See pages 16 to 32.
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Parlux Fragrances, Inc. is a manufacturer and international distributor of prestige products. We hold licenses for Paris Hilton fragrances, watches, cosmetics, sunglasses, handbags and other small leather accessories in addition to licenses to manufacture and distribute the designer fragrance brands of GUESS?, Jessica Simpson, Nicole Miller, XOXO, Ocean Pacific (OP), Maria Sharapova, Andy Roddick, babyGund, and Fred Hayman Beverly Hills.
Certain statements within this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which are not historical in nature, including those that contain the words, anticipate; believe; plan; estimate; expect; should; intend; and other similar expressions, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All forward-looking statements are based on current expectations. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve many risks and uncertainties, which may affect our business and prospects, including economic, competitive, governmental and other factors included in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Risk Factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the year ended March 31, 2007. Accordingly, actual results may differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, and the making of such statements should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other person that the results expressed in the statements will be achieved. We do not undertake any obligation to update the forward-looking information herein, which speaks only as of this date.
On May 17, 2006, we announced a two-for-one stock split of common stock in the form of a dividend, for stockholders of record on May 31, 2006 (the Stock Split). The Stock Split was effected on June 16, 2006 and did not include shares held in treasury. In connection with the Stock Split, we modified outstanding warrants. See Note B
to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion of the effect of the modification of warrants in connection with the Stock Split and the related non-cash share-based compensation expense recorded during the nine months ended December 31, 2006.
Recent Developments
Office Lease
On November 30, 2007, we entered into a lease agreement, commencing during February 2008, for 19,072 square feet of office space in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which will serve as our new corporate headquarters. We anticipate moving during the second week in February 2008 from our present 99,000 square foot office/warehouse facility, which is currently being marketed for sublease. Warehouse operations have been consolidated into our 198,050 square foot distribution center in New Jersey.
Jessica Simpson Fragrance License
On June 21, 2007, we entered into an exclusive license agreement with VCJS, LLC, to develop, manufacture and distribute prestige fragrances and related products under the Jessica Simpson name. The initial term of the agreement expires five years from the date of the first product sales and is renewable for an additional five years if certain sales levels are met. We must pay a minimum royalty, whether or not any product sales are made, and spend minimum amounts for advertising based upon sales volume. We anticipate that the first fragrance under this agreement will be launched during late summer 2008.
Nicole Miller Fragrance License
On August 1, 2007, we entered into an exclusive license agreement with Kobra International, Ltd., to develop, manufacture and distribute prestige fragrances and related products under the Nicole Miller name. The initial term of the agreement expires on September 30, 2013 and is renewable for two additional terms of three years each, if certain sales levels are met. We must pay a minimum royalty, whether or not any product sales are made, and spend minimum amounts for advertising based upon sales volume. We anticipate launching a new fragrance
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under this license in the fall of 2008, and have recently resumed the manufacturing of certain previously developed Nicole Miller fragrances.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
In the ordinary course of business, we have made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of results of operations and financial condition in the preparation of our financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates under different assumptions and conditions. We have included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2007 a discussion of our most critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations and require managements most difficult, subjective and complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. We have not made any changes in these critical accounting policies, nor have we made any material change in any of the critical accounting estimates underlying these accounting policies, since the Form 10-K filing, discussed above, except for the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation 48 (FIN 48)
Accounting for Income Tax Uncertainties
, discussed below.
On April 1, 2007, we adopted the provisions of FIN 48, which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109
Accounting for Income Taxes
. FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold of more-likely-than-not and a measurement attribute on all tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in order to be recognized in the financial statements. In making this assessment, a company must determine whether it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based solely on the technical merits of the position and must assume that the tax position will be examined by appropriate taxing authority that would have full knowledge of all relevant information. Once the recognition threshold is met, the tax position is then measured to determine the actual amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. In addition, the recognition threshold of more-likely-than-not must continue to be met in each reporting period to support continued recognition of the tax benefit. Tax positions that previously failed to meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be recognized in the first financial reporting period in which that threshold is met. Previously recognized tax positions that no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be derecognized in the financial reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met.
