United States
Securities and Exchange Commission
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the period Ended September 30, 2002 Commission File Number 1-878
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BLAIR CORPORATION
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(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 25-0691670
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(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
220 HICKORY STREET, WARREN, PENNSYLVANIA 16366-0001
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(814) 723-3600
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(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Not applicable (Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed
since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter periods that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.
YES X NO
----- ---
As of November 12, 2002 the registrant had outstanding 8,037,467 shares of its
common stock without nominal or par value.
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION -2-
ITEM I. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
--------------------------------
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS -3-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30 December 31
2002 2001
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $55,280,726 $5,712,495
Customer accounts receivable, less
allowances for doubtful accounts and
returns of $44,765,764 in 2002 and
$45,967,160 in 2001 138,851,119 158,302,205
Inventories - Note G
Merchandise 56,129,319 73,249,927
Advertising and shipping supplies 15,599,875 22,162,217
------------ ------------
71,729,194 95,412,144
Deferred income taxes - Note F 13,132,000 10,675,000
Prepaid expenses 1,587,614 878,870
------------ ------------
Total current assets 280,580,653 270,980,714
Property, plant and equipment:
Land 1,142,144 1,142,144
Buildings 66,198,873 64,443,439
Equipment 58,592,445 56,396,816
Construction in progress 7,302,139 3,611,748
------------ ------------
133,235,601 125,594,147
Less allowances for depreciation 78,615,994 73,553,885
------------ ------------
54,619,607 52,040,262
Trademarks 578,468 632,651
Other long-term assets 649,067 459,702
------------ ------------
TOTAL ASSETS $336,427,795 $324,113,329
============ ============
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Notes payable - Note I $15,000,000 $15,000,000
Trade accounts payable 39,702,410 47,632,277
Advance payments from customers 3,635,716 1,925,619
Accrued expenses - Note D 16,747,870 11,818,546
Accrued federal and state taxes 7,399,170 2,776,985
Current portion of capital lease
obligations - Note E 343,345 336,865
------------ ------------
Total current liabilities 82,828,511 79,490,292
Capital lease obligations, less current
Portion - Note E 565,400 824,966
Deferred income taxes - Note F 1,446,000 2,009,000
Stockholders' equity:
Common Stock without par value:
Authorized 12,000,000 shares; issued
10,075,440 shares (including shares held
in treasury) - stated value 419,810 419,810
Additional paid-in capital 14,434,571 14,589,838
Retained earnings 281,435,346 271,954,815
Accumulated other comprehensive income 5,878 -0-
------------ ------------
296,295,605 286,964,463
Less 2,037,793 shares in 2002 and
2,105,571 shares in 2001 of common stock
in treasury - at cost 41,405,453 43,187,542
Less receivable and deferred compensation
from stock plans 3,302,268 1,987,850
------------ ------------
Total stockholders' equity 251,587,884 241,789,071
------------ ------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $336,427,795 $324,113,329
============ ============
See accompanying notes.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME -4-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
2002 2001 2002 2001
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net sales $117,830,052 $123,019,132 $400,604,838 $420,167,346
Other income - Note H 10,094,534 10,438,565 30,044,685 32,864,250
Interest from tax settlement -0- -0- -0- 4,061,253
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
127,924,586 133,457,697 430,649,523 457,092,849
Costs and expenses:
Cost of goods sold 58,053,703 66,517,608 191,533,278 209,767,233
Advertising 31,608,249 35,924,555 102,647,505 123,437,157
General and administrative 30,990,706 29,599,505 94,798,015 94,929,622
Provision for doubtful accounts 6,738,419 6,264,191 21,247,530 24,025,598
Interest 118,123 453,151 365,000 1,917,232
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
127,509,200 138,759,010 410,591,328 454,076,842
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES 415,386 (5,301,313) 20,058,195 3,016,007
Income tax expense (benefit) - Note F 136,000 (1,987,000) 7,145,000 1,083,000
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $ 279,386 $ (3,314,313) $ 12,913,195 $1,933,007
========== ============ ============ ==========
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share
based on weighted average shares outstanding
- Note C $ .03 $(.42) $1.61 $ .24
===== ===== ===== =====
See accompanying notes.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY -5-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
2002 2001 2002 2001
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Common Stock $ 419,810 $ 419,810 $419,810 $ 419,810
Additional paid-in capital:
Balance at beginning of period 14,559,818 14,599,554 14,589,838 14,612,333
Issuance of Common Stock to non-employee
directors -0- -0- (2,619) (5,871)
Issuance of Common Stock under Omnibus Stock
Plan (89,530) -0- (66,273) -0-
Forfeitures of Common Stock under Employee
Stock Purchase and Omnibus Stock Plans (14,030) (8,715) (17,279) (15,623)
Exercise of non-qualified stock options under
Omnibus Stock Plan (21,687) -0- (69,096) -0-
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at end of period 14,434,571 14,590,839 14,434,571 14,590,839
Retained earnings:
Balance at beginning of period 282,195,547 270,300,901 271,954,815 267,444,414
Net income (loss) 279,386 (3,314,313) 12,913,195 1,933,007
Dividends - Note B (1,039,587) (1,195,432) (3,432,664) (3,586,265)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at end of period 281,435,346 265,791,156 281,435,346 265,791,156
Accumulated other comprehensive income:
Balance at beginning of period 7,448 -0- -0- -0-
Foreign currency translation (1,570) -0- 5,878 -0-
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at end of period 5,878 -0- 5,878 -0-
Treasury Stock:
Balance at beginning of period (42,726,506) (43,189,579) (43,187,542) (43,218,782)
Issuance of Common Stock to non-employee
directors -0- -0- 63,279 31,746
Issuance of Common Stock under Omnibus Stock
Plan 1,389,905 -0- 1,636,023 -0-
Forfeitures of Common Stock under Employee Stock
Purchase and Omnibus Stock Plans (130,451) (4,847) (134,515) (7,390)
Exercise of non-qualified stock options under
Omnibus Stock Plan 61,599 -0- 217,302 -0-
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at end of period (41,405,453) (43,194,426) (41,405,453) (43,194,426)
Receivable and deferred compensation from stock plans:
Balance at beginning of period (1,966,544) (2,117,320) (1,987,850) (2,231,623)
Issuance of Common Stock under Omnibus Stock
Plan (1,482,667) -0- (1,569,750) -0-
Forfeitures of Common Stock under Employee Stock
Purchase and Omnibus Stock Plans 47,000 4,375 50,750 7,525
Amortization of deferred compensation 31,068 -0- 31,068 -0-
Applications of dividends and cash repayments 68,875 72,996 173,514 184,149
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at end of period (3,302,268) (2,039,949) (3,302,268) (2,039,949)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $251,587,884 $235,567,430 $251,587,884 $235,567,430
============ ============ ============ ============
See accompanying notes.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS -6-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Nine Months Ended
September 30
2002 2001
----------- -----------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income $12,913,195 $ 1,933,007
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 6,479,351 5,899,978
Provision for doubtful accounts 21,247,530 24,025,598
(Benefit from) provision for deferred
income taxes (3,020,000) 1,039,000
Compensation expense from stock
awards (net of forfeitures) 173,244 10,387
Changes in operating assets and
liabilities providing (using) cash:
Customer accounts receivable (1,796,444) (3,179,301)
Inventories 23,682,950 (4,717,488)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (913,959) (517,567)
Trade accounts payable (7,929,867) (20,137,189)
Advance payments from customers 1,710,097 1,727,148
Accrued expenses 4,929,324 (3,608,155)
Federal and state taxes 4,622,185 (1,331,237)
----------- -----------
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 62,097,606 1,144,181
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (9,004,513) (5,671,027)
----------- -----------
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES (9,004,513) (5,671,027)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net proceeds from bank borrowings -0- 10,000,000
Repayments of principal on capital leases (253,086) -0-
Dividends paid (3,432,664) (3,427,748)
Exercise of non-qualified stock options 148,206 -0-
(Forfeitures) repayments of notes receivable
from stock plans, net (9,046) 25,632
----------- -----------
NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY FINANCING
ACTIVITIES (3,546,590) 6,597,884
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH 21,728 -0-
----------- -----------
NET INCREASE IN CASH 49,568,231 2,071,038
Cash at beginning of year 5,712,495 7,497,907
----------- -----------
CASH AT END OF PERIOD $55,280,726 $ 9,568,945
=========== ===========
See accompanying notes.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -7-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
NOTE A - BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Blair
Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information
and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.
Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required
by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.
In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring
accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.
Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 are not
necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending
December 31, 2002. For further information refer to the financial statements and
footnotes included in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2001.
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Blair Corporation
and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts are
eliminated upon consolidation.
NOTE B - DIVIDENDS DECLARED
2-09-01 $.15 per share 2-13-02 $.15 per share
4-17-01 .15 4-16-02 .15
8-20-01 .15 7-16-02 .15
11-16-01 .15 10-15-02 .15
NOTE C - EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE AND WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING
Earnings (loss) per share are computed in accordance with Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 128, "Earnings per Share." Basic earnings (loss) per
share are computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock
outstanding during the period. For diluted earnings (loss) per share, the
weighted average number of shares includes common stock equivalents related to
stock options.
The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted earnings
(loss) per share as required by Statement No. 128:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
2002 2001 2002 2001
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Numerator:
Net income (loss) $ 279,386 $(3,314,313 $12,913,195 $1,933,007
Denominator:
Denominator for basic
earnings (loss) per share -
weighted average shares
outstanding 8,027,272 7,969,794 7,994,791 7,969,494
Effect of dilutive securities:
Employee stock options 28,075 -0- 26,139 78
---------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Denominator for diluted
Earnings (loss) per share -
weighted average shares
outstanding and assumed
conversions 8,055,347 7,969,794 8,020,930 7,969,572
Basic earnings (loss) per share $.03 $(.42) $1.61 $.24
Diluted earnings (loss) per
share $.03 $(.42) $1.61 $.24
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -Continued -8-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
NOTE D - ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accrued expenses consist of:
September 30 December 31
2002 2001
----------- -----------
Employee compensation $ 9,669,971 $ 7,274,766
Contribution to profit sharing
and retirement plan feature 1,568,510 880,397
Taxes, other than taxes on income 758,386 456,421
Voluntary separation program 1,168,002 1,379,243
Health insurance 1,823,162 838,898
Other accrued items 1,759,839 988,821
----------- -----------
$16,747,870 $11,818,546
=========== ===========
NOTE E - Leases
Capital Leases
The company leases certain data processing and telephone equipment under
agreements that expire in various years through 2005. The following is a
schedule by year of future minimum capital lease payments required under capital
leases that have initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one
year as of September 30, 2002:
2002 $ 104,248
2003 411,150
2004 405,615
2005 101,404
----------
1,022,417
Less amount representing interest (113,672)
----------
Present value of minimum lease payments 908,745
Less current portion (343,345)
----------
Long-term portion of capital lease obligations $565,400
==========
Operating Leases
The Company leases certain data processing, office and telephone equipment under
agreements that expire in various years through 2006. The Company has also
entered into several lease agreements for buildings, expiring in various years
through 2012. The following is a schedule by years of future minimum rental
payments required under operating leases that have initial or remaining
noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year as of September 30, 2002:
2002 $ 734,094
2003 2,682,968
2004 2,088,317
2005 1,634,460
2006 1,382,748
Thereafter 4,971,416
-----------
$13,494,003
===========
NOTE F - INCOME TAXES
The liability method is used in accounting for income taxes. Under this method,
deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between
financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured
using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences
are expected to reverse.
The components of income tax expense (benefit) are as follows:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
2002 2001 2002 2001
----------- ----------- ----------- ---------
Currently payable:
Federal $(1,797,000) $(3,921,000) $ 9,525,000 $ 124,000
Foreign 93,000 -0- 159,000 -0-
State (401,000) (255,000) 481,000 (80,000)
----------- ----------- ----------- ---------
(2,105,000) (4,176,000) 10,165,000 44,000
Deferred 2,241,000 2,189,000 (3,020,000) 1,039,000
----------- ----------- ----------- ---------
$ 136,000 $(1,987,000) $ 7,145,000 $1,083,000
=========== =========== =========== ==========
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued -9-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
NOTE F - INCOME TAXES - Continued
The differences between total tax expense (benefit) and the amount computed by
applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% to income (loss) before
income taxes are as follows:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
2002 2001 2002 2001
--------- ----------- ---------- ----------
Statutory rate applied to
pre-tax income (loss) $ 145,385 $(1,855,460) $7,020,368 $1,055,602
State income taxes, net
of federal tax benefit (74,100) 16,900 45,500 35,100
Other items 64,715 (148,440) 79,132 (7,702)
--------- ----------- ---------- ----------
$ 136,000 $(1,987,000) $7,145,000 $1,083,000
========= =========== ========== ==========
Components of deferred income tax expense (benefit) are as follows:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
2002 2001 2002 2001
---------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Provision for estimated
returns $ (81,000) $ (112,000) $ (556,000) $(1,003,000)
Provision for doubtful
accounts 6,000 (1,129,000) 192,000 (1,274,000)
Advertising costs 2,299,000 3,459,000 (2,141,000) 3,519,000
Severance 33,000 73,000 81,000 (572,000)
Inventory obsolescence (283,000) 14,000 (349,000) 714,000
Depreciation (118,000) 17,000 (563,000) (165,000)
Restricted Stock 391,000 -0- 391,000 -0-
Other items - net (6,000) (133,000) (75,000) (180,000)
---------- ----------- ----------- -----------
$2,241,000 $ 2,189,000 $(3,020,000) $ 1,039,000
========== =========== =========== ===========
Components of the deferred tax asset and liability under the liability method as
of September 30, 2002 and December 31, 2001 are as follows:
September 30 December 31
2002 2001
----------- -----------
Current net deferred tax asset:
Doubtful accounts $13,489,000 $13,681,000
Returns allowances 2,377,000 1,821,000
Inventory obsolescence 1,933,000 1,584,000
Inventory costs (924,000) (924,000)
Vacation pay 1,469,000 1,469,000
Advertising costs (5,813,000) (7,954,000)
Restricted Stock (391,000) -0-
State net operating loss 540,000 600,000
Other items 992,000 998,000
----------- -----------
Total deferred tax asset 13,672,000 11,275,000
State valuation allowance (540,000) (600,000)
----------- -----------
Deferred tax asset,
net of valuation allowance $13,132,000 $10,675,000
=========== ===========
Long-term deferred tax liability:
Property, plant and equipment $ 1,446,000 $ 2,009,000
=========== ===========
NOTE G - INVENTORIES
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost of merchandise
inventories is determined principally on the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method.
