
$241,000

The increase in employee compensation is due to an increase in employee headcount and an increase in store manager base salary.  In addition, our store managers are paid a percentage of the operating profit generated by the store they manage as additional compensation, so as store profits increase, manager compensation increases.  Advertising and marketing expenses rose due to an increase in trade shows attended.  The increase in rent and utilities expense is the result of the relocations of selected stores into larger space.

Other Income/Expense (net)

Other Income/Expense consists primarily of currency exchange fluctuations, interest income, and interest expense.  In 2015, we incurred other expenses (net) of approximately $256,000 compared to other expenses (net) of approximately $150,000 in 2014.  In 2015, we received approximately $7,000 in gas royalties, earned approximately $3,000 in interest income on our cash and paid approximately $330,000 in interest expense on our bank debt.  We had a currency exchange loss of approximately $24,000 in 2015 compared to a currency exchange loss of approximately $13,000 in 2014.

In 2014, we incurred other expenses (net) of approximately $150,000 compared to other expenses (net) of approximately $46,000 in 2013.  In 2014, we received approximately $24,000 in gas royalties, earned approximately $3,000 in interest income on our cash and paid approximately $225,000 in interest expense on our bank debt.  We had a currency exchange loss of approximately $13,000 in 2014 compared to a currency exchange gain of approximately $41,000 in 2013.

Net Income

During 2015, we earned net income of $6.4 million, a 17% decrease from our net income of $7.7 million earned during 2014.  The decrease in net income was the result of the increase in cost of goods sold and operating expenses, partially offset by the increase in sales.

During 2014, we earned net income of $7.7 million, a 7% increase over our net income of $7.3 million earned during 2013.  The increase in net income was the result of the increase in sales and gross profit, partially offset by the increase in operating expenses.

Wholesale Leathercraft

The increases (or decreases) in net sales, operating income, operating income increases (or decreases) and operating income as a percentage of sales from our Wholesale Leathercraft stores for the three years ended December 31, 2015 were as follows:

 
Year
Net Sales
Increase (Decrease) from  Prior Year
 
Operating Income
Operating Income
 Increase (Decrease) from Prior Year
Operating Income as a Percentage
of Sales
2015
(2.0)%
$4,663,590
(12.0)%
17.4%
2014
(0.4)%
$5,300,413
9.5%
19.4%
2013
2.0%
$4,840,416
29.8%
17.7%

Wholesale Leathercraft, consisting of 28 wholesale stores in 2015 accounted for 31.8% of our consolidated net sales in 2015, which compares to 33% in 2014 and 35% in 2013.  The decrease in this division's contribution to our total net sales is the result of the growth in Retail Leathercraft and the elimination of sales to our national account customer group within this segment. We expect this trend to continue as we intend to open additional stores in our Retail Leathercraft segment.

Sales in the wholesale stores increased 0.8% in 2015 compared to sales in 2014. By customer group, sales in the wholesale stores to our retail customers increased while sales to our other customer groups declined from 2014.  Our sales mix by customer group in the Wholesale Leathercraft division was as follows:

Customer Group
2015
2014
2013
Retail
47%
45%
41%
Institution
3%
4%
4%
Wholesale
43%
42%
44%
National Accounts
-
3%
5%
Manufacturers
7%
6%
6%
 
100%
100%
100%

In 2015, operating income as a percentage of sales declined from the prior year of 19.1% to 17.4%.  Operating expenses increased approximately $822,000 in 2015 compared to 2014.  The primary reason for the operating expense increase was the increase in the cost associated with our employee health benefit program and advertising and marketing expenses.

In 2014, operating income as a percentage of divisional sales improved from the prior year of 17.7% to 19.1%.  Operating expenses decreased approximately $391,000 in 2014 compared to 2013.  The primary reason for the operating expense decrease was the reduction in legal and professional fees, which is the result of new trademark filing fees incurred last year not repeated this year.

Retail Leathercraft

The increases in net sales, operating income, operating income increases (or decreases) and operating income as a percentage of sales from our Retail Leathercraft stores for the three years ended December 31, 2015 were as follows:

 
Year
Net Sales
Increase from Prior Year
 
Operating Income
Operating Income
Increase (Decrease) from Prior Year
Operating Income as a Percentage
of  Sales
2015
3.7%
$5,689,814
(6.4)%
10.6%
2014
10.2%
$6,077,345
1.0%
11.7%
2013
10.3%
$6,026,731
10.9%
12.8%

Reflecting the growth previously discussed, Retail Leathercraft accounted for 63.8% of our total net sales in 2015, up from 62.1% in 2014 and 60.0% in 2013.  Growth in net sales for our Retail Leathercraft division in 2015 resulted from an increase in same store sales and new stores opened in late 2014.

Our sales mix by customer group in the Retail Leathercraft division was as follows:

Customer Group
2015
2014
2013
Retail
59%
60%
59%
Institution
3%
3%
4%
Wholesale
35%
34%
34%
National Accounts
0%
0%
0%
Manufacturers
3%
3%
3%
 
100%
100%
100%

Operating income as a percentage of sales in 2015 decreased to 10.6% compared to 11.7% for 2014 due to an increase in operating expenses, partially offset by an increase in gross profit margin.  Gross margin decreased from 59.6% in 2014 to 58.2% in 2015.  Operating expenses as a percentage of sales decreased minimally from 47.9% in 2014 to 47.6% in 2015 as operating expenses grew at a slightly slower pace in 2015 than that of sales.

Operating income as a percentage of sales in 2014 decreased to 11.7% compared to 12.8% for 2013 due to the slight decline in gross profit margin and the increase in operating expenses.  Gross margin decreased from 60.5% in 2013 to 59.6% in 2014.  Operating expenses as a percentage of sales increased minimally from 47.7% in 2013 to 47.9% in 2014 as operating expenses grew at a slightly faster pace in 2014 than that of sales.

We intend to continue the slow expansion of our store chain over the next several years, with plans to open two to three stores in 2016 in North America.  We remain committed to a conservative expansion plan for this division that is intended to minimize risks to our profits and maintain our financial stability.  In the current economic environment in the United States, it is possible that we will change our plans for store openings in 2016 and beyond if we determine that the feasibility of additional successful openings is likely.

International Leathercraft

International Leathercraft consists of all stores located outside of North America.  As of December 31, 2015, that represents four retail/wholesale combination stores with two located in the United Kingdom, one located in Australia, and one located in Spain.  International Leathercraft accounted for 4.4%, 5.2%, and 5.0% of our total sales in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.  We opened the second store in the United Kingdom in October 2015 and expect this segment to become a larger part of our total operations as our international customer base continues to grow.

The increases (or decreases) in net sales, operating income, operating income increases (or decreases), and operating income as a percentage of sales from our International Leathercraft stores for the three years ended December 31, 2015 were as follows:

 
Year
Net Sales
Increase (Decrease) from Prior Yr
 
Operating Income
Operating Income
Increase (Decrease) from Prior Year
Operating Income  as a  Percentage
of  Sales
2015
(14.9)%
$121,296
(79.1)%
3.3%
2014
11.1%
$580,271
45.2%
13.4%
2013
20.0%
$399,643
1806.6%
10.2%

Operating income as a percentage of sales decreased to 3.3% for 2015 compared to 13.4% for 2014.  Gross margin decreased from 65.7% in 2014 to 60.5% in 2015.  Operating expenses as a percentage of sales in 2015 increased from 52.3% in 2014 to 57.2% in 2015 as operating expenses grew at a faster pace in 2015 than that of sales.  The change in foreign currency exchange rates from 2014 to 2015 and the expenses associated with the opening of the new store in the fourth quarter of 2015 was the primary cause of the significant decline in performance of this segment.

Operating income as a percentage of sales in 2014 increased to 13.4% for 2014 compared to 10.2% for 2013.  Gross margin increased from 63.3% in 2013 to 65.7% in 2014.  Operating expenses as a percentage of sales in 2014 decreased from 53.1% in 2013 to 52.3% in 2014 as operating expenses grew at a slower pace in 2014 than that of sales.

We intend to expand our International Leathercraft segment by opening new stores once the current stores have sufficiently built their customer bases to a level that will adequately support additional stores.

 
Financial Condition
 

At December 31, 2015, we held $11.0 million of cash, $33.6 million of inventory, accounts receivable of approximately $553,000, and $15.7 million of property and equipment.  Goodwill and other intangibles (net of amortization and depreciation) were approximately $953,000 and $27,000, respectively.  Net total assets were $64.6 million.  Current liabilities were $8.3 million (including approximately $305,000 of current maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations), while long-term debt was $3.6 million.  Total stockholders’ equity at the end of 2015 was $51.0 million.

At December 31, 2014, we held $10.6 million of cash, $32.9 million of inventory, accounts receivable of approximately $625,000, and $15.2 million of property and equipment.  Goodwill and other intangibles (net of amortization and depreciation) were approximately $972,000 and $58,000, respectively.  Net total assets were $62.9 million.  Current liabilities were $10.4 million (including approximately $3.7 million of current maturities of long-term debt), while long-term debt was $1.9 million.  Total stockholders’ equity at the end of 2014 was $49.1 million.