As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, we did not recognize a liability for unrecognized tax benefits or adjust any recorded liabilities for uncertain tax positions and, accordingly, we were not required to record any cumulative effect adjustment to beginning of year retained earnings. As of both the date of adoption and December 31, 2007, there was no material liability for income tax associated with unrecognized tax benefits. We do not anticipate any material adjustments relating to unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months, however, the outcome of tax matters is uncertain and unforeseen results can occur.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 157,
Fair Value Measurements
(SFAS No. 157). SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and enhances disclosures about fair value measures required under other accounting pronouncements, but does not change existing guidance as to whether or not an instrument is carried at fair value. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently reviewing the provisions of SFAS No. 157 to determine the impact, if any, on our condensed consolidated financial statements.
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159,
The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities - Including an Amendment of FASB No. 115
("SFAS No. 159"). SFAS No. 159 permits companies to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value in order to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently without having to apply complex hedge accounting provisions. SFAS No. 159 is effective for our fiscal year ending March 31, 2009. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, of this statement on our condensed consolidated financial statements.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R),
Business Combinations
, or (SFAS 141(R)). SFAS 141(R) establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree. SFAS 141(R) also provides guidance for recognizing and measuring the goodwill acquired in the business combination and determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the
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nature and financial effects of the business combination. The provisions of SFAS 141(R) are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We are currently assessing the financial impact of SFAS 141(R) on our consolidated financial statements.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160,
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements An Amendment of ARB No. 51
(SFAS 160). SFAS 160 amends Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements, or ARB 51, to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This statement also amends certain of ARB 51s consolidation procedures for consistency with the requirements of SFAS 141(R). In addition, SFAS 160 also includes expanded disclosure requirements regarding the interests of the parent and its noncontrolling interest. The provisions of SFAS 160 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Earlier adoption is prohibited. We are currently assessing the financial impact of SFAS 160 on our consolidated financial statements.
Significant Trends
Over the last few years, a significant number of new prestige fragrance products have been introduced on a worldwide basis. The beauty industry in general is highly competitive and consumer preferences often change rapidly. The initial appeal of these new fragrances, launched for the most part in U.S. department stores, has fueled the growth of our industry. Department stores continue to lose sales to the mass market as a product matures. To counter the effect of lower department store sales, fragrance companies introduce new products more quickly, which requires additional spending for development and advertising and promotional expenses. In addition, a number of the new launches are with celebrities (either entertainers or athletes) which require substantial royalty commitments and whose careers and/or appeal could change drastically, both positively and negatively, based on a single event. We believe these trends will continue. If one or more of our new product introductions would be unsuccessful, or if the appeal of the celebrity would diminish, it could result in a substantial reduction in profitability and operating cash flows.
We cannot accurately predict what affect, if any, the current economic instability will have on future results. In addition, certain U.S. department store retailers have consolidated operations resulting in the closing of retail stores as well as implementing various inventory control initiatives. We expect that these store closings and the inventory control initiatives will continue to negatively affect our sales in the short term.
Results of Operations
As more fully discussed in Note O to the condensed consolidated financial statements, on December 6, 2006, we sold our Perry Ellis fragrance brand license back to Perry Ellis International (PEI) at a price of approximately $63 million, including approximately $21 million for inventory and promotional products relating to the brand. Beginning with our third quarter ended December 31, 2006, the Perry Ellis brand activity has been presented as discontinued operations. Prior period statements of operations have been retrospectively adjusted. The discussion on results of operations that follow are based upon the results from continuing operations and exclude any discussion of discontinued operations, unless specifically noted.
We do business with fragrance distributors owned/operated by individuals related to our former Chairman and CEO. Through June 30, 2007, these sales were included as related party sales in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. As of June 30, 2007, the former Chairman and CEOs beneficial ownership interest in the Company was approximately 7.6%. During the quarter ended September 30, 2007 his beneficial ownership declined to less than 5%. Accordingly, the Companys management determined that, effective as of July 1, 2007, transactions with such parties will no longer be reported as related party transactions. As of December 31, 2007, the former Chairman and CEOs beneficial ownership interest in the Company was less than 2%.
Our gross margins may not be comparable to other entities that include all of the costs related to their distribution network in costs of goods sold, since we allocate a portion of these distribution costs to costs of goods sold and include the remaining unallocated amounts as selling and distribution expenses. Selling and distribution expenses for the nine months ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 include approximately
$3,279,000 and $4,417,000 respectively ($1,511,000 and $2,182,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2007 and 2006), relating to the cost of warehouse operations not allocated to inventories and other related distribution expenses (excluding shipping
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expenses which are recorded as cost of goods sold). A portion of these costs is allocated to inventory in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
In addition, our sales tend to fluctuate with the seasons, as we experience increased sales during holiday gift giving periods assuming stable economic conditions.