Cost of advertising and shipping supplies is determined on the first-in,
first-out (FIFO) method. Advertising and shipping supplies include printed
advertising material and related mailing supplies for promotional mailings which
are generally
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued -10-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Note G - Inventories - continued
scheduled to occur within two months. These costs are expensed when mailed. If
the FIFO method had been used for all inventories, the total amount would have
increased by approximately $5,366,000 at both September 30, 2002 and December
31, 2001.
NOTE H - OTHER INCOME Other income consists of:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
2002 2001 2002 2001
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Finance charges on time
payment accounts $ 8,443,430 $ 9,325,889 $26,335,200 $28,650,546
Commissions earned 554,575 705,235 1,532,745 2,615,083
Other items 1,096,529 407,441 2,176,740 1,598,621
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
$10,094,534 $10,438,565 $30,044,685 $32,864,250
=========== =========== =========== ===========
Finance charges on time payment accounts are recognized on an accrual basis of
accounting.
NOTE I - FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
On December 20, 2001, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement with PNC Bank,
National Association, as agent, and certain other banks. The Agreement puts in
place a syndicated revolving credit facility of up to $30 million, secured by
inventory and certain other assets of the Company and its subsidiaries. At the
present time, $28 million of the $30 million is available to the Company, with
the balance obtainable upon meeting certain provisions. The interest rate is, at
the Company's option, based on a base rate option (greater of Prime or Fed Funds
Rate plus .5%), swing loan rate option (as quoted by PNC Bank), or Euro-rate
option (Euro-rate plus 1.5%) as defined in the Credit Agreement. The Company is
required to meet certain covenants that specifically relate to tangible net
worth, maintaining a defined leverage ratio and fixed charge coverage ratio, and
complying with certain indebtedness restrictions. As of September 30, 2002, the
Company was in compliance with all the Credit Agreement's covenants. At
September 30, 2002, the Company had no borrowings (loans) outstanding and had
letters of credit totaling $9.7 million outstanding, which reduces the amount of
borrowings available, under the Credit Agreement. At December 31, 2001, nothing
was outstanding under the Credit Agreement.
Also, on December 20, 2001, the Company completed a securitization of up to $100
million in accounts receivable with PNC Bank, National Association, as
administrator, and certain conduit purchasers. The Company sold all right, title
and interest in and to certain of its accounts receivables to Blair Factoring
Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary. Blair Factoring Company is a separate
bankruptcy remote special purpose entity that entered into a Receivable Purchase
Agreement with PNC Bank, National Association, as administrator, and certain
conduit purchasers. The Company's consolidated financial statements reflect all
the accounts of Blair Factoring Company, including the receivables and secured
borrowings. Transactions entered into under the Receivable Purchase Agreement
are considered secured borrowings and collateral transactions under the
provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 140, Accounting
for Transfers and Services of Financial Assets and Extinguishment of
Liabilities. At the present time, $50 million of the $100 million is available
to the Company, with the balance obtainable upon meeting certain provisions. The
interest rate approximates 1-month LIBOR plus the appropriate spread (55 basis
points at September 30, 2002) as defined in the Receivables Purchase Agreement.
The securitization requires certain performance standards for the Company's
accounts receivable portfolio in addition to complying with the covenants in the
Credit Agreement. As of September 30, 2002, the Company was in compliance with
all the
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued -11-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
NOTE I - FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS - Continued
requirements of the Receivables Purchase Agreement. At both September 30, 2002
and December 31, 2001, the Company had $15 million outstanding, the minimum
amount required to be outstanding, under the Receivables Purchase Agreement, all
of which was classified as short-term. Both the revolving credit facility and
the securitization have three-year terms expiring December 20, 2004. The two new
agreements replaced a $55,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility that was to expire
on December 31, 2001. The $55,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility was an
extension, and reduction, of the $95,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility that
expired on November 13, 2001. At September 30, 2001, the Company had $35 million
outstanding under the $95,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility, all of which was
classified as short-term.
Additionally, the Company had available a $25 million line for letters of
credit. As of December 20, 2001, no new letters of credit could be issued under
the $25 million line and the line expired in the third quarter of 2002.
Outstanding letters of credit amounted to approximately $10,000,000 at December
31, 2001 and related primarily to inventory purchases. Letters of credit issued
after December 20, 2001 are being issued under the Credit Agreement dated
December 20, 2001. As previously stated, no letters of credit were issued under
the Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2001 and $9.7 million of letters of
credit were outstanding under the Credit Agreement as of September 30, 2002.
NOTE J - NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities The Financial
Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No.133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities." The Company adopted the new statement
effective January 1, 2001. The Company has historically not invested in
derivative instruments, and as a result, the adoption of this statement has had
no impact on the financial statements of the Company.
Business Combinations and Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The Financial
Accounting Standards Board issued Statements of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 141, "Business Combinations," and No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible
Assets." The Company adopted the new rules on accounting for goodwill and other
intangible assets effective January 1, 2002. The adoption of these statements
did not have an impact on the Company.
NOTE K - VOLUNTARY SEPARATION PROGRAM
In the first quarter of 2001, the Company accrued and charged to expense $2.5
million in separation costs. The costs were charged to General and
Administrative Expense in the income statement. The one-time $2.5 million charge
represents severance pay, related payroll taxes and medical benefits due the 56
eligible employees who accepted the voluntary separation program rather than
relocate or accept other positions in the Company. The program was offered to
eligible employees of the Blair Mailing Center from which the merchandise
returns operations have been relocated and the mailing operations have been
outsourced. As of September 30, 2002, approximately $1.33 million of the $2.5
million has been paid.
NOTE L - OMNIBUS STOCK PLAN
The Company has an Omnibus Stock Plan that gives the Company the ability to
offer a variety of equity based awards to persons who are key to the Company's
growth, development and financial success. Awards are valued in accordance with
the terms and conditions of the Omnibus Stock Plan as determined by the Omnibus
Stock Plan Committee. Non-qualified stock options totaling 167,229 options were
awarded to
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued -12-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
NOTE L - OMNIBUS STOCK PLAN - Continued
certain employees on April 15, 2002. Non-qualified stock options totaling 90,519
options were awarded to the executive officers on April 16, 2001. Restricted
stocks awards totaling 11,611 shares of treasury stock and 51,500 shares of
treasury stock were issued to certain employees on May 1, 2002 and July 26,
2002, respectively. In 2002, compensation resulting from the restricted stock
awards is being deferred and will be amortized, starting in this third quarter,
over the vesting periods which approximate seven years. All dividends associated
with the shares of stock held by the Company according to the provisions of the
restricted stock awards, are being charged to compensation in the financial
statements.
NOTE M - CONTINGENCIES
The Company is involved in certain items of litigation, arising in the normal
course of business. While it cannot be predicted with certainty, management
believes that the outcome will not have a material effect on the Company's
financial condition or results of operations.