Specific ratios on a consolidated basis at December 31 were as follows:

   
2015
2014
2013
Solvency Ratios:
       
Quick Ratio
(Cash+Accts Rec)/Total Current Liabilities
1.38
1.09
1.45
Current Ratio
Total Current Assets/Total Current Liabilities
5.71
4.48
4.96
Current Liabilities to Net Worth
Total Current Liabilities/Net Worth
0.16
0.21
0.18
Current Liabilities to Inventory
Total Current Liabilities/Inventory
0.25
0.32
0.31
Total Liabilities to Net Worth
Total Liabilities/Net Worth
0.27
0.28
0.26
Fixed Assets to Net Worth
Fixed Assets/Net Worth
0.31
0.31
0.32
         
Efficiency Ratios:
       
Collection Period (Days Outstanding)
Accounts Receivable/Credit Sales x 365
32.2
32.79
32.87
Inventory Turnover
Sales/Average Inventory
2.53
2.82
3.00
Assets to Sales
Total Assets/Sales
0.77
0.75
0.72
Sales to Net Working Capital
Sales/Current Assets - Current Liabilities
2.15
2.32
2.42
Accounts Payable to Sales
Accounts Payable/Sales
0.02
0.02
0.02
         
Profitability Ratios:
       
Return on Sales (Profit Margin)
Net Profit After Taxes/Sales
0.08
0.09
0.09
Return on Assets
Net Profit After Taxes/Total Assets
0.10
0.12
0.13
Return on Net Worth (Return on Equity)
Net Profit After Taxes/Net Worth
0.13
0.16
0.16
         

Capital Resources and Liquidity

On September 18, 2015, we executed a Promissory Note and Business Loan Agreement with BOKF, NA dba Bank of Texas (“BOKF”) that provides a line of credit facility of up to $6,000,000.  It has a two-year term and is secured by our inventory.   The Business Loan Agreement contains covenants that we will maintain a funded debt to EBITDA ratio of no greater than 1.5 to 1, and that we will maintain a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio greater than or equal to 1.2 to 1.  Both ratios are calculated quarterly and are based on a trailing four quarter basis.
 
Also on September 18, 2015, we executed a Promissory Note with BOKF that provide us with a line of credit facility of up to $10,000,000 for the purpose of purchasing our common stock.  Under the terms of the Promissory Note, we can borrow sums up to the lesser of $10,000,000 or the purchase price of a maximum of 1.2 million shares of our common stock from the period September 18, 2015 and ending on the earlier of September 18, 2016 or the date on which the entire amount is drawn.  During this time period, we will make interest only payments monthly.  At the end of this time period, the principal balance will be rolled into a 4-year term note.  This Promissory Note is secured by a Deed of Trust on the real estate located at 1900 SE Loop 820, Fort Worth, Texas.  We drew approximately $3.7 million on this line of credit in September 2015 which was used to purchase approximately 529,000 shares of our common stock.
 
Amounts drawn under either Promissory Note accrue interest at the London interbank Eurodollar market rate for U.S. dollars (commonly known as “LIBOR”) plus 1.85% (2.263% at December 31, 2015).

On July 31, 2007, we entered into a Credit Agreement and Line of Credit Note with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., pursuant to which the bank agreed to provide us with a credit facility of up to $5,500,000 to facilitate our purchase of real estate consisting of a 191,000 square foot building situated on 30 acres of land located at 1900 SE Loop 820 in Fort Worth, Texas.  Proceeds in the amount of $4,050,000 were used to fund the purchase of the property that is our corporate headquarters.  On April 30, 2008, the principal balance was rolled into a 10-year term note with an interest rate of 7.10% per annum.  We paid this note in full in September 2015.  As a result of the early payoff, we incurred a prepayment penalty in the amount of $200,000 which is included in interest expense.

On July 12, 2012, we executed a Line of Credit Note with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., pursuant to which the bank agreed to provide us with a revolving credit facility of up to $4 million, which was subsequently increased to $6 million.  The note expired on September 30, 2015.

Our primary source of liquidity and capital resources during 2015 was cash flow provided by operating activities.  Net cash flow from operations for 2015, 2014, and 2013 was approximately $8.2 million, $1.2 million, and $7.5 million, respectively.  The decrease in operating cash flow in 2014 was due to an intentional increase in inventory which is discussed further below.

Consolidated accounts receivable decreased approximately $72,000 to approximately $553,000 at December 31, 2015 compared to approximately $625,000 at December 31, 2014.  Average days to collect in 2015 and 2014 were 32 and 33 days, respectively, on a consolidated basis. We maintain a tight credit policy and have aggressively accelerated our collection efforts to ensure collectability of all customer accounts.

Inventory increased from $32.9 million at the end of 2014 to $33.6 million at December 31, 2015.  We attempt to manage our inventory levels to avoid tying up excessive capital while maintaining sufficient inventory in order to service our current customer demand as well as plan for our expected expansion.  We ended the year with our total inventory on hand matching that of our internal targets for optimal inventory.

Consolidated inventory turned 2.5 times during 2015, a slight slowdown from the 2014 turns at 2.8 times.  We compute our inventory turnover rates as sales divided by average inventory.

By operating division, inventory turns are as follows:

Segment
2015
2014
2013
Wholesale Leathercraft
1.66
1.85
1.97
Retail Leathercraft
3.75
4.27
4.92
International Leathercraft
3.00
4.27
3.70
       
Wholesale Leathercraft stores only
4.04
4.52
4.79

Retail and International Leathercraft inventory turns are significantly higher than that of Wholesale Leathercraft because their inventories consist only of the inventories at the stores.  These segments have no warehouse (back stock) inventory to include in the turnover computation as all stores get their product from the central warehouse, which is included in the Wholesale Leathercraft segment.  Wholesale Leathercraft’s turns are expected to be slower because the central warehouse inventory is part of this segment, and its inventory is held as the back stock for all of the stores.

Accounts payable totaled $2.0 million at the end of 2015, an increase of $728,000 from $1.3 million at the end of 2014, primarily due to timing of check disbursements.
 
Capital expenditures totaled $2.2 million in 2015 and 2014, primarily related to store fixtures and computer equipment for new, moved or remodeled stores.  In 2015, we opened one new store in Manchester, United Kingdom and moved/remodeled 12 stores in North America.  In 2014, we opened 3 new U.S. stores and moved/remodeled 8 other stores in North America.

In 2013, our capital expenditures totaled $3.8 million of which $1.0 million was directly related to the completion of our flagship store, $1.9 million for 13 moved/remodeled stores, $0.5 million for new stores opened, with the remaining amounts related to computer equipment, factory machines and dies, and some International stores’ fixture and equipment.

For 2016, we intend to suspend the relocation plans for our smaller stores, with a few possible exceptions, which will reduce the amount of capital expenditures, namely fixtures, to be made.  Computer equipment replacements will continue on an as-needed basis as the existing equipment becomes obsolete.  Other plans for 2016 include the roll out of a new telecommunication platform between stores and a new payment system.  Both are intended to improve the customer service experience and security.  Despite those enhancements, we expect our 2016 capital expenditures to be less than our 2015 capital expenditures.

As described previously, we have repurchased approximately 529,000 shares of our stock, at an average price of $7.01, totaling $3.7 million for 2015. There were no stock repurchases in 2014 or 2013.

We believe that cash flow from operations will be adequate to fund our operations in 2016, while also funding our expansion plans.  At this time, we know of no trends or demands, commitments, events, or uncertainties that will or are likely to materially affect our liquidity, capital resources or results of operations.  In addition, we anticipate that this cash flow will enable us to meet our contractual obligations and commercial commitments.  We could defer expansion plans if required by unanticipated drops in cash flow.  In particular, because of the relatively small investment required by each new store, we have flexibility in when we make most expansion expenditures.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements during 2015, 2014, or 2013, and we do not currently have any such arrangements.

Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes by years our contractual obligations and commercial commitments as of December 31, 2015 (not including related interest expense):

 
Payments Due by Periods
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Total
Less than
1 Year
1 – 3
Years
3 -5
Years
More than
5 Years
Long-Term Debt(1)
$3,711,224
$231,952
$1,855,612
$1,623,660
$           -
Revolving Line of Credit(2)
-
-
-
-
-
Capital Lease Obligation(3)
152,083
71,686
79,397
-
-
Operating Leases(4)
12,930,366
3,685,292
5,066,778
2,993,286
1,185,010
Total Contractual Obligations
$16,793,673
$3,988,930
$7,001,787
$4,616,946
$1,185,010
____________________
(1)  
Our stock purchase loan from Bank of Texas matures September 2020.
(2)  
Our line of credit from Bank of Texas matures September 2017.
(3)  
Our capital lease obligation with Cisco Systems Capital Corporation matures January 2017.
(4)  
These are our leased store facilities.
 
 
Summary of Critical Accounting Policies
We strive to report our financial results in a clear and understandable manner, although in some cases accounting and disclosure rules are complex and require us to use technical terminology.  We follow generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. in preparing our consolidated financial statements.  These principles require us to make estimates and apply judgments that affect our financial position and results of operations.  We continually review our accounting policies, how they are applied, and how they are reported and disclosed in our financial statements.  Following is a summary of our more significant accounting policies and how they are applied in preparation of the financial statements.

Basis of Consolidation.  We report our financial information on a consolidated basis.  Therefore, unless there is an indication to the contrary, financial information is provided for the parent company, Tandy Leather Factory, Inc., and its subsidiaries as a whole.  Transactions between the parent company and any subsidiaries are eliminated for this purpose.  We own all of the capital stock of our subsidiaries, and we do not have any subsidiaries that are not consolidated.  None of our subsidiaries are “off balance sheet.”

Revenue Recognition.  We recognize revenue for over the counter sales as transactions occur and other sales upon shipment of our products, provided that there are no significant post-delivery obligations to the customer and collection is reasonably assured, which generally occurs upon shipment.  Net sales represent gross sales less negotiated price allowances, product returns, and allowances for defective merchandise.

Allowance for Accounts Receivable.  We reduce accounts receivable by an allowance for amounts that may become uncollectible in the future.  This allowance is an estimate based primarily on our evaluation of the customer's financial condition, past collection history, and the aging of the account.  If the financial condition of any of our customers deteriorates, resulting in an impairment or inability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

Inventory.  Inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market and is accounted for on the “first in, first out” method.  This means that sales of inventory treat the oldest item of identical inventory as being the first sold.  In addition, we regularly reduce the value of our inventory for slow-moving or obsolete inventory.  This reduction is based on our review of items on hand compared to their estimated future demand.  If actual future demand is less favorable than what we project, additional write-downs may be necessary.  Goods shipped to us are recorded as inventory owned by us when the risk of loss shifts to us from the supplier.