Comparison of the three-month period ended December 31, 2007 with the three-month period ended December 31, 2006
Net Sales
During the three months ended December 31, 2007, net sales from continuing operations increased 3% to $44,543,788 as compared to $43,416,309 for the same period in the prior year. The increase is mainly attributable to an increase of $4,110,706 in gross sales of Paris Hilton brand fragrances, which included the recent launch of the new Can Can fragrance which began shipping in September 2007 and generated $4,270,310 in gross sales during the period. Gross sales of Paris Hilton accessories increased by $1,646,949 over the same period in the prior year, as watch sales increased by $1,992,377, but was partially offset by a $345,428 decrease in handbag sales. Gross sales of GUESS? fragrances decreased $5,291,874 due to restrictions placed upon us by GUESS?, Inc. These restrictions are more fully discussed in Note J to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Net sales to unrelated customers, which represented 79% of our total net sales for the three months ended December 31, 2007, increased by 18% to $35,055,318 as compared to $29,738,731 for the same period in the prior year,
mainly as a result of the Paris Hilton brand sales discussed above. In addition, effective as of July 1, 2007, sales to certain distributors, that were previously reported as related parties, are now included as unrelated international customer sales. Net sales to the U.S. department store sector decreased 15% to $13,288,524 for the three months ended December 31, 2007 as compared to $15,597,979 for the same period in the prior year, while net sales to unrelated international distributors increased 54% to $21,766,868 from $14,140,754 in the same period of the prior year. The increase in international net sales was primarily a result of growth in the Paris Hilton brand fragrances and accessories. Sales to related parties (See Note F to the condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion of related parties) decreased 31% to $9,488,470 for the three months ended December 31, 2007,
compared to $13,677,578 for the same period in the prior year, mainly as a result of certain international distributers formerly reported as related parties who are no longer considered as such. As sales to these parties have decreased, our sales to Perfumania, Inc. (Perfumania) have increased. We anticipate that this trend will continue as sales to Perfumania increase as a result of increased access to its distribution channels. As discussed above, effective July 1, 2007, related party sales include only sales to Perfumania, as sales to certain distributors, that were previously reported as related parties, are now included as unrelated international customer sales.
Cost of Goods Sold
Our overall cost of goods sold decreased as a percentage of net sales to 50% for the three months ended December 31, 2007, compared to 58% for the comparable prior year period. Cost of goods sold as a percentage of net sales to unrelated customers and related parties approximated 49% and 53%, respectively, for the current year period, as compared to 61% and 53%, respectively, for the same period in the prior year. The prior year period included a higher percentage of value sets sold to unrelated customers, which sets include multiple products and have a higher cost of goods compared to basic stock items. The prior year period also included a higher percentage of sales of GUESS? products which sales, for the most part, have a lower margin than sales of our other products.
Total Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses decreased by 17% compared to the same period in the prior year to $21,896,502, from $26,312,768, decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 61% to 49%. The decrease is mainly attributable to lower advertising and promotional expenses. An analysis of individual components of our operating expenses is discussed below.
Advertising and Promotional Expenses
Advertising and promotional expenses decreased 22%
to $12,454,247, compared to $16,018,065 in the comparable prior year period, decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 37%
to 28%. The current period reflects a targeted effort on the part of management to control these expenses in the current year. During the current year period, we commenced a significant advertising campaign for the Paris Hilton fragrance brands in conjunction with
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the launch of Paris Hilton Can Can. During the prior year period we incurred promotional costs in connection with the continued roll out of Paris Hilton and GUESS? fragrances for women and men on a worldwide basis and GUESS GOLD womens fragrance and Paris Hilton Heiress for women fragrance, mainly in U.S. department stores.
Selling and Distribution Costs
Selling and distribution costs decreased 13%
to $3,358,058 compared to $3,874,413 in the comparable prior year period, decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 9% to 8%. The decrease was mainly attributable to the centralization of all distribution activities in our New Jersey facility, resulting in a decrease of staff in our Florida warehouse facility. The prior year period also included approximately
$
355,000 for inventory relocation costs in connection with our shifting of distribution activities to New Jersey.