NOTE N - USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
NOTE O - RECLASSIFICATIONS
Certain amounts in the prior year financial statements have been reclassified to
conform with the current year presentation.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -13-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Results of Operations
Comparison of Third Quarter 2002 and Third Quarter 2001
Net income for the third quarter ended September 30, 2002 increased to $279,386,
or $.03 per share, compared to a net loss of $3,314,313, or $.42 per share, for
the third quarter ended September 30, 2001. Results for the third quarter of
2002 reflect decreases in operating costs and cost of goods sold. Operating
costs, which include advertising, general and administrative and interest
expenses, decreased 4.9% in the third quarter of 2002 as compared to the third
quarter of 2001. Cost of goods sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to
49.3% for the third quarter of 2002 from 54.1% for the third quarter of 2001.
Net sales for the third quarter of 2002 were 4.2% lower than net sales for the
third quarter of 2001. Actual response rates in the third quarter of 2002 were
higher than in the third quarter of 2001 and were higher than expected levels
for the third quarter of 2002. Gross sales revenue generated per advertising
dollar increased approximately 9% in the third quarter of 2002 as compared to
the third quarter of 2001. The provision for returned merchandise as a
percentage of gross sales increased slightly in the third quarter of 2002 as
compared to the third quarter of 2001. The decrease in sales was attributable to
several reasons. Weaker economic conditions and a softer retail market
negatively impacted the Company's sales. Additionally, the Company intentionally
reduced advertising expenditures and did not mail to less productive and less
profitable customers, who are greater credit risks.
Other income decreased 3.3% in the third quarter of 2002 as compared to the
third quarter of 2001. Decreased finance charges and commissions were primarily
responsible for the lower other income. The lower finance charges resulted from
decreased customer accounts receivable and the lower commissions resulted from
decreased continuity program activity.
Cost of goods sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to 49.3% in the third
quarter of 2002 from 54.1% in the third quarter of 2001. The improvement in cost
of goods sold is attributable to lower inventory liquidation costs, the
Company's efforts to improve gross margins and stable or declining product
costs.
Advertising expense in the third quarter of 2002 decreased 12% from the third
quarter of 2001. Reductions in advertising volume and paper costs were primarily
responsible for the lower advertising cost in the second quarter of 2002. The
Company's cost of paper has fallen more than 20% from the beginning of 2001 up
to the current time.
The total number of catalog mailings released in the third quarter of 2002 was
4.5% less than in the third quarter of 2001 (40 million vs. 41.9 million). The
total number of prospect catalogs mailed in the third quarter of 2002 increased
by 32.1% over the third quarter 2001 (8.5 million vs. 6.4 million). Print
advertising for Crossing Pointe is all via catalog and is included in the
catalog mailings numbers.
The total number of letter mailings released in the third quarter of 2002 was
54.7% less than in the third quarter of 2001 (10.4 million vs. 23 million).
Letter mailings are most productive when targeting the Company's female
customers and are currently used only to promote our women's apparel lines.
Total volume of the co-op and media advertising programs increased 11.6% in the
third quarter of 2002 as compared to the third quarter of 2001 (98.1 million vs.
87.9 million).
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -14-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Results of Operations - Continued
Comparison of Third Quarter 2002 and Third Quarter 2001 -
Continued
The Company launched e-commerce sites for Crossing Pointe
www.crossingpointe.com, and the Blair Online Outlet early in the third quarter
of 2000. The Blair website, www.blair.com, incorporating the Online Outlet, was
launched late third quarter/early fourth quarter of 2000. A redesigned Blair
website was introduced in the first quarter of 2001 featuring improved
navigation and quicker access to the Company's expanded product offerings. In
the third quarter of 2002, the Company has generated $12.2 million in e-commerce
sales demand as compared to $8.4 million in the third quarter of 2001.
General and administrative expense increased 4.7% in the third quarter of 2002
as compared to the third quarter of 2001. Increased employee costs, primarily
benefits determined by corporate income and insurance related benefits, were
responsible for the higher general and administrative expense in the third
quarter of 2002.
The provision for doubtful accounts as a percentage of credit sales increased
13.6% in the third quarter of 2002 as compared to the third quarter of 2001. The
provision for doubtful accounts is based on current expectations (consumer
credit and economic trends, etc.), sales mix (prospect/customer) and current and
prior years' experience, especially delinquencies (accounts over 30 days past
due) and actual charge-offs (accounts removed from accounts receivable for
non-payment). The estimated bad debt rate, excluding Crossing Pointe credit
sales, used in the third quarter of 2002 was 44 basis points higher than in the
third quarter of 2001. The third quarter of 2001 included prior period
adjustments, which lowered its estimated bad debt rate by 132 basis points.
There were no adjustments in the third quarter of 2002. The estimated bad debt
rate applied to Crossing Pointe credit sales was approximately the same in the
third quarters of 2002 and 2001. At September 30, 2002 the delinquency rate of
open accounts receivable, excluding Crossing Pointe, was approximately 2% higher
than at September 30, 2001. The delinquency rate for Crossing Pointe was
approximately 30% higher. Crossing Pointe is more weighted to prospects and
sales nearly doubled in the third quarter comparison. The charge-off rate for
the first nine months of 2002 was approximately the same as the charge-off rate
for the first nine months of 2001. Recoveries of bad debts previously charged
off have been credited back against the allowance for doubtful accounts. The
allowance for doubtful accounts as a percentage of delinquent accounts was
approximately 7% lower at September 30, 2002 as compared to September 30, 2001.
However, the 2001 allowance as a percentage of delinquent accounts decreased by
approximately 13% in the fourth quarter of 2001. At this time, the Company feels
that the allowance for doubtful accounts is sufficient to cover the charge-offs
from the current customer accounts receivable portfolio. Also, credit granting,
collection and behavior models continue to be updated and improved, and, along
with expanding database capabilities, provide valuable credit-marketing
opportunities.
Interest expense decreased 74% in the third quarter of 2002 as compared to the
third quarter of 2001. Interest expense results primarily from the Company's
borrowings necessary to finance customer accounts receivable, inventories and
growth initiatives. At September 30, 2002, inventories were 37.2% lower and
gross customer accounts receivable were 7.6% lower as compared to September 30,
2001. As a result, average borrowings have been much lower in the third quarter
of 2002 than in the third quarter of 2001. Also, interest rates have been
substantially lower throughout 2002.
Income taxes as a percentage of income before income taxes were 32.7% in the
third quarter of 2002 and 37.5% in the third quarter of 2001. The federal income
tax rate was 35% in both years. The difference in the total income tax rate was
caused by a change in the Company's effective state income tax rate.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -15-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS -
Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Results of Operations - Continued
Comparison of Nine Month Periods Ended September 30, 2002 and
September 30,2001
Net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 increased to
$12,913,195, or $1.61 per share, as compared to $1,933,007, or $.24 per share,
for the nine months ended September 30, 2001. Results for the first nine months
of 2002 reflect decreases in operating costs, cost of goods sold and the
provision for doubtful accounts. Operating costs, which include advertising,
general and administrative and interest expenses, decreased 10.2% in the first
nine months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001. Cost of goods
sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to 47.8% for the first nine months
of 2002 from 49.9% for the first nine months of 2001. The provision for the
doubtful accounts decreased 11.6% in the first nine months of 2002 as compared
to the first nine months of 2001. The first nine months of 2001 included $4
million of interest income resulting from a favorable Internal Revenue tax
settlement. The one-time gain in interest income increased net income for the
first nine months of 2001 by $2.6 million, $.32 per share. In addition, the
first nine months of 2001 also included a $2.5 million charge attributable to
the Company's voluntary separation program. The one-time charge decreased net
income for the first nine months of 2001 by $1.5 million, $.18 per share.