Goodwill.  We periodically analyze the remaining goodwill on our balance sheet to determine the appropriateness of its carrying value.  As of December 31, 2015, we determined that the present value of the discounted estimated future cash flows of the operating divisions associated with the goodwill is sufficient to support their respective goodwill balances.  If actual financial performance of these divisions differs significantly from our projections, such difference could affect the present value calculation in the future resulting in an impairment of all or part of the goodwill currently carried on our balance sheet.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this annual report and other materials we file with the SEC, or in other written or oral statements made or to be made by us, other than statements of historical fact, are “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations or forecasts of future events. Words such as “may,” “assume,” “forecast,” “position,” “predict,” “strategy,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “project,” “budget,” “potential,” or “continue,” and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements. They can be affected by assumptions used or by known or unknown risks or uncertainties. Consequently, no forward-looking statements can be guaranteed. Actual results may vary materially. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. You should also understand that it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the risk factors described in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Management cautions that forward-looking statements are not guarantees, and our actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements.  We do not intend to update forward-looking statements.


We face exposure to financial market risks, including adverse movement in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in interest rates.  These exposures may change over time and could have a material impact on our financial results.  We do not use or invest in market risk sensitive instruments to hedge any of these risks or for any other purpose.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

Our primary foreign currency exposure is related to our foreign subsidiaries as those subsidiaries have local currency revenue and local currency operating expenses.   Changes in the foreign currency exchange rates impact the U.S. dollar amount of revenue and expenses.  See Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Segment Information, for financial information concerning our foreign activities.

Interest Rate Risk

We are subject to market risk associated with interest rate movements on our outstanding debt at December 31, 2015 which accrue interest at a rate that changes with fluctuations in the LIBOR rate.    Based on the Company's level of debt at December 31, 2015, increase of one percent in the LIBOR rate would result in additional interest expense of approximately $38,000 during a twelve-month period.





Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2015 and 2014


 
December 31,
 2015
 
December 31,
 2014
ASSETS
     
CURRENT ASSETS:
     
 
Cash
$10,962,615
 
$10,636,530
 
Accounts receivable-trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
     
     
of $1,746 and $395 in 2015 and 2014, respectively
553,206
 
625,054
 
Inventory
33,584,539
 
32,875,492
 
Prepaid income taxes
549,277
 
336,828
 
Deferred income taxes
326,830
 
371,491
 
Prepaid expenses
1,514,887
 
1,348,652
 
Other current assets
70,197
 
157,758
       
Total current assets
47,561,551
 
46,351,805
       
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, at cost
23,992,208
 
22,199,943
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(8,297,155)
 
(7,037,665)
 
15,695,053
 
15,162,278
       
GOODWILL
953,356
 
971,786
OTHER INTANGIBLES, net of accumulated amortization of
     
 
$702,000 and $665,000 in 2015 and 2014, respectively
27,282
 
58,026
OTHER assets
329,684
 
329,979
Total Assets
$64,566,926
 
$62,873,874
       
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
     
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
     
 
Accounts payable-trade
$1,983,376
 
$1,255,218
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
6,045,552
 
5,394,514
 
Current maturities of capital lease obligations
72,686
 
-
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
231,952
 
3,702,500
       
Total current liabilities
8,333,566
 
10,352,232
       
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES
1,702,515
 
1,458,005
       
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of current maturities
3,479,273
 
1,940,625
CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS, net of current maturities
79,396
 
-
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
-
 
-
       
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
     
 
Preferred stock, $0.10 par value; 20,000,000 shares
     
   
authorized, none issued or outstanding
-
 
-
 
Common stock, $0.0024 par value; 25,000,000 shares
     
   
authorized; 11,275,641 and 11,239,157 shares issued at 2015 and 2014, respectively; 9,753,293 and 10,245,534 shares outstanding
     
   
at 2015 and 2014, respectively
27,062
 
26,984
 
Paid-in capital
6,168,489
 
6,013,325
 
Retained earnings
53,067,234
 
46,664,829
 
Treasury stock at cost (1,522,348 and 993,623 shares at 2015 and 2014,  respectively)
(6,602,930)
 
(2,894,068)
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
(1,687,679)
 
(688,058)
       
Total stockholders' equity
50,972,176
 
49,123,012
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
$64,566,926
 
$62,873,874








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


Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Income
For the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013


 
2015
 
2014
 
2013
           
NET SALES
$84,161,200
 
$83,430,912
 
$78,284,585
COST OF SALES
32,090,140
 
31,306,155
 
28,956,561
 
Gross Profit
52,071,060
 
52,124,757
 
49,328,024
           
OPERATING EXPENSES
41,596,360
 
40,166,728
 
38,061,234
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
10,474,700
 
11,958,029
 
11,266,790
           
OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSE:
         
Interest expense
330,004
 
225,584
 
206,763
Other, net
(74,357)
 
(75,165)
 
(160,732)
 
Total other expense
255,647
 
150,419
 
46,031
           
INCOME BEFORE NCOME TAXES
10,219,053
 
11,807,610
 
11,220,759
           
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
3,816,648
 
4,100,689
 
3,955,042
           
NET INCOME
$6,402,405
 
$7,706,921
 
$7,265,717
           
NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE:
         
BASIC
$0.64
 
$0.76
 
$0.71
DILUTED
$0.63
 
$0.75
 
$0.71
           
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding:
         
  Basic
10,177,506
 
10,203,063
 
10,176,492
  Diluted
10,102,760
 
10,241,121
 
10,216,438






Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
For the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013

 
2015
 
2014
 
2013
           
NET INCOME
$6,402,405
 
$7,706,921
 
$7,265,717
Foreign currency translation adjustments
(999,621)
 
(776,307)
 
(290,678)
 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
$5,402,784
 
$6,930,614
 
$6,975,039





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



Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013

 
         2015
 
   2014
 
2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
         
 
Net income
$6,402,405
 
$7,706,921
 
$7,265,717
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
         
   
provided by operating activities -
         
     
Depreciation and amortization
1,567,172
 
1,436,624
 
1,194,612
     
Loss on disposal or abandonment of assets
31,064
 
18,820
 
109,222
     
Non-cash stock-based compensation
145,322
 
67,818
 
11,686
     
Deferred income taxes
289,171
 
183,490
 
445,977
     
Foreign currency translation
(896,928)
 
(727,664)
 
(261,908)
     
Net changes in assets and liabilities, net of effect of
         
       
business acquisitions:
         
         
Accounts receivable-trade
71,848
 
137,351
 
60,367
         
Inventory
(709,047)
 
(6,574,662)
 
(438,046)
         
Prepaid expenses
43,585
 
260,992
 
(833,181)
         
Other current assets
87,561
 
320,835
 
(325,143)
         
Accounts payable-trade
728,158
 
(629,419)
 
272,010
         
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
651,038
 
(414,368)
 
(119,916)
         
Income taxes
(212,449)
 
(609,026)
 
158,493
 
Total adjustments
1,796,495
 
(6,529,209)
 
274,173
           
Net cash provided by operating activities
8,198,900
 
1,177,712
 
7,539,890
           
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
         
 
Purchase of property and equipment
(2,164,040)
 
(2,204,190)
 
(3,770,022)
 
Purchase of intangible property
(10,000)
 
-
 
-
 
Proceeds from sale of assets
11,662
 
20,936
 
5,343
 
Decrease (increase) in other assets
295
 
11,980
 
(5,264)
           
Net cash used in investing activities
(2,162,083)
 
(2,171,274)
 
(3,769,943)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
         
 
Net increase (decrease)  in revolving credit loans
(3,500,000)
 
3,500,000
 
-
 
Proceeds from notes payable and long term debt
3,711,225
 
-
 
-
 
Payments on notes payable and long-term debt
(2,143,125)
 
(455,625)
 
(506,250)
 
Payments on capital lease obligations
(79,890)
 
-
 
-
 
Repurchase of common stock (treasury stock)
(3,708,862)
 
-
 
-
 
Payment of cash dividend
-
 
(2,549,684)
 
-
 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
9,920
 
52,722
 
113,800
           
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(5,710,732)
 
547,413
 
(392,450)
           
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH
326,085
 
(446,149)
 
3,377,497
           
CASH, beginning of period
10,636,530
 
11,082,679
 
7,705,182
           
CASH, end of period
$10,962,615
 
$10,636,530
 
$11,082,679
           
           
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
         
Interest paid during the period
$330,004
 
$225,584
 
$206,763
Income tax paid during the period, net of (refunds)
$3,743,864
 
$4,604,087
 
$3,348,676
           
NON-CASH INVESTING ACTIVITIES
         
   Equipment purchased via capital leases arrangements
$231,972
 
-
 
-




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




Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
For the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013


 
 
Number of Shares
 
 
Par Value
 
 
Paid-in Capital
 
 
Treasury Stock
 
 
Retained Earnings
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
 
Total
BALANCE, January 1, 2013
10,162,442
 
26,775
 
5,767,508
 
(2,894,068)
 
34,241,875
 
378,927
 
37,521,017
                           
Shares issued - stock options exercised
36,291
 
87
 
113,713
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
113,800
Stock-based compensation
-
 
-
 
11,686
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
11,686
Net  income
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
7,265,717
 
-
 
7,265,717
Translation adjustment
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(290,678)
 
(290,678)
BALANCE, December 31, 2013
10,198,733
 
26,862
 
5,892,907
 
(2,894,068)
 
41,507,592
 
88,249
 
44,621,542
                           
Shares issued - stock options exercised
12,200
 
 
29
 
52,693
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
52,722
Stock-based compensation
34,601
 
93
 
67,725
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
67,818
Net  income
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
7,706,921
 
-
 
7,706,921
Cash dividend paid
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(2,549,684)
 
-
 
(2,549,684)
Translation adjustment
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(776,307)
 
(776,307)
BALANCE, December 31, 2014
10,245,534
 
26,984
 
6,013,325
 
(2,894,068)
 
46,664,829
 
(688,058)
 
49,123,012
Shares issued - stock options exercised
2,000
 
 
5
 
9,915
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
9,920
Stock-based compensation
34,484
 
73
 
145,249
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
145,322
Net  income
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
6,402,405
 
-
 
6,402,405
Purchase of Treasury stock
(528,725)
 
-
 
-
 
(3,708,862)
 
-
 
-
 
(3,708,862)
Translation adjustment
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(999,621)
 
(999,621)
BALANCE, December 31, 2015
9,753,293
 
$27,062
 
$6,168,489
 
($6,602,930)
 
$53,067,234
 
$(1,687,679)
 
$50,972,176

 


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




TANDY LEATHER FACTORY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013

1.  DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
 
 
Our primary line of business is the sale of leather, leather crafts, and related supplies.  We sell our products via company-owned stores throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Spain.  Numerous customers including retailers, wholesalers, assemblers, distributors, and other manufacturers are geographically disbursed throughout the world.  We also have light manufacturing facilities in Texas.

 
2.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
·  
Management estimates and reporting

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Assets and liabilities with reported amounts based on significant estimates include trade accounts receivable, inventory (slow-moving), goodwill, and deferred income taxes.

·  
 Principles of consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, The Leather Factory, L.P. (a Texas limited partnership) and its corporate partners, Tandy Leather Company, L.P. (a Texas limited partnership) and its corporate partners, Mid-Continent Leather Sales, Inc. (an Oklahoma corporation), Roberts, Cushman & Company, Inc. (a Texas corporation), The Leather Factory of Canada, Ltd. (a Canadian corporation), Tandy Leather Factory UK Limited (a UK corporation), Tandy Leather Factory Australia Pty. Limited (an Australian corporation), and Tandy Leather Factory España, S.L. (a Spanish corporation).  All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

·  
Foreign currency translation and transactions

Foreign currency translation adjustments arise from activities of our foreign subsidiaries.  Results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars using the average exchange rates during the period, while assets and liabilities are translated using period-end exchange rates.  Foreign currency translation adjustments of assets and liabilities are recorded in stockholders’ equity.  Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are reported in the statements of income under the caption “Other (Income) Expense”, net, for all periods presented.  We recognized foreign currency transaction gains (losses) of ($24,000), ($13,900), and $41,000, in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

·  
Revenue recognition

Our sales generally occur via two methods: (1) at the store counter, and (2) shipment by common carrier.  Sales at the counter are recorded and title passes as transactions occur.  Otherwise, sales are recorded and title passes when the merchandise is shipped to the customer.  Shipping terms are normally FOB shipping point.  Sales tax and comparable foreign tax is excluded from revenue.

We offer an unconditional satisfaction guarantee to all customers and accept all product returns.  Net sales represent gross sales less negotiated price allowances, product returns, and allowances for defective merchandise.

·  
Discounts

We maintain four price levels on a consistent basis:  retail, wholesale, business, and distributor.  Gross sales are reported after deduction of discounts.  We do not pay slotting fees or make other payments to resellers.  Several customers require us to participate in their cooperative advertising programs.  These programs are a negotiated percentage of their purchases and are accounted for as a reduction of sales.

·  
Expense categories

Cost of goods sold includes inbound freight and duty charges from vendors to our central warehouse, freight and handling charges to move merchandise from our central warehouse to our stores, and manufacturing overhead, as appropriate.

Operating expenses include all selling, general and administrative costs including wages and related employee expenses (payroll taxes, health benefits, savings plans, etc.), advertising, outbound freight charges (to ship merchandise to customers), rent, and utilities.

·  
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization

Property and equipment are stated at cost.  Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which are five to ten years for equipment and machinery, seven to fifteen years for furniture and fixtures, five years for vehicles, and forty years for buildings and related improvements.  Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the life of the lease or the useful life of the asset.  Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

·  
Inventory

Inventory is valued at the lower of first-in, first-out cost or market.  In addition, the value of inventory is periodically reduced to net realizable value for slow-moving or obsolete inventory based on management's review of items on hand compared to their estimated future demand.

·  
Impairment of long-lived assets

Potential impairments of long-lived assets are reviewed annually or when events and circumstances warrant an earlier review.  Impairment is determined when estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with an asset are less than the asset’s carrying value.

·  
Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per share includes, to the extent inclusion of such shares would be dilutive to earnings per share, the effect of outstanding options and warrants, computed using the treasury stock method.
 
BASIC
2015
 
2014
 
2013
Net income
$6,402,405
 
$7,706,921
 
$7,265,717
           
Weighted average common shares outstanding
10,077,506
 
10,203,063
 
10,176,492
           
Earnings per share – basic
$0.64
 
$0.76
 
$0.71
           
DILUTED
         
Net income
$6,402,405
 
$7,706,921
 
$7,265,717
           
Weighted average common shares outstanding
10,077,506
 
10,203,063
 
10,176,492
Effect of restricted stock awards and assumed exercise of stock options
25,254
 
38,058
 
39,946
Weighted average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution
10,102,760
 
10,241,121
 
10,216,438
           
Earnings per share - diluted
$0.63
 
$0.75
 
$0.71
           
Outstanding options and restricted stock awards excluded as anti-dilutive
60,433
 
-
 
-

For additional disclosures regarding the restricted stock awards and the employee stock options, see Note 11. The net effect of converting stock options and restricted stock grants to purchase 68,400, 107,001, and 84,600 shares of common stock at option prices less than the average market prices has been included in the computations of diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

·  
Goodwill and other intangibles

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is required to be evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, absent indicators of impairment during the interim.  Application of the goodwill impairment test requires exercise of judgment, including the estimation of future cash flows, determination of appropriate discount rates and other important assumptions. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value and/or goodwill impairment for each reporting unit. Goodwill is not amortized, but is evaluated at least annually for impairment.  We completed our annual goodwill impairment analysis as of December 31 for each of the three years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 and determined that no adjustment to the carrying value of goodwill was required.

A summary of changes in our goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:

 
Leather Factory
 
Tandy Leather
 
Total
Balance, January 1, 2014
$598,579
 
$383,406
 
$981,985
Acquisitions and adjustments
-
 
-
 
-
Foreign exchange gain/loss
(10,199)
 
-
 
(10,199)
Impairments
-
 
-
 
-
Balance, December 31, 2014
$588,380
 
$383,406
 
$971,786
Acquisitions and adjustments
-
 
-
 
-
Foreign exchange gain/loss
(18,430)
 
-
 
(18,430)
Impairments
-
 
-
 
-
Balance, December 31, 2015
$569,950
 
$383,406
 
$953,356

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, our intangible assets and related accumulated amortization consisted of the following:

 
As of December 31, 2015
 
Gross
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net
Trademarks, Copyrights
$554,369
 
$544,504
 
$9,865
Non-Compete Agreements
174,665
 
157,248
 
17,417
 
$729,034
 
$701,752
 
$27,282

 
As of December 31, 2014
 
Gross
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net
Trademarks, Copyrights
$544,369
 
$518,426
 
$25,943
Non-Compete Agreements
178,882
 
146,799
 
32,083
 
$723,251
 
$665,225
 
$58,026

Excluding goodwill, we have no intangible assets not subject to amortization under U.S. GAAP.  Amortization of intangible assets of $40,744 in 2015, $45,202 in 2014, and $42,305 in 2013 was recorded in operating expenses.  The weighted average amortization period is 15 years for trademarks and copyrights.  Based on the current amount of intangible assets subject to amortization, we estimate amortization expense as follows for the next five years:

 
Leather Factory
Tandy Leather
Total
2016
108
6,335
6,443
2017
90
1,667
1,757
2018
-
1,417
1,417
2019
-
666
666
2020
-
666
666
Thereafter
-
6,333
6,333

·  
Fair value of financial Instruments

We measure fair value as an exit price, which is the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  As a basis for considering such assumptions, accounting standards establish a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value:

Level 1 – observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

Level 2 – include other inputs that are directly or indirectly observable in the marketplace.

Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs which are supported by little or no market activity.

Classification of the financial asset or liability within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

Our principal financial instruments held consist of certificates of deposit, accounts receivable, accounts payable, notes payable, and long-term debt.  The carrying value of certificates of deposit, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate their fair value due to the relatively short-term nature of the accounts.  The terms of the long-term debt are considered reasonable for this type of financing; therefore, the carrying amount approximates fair value.

·  
Income taxes

We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method.  Under this method, the amount of taxes currently payable or refundable is accrued, and deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences of temporary differences that currently exist between the tax basis and the financial reporting basis of our assets and liabilities.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates in effect in the years when those temporary differences are expected to reverse.  The effect on deferred taxes from a change in tax rate is recognized through continuing operations in the period that includes the enactment date of the change.  Changes in tax laws and rates could affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in the future.

A tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits.  Income tax position must meet a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold to be recognized.

We recognize tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions and adjust these liabilities when our judgment changes as a result of the evaluation of new information not previously available.  Due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from the current estimate of the tax liabilities.  These differences will be reflected as increases or decreases to income tax expense and the effective tax rate in the period in which new information becomes available.

We may be subject to periodic audits by the Internal Revenue Service and other taxing authorities.  These audits may challenge certain of our tax positions, such as the timing and amount of deductions and allocation of taxable income to the various jurisdictions.
 
·  
Stock-based compensation

We have one stock option plan which permits annual stock option grants to non-employee directors with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the shares at the date of grant.  Under this plan, no stock options were awarded in 2015 or 2014, while 12,000 options were awarded to directors in 2013.  These options vest and become exercisable six months from the option grant date.  Options outstanding and exercisable were granted at a stock option price which was not less than the fair market value of our common stock on the date the option was granted and no option has a term in excess of ten years.  We recognized share based compensation expense of $0, $0, and $11,686 for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively, as a component of operating expenses.
 
See Note 11 for additional information related to our stock option plan.
 
We also have a restricted stock plan that was adopted by our Board of Directors in January 2013 and approved by our stockholders in June 2013.  The plan reserves up to 300,000 shares of our common stock for restricted stock awards to our executive officers, non-employee directors, and other key employees.  Awards granted under the plan may be stock awards or performance awards, and may be subject to a graded vesting schedule with a minimum vesting period of four years.  The fair value of nonvested restricted common stock awards is the market value of our common stock on the date of grant.  Compensation costs for these awards will be recognized on a straight-line basis over the four year vesting period.

See Note 11 for additional information regarding our restricted stock plan.

·  
Comprehensive income

Comprehensive income includes net income and certain other items that are recorded directly to Stockholders’ Equity. The Company’s only source of other comprehensive income is foreign currency translation adjustments.

·  
Shipping and handling costs

All shipping and handling costs incurred by us are included in operating expenses on the statements of income.  These costs totaled approximately $2,012,000, $2,046,000, and $1,978,000 for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

·  
Advertising

With the exception of catalog costs, advertising costs are expensed as incurred.  Catalog costs are capitalized and expensed over the estimated useful life of the particular catalog in question, which is typically twelve to eighteen months.  Such capitalized costs are included in other current assets and totaled $181,000 and $171,000 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  Total advertising expense was $4,826,000 in 2015; $4,339,000 in 2014; and $4,099,000 in 2013.

·  
Cash flows presentation

For purposes of the statement of cash flows, we consider all highly liquid investments with initial maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.

·  
Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year financial statements to conform to the current year presentation.


3.  VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

·  
Allowance for uncollectible accounts

We maintain allowances for bad debts based on factors such as the composition of accounts receivable, the age of the accounts, historical bad debt experience, and our evaluation of the financial condition and past collection history of each customer.  Accounts are written off as they are deemed uncollectible based on a periodic review of accounts.  Our allowance for doubtful accounts was approximately $1,700 and $400 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  The following is a roll forward of the allowance for doubtful accounts:
 
 
 
Year ended:
Balance at
beginning of year
Reserve "purchased"
during year
Additions (reductions)
charged to costs and expenses
Foreign exchange
gain/loss
 
Write-offs
Balance at
end of year
December 31, 2015
$395
-
$1,449
$(98)
-
$1,746
December 31, 2014
$1,171
-
$854
$(25)
$(1,605)
$395
December 31, 2013
$111,996
-
$(106,504)
$(727)
$(3,594)
$1,171

·  
Sales returns and defective merchandise

Product returns are generally recorded directly against sales as those returns occur.  Historically, the amount of returns is immaterial and as a result, no reserve is recorded in the financial statements.

·  
Slow-moving and obsolete inventory

The majority of inventory items maintained by us have no restrictive shelf life.  We review all inventory items annually to determine what items should be eliminated from the product line.  Items are selected for several reasons: (1) the item is slow-moving; (2) the supplier is unable to provide an acceptable quality or quantity; or (3) to maintain a freshness in the product line.  Reductions in inventory for slow-moving and obsolete inventory are recorded directly against inventory.


4.  BALANCE SHEET COMPONENTS

 
December 31, 2015
 
December 31, 2014
INVENTORY
     
On hand:
     
    Finished goods held for sale
$30,487,764
 
$31,257,820
    Raw materials and work in process
1,284,567
 
1,118,506
Inventory in transit
1,812,208
 
499,166
TOTAL
$33,584,539
 
$32,875,492
       
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
     
Building
$9,232,066
 
$9,232,066
Land
1,451,132
 
1,451,132
Leasehold improvements
1,192,761
 
775,803
Equipment and machinery
5,086,770
 
4,978,426
Furniture and fixtures
6,889,642
 
5,589,989
Vehicles
139,837
 
172,527
 
23,992,208
 
22,199,943
Less:  accumulated depreciation
(8,297,155)
 
(7,037,665)
TOTAL
$15,695,053
 
$15,162,278
       
PREPAID EXPENSES
     
Prepaid insurance
$230,990
 
$214,129
Prepaid interest
3,876
 
-
Prepaid postage
97,801
 
114,681
Prepaid advertising
384,019
 
335,764
Prepaid rent
81,797
 
84,794
Prepaid supplies/equipment
199,466
 
147,215
Prepaid licenses/dues
117,007
 
129,781
Prepaid IT services
316,761
 
210,032
Prepaid other
83,170
 
112,256
TOTAL
$1,514,887
 
$1,348,652
       
OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
     
Accounts receivable – employees
$30,336
 
$78,210
Accounts receivable – other
15,921
 
15,144
Payments for merchandise not received
23,940
 
64,404
TOTAL
$70,197
 
$157,758
       
OTHER ASSETS
     
Security deposits - utilities, locations, etc.
$77,684
 
$77,979
Leather art collection
252,000
 
252,000
TOTAL
$329,684
 
$329,979
       
ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES
 
 
 
Accrued bonuses
$2,631,971
 
$2,820,774
Accrued payroll
255,058
 
407,945
Deferred revenue
902,236
 
934,868
Sales and payroll taxes payable
383,657
 
490,749
Inventory in transit
1,542,352
 
447,612
Other
330,278
 
292,566
TOTAL
$6,045,552
 
$5,394,514

Depreciation expense was $1,520,385, $1,391,422, and $1,152,307 for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

Loss from abandonment and/or disposal of obsolete equipment, which is included in operating expenses, is as follows, by segment:

Year ended December 31
Wholesale
Retail
International
Total
2015
$10,361
$9,222
$ 11,481
$ 31,064
2014
7,681
11,089
47
18,820
2013
76,874
32,348
-
109,222


5.  NOTES PAYABLE AND LONG-TERM DEBT

On September 18, 2015, we executed a Promissory Note and Business Loan Agreement with BOKF, NA dba Bank of Texas (“BOKF”), which provides us with a line of credit facility of up to $6,000,000.  It has a two-year term and is secured by our inventory.   The Business Loan Agreement contains covenants that we will maintain a funded debt to EBITDA ratio of no greater than 1.5 to 1, and that we will maintain a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio greater than or equal to 1.2 to 1.  Both ratios are calculated quarterly and are based on a trailing four quarter basis.

Also on September 18, 2015, we executed a Promissory Note with BOKF, which provides us with a line of credit facility of up to $10,000,000 for the purpose of purchasing our common stock.  Under the terms of the Promissory Note, we can borrow sums up to the lesser of $10,000,000 or the purchase price of a maximum of 1.2 million shares of our common stock from the period September 18, 2015 and ending on the earlier of September 18, 2016 or the date on which the entire amount is drawn.  During this time period, we will make interest only payments monthly. AT the end of this time period, the principal balance will be rolled into a 4-year term note.  This Promissory Note is secured by a Deed of Trust on the real estate located at 1900 SE Loop 820, Fort Worth, Texas.  We drew approximately $3.7 million on this line of credit in September 2015 which was used to purchase approximately 529,000 shares of our common stock.

Amounts drawn under either Promissory Note accrue interest at the London interbank Eurodollar market rate for U.S. dollars (commonly known as “LIBOR”) plus 1.85% (2.263% at December 31, 2015).

On July 31, 2007, we entered into a Credit Agreement and Line of Credit Note with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., pursuant to which the bank agreed to provide us with a credit facility of up to $5,500,000 to facilitate our purchase of real estate consisting of a 191,000 square foot building situated on 30 acres of land located at 1900 SE Loop 820 in Fort Worth, Texas.  Proceeds in the amount of $4,050,000 were used to fund the purchase of the property that is our corporate headquarters.  On April 30, 2008, the principal balance was rolled into a 10-year term note with an interest rate of 7.10% per annum.  We paid this note in full in September 2015.  As a result of the early payoff, we incurred a prepayment penalty in the amount of $200,000 which is included in interest expense.

On July 12, 2012, we executed a Line of Credit Note with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., pursuant to which the bank agreed to provide us with a revolving credit facility of up to $4 million, which was subsequently increased to $6 million.  The note expired on September 30, 2015.

At December 31, the amount outstanding under the above agreements consisted of the following:

 
 2015
 
2014
 
Business Loan Agreement with BOKF, NA – collateralized by real estate; payable as follows:
     
Line of Credit Note dated September 18, 2015, in the maximum principal amount of $10,000,000 with features as more fully described above – interest due monthly at LIBOR plus 1.85%;
matures September 18, 2020
 
$3,711,225
 
 
-
 
Line of Credit Note dated September 18, 2015, in the maximum principal amount of $6,000,000 with revolving features as more fully described above – interest due monthly at LIBOR plus 1.85%;
matures September 18, 2017
 
 
-
 
 
 
-
 
Credit Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank – collateralized by real estate; payable as follows:
     
Line of Credit Note dated July 31, 2007, converted to a 10-year term note on April 30, 2008; $16,875 monthly principal payments plus interest at 7.1% per annum;
 matures April 30, 2018, retired
 
 -
 
 
$2,143,125
 
Line of Credit Note dated July 12, 2012, as amended on June 23, 2014, in the maximum principal amount of $6,000,000 with revolving features as more fully described above – interest due monthly at LIBOR plus 2%;
expired September 30, 2015
 
 
-
 
 
 
3,500,000
 
$3,711,225
 
$5,643,125
Less current maturities
231,952
 
3,702,500
 
$3,479,273
 
$1,940,625

The terms of the above lines of credit contain various covenants for which we were in compliance as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.

Scheduled maturities of the Company’s notes payable and long-term debt are as follows:

2016
$231,952
2017
927,806
2018
927,806
2019
927,806
2020
695,855
 
$3,711,225

 
6.  CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS

We lease certain telecommunication equipment under a capital lease agreement.  The asset subject to the agreement totaled $227,783, $22,152 which is included in Property and Equipment and $205,631 which is included in Prepaid Equipment (not placed in service) as of December 31, 2015.  Accumulated depreciation on the assets placed in service at that date was $264.  Amortization of the capitalized cost is charged to depreciation expense.

At December 31, 2015, the amounts outstanding under capital lease obligation consisted of the following:

 
2015
Capital Lease secured by certain telecommunication equipment – total annual principal payments of $72,686, 1.8% interest, maturing January 2018
$156,271
Less amount representing interest
4,189
Total obligation under capital lease
152,082
Less - Current maturities
72,686
 
 $79,396
 
 
7.  EMPLOYEE BENEFIT AND SAVINGS PLANS

We have a 401(k) plan to provide retirement benefits for our employees.  As allowed under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, the plan provides tax-deferred salary contributions for eligible employees and allows employees to contribute a percentage of their annual compensation to the plan on a pretax basis.  Employee contributions are limited to a maximum annual amount as set periodically by the Internal Revenue Code.  In 2015, 2014, and 2013, we matched 100% of the pretax employee contributions on the first 3% of eligible earnings and 50% of the pretax employee contributions on the next 2% of eligible earnings that are contributed by employees.

 
Year Ended December 31,
Maximum Matching
Contribution per Participant*
Total Matching
Contribution
2015
$10,600
$290,388
2014
$10,400
$286,224
2013
$10,200
$301,434

* Due to the annual limit on eligible earnings imposed by the Internal Revenue Code

The plan allows employees who meet the age requirements and reach the plan contribution limits to make a catch-up contribution.  The catch-up contributions are not eligible for matching contributions.  In addition, the plan provides for discretionary matching contributions as determined by the Board of Directors.  There were no discretionary matching contributions made in 2015, 2014, or 2013.
 
 We currently offer no postretirement or postemployment benefits to our employees.
 
 
8.  INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes consists of the following:

   
2015
 
2014
 
2013
Current provision:
           
 
Federal
3,045,292
 
$3,368,974
 
$2,982,023
 
State
482,186
 
548,225
 
527,042
   
3,527,478
 
3,917,199
 
3,509,065
             
Deferred provision (benefit):
           
 
Federal
212,563
 
210,343
 
399,032
 
State
76,607
 
(26,853)
 
46,945
   
289,170
 
183,490
 
445,977
             
   
$3,816,648
 
$4,100,689
 
$3,955,042

Income before income taxes is earned in the following tax jurisdictions:

 
2015
 
2014
 
2013
United States
$9,272,854
 
$10,339,632
 
$9,920,099
United Kingdom
(43,567)
 
557,776
 
565,538
Canada
813,824
 
874,571
 
858,532
Australia
48,633
 
102,922
 
69,905
Spain
127,309
 
(67,291)
 
(193,315)
 
$10,219,053
 
$11,807,610
 
$11,220,759

The income tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

 
2015
 
2014
Deferred income tax assets:
     
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$-
 
$150
Capitalized inventory costs
260,385
 
306,592
Warrants and stock-based compensation
44,151
 
44,151
Accrued expenses, reserves, and other
66,444
 
64,747
Total deferred income tax assets
370,980
 
415,640
       
Deferred income tax liabilities:
     
Property and equipment depreciation
1,529,397
 
1,299,826
Goodwill and other intangible assets amortization
217,268
 
202,328
Total deferred income tax liabilities
1,746,665
 
1,502,154
       
Net deferred tax asset (liability)
($1,375,685)
 
($1,086,514)

The net deferred tax liability is classified on the balance sheets as follows:

 
2015
 
2014
Current deferred tax assets
$326,830
 
$371,491
Long-term deferred tax liabilities
(1,702,515)
 
(1,458,005)
Net deferred tax asset (liability)
($1,375,685)
 
($1,086,514)
 
The effective tax rate differs from the statutory rate as follows:

 
2015
2014
2013
Statutory rate – Federal US income tax
34%
34%
34%
State and local taxes
6%
5%
6%
Non-U.S. income tax at different rates
-
(1%)
(1%)
Domestic production activities deduction
(1%)
(1%)
(2%)
Other, net
(2%)
(2%)
(2%)
Effective rate
37%
35%
35%

We file a consolidated U.S. income tax return as well as state tax returns on a consolidated, combined, or stand-alone basis, depending on the jurisdiction.  We are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to the tax year ended December 2013.  Depending on the jurisdiction, we are no longer subject to state examinations by tax authorities for years prior to the December 2012 and December 2013 tax years.
 
 
9.  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Operating Leases

We lease our store locations under lease agreements that expire on dates ranging from March 2016 to February 2026.  Rent expense on all operating leases for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, was $3,844,641, $3,675,788, and $3,312,152, respectively.

Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases at December 31, 2015 were as follows:

Year ending December 31:
 
 2016
$3,685,292
 2017
2,925,137
 2018
2,141,641
 2019
1,474,072
 2020
934,880
 2021
584,334
2022
438,003
2023
317,870
2024
242,023
2025-2026
187,114
Total minimum lease payments
$12,930,366

Legal Proceedings

On March 16, 2011, two former employees of ours filed a lawsuit, entitled Mark Barnes and Jerry Mercante on behalf of themselves and all other similarly situated v. Tandy Leather Company, Inc., Tandy Leather Factory, and Does 1-50, in the US District Court for the District of Nevada.  The lawsuit was subsequently transferred to the United State District Court, Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division (“Court”), and an amended complaint was filed on May 9, 2011 by plaintiffs to add another former employee, Donna Cavota, as a third named plaintiff.  The suit alleged that we violated requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) as well as various state wage laws.  Plaintiffs sought to represent themselves and all similarly situated U.S. current and former store managers of ours.   A Settlement Agreement was reached between the parties, and on September 24, 2012, the Court issued an Order Preliminarily Approving the Settlement of all federal and state claims asserted by the plaintiffs in the litigation.  We continue to deny any violation of any statute, law, rule, or regulation, any liability or wrongdoing, and the truth of plaintiffs’ allegations. We agreed to enter into the Settlement Agreement to avoid further expense and inconvenience, end the disruption and burden of the litigation, avoid any other present or future litigation arising out of the facts that gave rise to the litigation, avoid the risk inherent in uncertain complex litigation, and to put to rest the controversy underlying the litigation.

The Settlement Agreement preliminarily approved by the Court required us to establish a fund designated as a Qualified Settlement Fund (Escrow Account) in the amount of $993,386 to fund (1) settlement payments to the plaintiffs, (2) settlement payments to the other members of the settlement class who joined the case, (3) plaintiffs’ attorneys’ fees and expenses, and (4) the claim administrator (Escrow Agent’s) fees and expenses.   The foregoing description is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Settlement Agreement which was attached as Exhibit 10.1 to a Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 1, 2012.
 
The deadline established by the Court for any persons employed by us as store managers between November 23, 2008 and September 24, 2012 to join the lawsuit as class members expired on May 24, 2013.  On June 28, 2013, the Court issued two orders: (1) an Order Approving Class and Collective Action Settlement and Dismissing Case with Prejudice, and (2) a Final Judgment, Approving Class and Collective Action Settlement and Dismissing Case with Prejudice.  Pursuant to the Court’s June 28, 2013 orders, the claims administrator (Escrow Agent) was required to make payments to the plaintiffs and those existing and former store managers who joined the lawsuit by signing and returning Consent to Join Forms, which contained a release of us from the claims asserted in plaintiffs’ lawsuit.
 
The settlement payments to the class members and the plaintiffs were made from the Escrow Account pursuant to the formula set forth in the Settlement Agreement by the claims administrator, as well as the payment of the plaintiffs’ attorney’s fees and the fees and expenses of the claims administrator (Escrow Agent).  The total payment from the Escrow Account, including our required FICA payments based on the settlement payments, was $744,273 from the total Escrow Account of $993,386.  All payments were made by the claims administrator and the balance of the Escrow Account (approximately $249,000) was returned to us in the first quarter of 2014.
 
In connection with the settlement, we recorded a charge to operations of $993,386 during the quarter ended September 30, 2012 as this amount, as ordered by the Court, covered the full settlement of all claims of the plaintiffs and the class members, plaintiffs’ attorneys’ fees, and the fees and expenses of the claims administrator (Escrow Agent) in accordance with the terms of the Settlement Agreement. In the quarter ended June 30, 2013, we recorded a benefit of approximately $312,000, which was the expected remaining balance in the Escrow Account after all payments have been made.  Payroll taxes associated with the payments to claimants of approximately $63,000 was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013.
 
We are periodically involved in various other litigation that arises in the ordinary course of business and operations.  There are no such matters pending that we expect to have a material impact on our financial position and operating results.  Legal costs associated with the resolution of claims, lawsuits, and other contingencies are expensed as incurred.

 
10.  SIGNIFICANT BUSINESS CONCENTRATIONS AND RISK

Major Customers

Our revenues are derived from a diverse group of customers primarily involved in the sale of leathercraft.  While no single customer accounted for more than 1/2% of our consolidated revenues in 2015, 2014, or 2013, sales to our five largest customers represented 1.3%, 1.7%, and 2.5%, respectively, of consolidated revenues in those years.  While we do not believe the loss of one of these customers would have a significant negative impact on our operations, we do believe the loss of several of these customers simultaneously or a substantial reduction in sales generated by them could temporarily affect our operating results.

Major Vendors

We purchase a significant portion of our inventory through one supplier.  Due to the number of alternative sources of supply, loss of this supplier would not have an adverse impact on our operations.

Credit Risk

Due to the large number of customers comprising our customer base, concentrations of credit risk with respect to customer receivables are limited.  At December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, 0%, 1%, and 6%, respectively, of our consolidated accounts receivable were due from a nationally recognized retail chain.  We do not generally require collateral for accounts receivable, but we do perform periodic credit evaluations of our customers and believe the allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate.  It is our opinion that if any one or a group of customer receivable balances should be deemed uncollectable, it would not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.

We maintain our cash in bank deposit accounts that, at times, may exceed federally insured limits.  We have not experienced any losses in such accounts.  We believe we are not exposed to any significant credit risk on our cash and cash equivalents.
 
 
11.  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

a)  
Stock Option Plan

In connection with its 2007 Director Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan for non-employee directors, there are outstanding options to purchase our common stock.  The plan provides for the granting of non-qualified options at the discretion of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors.  Options are granted at the fair market value of the underlying common stock at the date of grant and vest after six months.  We have reserved 100,000 shares of common stock for issuance under this plan.

All options expire ten years from date of grant and are exercisable at any time after vesting.  Of the 100,000 shares available for issuance, there are 21,400 un-optioned shares available for future grants.

A summary of stock option transactions for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, is as follows:

 
 
 2015
 
2014
 
2013
       
Weighted
     
Weighted
     
Weighted
       
Average
     
Average
     
Average
   
Option
 
Exercise
 
Option
 
Exercise
 
Option
 
Exercise
   
Shares
 
Price
 
Shares
 
Price
 
Shares
 
Price
Outstanding at January 1
 
72,400
 
$5.16
 
84,600
 
$5.04
 
121,600
 
$4.53
Granted
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
       12,000
 
           6.87
Forfeited or expired
 
(2,000)
 
4.96
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
Exchanged
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
Exercised
 
      (2,000)
 
4.96
 
     (12,200)
 
4.32
 
     (49,000)
 
4.23
Outstanding at December 31
 
68,400
 
$5.17
 
72,400
 
$5.16
 
84,600
 
$5.04
Exercisable at end of year
 
68,400
 
$5.17
 
72,400
 
$5.16
 
84,600
 
$5.04
Weighted-average fair value of
                       
  options granted during year
 
n/a
     
n/a
     
$0.97
   

The following table summarizes outstanding options into groups based upon exercise price ranges at December 31, 2015:

   
 Options Outstanding
 
 Options Exercisable
       
Weighted
 
Weighted
     
Weighted
 
Weighted
       
Average
 
Average
     
Average
 
Average
   
 Option
 
Exercise
 
Maturity
 
 Option
 
Exercise
 
Maturity
Exercise Price Range
 
 Shares
 
Price
 
(Years)
 
 Shares
 
Price
 
(Years)
$4.27 to $4.41
 
23,400
 
$4.39
 
5.01
 
23,400
 
$4.39
 
5.01
$4.80 to $4.96
 
12,000
 
4.80
 
5.28
 
12,000
 
4.80
 
5.28
$5.30 to $6.87
 
33,000
 
5.86
 
6.35
 
33,000
 
5.86
 
6.35
   
68,400
 
$5.17
 
5.70
 
68,400
 
$5.17
 
5.70

Other information pertaining to option activity during the twelve month periods ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 are as follows:
 
2015
2014
2013
Weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted
n/a
n/a
$0.97
Total fair value of stock options vested
n/a
n/a
$11,686
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised
$2,953
$14,816
$113,790

As of December 31, 2015, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options.

Cash received from the exercise of stock options for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $9,920, $52,722 and $113,800, respectively.

The fair value of options at the date of grant was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model (BSM) with the following weighted-average assumptions:

 
2015
2014
2013
Volatility
n/a
n/a
19.1%
Expected option life
n/a
n/a
3
Interest rate (risk free)
n/a
n/a
0.80%
Dividends
n/a
n/a
None

The assumptions are evaluated and revised, as necessary, to reflect market conditions and our experience.  Compensation expense is recognized only for those options expected to vest, with forfeitures estimated at the date of grant based on our historical experience and future expectations.

We also have a restricted stock plan that was adopted by our Board of Directors in January 2013 and approved by our stockholders in June 2013.  The plan reserves up to 300,000 shares of our common stock for restricted stock awards to our executive officers, non-employee directors, and other key employees.  Awards granted under the plan may be stock awards or performance awards, and may be subject to a graded vesting schedule with a minimum vesting period of four years.  The fair value of nonvested restricted common stock awards is the market value of our common stock on the date of grant.  Compensation costs for these awards will be recognized on a straight-line basis over the four year vesting period.  No awards were made in 2013.

In February 2014, our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Senior Vice President were awarded restricted stock grants consisting of 9,375 shares each. In addition, four of our independent directors were awarded restricted stock grants consisting of 1,619 shares each.  We recognized share based compensation expense of $67,818 for the year ended December 31, 2014 as a component of operating expenses.

In February 2015, our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President were awarded restricted stock grants consisting of 9,344 shares each. In addition, four of our independent directors were awarded restricted stock grants consisting of 1,613 shares each.  We recognized share based compensation expense of $145,321 for the year ended December 31, 2015 as a component of operating expenses.

A summary of the activity for nonvested restricted common stock awards as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:
 
Shares
Grant Fair Value
Balance, January 1, 2014
-
-
Granted
34,601
$8.96
Forfeited
-
-
Vested
-
-
Balance, December 31, 2014
34,601
$8.96
     
Balance, January 1, 2015
34,601
$8.96
Granted
34,484
8.99
Forfeited
-
-
Vested
(8,652)
8.96
Balance, December 31, 2015
60,433
8.97

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, there was unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested restricted stock awards of $406,897 and $242,207 which will be recognized in each of the following years as follows:

2016
$155,009
2017
155,009
2018
87,191
2019
9,688

Of the 300,000 shares available for issuance, there are 230,915 shares available for future awards.

b)  
Cash Dividend
 
On June 9, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a $0.25 per share special one-time cash dividend to be paid to stockholders of record at the close of business on July 7, 2014. The cash dividend, totaling approximately $2.5 million, was paid to stockholders on August 8, 2014.

Our Board will determine future cash dividends after giving consideration to our then existing levels of profit and cash flow, capital requirements, current and forecasted liquidity, as well as financial and other business conditions existing at the time.

c)  
Stockholder Rights Plan

On June 6, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized and declared a dividend of one preferred share purchase right (a “Right”) for each outstanding share of our common stock, par value $0.0024 per share, to stockholders of record at the close of business on June 16, 2013.  Each Right entitles the registered holder to purchase from us one one-thousandth of a newly created series of preferred stock at an exercise price of $30.00 per right.  The Rights are exercisable in the event any person or group acquires 20% or more of our outstanding common stock (an “Acquiring Person”), or commences a tender offer or exchange offer that would result in such person becoming an Acquiring Person.  An exception is included in the Rights Plan in order to ensure that certain owners are not by virtue of their share ownership automatically deemed to be an Acquiring Person upon adoption of the plan unless any such owner subsequently accrues additional shares of our common stock and after giving effect to such acquisition owns 20% or more of our outstanding common stock. The Rights will expire at 5:00 P.M. Eastern on June 6, 2016, unless such date is advanced or extended or unless the Rights are earlier redeemed or exchanged by our Board.

d)  
Share Repurchase Program

In August 2015, our Board authorized a share repurchase program where we may repurchase up to 1.2 million shares of our common stock through August 2016.  Subsequently, we have repurchased approximately 529,000 shares of our stock, at an average price of $7.01, totaling $3.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. There were no stock repurchases in 2014 or 2013.


12.  SEGMENT INFORMATION

We identify our segments based on the activities of three distinct operations:

a.  
Wholesale Leathercraft, which consists of a chain of wholesale stores operating under the name, The Leather Factory, located in North America;

b.  
Retail Leathercraft, which consists of a chain of retail stores operating under the name, Tandy Leather Company, located in North America;

c.  
International Leathercraft, which sells to both wholesale and retail customers.  We have one store located in Northampton, United Kingdom which opened in February 2008; one store located in Sydney, Australia which opened in October 2011; one store located in Jerez, Spain which opened in January 2012; and one store located in Manchester, United Kingdom which opened in October 2015.  These stores carry the same products as our North American stores.
 
Our reportable operating segments have been determined as separately identifiable business units and we measure segment earnings as operating earnings, defined as income before interest and income taxes.

 
Wholesale Leathercraft
Retail Leathercraft
International Leathercraft
Total
For the year ended December 31, 2015
       
Net Sales
$26,754,165
$53,714,432
$3,692,603
$84,161,200
Gross Profit
18,579,494
31,258,961
2,232,605
52,071,060
Operating earnings
4,663,590
5,689,814
121,296
10,474,700
Interest expense
330,004
-
-
330,004
Other expense, net
(63,230)
-
(11,127)
(74,357)
Income before income taxes
4,396,816
5,689,814
132,423
10,219,053
     Depreciation and amortization
950,174
559,418
57,580
1,567,172
     Fixed asset additions
945,998
932,231
285,811
2,164,040
     Total assets
$42,097,024
$17,753,324
$4,716,578
$64,566,926
         
For the year ended December 31, 2014
       
Net Sales
$27,285,884
$51,805,944
$4,339,084
$83,430,912
Gross Profit
18,393,969
30,880,718
2,850,070
52,124,757
Operating earnings
5,300,413
6,077,345
580,271
11,958,029
Interest expense
225,584
-
-
225,584
Other expense, net
(61,984)
-
(13,181)
(75,165)
Income before income taxes
5,136,813
6,077,345
593,452
11,807,610
     Depreciation and amortization
911,327
460,534
64,763
1,436,624
     Fixed asset additions
909,260
1,243,123
51,807
2,204,190
     Total assets
$43,000,030
$16,608,386
$3,265,458
$62,873,874
         
For the year ended December 31, 2013
       
Net Sales
$27,384,614
$46,995,902
$3,904,069
$78,284,585
Gross Profit
18,425,268
28,430,800
2,471,956
49,328,024
Operating earnings
4,840,416
6,026,731
399,643
11,266,790
Interest expense
206,763
-
-
206,763
Other expense, net
(118,218)
(29)
(42,485)
(160,732)
Income before income taxes
4,751,871
6,026,760
442,128
11,220,759
     Depreciation and amortization
866,264
271,536
56,812
1,194,612
     Fixed asset additions
1,946,980
1,778,727
44,315
3,770,022
     Total assets
$40,981,591
$12,206,584
$3,210,391
$56,398,566


Net sales by geographic areas were as follows:

 
2015
2014
2013
United States
$72,061,009
$69,791,099
$65,371,652
Canada
7,543,468
8,342,896
8,004,320
All other countries
4,556,723
5,296,917
4,908,613
 
$84,161,200
$83,430,912
$78,284,585

Geographic sales information is based on the location of the customer.  Except for Canada, we had no sales to any single foreign country that was material to our consolidated net sales for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.  We do not have any significant long-lived assets outside of the United States.
 
 
13.  RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity”. Under the new guidance, a disposal of a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity is required to be reported in discontinued operations only if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. This guidance also changes an entity’s requirements when presenting, for each comparative period, the assets and liabilities of a disposal group that includes a discontinued operation. A discontinued operation may include a component of an entity, or a business or nonprofit activity. The guidance was effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The adoption of the new requirements did not have a material impact on our consolidated earnings, financial position or cash flows.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, which amends ASC Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”. The amendments in this ASU are intended to provide a more robust framework for addressing revenue issues, improve comparability of revenue recognition practices and improve disclosure requirements. The amendments in this accounting standard update are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-24, Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Deferral of the Effective Date which proposed a deferral of the effective date by one year, and on July 7, 2015, the FASB decided to delay the effective date by one year. The deferral results in the new revenue standard being effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. We are therefore required to apply the new revenue guidance beginning in our 2018 interim and annual financial statements. This ASU can be adopted either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. Entities reporting under U.S. GAAP are not permitted to adopt this standard earlier than the original effective date for public entities (that is, no earlier than 2017 for calendar year-end entities.) We are evaluating what impact, if any, the adoption of this guidance will have on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or financial disclosures.

In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, which amends ASC Topic 718, “Compensation–Stock Compensation.” The guidance requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition and should not be reflected in the estimate of the grant-date fair value of the award. The guidance is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015. The guidance can be applied prospectively for all awards granted or modified after the effective date or retrospectively to all awards with performance targets outstanding as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented in the financial statements and to all new or modified awards thereafter. We do not expect that our adoption will have a material impact on our financial statements or disclosures in our financial statements.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern”. This ASU codifies management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. The guidance is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual and interim periods thereafter, and early adoption is permitted. We do not expect that our adoption will have a material impact on our financial statements or disclosures in our financial statements.

In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01, “Income Statement – Extraordinary and Unusual Items”. This ASU simplifies income statement classification by removing the concept of extraordinary items from U.S. GAAP. As a result, items that are both unusual and infrequent will no longer be separately reported net of tax after continuing operations. The guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. We do not expect that our adoption will have a material impact on our financial statements or disclosures in our financial statements.
 
In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, “Inventory – Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory”, which requires entities to measure most inventory “at the lower of cost and net realizable value (“NRV”), thereby simplifying the current guidance under which an entity must measure inventory at the lower of cost or market. The new guidance eliminates the need to determine replacement cost and evaluate whether it is above the ceiling (NRV) or below the floor (NRV less a normal profit margin). The guidance defines NRV as the “estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation”. The guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is permitted. We do not expect that the adoption of guidance will have a significant impact on its consolidated financial statements.
 
 
In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, which requires all deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as non-current on the balance sheet instead of separating deferred taxes into current and non-current amounts. The guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and may be adopted on either a prospective or retrospective basis. We do not expect that our adoption will have a material impact on our financial statements or disclosures in our financial statements.
 
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases”, a comprehensive new standard that amends various aspects of existing accounting guidance for leases, including the recognition of a right of use asset and a lease liability for leases with a duration greater than one year.  The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We have not completed our review of the new guidance; however, we anticipate that upon adoption of the standard, we will recognize additional assets and corresponding liabilities related to leases on its balance sheet.

14.  QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

   
 First
 Second
 Third
 Fourth
2015
 
 Quarter
 Quarter
 Quarter
 Quarter
Net sales
 
$20,788,764
$19,773,528
$19,355,937
$24,292,971
Gross profit
 
12,582,927
12,814,382
11,832,697
14,841,054
Net income
 
1,444,407
1,507,896
1,111,344
2,338,758
Net income per common share:
         
Basic
 
$0.14
$0.15
$0.11
$0.24
Diluted
 
$0.14
$0.15
$0.11
$0.24
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
         
Basic
 
10,211,333
10,212,933
10,175,650
9,692,860
Diluted
 
10,241,096
10,241,164
10,199,092
9,712,571
           
   
 First
 Second
 Third
 Fourth
2014
 
 Quarter
 Quarter
 Quarter
 Quarter
Net sales
 
$19,838,466
$19,703,607
$19,417,234
$24,471,605
Gross profit
 
12,715,723
12,779,606
12,174,709
14,454,719
Net income
 
1,854,412
1,765,485
1,628,562
2,458,462
Net income per common share:
         
Basic
 
$0.18
$0.17
$0.16
$0.24
Diluted
 
$0.18
$0.17
$0.16
$0.24
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
         
Basic
 
10,198,733
10,198,733
10,203,711
10,210,933
Diluted
 
10,239,505
10,239,823
10,241,410
10,244,127



 
 





 



REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM


To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and Subsidiaries

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2015.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting.  Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.  Accordingly, we express no such opinion.  An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Respectfully,

WEAVER AND TIDWELL, L.L.P.

Fort Worth, Texas
March 29, 2016




None.
 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the design and operation of our “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon their evaluation of these disclosure controls and procedures, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the date of such evaluation in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (1) recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely manner, and (2) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over our financial reporting.  Our internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to our management and our board of directors regarding the reliability of the preparation and fair presentation of our published financial statements.

All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations.  Therefore, even those systems determined effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

We have assessed the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015.  In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commissions (COSO) in Internal Control – Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2015, our internal control over financial reporting is effective based on that criteria.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting.  Management’s report is not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit us to provide only management’s report in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Changes in internal control

There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2015 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


None.

PART III*

 




* The information required by Items 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 is or will be set forth in the definitive proxy statement relating to the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Tandy Leather Factory, Inc., which is to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  This definitive proxy statement relates to a meeting of stockholders involving the election of directors and the portions therefrom required to be set forth in this Form 10-K by Items 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 are incorporated herein by reference pursuant to General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K.

PART IV


(a)           The following are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

1. Financial Statements

The following consolidated financial statements are included in Item 8:

·  
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2015 and 2014
·  
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013
·  
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013
·  
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013
·  
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013

2.  Financial Statement Schedules

All financial statement schedules are omitted because the required information is not present or not present in sufficient amounts to require submission of the schedule or because the information is reflected in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

3.  Exhibits

The exhibits listed in the Exhibit Index immediately preceding such exhibits are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Annual Report on Form 10-K to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                    TANDY LEATHER FACTORY, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Shannon L. Greene
   
Shannon L. Greene
   
Interim Chief Executive Officer
     
 
By:
/s/ Shannon L. Greene
   
Shannon L. Greene
   
Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer, and Treasurer
Dated:  March 29, 2016

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature
Title
Date
     
/s/ Joseph R. Mannes
Chairman of the Board
March 29, 2016
Joseph R. Mannes
   
     
/s/ Shannon L. Greene
Interim Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer, Treasurer and Director
March 29, 2016
Shannon L. Greene
 
 
     
/s/ Mark J. Angus
Interim President, Assistant Secretary, and Director
March 29, 2016
Mark J. Angus
   
     
/s/ William M. Warren
Secretary, General Counsel, and Director
March 29, 2016
William M. Warren
   
     
/s/ Jefferson Gramm
Director
March 29, 2016
Jefferson Gramm
   
     
/s/ T. Field Lange
Director
March 29, 2016
T. Field Lange
   
     
/s/ L. Edward Martin III
Director
March 29, 2016
L. Edward Martin III
   
     
/s/ J. Bryan Wilkinson
Director
March 29, 2016
J. Bryan Wilkinson
   








 
TANDY LEATHER FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Number
 
      Description
3.1
Certificate of Incorporation of The Leather Factory, Inc., and Certificate of Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation of The Leather Factory, Inc. filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 12, 2005 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
3.2
Bylaws of The Leather Factory, Inc. (n/k/a Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.) filed as Exhibit 3.5 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 14, 2004 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
3.3
Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock of Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 10, 2013 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
4.1
Rights Agreement dated as of June 6, 2013 between Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and Broadridge Corporate Issuer Solutions, Inc., as Rights Agent (including the Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Preferred Stock attached thereto as Exhibit A, the form of Right Certificate attached thereto as Exhibit B and the Summary of Rights attached thereto as Exhibit C), filed as Exhibit 4.1 to Tandy Leather Factory Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 10, 2013 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.1
2007 Director Non-qualified Stock Option Plan of Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. dated March 22, 2007, filed as an Exhibit to Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.’s Definitive Proxy Statement, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2007 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.2
First Amendment to 2007 Director Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, dated May 3, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Tandy Leather Factory Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 4, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.3
Second Amendment to 2007 Director Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, dated October 7, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Tandy Leather Factory Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 12, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.4
Third Amendment to 2007 Director Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, dated February 11, 2014, filed as Exhibit 10.5 to Tandy Leather Factory Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 14, 2014 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.5
Business Loan Agreement, dated September 18, 2015, by and between Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and BOKF, NA dba Bank of Texas, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Tandy Leather Factory’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 24, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein
 
10.6
$6,000,000 Promissory Note, dated September 18, 2015, by and between Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and BOKF, NA dba Bank of Texas, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Tandy Leather Factory’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 24, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.7
$10,000,000 Promissory Note, dated September 18, 2015, by and between Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. and BOKF, NA dba Bank of Texas, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Tandy Leather Factory’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 24, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.8
Deed of Trust, dated as of September 18, 2015, by and among Tandy Leather Factory, Inc., Jeffrey L Seasor and BOKF, NA dba Bank of Texas, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Tandy Leather Factory’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 24, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.9
Settlement Agreement, dated September 24, 2012, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Tandy Leather Factory’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 28, 2012 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.10
Form of Change of Control Agreement between the Company and each of Jon Thompson, Shannon Greene and Mark Angus, each effective as of December 3, 2012, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Tandy Leather Factory’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 6, 2012 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.11
Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. 2013 Restricted Stock Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Tandy Leather Factory’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 14, 2013 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.12
Form of Non-Employee Director Restricted Stock Agreement under Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.’s 2013 Restricted Stock Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 14, 2014 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
10.13
Form of Employee Restricted Stock Award Agreement under Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.’s 2013 Restricted Stock Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 14, 2014 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
14.1
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics of The Leather Factory, Inc., adopted by the Board of Directors on February 26, 2004, filed as Exhibit 14.1 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of The Leather Factory, Inc. (Commission File No. 1-12368) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2004 and incorporated by reference herein.
 
*21.1
Subsidiaries of Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.
 
*31.1
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
*31.2
Certification by the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
*32.1
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
*101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
   
*101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
   
*101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Document
   
*101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Document
   
*101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Document
   
*101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Document
   
___________
    *Filed Herewith