Royalties
Royalties increased by 13% in the current period, to $3,301,514 from $2,918,811 in the corresponding prior year period, remaining relatively constant as a percentage of net sales at 7%. This rate, in comparison to actual rates under our various license agreements, is higher due to provisions for minimum royalties related to licensed accessory products (primarily our sunglass and cosmetics licenses, which have no sales).
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses decreased 30% compared to the prior year period, from $2,833,276 to $1,975,670, and decreased as a percentage of sales to 4% from 7% in the prior year period. The decrease is due to a targeted effort on the part of management to reduce overall expenses while increasing accounting and financial resources in order to address and remediate the material weaknesses reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2007. The prior year period also included approximately $547,000 of additional legal expenses than the current year period, as various litigation was resolved during fiscal 2007.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization increased 21% in the current year period from $668,203
to $807,013 but remained constant as a percentage of sales at 2%. The increased expense reflects a $200,000 impairment charge for the XOXO fragrance license during the current period.
Operating Income (Loss)
As a result of the aforementioned factors, we generated operating income from continuing operations of
$
493,840 for the current period, compared to an operating loss from continuing operations of $8,218,192 for the comparable period in the prior year.
Net interest expense
Net interest expense (including bank charges, and net of interest income) decreased 63%
to $217,067 in the current period as compared to net interest expense of $590,902 for the same period in the prior year, as we utilized less of our line of credit to finance receivables and inventory.
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes
Income from continuing operations before income taxes for the current period was $288,648 compared to a loss from continuing operations before income taxes of $8,811,542 in the same period of the prior year.
Our tax provision (benefit) for the periods reflects an estimated effective rate of 38%.
As a result, income from continuing operations was $178,962 for the current year period compared to a loss from continuing operations of $5,463,157
in the comparable period of the prior year.
Income from discontinued operations, net of the tax effect, was $3,719 in the current year period due to sales of inventory from product returns processed during this quarter compared to income of $23,402,021 in the same period of the prior year. The prior period includes a pretax gain of $34,277,316 from the sale of the Perry Ellis fragrance brand (See Note O to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion).
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As a result, net income for the three months ended December 31, 2007 was $182,681 as compared to net income of $17,938,864 in the corresponding prior year period.
Comparison of the nine-month period ended December 31, 2007 with the nine-month period ended December 31, 2006
Net Sales
During the nine months ended December 31, 2007, net sales from continuing operations increased 15% to $113,277,679 as compared to $98,785,112 for the same period for the prior year. The increase is mainly attributable to an increase of $29,818,654 in gross sales of Paris Hilton fragrance brands which included the recent launch of the new Can Can fragrance which commenced shipping in September 2007 and generated $5,500,267 in gross sales. Gross sales of Paris Hilton accessories increased by $1,360,106 over the same period in the prior year, as watch sales increased by $2,338,599, partially offset by a $978,493 decrease in handbag sales. Gross sales of GUESS? fragrances decreased $17,876,881 due to restrictions placed upon us by GUESS?, Inc. These restrictions are more fully discussed in Note J to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Net sales to unrelated customers, which represented 58% of our total net sales for the nine-month period ended December 31, 2007, remained relatively constant at
$65,493,977 compared to $65,377,336 for the same period in the prior year. As more fully discussed in Note F to our condensed consolidated financial statements, effective as of July 1, 2007, sales to certain distributors, that were previously reported as related parties, are now included as unrelated international customer sales. Net sales to the U.S. department store sector decreased 9% from $27,561,715 to $24,952,863, while net sales to international distributors increased 7% from $37,815,621 to $40,541,114. The increase in international net sales was primarily a result of growth in the Paris Hilton brand fragrances and accessories. This was partially offset by the reduced sales of GUESS? fragrance brands, as is more fully discussed in Note J to our condensed consolidated financial statements. Sales to related parties increased 43% to $47,783,702
compared to $33,407,776 for the same period in the prior year. The increase was attributable to increases of $23,832,164 in Paris Hilton brand fragrance sales, partially offset by reductions of $10,389,846 in GUESS? brand gross sales. We anticipate that this trend will continue as sales to Perfumania increase as a result of increased access to its distribution channels (See Note F to the condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion of related parties).
Effective July 1, 2007, related party sales include only sales to Perfumania, as sales to certain distributors, that were previously reported as related parties, are now included as unrelated international customer sales.