Net sales for the first nine months of 2002 were 4.7% lower than net sales for
the first nine months of 2001. Actual response rates in the first nine months of
2002 were higher than in the first nine months of 2001 and were higher than
expected levels for the first nine months of 2002. Gross sales revenue generated
per advertising dollar increased approximately 14% in the first nine months of
2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001. The provision for returned
merchandise as a percentage of gross sales decreased slightly in the first nine
months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001. The decrease in
sales was attributable to several reasons. Weaker economic conditions and a
softer retail market negatively impacted the Company's sales. Additionally, the
Company intentionally reduced advertising expenditures and did not mail to less
productive and less profitable customers, who are greater credit risks.
Other income decreased 8.6% in the first nine months of 2002 as compared to the
first nine months of 2001. Decreased finance charges and commissions were
primarily responsible for the lower other income. The lower finance charges
resulted from decreased customer accounts receivable and the lower commissions
resulted from decreased continuity program activity.
In June 2001, the Company received a one-time $4 million interest payment
resulting from a favorable Internal Revenue tax settlement. The Company also
recovered approximately $9 million in federal tax refunds from the settlement.
Cost of goods sold as a percentage of net sales decreased to 47.8% for the first
nine months of 2002 from 49.9% for the first nine months of 2001. The
improvement in cost of goods sold is attributable to stable or declining product
costs, the Company's efforts to improve gross margins, the lower rate of
merchandise returned and more effective inventory management resulting in lower
inventory liquidation costs.
Advertising expense in the first nine months of 2002 decreased 16.8%. Reductions
in advertising volume and paper costs were primarily responsible for the lower
advertising cost in the first nine months of 2002. The Company's cost of paper
has fallen more than 20% from the beginning of 2001 up to the current time.
The total number of catalog mailings released in the first nine months of 2002
was 7.6% less than in the first nine months of 2001 (125.4 million vs. 135.8
million).
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -16-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Results of Operations - Continued
Comparison of Nine Month Periods Ended September 30, 2002 and
September 30,2001 - continued
The total number of letter mailings released in the first nine months of 2002
was 40% less than in the first nine months of 2001 (43 million vs. 71.5
million).
Total volume of the co-op and media advertising programs decreased 33.5% in the
first nine months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001 (555
million vs. 835 million).
The Company launched e-commerce sites for Crossing Pointe,
www.crossingpointe.com, and the Blair Online Outlet early in the third quarter
of 2000. The Blair website, www.blair.com, incorporating the Online Outlet, was
launched late third quarter/early fourth quarter of 2000. A redesigned Blair
website was introduced in the first quarter of 2001 featuring improved
navigation and quicker access to the Company's expanded product offerings. In
the first nine months of 2002, the Company has generated $39.6 million in
e-commerce sales demand as compared to $22 million in the first nine months of
2001. In all of 2001, the Company generated $35 million in e-commerce orders.
General and administrative expense decreased slightly by 0.1% in the first nine
months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001. General and
administrative expense in the first nine months of 2001 was affected by the
one-time $2.5 million charge for the Company's voluntary separation program in
the first quarter of 2001. The $2.5 million charge represents the cost of the
severance pay, related payroll taxes and medical benefits due the 56 eligible
employees who accepted the voluntary separation program rather than relocate or
accept other positions in the Company. The program was offered to eligible
employees of the former Blair Mailing Center from which the merchandise returns
operations have been relocated and the mailing operations have been outsourced.
As of September 30, 2002, $1.33 million of the $2.5 million charge has been
paid.
The provision for doubtful accounts as a percentage of credit sales decreased
6.4% in the first nine months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of
2001. The provision for doubtful accounts is based on current expectations
(consumer credit and economic trends, etc.), sales mix (prospect/customer) and
current and prior years' experience, especially delinquencies (accounts over 30
days past due) and actual charge-offs (accounts removed from accounts receivable
for non-payment). The estimated bad debt rate, excluding Crossing Pointe credit
sales, used in the first nine months of 2002 was 80 basis points lower than in
the first nine months of 2001. The estimated bad debt rate applied to Crossing
Pointe credit sales was approximately 600 basis points lower in the first nine
months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001. At September 30,
2002, the delinquency rate of open accounts receivable, excluding Crossing
Pointe, was approximately 2% higher than at September 30, 2001. The delinquency
rate for Crossing Pointe was approximately 30% higher. Crossing Pointe is more
weighted to prospects and sales increased more than 150% in the first nine
months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001. The charge-off rate
for the first nine months of 2002 was approximately the same as the charge-off
rate for the first nine months of 2001. Recoveries of bad debts previously
charged off have been credited back against the allowance for doubtful accounts.
The allowance for doubtful accounts as a percentage of delinquent accounts was
approximately 7% lower at September 30, 2002 as compared to September 30, 2001.
However, the 2001 allowance as a percentage of delinquent accounts decreased by
approximately 13% in the fourth quarter of 2001. At this time, the Company feels
that the allowance for doubtful accounts is sufficient to cover the charge-offs
from the current customer accounts receivable portfolio. Also, credit granting,
collection and
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -17-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Results of Operations - Continued
Comparison of Nine Month Periods Ended September 30, 2002 and
September 30,2001 - continued
behavior models continue to be updated and improved, and, along with expanding
database capabilities, provide valuable credit-marketing opportunities.
Interest expense decreased 81% in the first nine months of 2002 as compared to
the first nine months of 2001. Interest expense results primarily from the
Company's borrowings necessary to finance customer accounts receivable,
inventories and growth initiatives. At September 30, 2002, inventories were
37.2% lower and gross customer accounts receivable were 7.6% lower as compared
to September 30, 2001. As a result, average borrowings have been much lower in
the first nine months of 2002 than in the first nine months of 2001. Also,
interest rates have been substantially lower throughout 2002.
Income taxes as a percentage of income before income taxes were 35.6% in the
first nine months of 2002 and 35.9% in the first nine months of 2001. The
federal income tax rate was 35% in both years. The difference in the total
income tax rate was caused by a change in the Company's effective state income
tax rate.
Liquidity and Sources of Capital
All working capital and cash requirements for the first nine months of 2002 were
met. Short-term funding was provided by operating activities, a revolving line
of credit and a securitization of receivables.
On December 20, 2001, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement with PNC Bank,
National Association, as agent, and certain other banks. The Agreement puts in
place a syndicated revolving credit facility of up to $30 million, secured by
inventory and certain other assets of the Company and its subsidiaries. At the
present time, $28 million of the $30 million is available to the Company, with
the balance obtainable upon meeting certain provisions. The interest rate is, at
the Company's option, based on a base rate option (greater of Prime or Fed Funds
Rate plus .5%), swing loan rate option (as quoted by PNC Bank), or Euro-rate
option (Euro-rate plus 1.5%) as defined in the Credit Agreement. The Company is
required to meet certain covenants that specifically relate to tangible net
worth, maintaining a defined leverage ratio and fixed charge coverage ratio, and
complying with certain indebtedness restrictions. As of September 30, 2002, the
Company was in compliance with all the Credit Agreement's covenants. At
September 30, 2002, the Company had no borrowings (loans) outstanding and had
letters of credit totaling $9.7 million outstanding, which reduces the amount of
borrowings available, under the Credit Agreement. At December 31, 2001, nothing
was outstanding under the Credit Agreement.
Also, on December 20, 2001, the Company completed a securitization of up to $100
million in accounts receivable with PNC Bank, National Association, as
administrator, and certain conduit purchasers. The Company sold all right, title
and interest in and to certain of its accounts receivables to Blair Factoring
Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary. Blair Factoring Company is a separate
bankruptcy remote special purpose entity that entered into a Receivable Purchase
Agreement with PNC Bank, National Association, as administrator, and certain
conduit purchasers. The Company's consolidated financial statements reflect all
the accounts of Blair Factoring Company, including the receivables and secured
borrowings. Transactions entered into under the Receivable Purchase Agreement
are considered secured borrowings and collateral transactions under the
provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 140, Accounting
for Transfers and Services of Financial Assets and Extinguishment of
Liabilities. At the present
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -18-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Liquidity and Sources of Capital - Continued
time, $50 million of the $100 million is available to the Company, with the
balance obtainable upon meeting certain provisions. The interest rate
approximates 1-month LIBOR plus the appropriate spread (55 basis points at
September 30, 2002) as defined in the Receivables Purchase Agreement. The
securitization requires certain performance standards for the Company's accounts
receivable portfolio in addition to complying with the covenants in the Credit
Agreement. As of September 30, 2002, the Company was in compliance with all the
requirements of the Receivables Purchase Agreement. At both September 30, 2002
and December 31, 2001, the Company had $15 million outstanding, the minimum
amount required to be outstanding, under the Receivables Purchase Agreement, all
of which was classified as short-term.
Both the revolving credit facility and the securitization have three-year terms
expiring December 20, 2004. The two new agreements replaced a $55,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility that was to expire on December 31, 2001. The
$55,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility was an extension, and reduction, of the
$95,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility that expired on November 13, 2001. At
September 30, 2001 the Company had $35 million outstanding under the $95,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility, all of which was classified as short-term.
Additionally, the Company had available a $25 million line for letters of
credit. As of December 20, 2001, no new letters of credit could be issued under
the $25 million line and the line expired in the third quarter of 2002.
Outstanding letters of credit amounted to $10,000,000 at December 31, 2001 and
related primarily to inventory purchases. Letters of credit issued after
December 20, 2001 are being issued under the Credit Agreement dated December 20,
2001. As previously stated, no letters of credit were issued under the Credit
Agreement as of December 31, 2001 and $9.7 million of letters of credit were
outstanding under the Credit Agreement as of September 30, 2002.
The ratio of current assets to current liabilities was 3.39 at September 30,
2002, 3.41 at December 31, 2001 and 2.73 at September 30, 2001. Working capital
increased $6,261,720 in the first nine months of 2002 primarily due to the net
income. The 2002 increase was primarily reflected in increased cash and cash
equivalents more than offsetting decreased inventories and customer accounts
receivable.
Merchandise inventory turnover was 3.1 at September 30, 2002, 2.4 at December
31, 2001 and 2.4 at September 30, 2001. Merchandise inventory as of September
30, 2002 was 23.3% lower than at December 31, 2001 and 38.8% lower than at
September 30, 2001. Merchandise inventory levels have been generally higher from
September 30, 2000 through September 30, 2001 due to lower than expected
response rates since mid-2000 and the introduction of new catalogs in late 2000
and early 2001. Inventory liquidation efforts, including sales mailings, were
increased in the second, third and forth quarters of 2001 and resulted in lower
merchandise inventory levels at December 31, 2001 and in 2002. The merchandise
inventory levels are net of the Company's reserve for inventory obsolescence.
The reserve totaled $5.1 million at September 30, 2002, $4.2 million at December
31, 2001 and $4.4 million at September 30, 2001. Inventory write-offs and
write-downs (reductions to below cost) charged against the reserve for
obsolescence were $4.5 million in the first nine months of 2002 and $9.3 million
in the first nine months of 2001. A monthly provision for obsolete inventory is
added to the reserve and expensed to cost of goods sold, based on the levels of
merchandise inventory and merchandise purchases.
An operating segment is identified as a component of an enterprise for which
separate financial information is available for evaluation by the chief
decision- maker, or decision-making group, in deciding on how to allocate
resources and
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -19-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Liquidity and Sources of Capital - Continued
assess performance. The Company operates as one business segment consisting of
four product lines. The fourth product line, Crossing Pointe, was added in the
third quarter of 2000 and is expected to become a significant revenue source
over the next few years. Home net sales as a percentage of total net sales were
10.6% ($42.5 million) in the first nine months of 2002 as compared to 12.8%
($53.6 million) in the first nine months of 2001. Menswear net sales as a
percentage of total net sales were 17.5% ($70.1 million) in the first nine
months of 2002 as compared to 18.3% ($77.0 million) in the first nine months of
2001. Womenswear net sales as a percentage of total net sales were 66.0% ($264.3
million) in the first nine months of 2002 as compared to 66.2% ($278.2 million)
in the first nine months of 2001. Crossing Pointe net sales as a percentage of
total net sales were 5.9% ($23.7 million) in the first nine months of 2002 as
compared to 2.7% ($11.3 million) in the first nine months of 2001. Home
merchandise inventory totaled $4.8 million at September 30, 2002, $4.0 million
at December 31, 2001 and $7.9 million at September 30, 2001. Menswear
merchandise inventory was $10.8 million at September 30, 2002, $13.1 million at
December 31, 2001 and $21.6 million at September 30, 2001. Womenswear
merchandise inventory was $33.2 million at September 30, 2002, $51.9 million at
December 31, 2001 and $57.9 million at September 30, 2001. Crossing Pointe
merchandise inventory was $7.4 million at September 30, 2002, $4.2 million at
December 31, 2001 and $4.4 million at September 30, 2001.
The Company looks upon its credit granting (Blair Credit) as a marketing
advantage. In the early 1990's, the Company started extending revolving credit
to first-time (prospect) buyers. Blair Credit was offered only to established
customers prior to that time. Prospects responded. This led to a broad offering
of pre-approved lines of credit to prospects in 1995 and 1996. Sales, accounts
receivable and bad debts expectedly increased. However, as the receivables aged,
bad debts greatly exceeded expected levels. The Company recognized that it
didn't have all the necessary credit controls in place and put a hold (second
quarter 1996) on pre-approved credit offers and reviewed and strengthened
(mid-1996 and on) credit controls. Blair Credit customers, on average, buy more,
buy more often and are more loyal than cash and credit card customers. The
benefit from the increased sales volume achieved by offering Blair Credit is
significant and more than outweighs the cost of the credit program. The cost
and/or contribution of the credit program itself can be quickly assessed by
comparing finance charges (included in other income) to the provision for
doubtful accounts. For the first nine months of 2002, finance charges were $26.3
million and the provision for doubtful accounts was $21.2 million (net of $5.1
million). For the first nine months of 2001, finance charges were $28.7 million
and the provision for doubtful accounts was $24.0 million (net of $4.6 million).