Cost of Goods Sold
Our overall cost of goods sold decreased as a percentage of net sales to 51% for the nine months ended December 31, 2007, compared to 55% for the comparable prior year period. Cost of goods sold as a percentage of net sales to both unrelated customers and related parties approximated 51% for the current period, as compared to 57% and 52%, respectively, for the same period in the prior year. The prior year period included a higher percentage of sales of GUESS? products which sales, for the most part, have a lower margin than sales of our other products.
Total Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses decreased by 30% compared to the same period in the prior year from $73,668,482 to $51,224,419, decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 75% to 45%. However, certain individual components of our operating expenses discussed below experienced more significant changes than others.
Advertising and Promotional Expenses
Advertising and promotional expenses decreased 26%
to $23,687,391, compared to $32,115,580 in the prior year period, decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 33% to 21%. The current year period reflects a targeted effort on the part of management to control such expenses in the current year. During the current year period, we commenced a significant advertising campaign for the Paris Hilton fragrance brands in conjunction with the launch of Paris Hilton Can Can. During the prior year period we incurred promotional costs in connection with the continued roll out of Paris Hilton and GUESS? fragrances for women and men on a worldwide basis and the launch of the Paris Hilton Heiress and GUESS? GOLD for women fragrances, mainly in U.S. department stores.
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Selling and Distribution Costs
Selling and distribution costs decreased 10%
to $8,575,452 compared to $9,577,421 in the prior year period, decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 10% to 8%. The decrease was mainly attributable to the centralization of all distribution activities in our New Jersey facility, resulting in a decrease of staff in our Florida warehouse facility. The prior year period also included approximately $649,000 and
$355,000 in additional costs for temporary warehouse storage space and freight charges for relocation of inventory to New Jersey, respectively.
Royalties
Royalties increased by 29%
in the current period, from $7,171,624 to $9,240,576, increasing as a percentage of net sales from 7% to 8%. We anticipate that this percentage will remain relatively constant at 8% or decrease slightly for the remainder of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2008.
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses decreased 68% compared to the same period in the prior year, from $23,133,606 to $7,500,119, decreasing as a percentage of net sales from 23%
to 7%. The decreased amount was mainly attributable to a share-based compensation charge in the prior year period of $16,201,950 relating to the modification of warrants in connection with the Stock Split (See Note B to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion). The prior year period also included approximately $728,000 of additional legal expenses than the current year period, as various litigation was resolved during fiscal 2007. These decreases were partially offset by targeted additions to our accounting staff and an increase in professional fees of approximately $376,000 to focus our remediation efforts and mitigate the material weaknesses in our internal controls, as well as additional reserves for uncollectible accounts receivable of approximately $279,000.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization increased 33% over the prior year period from $1,670,251 to
$2,220,881, remaining constant at 2% of net sales. The increased expense reflects the depreciation and amortization of equipment and leasehold improvements related to our New Jersey facility which were placed in service in September 2006, coupled with approximately $385,000 of impairment charges for the XOXO fragrance license.
Gain on Sale of Property Held for Sale
The prior year period included a gain of $494,465 from the sale of a warehouse facility in Sunrise, Florida. See Note M to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion.
Operating Income (Loss)
As a result of the above factors, we generated operating income from continuing operations of $3,936,495 for the current period, compared to an operating loss from continuing operations of $29,049,432 for the same period in the prior year.
Other Income and Gain on Sale of Investment
During the nine months ended December 31, 2007, we reported other income primarily related to a $497,770 gain on an insurance recovery resulting from an inventory theft, which was in excess of the recorded value of the stolen inventory. The prior year period includes a gain from the sale of our investment in E Com Ventures, Inc. (ECMV) in the amount of $1,774,624. (See Note F to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion).
Net interest expense
Net interest expense (including bank charges, and net of interest income) decreased 50%
to $1,071,394 in the current period as compared to $2,125,124 for the same period in the prior year, as we utilized less of our line of credit to finance receivables and inventory.
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes
Income from continuing operations before taxes for the current period was $3,372,905 compared to a net loss from continuing operations before taxes of $29,388,049 in the same period for the prior year. Our tax provision
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for the current year period reflects an estimated effective rate of 38%. The effective rate in the prior period reflects (1) a limitation on the estimated deferred tax benefit that was expected to result from the share-based compensation charge related to the warrant modification, and (2) the $1,083,823 loss for income tax purposes resulting from the sale of our investment in ECMV (See Note F to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion). The benefit from the share-based compensation charge was limited by the maximum allowable annual compensation deduction for corporate officers under Section 162 (m) of the Internal Revenue Code. Consequently, the benefit recorded in the prior period reflected managements best estimate at that time, based upon assumptions regarding the timing and market value of our common stock upon exercise of the warrants and the amount and nature of other forms of compensation to be paid to the holders of the warrants using the method in which cash compensation (salary and bonus) of the related individuals takes priority over the share-based compensation in determining the annual limitation. In February 2007, our former Chairman and CEO resigned. The estimated limitation on the deferred tax benefit that was expected to result from the share-based compensation charge related to the warrant modification was reviewed and adjusted accordingly at the time we reported our results of operations for the year ended March 31, 2007.
As a result, net income from continuing operations is $2,091,201 for the current period compared to a net loss of $22,233,088
in the comparable period of the prior year.
Income from discontinued operations net of the tax effect, was $25,350 in the current year period due to sales of inventory from product returns processed during this period, along with certain promotional costs related to Perry Ellis, compared to income of $29,700,305 in the same period of the prior year, including the pretax gain of $34,277,316 from the sale of the Perry Ellis fragrance brand (See Note O to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion).
As a result, net income for the nine months ended December 31, 2007 was $2,116,551 as compared to net income of $7,467,217 in the corresponding prior year period.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Working capital increased to $95,705,667 as of December 31, 2007, compared to $79,459,920 at March 31, 2007, primarily as a result of current period net income, the reduction in non-current inventory and the issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of warrants.
During the nine months ended December 31, 2007, net cash provided by operating activities was $27,971,307
compared to net cash used in operating activities of $36,495,303 during the comparable prior year period. The current year activity reflects an increase in trade receivables, along with a decrease in accounts payable, offset by a refund of income taxes paid in the prior year, decreases in inventories and prepaid expenses and receipt of the remaining balance due from the sale of the Perry Ellis fragrance license. The prior year activity included significant increases in inventory balances, as well as increases in prepaid expenses and other current assets.
For the nine months ended December 31, 2007, net cash provided by investing activities was $740,685 as compared to net cash provided by investing activities of $79,874,778 in the prior comparable period. The prior year amount includes proceeds of $57,500,000 from the sale of the Perry Ellis fragrance brand and $17,935,850 from the sale of the Sunrise facility sold in 2006 (See Note M to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion) and the sale of our investment in our affiliate, partially offset by purchases of equipment and leasehold improvements for our New Jersey distribution facility. The prior year period also included a decrease of $7,966,720 in restricted cash pending transfer to our lender (the current period had a decrease of $1,273,896.)
During the nine months ended December 31, 2007, net cash used in financing activities was $16,391,630 compared to cash used of $30,773,213 in the prior year comparable period. The current period reflects the repayments of our credit facility and an increase of $1,424,450 in proceeds from the issuance of common stock, while the prior year period includes repayments of our credit facility and the mortgage on our Sunrise, Florida facility, as well as the purchase of $2,499,424 in treasury stock.
The net effect of our cash flow activity was an increase of approximately $12.3 million in our cash and cash equivalents.
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As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, our ratios of the number of days sales in accounts receivable and number of days cost of sales in inventory, on an annualized basis, were as follows:
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December 31,
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2007
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2006
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Trade accounts receivable:
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Unrelated (1)
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104
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97
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Related:
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Perfumania
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84
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152
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Other related (2)
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63
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Total
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97
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92
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Inventories
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274
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395
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(1)
Calculated on gross trade receivables excluding allowances for doubtful accounts, sales returns and advertising allowances of approximately $6,763,000 and $8,253,000 in 2007 and 2006, respectively.
(2)
Effective July 1, 2007, we no longer classify certain international distributors as related parties. See Note F to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion.
The increase in the number of days from 2006 to 2007 for unrelated customers was mainly attributable to increased sales to international distributors, whose terms, for the most part, range from 60 to 90 days, compared to between 30 and 60 days for U.S. department store customers. Due to restrictions on sales of GUESS? products and delays in receiving GUESS? products, certain international distributors exceeded their payment terms. We anticipate collection of these past due balances over the next few months. We anticipate the number of days for the unrelated customer group will range between 75 and 90 days during the balance of fiscal 2008.
The number of days sales in trade receivables from Perfumania previously exceeded those of our other customers, due mainly to our long-term relationship and their seasonal cash flow (See Note F to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion of our relationship with Perfumania). Additionally, since sales to Perfumaina during our third quarter ended December 31, 2007 were less than each of the first and second quarters sales, the calculation of number of days sales in accounts receivable is shown as 84 days, on an annualized basis. However, the actual number of days, based upon the actual ageing as of December 31, 2007, would be 112 days. Management closely monitors our activity with Perfumania and holds periodic discussions with Perfumania management in order to review their anticipated payments for each quarter.
As noted in Note F to our condensed consolidated financial statements, effective as of July 1, 2007, transactions with such parties formerly identified as related, through their affiliation with our former Chairman and CEO, will no longer be reported as related party transactions. Their number of days sales are included with unrelated parties in the current period, and as other related for 2006.
Due to the significant number of new product launches during fiscal year 2007, and the forecasted sales increases for these products, in particular, the GUESS? branded products, the number of days sales in inventory increased during the prior year. During the nine months ended December 31, 2007, the number of days sales in inventory decreased in conjunction with managements targeted efforts to reduce inventory levels. We anticipate that this trend will continue to improve over the next year, as these launched products reach full distribution and GUESS? approves additional international distribution channels (See Note J to our condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion). As of December 31, 2007, $8,143,000 of our inventory, including $6,333,000 related to GUESS? brand products, has been classified as non-current. As of March 31, 2007, $17,392,000 of our inventory, including $16,150,000 related to GUESS? brand products had been classified as non-current. We have revised our production and purchasing forecasts in order to improve our inventory management. We believe that the carrying value of our inventory at December 31, 2007, based on current conditions, is stated at the lower of cost or market.
On July 20, 2001, we entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (the Loan Agreement) with GMAC Commercial Credit LLC (GMACCC). On January 4, 2005, the Loan Agreement was extended through July 20, 2006. Under the Loan Agreement, we were able to borrow, depending upon the availability of a borrowing base, on a revolving basis, up to $20,000,000 at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.75% or the Bank of New Yorks prime rate, at our option.
9
On January 10, 2006, the Loan Agreement was amended, increasing the loan amount to $30,000,000, with an additional $5,000,000 available at our option, while extending the maturity to July 20, 2008. The interest was reduced to .25% below the prime rate. During May 2006, we exercised our option and increased the line to $35,000,000.
At December 31, 2007, based on the borrowing base at that date, the credit line amounted to $29,319,000, of which there was no balance outstanding. Accordingly, we had this entire amount available under the credit line. Restricted cash represents collections of trade accounts receivable deposited with our bank and pending transfer to GMACCC. As of March 31, 2007, $1,273,896 was on deposit with our bank pending transfer. As of December 31, 2007 the restricted cash balance was zero.
Substantially all of our assets, excluding our New Jersey warehouse equipment, collateralize our credit line borrowing. The Loan Agreement contains customary events of default and covenants which prohibit, among other things, incurring additional indebtedness in excess of a specified amount, paying dividends, creating liens, and engaging in mergers and acquisitions without the prior consent of GMACCC. As of March 31, 2007, we were not in compliance with the fixed charge covenant. We requested an amendment of the Loan Agreement from our lender, which was granted on June 27, 2007, and which revised such covenant through March 31, 2008. As of December 31, 2007 and September 30, 2007, we were not in compliance with our minimum earnings before income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) requirements. We requested amendments of our agreement from our lender, which were granted on February 6, 2008 and November 9, 2007, respectively, and which revised such covenant at those dates. The Loan Agreement, as amended, also contains certain financial covenants relating to net worth, interest coverage and other financial ratios, which we were in compliance with as of December 31, 2007.
As of December 31, 2007, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as that term is defined in Regulation S-K 303, nor did we have any material commitments for capital expenditures.
Contractual Obligations
On November 30, 2007, we entered into an eight (8) year lease agreement, commencing during February 2008, for 19,072 square feet of office space in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which will serve as our new corporate headquarters. We anticipate moving during the second week in February 2008 from our present 99,000 square foot office/warehouse facility, which is currently being marketed for sublease. Annual rental on the new headquarters approximates $534,000 during the initial term, increasing 3% per annum thereafter.
Apart from the new office lease, discussed above, there were no material changes during the quarter ended December 31, 2007 in our contractual obligations previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2007.
Item 3.