The assessments do not take into consideration the administrative cost of the
credit program (included in general and administrative expense), the cost of
money and the impact on sales. The Company's gross credit sales decreased 5.5%
in the first nine months of 2002 as compared to the first nine months of 2001.
The Company has added new facilities, modernized its existing facilities and
acquired new cost-saving equipment during the last several years. Capital
expenditures for property, plant and equipment totaled $9.0 million during the
first nine months of 2002 and $5.7 million during the first nine months of 2001.
Capital expenditures had been projected to be $15 million plus for each of the
years 2001 and 2002 and nearly $10 million for 2003. However, capital
expenditures for 2001 were delayed due to economic conditions. This included
slowing the implementation of the previously announced modernization and
enhancement of the Company's fulfillment operations. Capital expenditures are
projected to be approximately $41 million in total for the years 2002, 2003, and
2004. Approximately $21 million of the $41 million is attributable to the
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -20-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Liquidity and Sources of Capital - Continued
fulfillment project. Most of the $9.0 million in capital
expenditures in 2002 is attributable to the fulfillment project.
The Company has contractual obligations consisting of capital leases for data
processing and telephone equipment, and operating leases for buildings and data
processing, office and telephone equipment.
Payments Due by Period
Contractual
Obligations Total 2002 2003-2004 2005-2006 Thereafter
----------- ----- ---- --------- --------- ----------
Capital lease
Obligations $ 908,745 $83,599 $725,315 $ 99,831 $ -0-
Operating
leases 13,494,004 734,094 4,771,285 3,017,209 4,971,416
----------- -------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total $14,402,749 $817,693 $5,496,600 $3,117,040 $4,971,416
=========== ======== ========== ========== ==========
The Company has other commercial commitments consisting of a revolving credit
facility of up to $30 million and a securitization of up to $100 million in
accounts receivable.
Amount of Commitment
Expiration Per Period
Other Total
Commercial Amounts Less than 1 - 3 4 - 5 After 5
Commitments Committed 1 year years years Years
----------------- ----------- --------- ----- ----- -------
Line of Credit-
Revolving $28,000,000 -0- $28,000,000 -0- -0-
Line of Credit-
Securitization 50,000,000 -0- 50,000,000 -0- -0-
----------- --- ----------- --- ---
Total $78,000,000 -0- $78,000,000 -0- -0-
=========== === =========== === ===
If an event of default should occur, payments and/or maturity of the lines of
credit could be accelerated. The Company is not in default and doesn't expect to
be in default of any of the provisions of the credit facilities.
The Company continues to have significant deferred tax assets primarily
resulting from reserves against accounts receivable. The Company believes these
assets are realizable based upon past earnings and availability in the
carry-back period.
The Company recently declared a quarterly dividend of $.15 per share payable on
December 15, 2002. It is the Company's intent to continue paying dividends;
however, the Company will evaluate its dividend practice on an ongoing basis.
See "Future Considerations".
The Company has, from the fourth quarter of 1996 through the year 2000,
repurchased a total of 1,620,940 shares of its Common Stock - 864,720 shares
purchased on the open market and 756,220 shares from the Estate of John L.
Blair. In 2000, the Company purchased 268,704 shares on the open market. No
shares were repurchased in 2001 or in the first nine months of 2002.
Future cash needs will be financed by cash flow from operations, the existing
borrowing arrangements and, if needed, other financing arrangements that may be
available to the Company. The Company's current projection of future cash
requirements, however, may be affected in the future by numerous factors,
including changes in customer payments on accounts receivable, consumer credit
industry trends, sales volume, operating cost fluctuations, revised capital
spending plans and unplanned capital spending.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -21-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Critical Accounting Policies
Preparation of the Company's financial statements requires the application of a
number of accounting policies which are described in "Note 1, Significant
Accounting Policies" in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" in the
Company's 2001 Annual Report. The critical accounting policies, which if
interpreted differently under different conditions or circumstances could result
in material changes to the reported results, deal with properly valuing accounts
receivable and inventory. Properly valuing accounts receivable and inventory
requires establishing proper reserve and allowance levels, specifically the
allowances for doubtful accounts and returns and the reserve for inventory
obsolescence.
The allowance for doubtful accounts and related items, provision for doubtful
accounts and Blair Credit, are discussed in "Results of Operations", "Liquidity
and Sources of Capital" and "Future Considerations".
The allowance for returns is a deduction from customer accounts receivable. A
monthly provision for anticipated returns is recorded as a percentage of gross
sales, based upon historical experience. The provision is charged against gross
sales to arrive at net sales, and actual returns are charged against the
allowance for returns. Returns are generally more predictable as they settle
within two-to- three months but are impacted by season, new products and/or
product lines, type of sale (cash, credit card, Blair Credit) and sales mix
(prospect/customer). The Company feels that the allowance for returns is
sufficient to cover the returns that will occur after September 30, 2002 from
sales prior to October 1, 2002.
The reserve for inventory obsolescence and related items, inventory levels and
write-downs, are discussed in "Liquidity and Sources of Capital" and "Future
Considerations". The Company feels that the reserve for inventory obsolescence
is sufficient to cover the write-offs and write-downs that will occur after
September 30, 2002 on merchandise in inventory as of September 30, 2002.
Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices
Although inflation has moderated in our economy, the Company is continually
seeking ways to cope with its impact. To the extent permitted by competition,
increased costs are passed on to customers by selectively increasing selling
prices over a period of time. Profit margins have been pressured by postal rate
increases. Postal rates increased on January 10, 1999, on January 7, 2001, on
July 1, 2001 and again on June 30, 2002. It is anticipated that postal rates
will increase at a greater percentage and more frequently, starting with the
last increase on June 30, 2002. The Company spent approximately $90 million on
postage in 2001.
The Company principally uses the LIFO method of accounting for its merchandise
inventories. Under this method, the cost of products sold reported in the
financial statements approximates current costs and thus reduces distortion in
reported income due to increasing costs. However, the Company has been
experiencing decreasing merchandise costs and the LIFO reserve has fallen to
$5,366,000 at September 30, 2002 from $6,717,000 at December 31, 2000.
Property, plant and equipment are continuously being expanded and updated. Major
projects are discussed under "Liquidity and Sources of Capital". Assets acquired
in prior years will be replaced at higher costs but this will take place over
many years. New assets, when acquired, will result in higher depreciation
charges, but in many cases, due to technological improvements, savings in
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -22-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices - continued
operating costs should result. The charges to operations for depreciation
represent the allocation of historical costs incurred over past years and are
significantly less than if they were based on the current cost of productive
capacity being used.
Accounting Pronouncements
In June 1998, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No.
133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities", was issued. The Company adopted Statement No. 133
effective January 1, 2001. The adoption of Statement No. 133
did not have an impact on the financial statements of the
Company, as the Company has historically not utilized
derivative instruments.
In June 2001, Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No.
141, "Business Combinations", and No. 142, "Goodwill and Other
Intangible Assets", were issued.
The Company adopted the Statements effective January 1,2002 and adoption of
these Statements did not have an impact on the Company.
Future Considerations
The Company is faced with the ever-present challenge of maintaining and
expanding its customer file. This involves the acquisition of new customers
(prospects), the conversion of new customers to established customers (active
repeat buyers) and the retention and/or reactivation of established customers.
These actions are vital in growing the business but are being negatively
impacted by increased operating costs, a declining labor pool, increased
competition in the retail sector, high levels of consumer debt, varying consumer
response rates and an uncertain economy. The preceding factors can also
negatively impact the Company's ability to properly value accounts receivable
and inventories by making it more difficult to establish proper reserve and
allowance levels, specifically, the allowances for doubtful accounts and returns
and the reserve for inventory obsolescence.
The Company's marketing strategy includes targeting customers in the "40 to 60,
low-to-moderate income" market and in the "60+, low-to-moderate income" market.
The "40 to 60" market is the fastest growing segment of the population. Also,
customers in the "low-to-moderate income" market tend to be more credit-needy
and utilize Blair credit to a greater degree. Success of the Company's marketing
strategy requires investment in database management, financial and operating
systems, prospecting programs, catalog marketing, new product lines, telephone
call centers, e-commerce, fulfillment operations and credit management.
Management believes that these investments should improve Blair Corporation's
position in new and existing markets and provide opportunities for future
earnings growth.
The Company has a working arrangement with accomplished actress, artist, author
and mother, Jane Seymour, to launch the "Jane Seymour Signature Collection" of
women's apparel. The Jane Seymour inspired fashions will be sold exclusively
through the Company's Crossing Pointe catalog and website
www.crossingpointe.com. The first "Jane Seymour Signature Collection" fashions
previewed in early January 2002 on the Crossing Pointe website and debuted in
the Crossing Pointe Spring 2002 Catalog mailed at the end of January 2002.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL -23-
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act
of 1995
Forward-looking statements in this report, including without limitation,
statements relating to the Company's plans, strategies, objectives,
expectations, intentions and adequacy of resources, are made pursuant to the
Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Words such as "believes", "anticipates", "plans", "expects", and similar
expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Any statements
contained in this report that are not statements of historical fact may be
deemed to be forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are
included in, but not limited to, the following sections of the report:
- The paragraph on the provision for doubtful accounts in the Results
of Operations, Comparison of Third Quarter 2002 and Third Quarter
2001.
- The paragraph on the provision for doubtful accounts in the
Results of Operations, Comparison of Nine Month Periods Ended
September 30, 2002 and September 30, 2001.
- Liquidity and Sources of Capital.
- Critical Accounting Policies.
- The Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices.
- Future Considerations.
Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and
uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those
in the forward-looking statements, including without limitation the following:
(i) the Company's plans, strategies, objectives, expectations and intentions are
subject to change at any time at the discretion of the Company; (ii) the
Company's plans and results of operations will be affected by the Company's
ability to manage its growth, accounts receivable and inventory;(iii) external
factors such as, but not limited to, changes in consumer response rates, changes
in consumer credit trends, success of new business lines and increases in
postal, paper and printing costs; and (iv) other risks and uncertainties
indicated from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET
RISK
The carrying amounts of cash, customer accounts receivable, accounts payable,
and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities
of these assets and liabilities. The interest rates on the Company's securitized
and revolving credit facilities are adjusted regularly to reflect current market
rates. Accordingly, the carrying amounts of the Company's borrowings also
approximate fair value.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Based on an evaluation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of
a date within 90 days of the filing date of this quarterly report, the Chief
Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company have concluded
that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in
connection with the Company's filing of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for
the period ended September 30, 2002.
There were no significant changes in the Company's internal controls or in any
other factors which could significantly affect those controls subsequent to the
date of the most recent evaluation of the Company's internal controls by the
Company, including any corrective actions with regard to any significant
deficiencies or material weaknesses.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION -24-
BLAIR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
September 30, 2002
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
-----------------
The Company is from time to time a party to ordinary routine litigation
incidental to various aspects of its operations. Management is not currently
aware of any litigation that will have a material adverse impact on the
Company's financial condition or results of operations.
Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds
-----------------------------------------
Not Applicable.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
-------------------------------
Not Applicable.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
---------------------------------------------------
Not Applicable.
Item 5. Other Information
-----------------
Not Applicable.
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
--------------------------------
(a) Exhibits
--------
3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation(1)
3.2 Amended Bylaws of Blair Corporation(2)
4 Specimen Common Stock Certificate(3)
10.1 Stock Accumulation and Deferred Compensation Plan for
Directors(4)
10.2 Blair Corporation 2000 Omnibus Stock Plan(5)
10.3 Blair CreditAgreement(6)
11 Statement regarding computation of per share earnings(7)
99.1 CEO Certification - attached
99.2 CFO Certification - attached
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
-------------------
No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the quarter ended September
30, 2002
------------------
(1) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
of the Company filed with the SEC on August 10, 1995 (SEC File No. 1-878).
(2) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Form S-8 Registration
Statement filed with the SEC on July 19, 2000 (SEC File No. 333-41770).
(3) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Form S-8 Registration
Statement filed with the SEC on July 19, 2000 (SEC File No. 333-41770).
(4) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A to the Company's Proxy
Statement filed with the SEC on March 20, 1998 (SEC File No. 1-878).
(5) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A to the Company's Proxy
Statement filed with the SEC on March 17, 2000 (SEC File No. 1-878).
(6) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Form 8-K
filed with the SEC on January 9, 2002 (SEC File No. 1-878).
(7) Incorporated by reference to Note C of the financial statements included
herein.
-25-
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant had duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
BLAIR CORPORATION
(Registrant)
Date November 12, 2002 By KENT R. SIVILLO
------------------------ ----------------------------
KENT R. SIVILLO
Vice President-Finance
(Chief Accounting Officer)
By BRYAN J.FLANAGAN
--------------------
BRYAN J. FLANAGAN
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
-26-
CERTIFICATIONS
I, John E. Zawacki, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Blair Corporation;
2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make
the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements
were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly
report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the
registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material
information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries,
is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the
period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;
b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this
quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and
c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of
the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the
Evaluation Date;
5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our
most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of
registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent
functions):
a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls
which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant's
auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal controls; and
6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal
controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls
subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective
actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.
Date: November 12, 2002
John E. Zawacki
-----------------------
John E. Zawacki
Chief Executive Officer
-27-
I, Bryan J. Flanagan, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Blair Corporation;
2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make
the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements
were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly
report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the
registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material
information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries,
is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the
period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;
b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this
quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and
c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of
the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the
Evaluation Date;
5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our
most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of
registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent
functions):
a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls
which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant's
auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal controls; and
6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal
controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls
subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective
actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.
Date: November 12, 2002
Bryan J. Flanagan
------------------------
Bryan J. Flanagan
Chief Financial Officer
-28-
Exhibit 99.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Quarterly Report of Blair Corporation (the "Company") on
Form 10-Q for the period ending September 30, 2002 as filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, John E. Zawacki,
Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section
1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002,
that:
(1)The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2)The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all
material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of
the Company.
November 12, 2002 John E. Zawacki
----------------- ------------------------
John E. Zawacki
President and
Chief Executive Officer
-29-
Exhibit 99.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Quarterly Report of Blair Corporation (the "Company") on
Form 10-Q for the period ending September 30, 2002 as filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Bryan J. Flanagan,
Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section
1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002,
that:
(1)The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2)The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all
material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of
the Company.
November 12, 2002 Bryan J. Flanagan
----------------- -----------------------
Bryan J. Flanagan
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer