Form: 10-K

Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

March 27, 2015

Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014

Commission file number 1-13293

 

 

The Hillman Companies, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   23-2874736

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

10590 Hamilton Avenue

Cincinnati, Ohio

  45231
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (513) 851-4900

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

 

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered

11.6% Junior Subordinated Debentures   None
Preferred Securities Guaranty   None

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

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    YES  ¨    NO  x

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.    YES  ¨    NO  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    YES  x    NO  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    YES  x    NO  ¨

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨    Accelerated filer    ¨
Non-accelerated filer   x  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    Smaller reporting company    ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    YES  ¨    NO  x

On March 27, 2015, 5,000 shares of the Registrant’s common stock were issued and outstanding and 4,217,724 Trust Preferred Securities were issued and outstanding by the Hillman Group Capital Trust. The Trust Preferred Securities trade on the NYSE Amex under the symbol HLM.Pr. The aggregate market value of the Trust Preferred Securities held by non-affiliates at June 30, 2014 was $128,176,632.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

PART I

Item 1 – Business.

General

The Hillman Companies, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries (collectively “Hillman” or the “Company”) are one of the largest providers of hardware-related products and related merchandising services to retail markets in North America. The Company’s principal business is operated through its wholly-owned subsidiary, The Hillman Group, Inc. (the “Hillman Group”), which had net sales of approximately $734.7 million in 2014. Hillman Group sells its products to hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, pet supply stores, and other retail outlets principally in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Product lines include thousands of small parts such as fasteners and related hardware items; threaded rod and metal shapes; keys, key duplication systems, and accessories; builder’s hardware; and identification items, such as tags and letters, numbers, and signs. The Company supports its product sales with services that include design and installation of merchandising systems and maintenance of appropriate in-store inventory levels.

The Company’s headquarters are located at 10590 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio. The Company maintains a website at www.hillmangroup.com. Information contained or linked on its website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report and should not be considered a part of this annual report.

Background

On June 30, 2014, affiliates of CCMP Capital Advisors, LLC (“CCMP”) and Oak Hill Capital Partners III, L.P., Oak Hill Capital Management Partners III, L.P. and OHCP III HC RO, L.P. (“Oak Hill Funds”), together with certain current and former members of Hillman’s management, consummated a merger transaction (the “Merger Transaction”) pursuant to the terms and conditions of an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of May 16, 2014. As a result of the Merger Transaction, The Hillman Companies, Inc. remained a wholly-owned subsidiary of OHCP HM Acquisition Corp., which changed its name to HMAN Intermediate II Holdings Corp. (“Predecessor Holdco”), and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of HMAN Group Holdings Inc. (“Successor Holdco” or “Holdco”). The total consideration paid in the Merger Transaction was approximately $1.5 billion including repayment of outstanding debt and including the value of the Company’s outstanding junior subordinated debentures ($105.4 million liquidation value at the time of the Merger Transaction).

Hillman Group

The Company is organized as five separate business segments, the largest of which is (1) Hillman Group operating primarily in the United States. The other business segments consist of subsidiaries of the Hillman Group operating in (2) Canada under the names The Hillman Group Canada ULC and H. Paulin & Co., (3) Mexico under the name SunSource Integrated Services de Mexico S.A. de C.V., (4) Florida under the name All Points Industries, Inc., and (5) Australia under the name The Hillman Group Australia Pty. Ltd. Hillman Group provides merchandising services and products such as fasteners and related hardware items; threaded rod and metal shapes; keys, key duplication systems, and accessories; builder’s hardware; and identification items, such as tags and letters, numbers, and signs, to retail outlets, primarily hardware stores, home centers and mass merchants, pet supply stores, grocery stores, and drug stores. Hillman complements its extensive product selection with regular retailer visits by its field sales and service organization.

Hillman markets and distributes approximately 117,000 stock keeping units (“SKUs”) of small, hard-to-find and hard-to-manage hardware items. Hillman functions as a category manager for retailers and supports these products with in-store service, high order fill rates, and rapid delivery of products sold. Sales and service representatives regularly visit retail outlets to review stock levels, reorder items in need of replacement, and interact with the store management to offer new product and merchandising ideas. Thousands of items can be

 

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actively managed with the retailer experiencing a substantial reduction of in-store labor costs and replenishment paperwork. Service representatives also assist in organizing the products in a consumer-friendly manner. Hillman complements its broad range of products with merchandising services such as displays, product identification stickers, retail price labels, store rack and drawer systems, assistance in rack positioning and store layout, and inventory restocking services. Hillman regularly refreshes retailers’ displays with new products and package designs utilizing color-coding to simplify the shopping experience for consumers and improve the attractiveness of individual store displays.

The Company ships its products from 18 strategically located distribution centers in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Australia, and is recognized for providing retailers with industry leading fill-rates and lead times. Hillman’s main distribution centers utilize state-of-the-art warehouse management systems (“WMS”) to ship customer orders within 48 hours while achieving a very high order fill rate. Hillman utilizes third-party logistics providers to warehouse and ship customer orders in Mexico and Australia.

Hillman also designs, manufactures, and markets industry-leading identification and duplication equipment for home, office, automotive, and specialty keys. In 2000, the Company revolutionized the key duplication market with the patent-protected Axxess Key Duplication System™ which provided the ability to accurately identify and duplicate a key to store associates with little or no experience. In 2007, Hillman upgraded its key duplication technology with Precision Laser Key™ utilizing innovative digital and laser imaging to identify a key and duplicate the cut-pattern automatically. In 2011, Hillman introduced the innovative FastKey™ consumer operated key duplication system which utilizes technology from the Precision Laser Key System™. Through the Company’s creative use of technology and efficient use of inventory management systems, the sale of Hillman products have proven to be a profitable revenue source for big box retailers. The Company’s duplication systems have been placed in over 25,000 retail locations to date and are supported by Hillman sales and service representatives.

In addition, Hillman applies a variety of innovative options of consumer-operated vending systems for engraving specialty items such as pet identification tags, luggage tags, and other engraved identification tags. The Company has developed unique engraving systems leveraging state-of-the-art technologies to provide a customized solution for mass merchant and pet supply retailers. To date, approximately 8,800 Hillman engraving systems have been placed in retail locations which are also supported by Hillman’s sales and service representatives.

Products and Suppliers

Hillman’s vast product portfolio is recognized by top retailers across North America for providing consistent quality and innovation to DIYers and professional contractors. The Company’s product strategy concentrates on providing total project solutions for common and unique home improvement projects. Hillman’s portfolio provides retailers the assurance that their shoppers can find the right product at the right price within an ‘easy to shop’ environment.

The Company currently manages a worldwide supply chain of approximately 620 vendors, the largest of which accounted for approximately 5.0% of the Company’s annual purchases and the top five of which accounted for approximately 19.2% of its annual purchases. About 40.6% of Hillman’s annual purchases are from non-U.S. suppliers, with the balance from U.S. manufacturers and master distributors. The Company’s vendor quality control procedures include on-site evaluations and frequent product testing. Vendors are also evaluated based on delivery performance and the accuracy of their shipments.

Fasteners

Fasteners remain the core of Hillman’s business and the product line encompasses more than 87,000 SKUs, which management believes to be one of the largest selections among suppliers servicing the hardware retail segment. The fastener line includes standard and specialty nuts, bolts, washers, screws, anchors, and picture hanging items. Hillman offers zinc, chrome, and galvanized plated steel fasteners in addition to stainless steel, brass, and nylon fasteners in this vast line of products. In addition, the Company carries a complete line of indoor and outdoor project fasteners for use with drywall and deck construction.

 

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The Company keeps the fastener category vibrant and refreshed for retailers by providing a continuous stream of new products. Some of the Company’s recent offerings include an expansion of Hillman’s WeatherMaxx™ stainless steel fasteners. The fast-growing category provides consumers with value and performance in exterior applications and incremental margins for retailers. The new WeatherMaxx™ features a variety of packaging options ensuring consumers find the right quantity for large or small projects. In addition, the Tite-Series marks Hillman’s expansion into the fast growing and highly profitable construction fastener segment. The Tite-Series features fasteners for common new construction and remodeling projects such as deck building, roof repair, landscaping, and gutter repair. The Tite-Series offers enhanced performance with an easy-start, type 17 bit, serrated threads, and reduced torque requirements. The program also features an innovative new merchandising format which allows retailers to increase holding power while displaying products in a neat and organized system.

In 2014, the Company introduced a new line of hand driven nails, deck screws, and drywall screws. The new program features a comprehensive offering for DIYers and professional contractors across a good, better, best value platform. The program is marketed under the prominent Hillman brand and introduces three new categories: Fas-N-Rite, DeckPlus, and PowerPro, allowing shoppers to choose their desired quality level. The Company’s new offering was the result of extensive consumer research and contains proprietary performance features that the Company’s management believes will positively influence end-users’ purchase decision. The packaging and merchandising utilizes large product images, impactful graphics, and mounted product samples so that shoppers can easily navigate the display and locate items quickly. The Company has received positive feedback from potential customers on the new program across all Hillman core distribution channels.

In 2014, the Company expanded its mass merchant fastener program in over 3,500 stores across the U.S. The line targets consumers visiting mass merchants, grocery, and department stores who desire to purchase their hardware needs while shopping for grocery and general merchandise needs. The product offering provides convenience to the light-duty DIYer and solutions to common home improvement projects. The program utilizes Hillman’s proven packaging and merchandising best practices that simplify consumers’ shopping experience. The Company’s management believes that this new line is among the most comprehensive and innovative in this market segment which is growing in popularity due to busy consumers who prefer one-stop shopping superstores.

Also in 2014, Hillman continued to expand our fastener presence beyond retailers’ ‘brick and mortar’ locations by entering into the e-commerce segment. Hillman supported e-commerce requests and now has over 25,000 items available for sale on retailers’ websites. The Company supported direct to store and direct to consumer fulfillment for consumers who choose to order fasteners directly from retailers’ websites. Consumers can visit the retailer’s website, select their desired fasteners, pay by credit card, and pick up their order at the retailer’s store or choose to have the order shipped to the address of the consumer’s choice. The Company plans to continue to support retailers’ requests to expand their on-line offerings in 2015.

Fasteners generated approximately 64.5% of the Company’s total revenues in 2014, as compared to 64.2% in 2013 and 55.6% in 2012.

 

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Keys and Key Accessories

Hillman designs and manufactures proprietary equipment which forms the cornerstone for the Company’s key duplication business. The Hillman key duplication system is offered in various retail channels including mass merchants, home centers, automotive parts retailers, franchise and independent (“F&I”) hardware stores, and grocery/drug chains; it can also be found in many service-based businesses like parcel shipping outlets.

Hillman markets multiple separate key duplication systems. The Axxess Precision Key Duplication System™ is marketed to national retailers requiring a key duplication program easily mastered by novice associates, while the Hillman Key Program targets the F&I hardware retailers with a machine that works well in businesses with lower turnover and highly skilled employees. There are over 25,000 Axxess Programs placed in North American retailers including Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart.

Hillman introduced the Precision Laser Key System™ in 2007. This system uses a digital optical camera, lasers, and proprietary software to scan a customer’s key. The system identifies the key and retrieves the key’s specifications, including the appropriate blank and cutting pattern, from a comprehensive database. This technology automates nearly every aspect of key duplication and provides the ability for every store associate to cut a key accurately. Hillman has placed approximately 2,400 of these key duplicating systems in North American retailers and the Company’s management believes that the Company is well-positioned to capitalize on this technology.

In 2014, Hillman expanded the launch of the innovative FastKey™ consumer-operated key duplication system with an additional 300 Walmart stores bringing the total number of placements to 1,000 units. FastKey™ utilizes technology from the Precision Laser Key System™ and combines a consumer-friendly vending system which allows retail shoppers to duplicate the most popular home, office, and small lock keys. The FastKey™ system covers a large percentage of the key market and features a unique key sleeve that ensures proper insertion, alignment, and duplication of the key. Consumers who attempt to duplicate keys not included in the FastKey™ system receive a ‘service slip’ identifying their key and referring them to the main Hillman key cutting location within the store. The FastKey™ market test has demonstrated the ability to increase overall key sales at the store retail level.

In addition to key duplication, Hillman has an exclusive, strategic partnership with Sid Tool Co., Inc. (acting through its Class C Solutions Group) for the distribution of the proprietary PC+© Code Cutter machine which produces automobile keys based on a vehicle’s identification number. The Code Cutter machines are marketed to automotive dealerships, auto rental agencies, and various companies with truck and vehicle fleets. Since its introduction, over 7,900 PC+© units and over 8,800 of the newer Flash Code Cutter units have been sold.

Hillman also markets keys and key accessories in conjunction with its duplication systems. Hillman’s proprietary key offering features the universal blank which uses a ‘universal’ keyway to replace up to five original equipment keys. This innovative system allows a retailer to duplicate 99% of the key market while stocking less than 100 SKUs. Hillman continually refreshes the retailer’s key offering by introducing decorated and licensed keys and accessories. The Company’s Wackey™ and Fanatix™ lines feature decorative themes of art and popular licenses such as NFL, Disney, Breast Cancer Awareness, M&M’s, and Harley Davidson to increase the purchase frequency and average transaction value per key. The Company also markets a successful line of decorative and licensed lanyards. Hillman has taken the key and key accessory categories from a price sensitive commodity to a fashion driven business and has significantly increased retail pricing and gross margins.

Keys, key accessories, and Code Cutter units represented approximately 16.6% of the Company’s total revenues in 2014, as compared to 17.1% in 2013 and 20.8% in 2012.

 

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Engraving

Hillman’s engraving business focuses on the growing consumer spending trends surrounding personalized and pet identification. Innovation has played a major role in the development of the Company’s engraving business unit. From the original Quick-Tag™ consumer-operated vending system to the proprietary laser system of TagWorks, Hillman continues to lead the industry with consumer-friendly engraving solutions.

Quick-Tag™ is a patented, consumer-operated vending system that custom engraves and dispenses pet identification tags, military-style I.D. tags, holiday ornaments, and luggage tags. Styles include NFL and NCAA logo military tags. Quick-Tag™ is an easy, convenient means for the consumer to custom-engrave tags and generates attractive margins for the retailer. Hillman has placed over 4,300 Quick-Tag™ machines in retail outlets throughout the U.S. and Canada. In addition to placements in retail outlets, the Company has placed machines inside theme parks such as Disney, Sea World, and Universal Studios.

In 2010, Hillman launched the next generation engraving platform with its new FIDO™ system. This new engraving program integrates a fun attractive design with a user interface that provides new features for the consumer. The individual tag is packaged in a mini cassette and the machine’s mechanism flips the tag to allow engraving on both sides. The user interface features a loveable dog character that guides the consumer through the engraving process. Hillman has placed approximately 1,100 FIDO™ systems in PETCO stores as of December 31, 2014.

In 2011, Hillman acquired the innovative TagWorks engraving system featuring patented technology, unique product portfolio, and attractive off-board merchandising. The TagWorks system utilizes laser printing technology and allows consumers to watch the engraving process. The off-board merchandising allows premium-priced tags to be displayed in store-front locations and is effective at increasing the average price per transaction.

Hillman designs, manufactures, and assembles the engraving equipment in the Company’s Tempe, Arizona facility. Engraving products represented approximately 6.7% of the Company’s total revenues in 2014, as compared to 6.9% in 2013 and 8.8% in 2012.

Letters, Numbers, and Signs

Letters, numbers, and signs (“LNS”) includes product lines that target both the homeowner and commercial user. Product lines within this category include individual and/or packaged letters, numbers, signs, safety related products (e.g. 911 signs), driveway markers, and a diversity of sign accessories, such as sign frames.

Through a series of strategic acquisitions, exclusive partnerships, and organic product developments, Hillman has created an LNS program which gives retailers one of the largest product offerings available in this category. This SKU intensive product category is considered a staple for retail hardware departments and is typically merchandised in eight linear feet of retail space containing hundreds of SKUs. In addition to the core product program, Hillman provides its customers with retail support including custom plan-o-grams and merchandising solutions.

Hillman has demonstrated the continual launch of new products to match the needs of DIY and commercial end-users. Hillman recently introduced popular programs such as high-end address plaques and numbers, the custom create-a-sign program, and commercial signs. The Company also introduced innovative solar technology to add an element of illumination to the core category.

The Hillman LNS program can be found in big box retailers, mass merchants, and pet supply accounts. In addition, Hillman has product placement in F&I hardware retailers.

The LNS category represented approximately 4.8% of the Company’s total revenues in 2014, as compared to 4.9% in 2013, and 5.8% in 2012.

 

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Threaded Rod

Hillman is a leading supplier of metal shapes and threaded rod in the retail market. The SteelWorks™ threaded rod product includes hot and cold rolled rod, both weld-able and plated, as well as a complete offering of All-Thread rod in galvanized steel, stainless steel, and brass.

The SteelWorks™ program is carried by many top retailers, including Lowe’s and Menards, and through cooperatives such as Ace Hardware. In addition, Hillman is the primary supplier of metal shapes to many wholesalers throughout the country.

Threaded rod generated approximately 4.5% of the Company’s total revenues in 2014, as compared to 4.5% in 2013 and 6.0% in 2012.

Builder’s Hardware

The builder’s hardware category includes a variety of common household items such as coat hooks, door stops, hinges, gate latches, hasps, and decorative hardware.

Hillman markets the builder’s hardware products under the Hardware Essentials™ brand and provides the retailer with an innovative merchandising solution. The Hardware Essentials™ program utilizes modular packaging, color coding, and integrated merchandising to simplify the shopping experience for consumers. Colorful signs, packaging, and installation instructions guide the consumer quickly and easily to the correct product location. Hardware Essentials™ provides retailers and consumers decorative upgrade opportunities through the introduction of high-end finishes such as satin nickel, pewter, and antique bronze.

The combination of merchandising, upgraded finishes, and product breadth is designed to improve the retailer’s performance. The addition of the builder’s hardware product line exemplifies the Company’s strategy of leveraging its core competencies to further penetrate customer accounts with new product offerings. In 2014, the Company expanded the placement of the Hardware Essentials™ line in the F&I channel. The F&I channel provided successful conversions in over 350 new locations in 2014.

As of December 31, 2014, the Hardware Essentials™ line was placed in over 2,800 retail locations and generated approximately 2.9% of the Company’s total revenues in 2014, as compared to 2.4% in 2013 and 2.9% in 2012.

Markets and Customers

Hillman sells our products to national accounts such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, Walmart, Tractor Supply, Menards, PetSmart, and PETCO. Hillman’s status as a national supplier of proprietary products to big box retailers allows it to develop a strong market position and high barriers to entry within its product categories.

Hillman services more than 15,000 F&I retail outlets. These individual dealers are typically members of the larger cooperatives, such as True Value, Ace Hardware, and Do-It-Best. The Company ships directly to the cooperative’s retail locations and also supplies many items to the cooperative’s central warehouses. These central warehouses distribute to their members that do not have a requirement for Hillman’s in-store service. These arrangements reduce credit risk and logistic expenses for Hillman while also reducing central warehouse inventory and delivery costs for the cooperatives.

A typical hardware store maintains thousands of different items in inventory, many of which generate small dollar sales but large profits. It is difficult for a retailer to economically monitor all stock levels and to reorder the products from multiple vendors. This problem is compounded by the necessity of receiving small shipments of inventory at different times and stocking the goods. The failure to have these small items available will have an adverse effect on store traffic, thereby denying the retailer the opportunity to sell items that generate higher dollar sales.

 

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Hillman sells its products to approximately 25,000 customers, the top five of which accounted for approximately 45.0% of the Company’s total revenue in 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2014, Lowe’s was the single largest customer, representing approximately 17.6% of the Company’s total revenue, Home Depot was the second largest at approximately 16.4%, and Walmart was the third largest at approximately 6.7% of the Company’s total revenue. No other customer accounted for more than 5.0% of the Company’s total revenue in 2014. In each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, the Company derived over 10% of its total revenues from two separate customers which operated in the following segments: United States excluding All Points, Canada, and Mexico.

The Company’s telemarketing activity sells to thousands of smaller hardware outlets and non-hardware accounts. The Company is also pursuing new business internationally in such places as Canada, Mexico, Australia, South and Central America, and the Caribbean. See Note 21, Segment Reporting and Geographic Information, of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Sales and Marketing

Hillman provides product support, customer service, and profit opportunities for its retail distribution partners. The Company believes that its competitive advantage is in its ability to provide a greater level of customer service than its competitors.

Company-wide, service is the hallmark of Hillman. The national accounts field service organization consists of over 600 employees and 40 field managers focusing on big box retailers, pet super stores, large national discount chains, and grocery stores. This organization reorders products, details store shelves, and sets up in-store promotions. Many of the Company’s largest customers use electronic data interchange (“EDI”) for handling of orders and invoices.

The Company employs what it believes to be the largest factory direct sales force in the industry. The sales force, which consists of over 250 employees and is managed by 21 field managers, focuses on the F&I customers. The depth of the sales and service team enables Hillman to maintain consistent call cycles ensuring that all customers experience proper stock levels and inventory turns. This team also prepares custom plan-o-grams of displays to fit the needs of any store and establishes programs that meet customers’ requirements for pricing, invoicing, and other needs. This group also benefits from daily internal support from the Company’s inside sales and customer service teams. On average, each sales representative is responsible for approximately 55 full service accounts that the sales representative calls on approximately every two weeks.

These efforts, coupled with those of the marketing department, allow the sales force to sell and support its product lines. Hillman’s marketing department provides support through the development of new products and categories, sales collateral material, promotional items, merchandising aids, and custom signage. Marketing services such as advertising, graphic design, and trade show management are also provided to the sales force. The department is organized along Hillman’s three marketing competencies: product management, channel marketing, and marketing communications.

Competition

The Company’s primary competitors in the national accounts marketplace for fasteners are Illinois Tool Works Inc., Dorman Products Inc., Midwest Fastener Corporation, Primesource Building Products, Inc., and Nova Capital. Competition is based primarily on in-store service and price. Other competitors are local and regional distributors. Competitors in the pet tag market are specialty retailers, direct mail order, and retailers with in-store mail order capability. The Quick-Tag™, FIDO™, and TagWorks systems have patent protected technology that is a major barrier to entry and helps to preserve this market segment.

The principal competitors for Hillman’s F&I business are Midwest Fasteners and Hy-Ko Products Company (“Hy-Ko”) in the hardware store marketplace. Midwest Fasteners primarily focuses on fasteners, while Hy-Ko is the major competitor in LNS products and

 

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keys/key accessories. The Company’s management estimates that Hillman sells to approximately 63% of the full service hardware stores in the F&I marketplace. The hardware outlets that purchase Hillman products without regularly scheduled sales representative visits, may also purchase products from local and regional distributors and cooperatives. Hillman competes primarily on field service, merchandising, as well as product availability, price, and depth of product line.

Products and Suppliers

Our vast product portfolio is recognized by top retailers across North America for providing consistent quality and innovation to DIYers and professional contractors. Our product strategy concentrates on providing total project solutions for common and unique home improvement projects. Our portfolio provides retailers the assurance that their shoppers can find the right product at the right price within an ‘easy to shop’ environment. We currently manage a worldwide supply chain of approximately 620 vendors, the largest of which accounted for approximately 5.0% of our annual purchases and the top five of which accounted for approximately 19.2% of our annual purchases. About 40.6% of our annual purchases are from non-U.S. suppliers, with the balance from U.S. manufacturers and master distributors. Our vendor quality control procedures include on-site evaluations and frequent product testing. Vendors are also evaluated based on delivery performance and the accuracy of their shipments.

Insurance Arrangements

Under the Company’s current insurance programs, commercial umbrella coverage is obtained for catastrophic exposure and aggregate losses in excess of expected claims. Since 1991, the Company has retained the exposure on certain expected losses related to workers’ compensation, general liability, and automobile. The Company also retains the exposure on expected losses related to health benefits of certain employees. The Company believes that its present insurance is adequate for its businesses. See Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Employees

As of December 31, 2014, the Company had 2,605 full time and part time employees, none of which were covered by a collective bargaining agreement. In the opinion of the Company’s management, employee relations are good.

Backlog

The Company does not consider the sales backlog to be a significant indicator of future performance due to the short order cycle of its business. The Company’s sales backlog from ongoing operations was approximately $5.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and approximately $4.4 million as of December 31, 2013. The Company expects to realize the entire December 31, 2014 backlog during 2015.

 

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Where You Can Find More Information

The Company files quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and annual reports on Form 10-K and furnishes current reports on Form 8-K and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”). You may read and copy any reports, statements, or other information filed by the Company at the Commission’s public reference rooms at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330 for more information on the public reference rooms. The Commission also maintains an Internet site at www.sec.gov that contains quarterly, annual, and current reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers, like Hillman, that file electronically with the Commission.

In addition, the Company’s quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and annual reports on Form 10-K are available free of charge on the Company’s website at www.hillmangroup.com as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are electronically filed with the SEC. The Company is providing the address to its website solely for the information of investors. The Company does not intend the address to be an active link or to incorporate the contents of the website into this report.

Item 1A - Risk Factors.

An investment in the Company’s securities involves certain risks as discussed below. However, the risks set forth below are not the only risks that the Company faces, and we face other risks which have not yet been identified or which are not yet otherwise predictable. If any of the following risks occur or are otherwise realized, the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. You should consider carefully the risks described below and all other information in this annual report, including the Company’s financial statements and the related notes and schedules thereto, prior to making an investment decision with regard to the Company’s securities.

A prolonged economic downturn may adversely impact demand for our products, reduce access to credit, and cause our customers and others with which we do business to suffer financial hardship, all of which could adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

Our business, financial condition, and results of operations have and may continue to be affected by various economic factors. The U.S. economy is experiencing an uneven recovery following a protracted slowdown, and the future economic environment may continue to be challenging. The economic slowdown led to reduced consumer and business spending and any delay in the recovery could lead to further reduced spending in the foreseeable future, including by our customers. In addition, a decline in economic conditions may result in financial difficulties leading to restructurings, bankruptcies, liquidations and other unfavorable events for our customers, suppliers, and other service providers. If such conditions deteriorate in 2015 or through 2016, our industry, business, and results of operations may be materially adversely impacted.

The Company’s business is impacted by general economic conditions in the U.S., Canada, and other international markets, particularly the U.S. retail markets including hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, and other retailers. In recent quarters, operations have been negatively impacted by the slow growth in the U.S. economy, including high unemployment figures and the contraction of the retail market. Although there have been certain signs of improvement in the economy and stabilization of domestic credit markets from the height of the financial crisis, general expectations call for slow economic growth in the near term and it may have the effect of reducing consumer spending which could adversely affect our results of operations during the next year.

If the current weakness continues in the retail markets including hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, and other retail outlets in North America, or general economic conditions worsen, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business.

 

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In the past several years, the Company’s business has been adversely affected by the decline in the North American economy, particularly with respect to retail markets including hardware stores, home centers, lumberyards, and mass merchants. It is possible that this softness will continue or further deteriorate in 2015 or through 2016. To the extent that this decline persists or deteriorates, there is likely to be an unfavorable impact on demand for Company products which could have a material adverse effect on sales, earnings, and cash flows. In addition, due to current economic conditions, it is possible that certain customers’ credit-worthiness may erode and result in increased write-offs of customer receivables.

The Company operates in a highly competitive industry, which may have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition, and results of operations.

The retail industry is highly competitive, with the principal methods of competition being product innovation, price, quality of service, quality of products, product availability and timeliness, credit terms, and the provision of value-added services, such as merchandising design, in-store service, and inventory management. The Company encounters competition from a large number of regional and national distributors, some of which have greater financial resources than the Company and may offer a greater variety of products. If these competitors are successful, the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations may be materially adversely affected.

To compete successfully, the Company must develop and commercialize a continuing stream of innovative new products that create consumer demand.

Our long-term success in the current competitive environment depends on our ability to develop and commercialize a continuing stream of innovative new products, including those in our new mass merchant fastener program, which create and maintain consumer demand. The Company also faces the risk that our competitors will introduce innovative new products that compete with the Company’s products. The Company’s strategy includes increased investment in new product development and continued focus on innovation. There are, nevertheless, numerous uncertainties inherent in successfully developing and commercializing innovative new products on a continuing basis, and new product launches may not provide expected growth results.

The Company’s business may be adversely affected by seasonality.

In general, the Company has experienced seasonal fluctuations in sales and operating results from quarter to quarter. Typically, the first calendar quarter is the weakest due to the effect of weather on home projects and the construction industry. If adverse weather conditions persist on a regional or national basis into the second or other calendar quarters, the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations may be materially adversely affected.

Large customer concentration and the inability to penetrate new channels of distribution could adversely affect the Company’s business.

The Company’s three largest customers constituted approximately 40.7% of net sales and 42.2% of the year-end accounts receivable balance for 2014. Each of these customers is a big box chain store. As a result, the Company’s results of operations depend greatly on its ability to maintain existing relationships and arrangements with these big box chain stores. To the extent that the big box chain stores are materially adversely impacted by the current slow growth in economic condition, this could have a negative effect on our results of operations. The loss of one of these customers or a material adverse change in the relationship with these customers could have a negative impact on the Company’s business. The Company’s inability to penetrate new channels of distribution may also have a negative impact on our future sales and business.

 

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Successful sales and marketing efforts depend on the Company’s ability to recruit and retain qualified employees.

The success of the Company’s efforts to grow our business depends on the contributions and abilities of key executives, our sales force and other personnel, including the ability of our sales force to achieve adequate customer coverage. The Company must therefore continue to recruit, retain and motivate management, sales, and other personnel to maintain our current business and to support our projected growth. A shortage of these key employees might jeopardize the Company’s ability to implement our growth strategy.

The Company is exposed to adverse changes in currency exchange rates.

Exposure to foreign currency risk results because the Company, through our global operations, enters into transactions and makes investments denominated in multiple currencies. The Company’s predominant exposures are in Canadian, Australian, Mexican, and Asian currencies, including the Chinese Renminbi (“RMB”). In preparing the Company’s financial statements, for foreign operations with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar, asset and liability accounts are translated at current exchange rates, and income and expenses are translated using weighted-average exchange rates. With respect to the effects on translated earnings, if the U.S. dollar strengthens relative to local currencies, the Company’s earnings could be negatively impacted. The Company does not make a practice of hedging our non-U.S. dollar earnings.

The Company sources many products from China and other Asian countries for resale in other regions. To the extent that the RMB or other currencies appreciate with respect to the U.S. dollar, the Company may experience cost increases on such purchases. The RMB depreciated against the U.S. dollar by 2.5% in 2014, and appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 2.8% in 2013, and 1.0% in 2012. Significant appreciation of the RMB or other currencies in countries where the Company sources our products could adversely impact the Company’s profitability. In addition, the Company’s foreign subsidiaries may purchase certain products from their vendors denominated in U.S. dollars. If the U.S. dollar strengthens compared to the local currencies, it may result in margin erosion. The Company has a practice of hedging some of its Canadian subsidiary’s purchases denominated in U.S. dollars. The Company may not be successful at implementing customer pricing or other actions in an effort to mitigate the related cost increases and thus our results of operations may be adversely impacted.

The Company’s results of operations could be negatively impacted by inflation or deflation in the cost of raw materials, freight, and energy.

The Company’s products are manufactured of metals, including but not limited to steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper. Additionally, the Company uses other commodity-based materials in the manufacture of LNS that are resin-based and subject to fluctuations in the price of oil. The Company is also exposed to fluctuations in the price of diesel fuel in the form of freight surcharges on customer shipments and the cost of gasoline used by the field sales and service force. Continued inflation over a period of years would result in significant increases in inventory costs and operating expenses. If the Company is unable to mitigate these inflation increases through various customer pricing actions and cost reduction initiatives, the Company’s financial condition may be adversely affected. Conversely, in the event that there is deflation, the Company may experience pressure from our customers to reduce prices. There can be no assurance that the Company would be able to reduce our cost base (through negotiations with suppliers or other measures) to offset any such price concessions which could adversely impact the Company’s results of operations and cash flows.

We are subject to the risks of doing business internationally.

A portion of our revenue is generated outside the United States, primarily from customers located in Canada, Mexico, Australia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Because we sell our services outside the United States, our business is subject to risks associated with doing business internationally, which include:

 

  •   changes in a specific country’s or region’s political and cultural climate or economic condition;

 

  •   unexpected or unfavorable changes in foreign laws and regulatory requirements;

 

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  •   difficulty of effective enforcement of contractual provisions in local jurisdictions;

 

  •   inadequate intellectual property protection in foreign countries;

 

  •   trade-protection measures, import or export licensing requirements such as Export Administration Regulations promulgated by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Sanctions Laws and Regulations administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control and fines, penalties or suspension or revocation of export privileges;

 

  •   violations of the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act;

 

  •   the effects of applicable and potentially adverse foreign tax law changes;

 

  •   significant adverse changes in foreign currency exchange rates;

 

  •   longer accounts receivable cycles;

 

  •   managing a geographically dispersed workforce; and

 

  •   difficulties associated with repatriating cash in a tax-efficient manner.

Any failure to adapt to these or other changing conditions in foreign countries in which we do business could have an adverse effect on our business and financial results.

The Company’s business is subject to risks associated with sourcing product from overseas.

The Company imports large quantities of our fastener products. Substantially all of our import operations are subject to customs requirements and to tariffs and quotas set by governments through mutual agreements or bilateral actions. In addition, the countries from which the Company’s products and materials are manufactured or imported may, from time to time, impose additional quotas, duties, tariffs, or other restrictions on their imports or adversely modify existing restrictions. Adverse changes in these import costs and restrictions, or the Company’s suppliers’ failure to comply with customs regulations or similar laws, could harm the Company’s business.

The Company’s ability to import products in a timely and cost-effective manner may also be affected by conditions at ports or issues that otherwise affect transportation and warehousing providers, such as port and shipping capacity, labor disputes, severe weather, or increased homeland security requirements in the U.S. and other countries. These issues could delay importation of products or require the Company to locate alternative ports or warehousing providers to avoid disruption to customers. These alternatives may not be available on short notice or could result in higher transit costs, which could have an adverse impact on the Company’s business and financial condition.

Acquisitions have formed a significant part of our growth strategy in the past, including the acquisition of Paulin in 2013, and may continue to do so. If we are unable to identify suitable acquisition candidates or obtain financing needed to complete an acquisition, our growth strategy may not succeed.

Historically, the Company’s growth strategy has relied on acquisitions that either expand or complement our businesses in new or existing markets, including the Paulin Acquisition in 2013, which expanded our presence in Canada. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to identify or acquire acceptable acquisition candidates on terms favorable to the Company and in a timely manner, if at all, to the extent necessary to fulfill Hillman’s growth strategy.

The process of integrating acquired businesses into the Company’s operations may result in unforeseen difficulties and may require a disproportionate amount of resources and management attention, and there can be no assurance that Hillman will be able to successfully integrate acquired businesses into our operations.

 

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Unfavorable changes in the current economic environment may make it difficult to acquire businesses in order to further our growth strategy. We will continue to seek acquisition opportunities both to expand into new markets and to enhance our position in our existing markets. However, our ability to do so will depend on a number of factors, including our ability to obtain financing that we may need to complete a proposed acquisition opportunity which may be unavailable or available on terms that are not advantageous to us. If financing is unavailable, we may be forced to forego otherwise attractive acquisition opportunities which may have a negative effect on our ability to grow.

If the Company were required to write down all or part of our goodwill or indefinite-lived trade names, our results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

The Company has $621.6 million of goodwill and $86.5 million of indefinite-lived trade names recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2014. The Company is required to periodically determine if our goodwill or indefinite-lived trade names have become impaired, in which case we would write down the impaired portion of the intangible asset. If the Company were required to write down all or part of our goodwill or indefinite-lived trade names, our net income could be materially adversely affected.

The Company’s success is highly dependent on information and technology systems.

The Company believes that its proprietary computer software programs are an integral part of its business and growth strategies. Hillman depends on its information systems to process orders, to manage inventory and accounts receivable collections, to purchase, sell and ship products efficiently and on a timely basis, to maintain cost-effective operations and to provide superior service to our customers. If these systems are damaged, intruded upon, shutdown, or cease to function properly (whether by planned upgrades, force majeure, telecommunications failures, hardware or software break-ins or viruses, other cyber-security incidents, or otherwise), the Company may suffer disruption in its ability to manage and operate its business.

There can be no assurance that the precautions which the Company has taken against certain events that could disrupt the operations of our information systems will prevent the occurrence of such a disruption. Any such disruption could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business and results of operations.

In addition, we are in the process of implementing a new enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) system to improve our business capabilities. Although it is not anticipated, any disruptions, delays, or deficiencies in the design and/or implementation of the new ERP system, or our inability to accurately predict the costs of such initiatives or our failure to generate revenue and corresponding profits from such activities and investments, could impact our ability to perform necessary business operations, which could adversely affect our reputation, competitive position, business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential customer, employee, supplier, or Company information, whether through a breach of our computer systems, including cyber-attacks or otherwise, could severely harm our business.

As part of our business, we collect, process, and retain sensitive and confidential personal information about our customers, employees, and suppliers. Despite the security measures we have in place, our facilities and systems, and those of the retailers and other third party distributors with which we do business, may be vulnerable to security breaches, cyber-attacks, acts of vandalism, computer viruses, misplaced or lost data, programming and/or human errors, or other similar events. Any security breach involving the misappropriation, loss, or other unauthorized disclosure of confidential customer, employee, supplier, or Company information, whether by us or by the retailers and other third party distributors with which we do business, could result in losses, severely damage our reputation, expose us to the risks of litigation and liability, disrupt our operations, and have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition. The regulatory environment related to information security, data collection, and privacy is increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements applicable to our business, and compliance with those requirements could result in additional costs.

 

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Failure to adequately protect intellectual property could adversely affect our business.

Intellectual property rights are an important and integral component of our business. The Company attempts to protect our intellectual property rights through a combination of patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret laws, as well as licensing agreements and third-party nondisclosure and assignment agreements. Failure to obtain or maintain adequate protection of our intellectual property rights for any reason could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Risks relating to our Indebtedness

The Company has significant indebtedness that could affect operations and financial condition and prevent the Company from fulfilling its obligations under its indebtedness.

The Company has a significant amount of indebtedness. On December 31, 2014, total indebtedness was $983.3 million, consisting of $105.4 million of indebtedness of Hillman and $877.9 million of indebtedness of Hillman Group.

The Company’s substantial indebtedness could have important consequences to investors in Hillman securities. For example, it could:

 

  •   make it more difficult for the Company to satisfy obligations to holders of its indebtedness;

 

  •   increase the Company’s vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;

 

  •   require the dedication of a substantial portion of cash flow from operations to payments on indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, research and development efforts, and other general corporate purposes;

 

  •   limit flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in the Company’s business and the industry in which it operates;

 

  •   place the Company at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors that have less debt; and

 

  •   limit the Company’s ability to borrow additional funds.

In addition, the indenture governing The Hillman Group’s notes and its senior secured credit facilities contain financial and other restrictive covenants that limit the ability to engage in activities that may be in the Company’s long-term best interests. The failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all outstanding debts.

Despite current indebtedness levels, the Company and its subsidiaries may still be able to incur substantially more debt. This could further exacerbate the risks associated with the Company’s substantial leverage.

The Company may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future. The terms of the indenture do not fully prohibit the Company or our subsidiaries from doing so. The senior secured credit facilities permit additional borrowing of million on the revolving credit facility. If new debt is added to our current debt levels, the related risks that the Company and its subsidiaries now face could intensify.

The failure to meet certain financial covenants required by The Hillman Group’s credit agreements may materially and adversely affect assets, financial position, and cash flows.

Certain of the Company’s credit agreements require the maintenance of a leverage ratio and limit our ability to incur debt, make investments, make dividend payments to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities, or undertake certain other business activities. In particular, our maximum allowed senior secured net leverage requirement is 6.50x as of December 31,

 

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2014. A breach of the leverage covenant, or any other covenants, could result in an event of default under the credit agreements. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the credit agreements, all amounts outstanding, together with accrued interest, could be declared immediately due and payable by our lenders. If this happens, our assets may not be sufficient to repay in full the payments due under the credit agreements. The current credit market environment and other macro-economic challenges affecting the global economy may adversely impact our ability to borrow sufficient funds or sell assets or equity in order to pay existing debt.

The Company is subject to fluctuations in interest rates.

On June 30, 2014, Hillman and certain of its subsidiaries closed on a $620,000 senior secured credit facility (the “Senior Facilities”), consisting of a $550,000 term loan and a $70,000 revolving credit facility (“Revolver”).

All of our indebtedness incurred in connection with the Senior Facilities has variable rate interest. Increases in borrowing rates will increase our cost of borrowing, which may affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Restrictions imposed by the indenture governing the notes, and by our Senior Facilities and our other outstanding indebtedness, may limit our ability to operate our business and to finance our future operations or capital needs or to engage in other business activities.

The terms of Hillman Group’s Senior Facilities and the indenture governing the notes restrict us and our subsidiaries from engaging in specified types of transactions. These covenants restrict our ability and the ability of our restricted subsidiaries, among other things, to:

 

  •   incur or guarantee additional indebtedness;

 

  •   pay dividends on our capital stock or redeem, repurchase, or retire our capital stock or indebtedness;

 

  •   make investments, loans, advances, and acquisitions;

 

  •   create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries;

 

  •   engage in transactions with our affiliates;

 

  •   sell assets, including capital stock of our subsidiaries;

 

  •   consolidate or merge; and

 

  •   create liens.

In addition, the Revolver requires us to comply, under certain circumstances, with a maximum senior secured net leverage ratio covenant. Our ability to comply with this covenant can be affected by events beyond our control, and we may not be able to satisfy them. A breach of this covenant would be an event of default. In the event of a default under the Revolver, those lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding under the Revolver to be immediately due and payable or terminate their commitments to lend additional money, which would also lead to a cross-default and cross-acceleration of amounts owing under the term loan. If the indebtedness under our Senior Facilities or the notes were to be accelerated, our assets may not be sufficient to repay such indebtedness in full. In particular, note holders will be paid only if we have assets remaining after we pay amounts due on our secured indebtedness, including our Senior Facilities. We have pledged a significant portion of our assets as collateral under our Senior Facilities.

We may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness, including the notes, and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful.

Our ability to make scheduled payments on or to refinance our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance, which is subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business, and other factors beyond our control. We may not be able to maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness, including the notes. If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures, or to sell assets, seek additional capital, or

 

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restructure or refinance our indebtedness, including the notes. Our ability to restructure or refinance our debt will depend on the condition of the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. Any refinancing of our debt could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our business operations. The terms of existing or future debt instruments and the indenture governing the notes may restrict us from adopting some of these alternatives. In addition, any failure to make payments of interest and principal on our outstanding indebtedness on a timely basis would likely result in a reduction of our credit rating, which could harm our ability to incur additional indebtedness. In the absence of such operating results and resources, we could face substantial liquidity problems and might be required to dispose of material assets or operations to meet our debt service and other obligations. Our Senior Facilities and the indenture governing the notes will restrict our ability to dispose of assets and use the proceeds from the disposition. We may not be able to consummate those dispositions or to obtain the proceeds that we could realize from them and these proceeds may not be adequate to meet any debt service obligations then due. These alternative measures may not be successful and may not permit us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations.

Our ability to repay our debt, including the notes, is affected by the cash flow generated by our subsidiaries.

Our subsidiaries own substantially all of our assets and conduct substantially all of our operations. Accordingly, repayment of our indebtedness, including the notes, will be dependent on the generation of cash flow by our subsidiaries and their ability to make such cash available to us, by dividend, debt repayment, or otherwise. Unless they are guarantors of the notes, our subsidiaries will not have any obligation to pay amounts due on the notes or to make funds available for that purpose. Our subsidiaries may not be able to, or may not be permitted to, make distributions to enable us to make payments in respect of our indebtedness, including the notes. Each subsidiary is a distinct legal entity and, under certain circumstances, legal and contractual restrictions may limit our ability to obtain cash from our subsidiaries. While the indenture governing the notes limits the ability of our subsidiaries to incur consensual restrictions on their ability to pay dividends or make other intercompany payments to us, these limitations are subject to certain qualifications and exceptions. In the event that we do not receive distributions from our subsidiaries, we may be unable to make required principal and interest payments on our indebtedness, including the notes.

Item 1B - Unresolved Staff Comments.

None.

 

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Item 2  – Properties.

As of December 31, 2014, the Company’s principal office, manufacturing, and distribution properties were as follows:

 

Business Segment

   Approximate
Square
Footage
     Description

United States, excluding All Points

     

Cincinnati, Ohio

     270,000       Office, Distribution

Forest Park, Ohio

     385,000       Office, Distribution

Jacksonville, Florida

     97,000       Distribution

Lewisville, Texas

     81,000       Distribution

Parma, Ohio

     16,000       Office, Distribution

Shafter, California

     134,000       Distribution

Tempe, Arizona

     184,000       Office, Mfg., Distribution

United States, All Points

     

Pompano Beach, Florida

     39,000       Office, Distribution

Canada

     

Burnaby, British Columbia

     29,000       Distribution

Edmonton, Alberta

     41,000       Distribution

Laval, Quebec

     36,000       Distribution

Milton, Ontario

     27,000       Manufacturing

Mississauga, Ontario

     65,000       Manufacturing, Distribution

Moncton, New Brunswick

     13,000       Office, Distribution

Pickering, Ontario

     191,000       Distribution

Scarborough, Ontario

     372,000       Office, Mfg., Distribution

Winnipeg, Manitoba

     40,000       Distribution

Mexico

     

Monterrey

     13,000       Distribution

Australia

     

Melbourne

     16,000       Distribution

All of the Company’s facilities are leased, with the exception of one distribution facility located in Scarborough, Ontario. In the opinion of the Company’s management, the Company’s existing facilities are in good condition.

Item 3 – Legal Proceedings.

The information set forth under Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, to the accompanying consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 4 – Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not Applicable.

 

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PART II

Item 5 – Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

Stock Exchange Listing

The Company’s common stock does not trade and is not listed on or quoted in an exchange or other market. The Trust Preferred Securities trade under the ticker symbol HLM.Pr on the NYSE Amex. The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices as reported on the NYSE Amex for the Trust Preferred Securities.

 

2014

   High      Low  

First Quarter

   $ 31.00       $ 30.15   

Second Quarter

     31.40         29.80   

Third Quarter

     31.98         30.12   

Fourth Quarter

     32.24         30.60   

2013

   High      Low  

First Quarter

   $ 32.99       $ 29.98   

Second Quarter

     34.00         25.32   

Third Quarter

     31.00         28.68   

Fourth Quarter

     31.02         29.75   

The Trust Preferred Securities have a liquidation value of $25.00 per security. As of March 1, 2015, there were 382 holders of Trust Preferred Securities. As of March 27, 2015, the total number of Trust Preferred Securities outstanding was 4,217,724. As of March 27, 2015, the Company’s total number of shares of common stock outstanding was 5,000, held by one stockholder.

Distributions

The Company pays interest to the Hillman Group Capital Trust (the “Trust”) on the Junior Subordinated Debentures underlying the Trust Preferred Securities at the rate of 11.6% per annum on their face amount of $105.4 million, or $12.2 million per annum in the aggregate. The Trust distributes an equivalent amount to the holders of the Trust Preferred Securities. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company paid $12.2 million per year in interest on the Junior Subordinated Debentures, which was equivalent to the amounts distributed by the Trust for the same periods.

Pursuant to the indenture that governs the Trust Preferred Securities, the Trust is able to defer distribution payments to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities for a period that cannot exceed 60 months (the “Deferral Period”). During the Deferral Period, the Company is required to accrue the full amount of all interest payable, and such deferred interest payments are immediately payable by the Company at the end of the Deferral Period. There were no deferrals of distribution payments to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities in 2014 or 2013.

The interest payments on the Junior Subordinated Debentures underlying the Trust Preferred Securities are deductible for federal income tax purposes by the Company under current law and will remain an obligation of the Company until the Trust Preferred Securities are redeemed or upon their maturity in 2027.

For more information on the Trust and Junior Subordinated Debentures, see “Item 7-Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The Company made no repurchases of our equity securities during 2014.

 

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Item 6 – Selected Financial Data.

The Company’s operations for the periods presented subsequent to the May 28, 2010 acquisition by the Oak Hill Funds and certain members of management but prior to June 30, 2014 are referenced herein as the Predecessor or Predecessor Operations. The Company’s operations for the periods presented since the Merger Transaction are referenced herein as the Successor or Successor Operations and include the effects of the Company’s debt refinancing. Periods prior to the acquisition by the Oak Hill Funds, certain members of management and Board of Directors are referred to below as the Pre-predecessor or Pre-predecessor Operations.

The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial data of the Pre-predecessor as of and for the five months ended May 28, 2010; and consolidated financial data of the Predecessor for the six months ended June 29, 2014, as of and for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 and the seven months ended December 31, 2010; and consolidated financial data of the Successor as of and for the six months ended December 31, 2014. See the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and “Item 7 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for information regarding the acquisition of the Company by affiliates of CCMP Capital Advisors, LLC and the Oak Hill Funds and the Company’s debt refinancing as well as other acquisitions that affect comparability.

 

     Successor          Predecessor          Pre-
predecessor
 
(dollars in thousands)    Period from
6/30/2014
Through
12/31/14
          Six
Months
Ended
6/29/14
    Year
Ended
12/31/13
    Year
Ended
12/31/12
    Year
Ended
12/31/11
    Seven
Months
Ended
12/31/10
          Five
Months
Ended
5/28/10
 

Income Statement Data:

                        

Net sales

   $ 377,292           $ 357,377      $ 701,641      $ 555,465      $ 506,526      $ 276,680           $ 185,716   

Cost of Sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)

     193,221             183,342        359,326        275,016        252,491        136,554             89,773   

Acquisition and integration expense (1)

     22,719             31,681        8,638        3,031        2,805        11,150             11,342   

Net loss

     (18,937          (44,526     (1,148     (7,234     (9,779     (8,038          (25,208
   

Balance Sheet Data at December 31:

                        

Total assets

   $ 1,903,013             N/A      $ 1,264,856      $ 1,175,793      $ 1,127,851      $ 1,052,778             N/A   

Long-term debt & capital lease obligations (2)

     547,857             N/A        385,955        313,439        315,709        300,714             N/A   

6.375% Senior Notes

     330,000             N/A        —          —          —          —               N/A   

10.875% Senior Notes

     —               N/A        265,000        265,000        200,000        150,000             N/A   

 

(1) Acquisition and integration expenses for investment banking, legal, and other professional fees incurred in connection with the Merger Transaction and subsequent acquisitions.
(2) Includes current portion of long-term debt (at face value) and capitalized lease obligations.

 

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Item 7 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation.

The following discussion provides information which the Company’s management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of the Company’s operations and financial condition. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes and schedules thereto appearing elsewhere herein.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain disclosures related to acquisitions, refinancing, capital expenditures, resolution of pending litigation, and realization of deferred tax assets contained in this annual report involve substantial risks and uncertainties and may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “continue,” “project,” or the negative of such terms or other similar expressions.

These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on management’s current expectations, assumptions, and projections about future events. Although management believes that the expectations, assumptions, and projections on which these forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, they nonetheless could prove to be inaccurate, and as a result, the forward-looking statements based on those expectations, assumptions, and projections also could be inaccurate. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Instead, forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that may cause the Company’s strategy, planning, actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any strategy, planning, future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated as a result of a number of factors, including the risks and uncertainties discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” set forth in Item 1A of this annual report. Given these uncertainties, current or prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included in this annual report; they should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other individual. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this annual report might not occur or might be materially different from those discussed.

General

Hillman is one of the largest providers of hardware-related products and related merchandising services to retail markets in North America. The Company’s principal business is operated through its wholly-owned subsidiary, The Hillman Group, Inc. (the “Hillman Group”), which had net sales of approximately $734.7 million in 2014. Hillman Group sells our products to hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, pet supply stores, and other retail outlets principally in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Product lines include thousands of small parts such as fasteners and related hardware items; threaded rod and metal shapes; keys, key duplication systems, and accessories; builder’s hardware; and identification items, such as tags and letters, numbers, and signs. The Company supports our product sales with services that include the design and installation of merchandising systems and maintenance of appropriate in-store inventory levels.

 

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Merger Transaction

On June 30, 2014, affiliates of CCMP Capital Advisors, LLC (“CCMP”) and Oak Hill Capital Partners III, L.P., Oak Hill Capital Management Partners III, L.P. and OHCP III HC RO, L.P. (“Oak Hill Funds”), together with certain current and former members of Hillman’s management, consummated a merger transaction (the “Merger Transaction”) pursuant to the terms and conditions of an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of May 16, 2014. As a result of the Merger Transaction, The Hillman Companies, Inc. remained a wholly-owned subsidiary of OHCP HM Acquisition Corp., which changed its name to HMAN Intermediate II Holdings Corp. (“Predecessor Holdco”), and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of HMAN Group Holdings Inc. (“Successor Holdco” or “Holdco”). The total consideration paid in the Merger Transaction was approximately $1.5 billion including repayment of outstanding debt and including the value of the Company’s outstanding junior subordinated debentures ($105.4 million liquidation value at the time of the Merger Transaction).

Prior to the Merger Transaction, the Oak Hill Funds owned 95.6% of the Predecessor Holdco’s outstanding common stock and certain current and former members of management owned 4.4% of the Predecessor Holdco’s outstanding common stock. Upon consummation of the Merger Transaction, affiliates of CCMP owned 80.4% of the Successor Holdco’s outstanding common stock, the Oak Hill Funds owned 16.9% of the Successor Holdco’s outstanding common stock, and certain current and former members of management owned 2.7% of the Successor Holdco’s outstanding common stock.

The Company’s consolidated balance sheet and its related statements of comprehensive loss, cash flows, and stockholders’ equity for the periods presented prior to June 30, 2014 are referenced herein as the predecessor financial statements (the “Predecessor”). The Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 and its related statements of comprehensive loss, cash flows, and stockholders’ equity for the periods presented subsequent to the Merger Transaction are referenced herein as the successor financial statements (the “Successor”).

Financing Arrangements

On June 30, 2014, Hillman and certain of its subsidiaries closed on a $620.0 million Senior Facilities consisting of a $550.0 million term loan and a $70.0 million Revolver. The term loan portion of the Senior Facilities has a seven year term and the Revolver has a five year term. For the first fiscal quarter after June 30, 2014, the Senior Facilities provide term loan borrowings at interest rates based on a LIBOR plus a LIBOR Spread of 3.50%, or an Alternate Base Rate (“ABR”) plus an ABR Spread of 2.50%. The LIBOR is subject to a minimum floor rate of 1.00% and the ABR is subject to a minimum floor of 2.00%. Additionally, the Senior Facilities provide Revolver borrowings at interest rates based on a LIBOR plus a LIBOR Spread of 3.25%, or an ABR plus an ABR Spread of 2.25%. There is no minimum floor rate for Revolver loans. After the initial fiscal quarter, the borrowing rate is adjusted quarterly on a prospective basis on each adjustment date based upon total leverage ratio for initial term loans and the senior secured leverage ratio for Revolver loans. For the fiscal quarter beginning after December 31, 2014, the term loan borrowings will be at an adjusted interest rate of 4.5% and the Revolver loans will be at interest rates based on Libor plus a Libor spread of 3.25% or an ABR plus an ABR spread of 2.25%.

Concurrent with the consummation of the Merger Transaction, Hillman Group issued $330.0 million aggregate principal amount of its senior notes due July 15, 2022 (the “6.375% Senior Notes”), which are guaranteed by Hillman Companies and its domestic subsidiaries other than the Hillman Group Capital Trust. Hillman Group pays interest on the 6.375% Senior Notes semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year.

Prior to the consummation of the Merger Transaction, the Company, through Hillman Group, was party to a Senior Credit Agreement (the “Prior Credit Agreement”), consisting of a $30.0 million revolving credit line and a $384.4 million term loan. The facilities under the Prior Credit Agreement had a maturity date of May 28, 2017. In addition, the Company, through Hillman Group, had issued $265.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 10.875% Senior Notes that were scheduled to mature on June 1, 2018. In connection with the Merger Transaction, both the Prior Credit Agreement and the 10.875% Senior Notes were repaid and terminated.

 

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In September 1997, The Hillman Group Capital Trust, a Grantor trust (the “Trust”), completed a $105.4 million underwritten public offering of 4,217,724 Trust Preferred Securities. The Trust invested the proceeds from the sale of the preferred securities in an equal principal amount of 11.6% Junior Subordinated Debentures of Hillman due September 2027. The Company pays interest to the Trust on the Junior Subordinated Debentures underlying the Trust Preferred Securities at the rate of 11.6% per annum on their face amount of $105.4 million, or $12.2 million per annum in the aggregate. The Trust distributes an equivalent amount to the holders of the Trust Preferred Securities. Pursuant to the Indenture that governs the Trust Preferred Securities, the Trust is able to defer distribution payments to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities for a period that cannot exceed 60 months (the “Deferral Period”). During a Deferral Period, the Company is required to accrue the full amount of all interest payable, and such deferred interest payable would become immediately payable by the Company at the end of the Deferral Period. There were no deferrals of distribution payments to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities in 2014 or 2013.

The Senior Facilities provide for customary events of default, including but not limited to, payment defaults, breach of representations or covenants, cross-defaults, bankruptcy events, failure to pay judgments, attachment of its assets, change of control, and the issuance of an order of dissolution. Certain of these events of default are subject to notice and cure periods or materiality thresholds. The Company is also required to comply, in certain circumstances, with a senior secured net leverage ratio covenant. This covenant only applies if, at the end of a fiscal quarter, there are outstanding Revolver borrowings in excess of 35% of the total revolving commitments. As of December 31, 2014, the Revolver loan had no amounts outstanding and the outstanding letters of credit were $3.7 million. The $3.7 million outstanding usage represented 5% of total revolving commitments and this financial covenant was not in effect. The occurrence of an event of default permits the lenders under the Senior Facilities to accelerate repayment of all amounts due. The Company was in compliance with all provisions and covenants of the Senior Facilities as of December 31, 2014.

 

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Acquisitions

On February 19, 2013, the Company acquired all of the issued and outstanding Class A common shares of H. Paulin & Co., Limited (the “Paulin Acquisition”). The aggregate purchase price of the Paulin Acquisition was $103.4 million paid in cash. On March 31, 2013, H. Paulin & Co., Limited was amalgamated with The Hillman Group Canada ULC and continues as a division operating under the trade name of H. Paulin & Co. (“Paulin”).

Product Revenues

The following is revenue based on products for the Company’s significant product categories (in thousands):

 

     Successor            Predecessor  
     Period from
June 30, 2014
through
December 31,
2014
           Six months
ended
June 29,
2014
     Year
ended
December 31,
2013
     Year
ended
December 31,
2012
 

Net sales

                

Keys

   $ 48,327            $ 45,511       $ 90,518       $ 86,943   

Engraving

     25,465              24,065         48,442         48,979   

Letters, numbers and signs

     19,439              16,145         34,045         32,251   

Fasteners

     241,636              232,222         450,234         308,770   

Threaded rod

     16,269              16,535         31,802         33,326   

Code cutter

     1,425              1,392         2,680         2,851   

Builders hardware

     10,482              10,106         17,320         16,370   

Other

     14,249              11,401         26,600         25,975   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Consolidated net sales

$ 377,292      $ 357,377    $ 701,641    $ 555,465   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Results of Operations

Sales and profitability for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

     Successor           Predecessor  
     Period from June 30, 2014
through December 31, 2014
          Six months ended
June 29, 2014
    Year ended
December 31, 2013
 
(dollars in thousands)    Amount     % of
Total
          Amount     % of
Total
    Amount     % of
Total
 

Net sales

   $ 377,292        100.0        $ 357,377        100.0   $ 701,641        100.0

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)

     193,221        51.2          183,342        51.3     359,326        51.2

Selling

     53,248        14.1          55,312        15.5     102,354        14.6

Warehouse & delivery

     44,585        11.8          41,449        11.6     78,606        11.2

General & administrative

     17,346        4.6          20,772        5.8     35,685        5.1

Stock compensation

     675        0.2          39,229        11.0     9,006        1.3

Transaction, acquisition and integration (a)

     22,719        6.0          31,681        8.9     8,638        1.2

Depreciation

     17,277        4.6          14,149        4.0     24,796        3.5

Amortization

     19,128        5.1          11,093        3.1     22,112        3.2

Management fees to related party

     276        0.1          15        0.0     77        0.0

Other expense (income), net

     576        0.2          (277     (0.1 %)      4,600        0.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

  8,241      2.2     (39,388   (11.0 %)    56,441      8.0
 

Interest expense, net

  27,250      7.2     23,150      6.5   48,138      6.9

Interest expense on junior subordinated debentures

  6,305      1.7     6,305      1.8   12,610      1.8

Investment income on trust common securities

  (189   (0.1 %)      (189   (0.1 %)    (378   (0.1 %) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss before income taxes

  (25,125   (6.7 %)      (68,654   (19.2 %)    (3,929   (0.6 %) 
 

Income tax benefit

  (6,188   (1.6 %)      (24,128   (6.8 %)    (2,781   (0.4 %) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

$ (18,937   (5.0 %)    $ (44,526   (12.5 %)  $ (1,148   (0.2 %) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(a) Represents expenses for investment banking, legal and other professional fees incurred in connection with the Merger Transaction and the Paulin Acquisition.

 

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Current Economic Conditions

The Company’s business is impacted by general economic conditions in the North American and international markets, particularly the U.S. and Canadian retail markets including hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, and other retailers. In recent quarters, operations have been negatively impacted by the slow, uneven growth in the U.S. economy and the retail market we sell into. Although there have been certain signs of improvement in the economy and stabilization of domestic credit markets from the height of the financial crisis, general expectations do not call for significant economic growth to return in the near term and may have the effect of reducing consumer spending which could adversely affect our results of operations during the current year and beyond.

Hillman is exposed to the risk of unfavorable changes in foreign currency exchange rates for the U.S. dollar versus local currency of our suppliers located primarily in China and Taiwan. Hillman purchases a significant variety of our products for resale from multiple vendors located in China and Taiwan. The purchase price of these products is routinely negotiated in U.S. dollar amounts rather than the local currency of the vendors and our suppliers’ profit margins decrease when the U.S. dollar declines in value relative to the local currency. This puts pressure on our suppliers to increase prices to us. The U.S. dollar declined in value relative to the Chinese renminbi by approximately 0.25% in 2012, declined by 2.94% in 2013, and has increased by 0.46% in 2014. The U.S. dollar declined in value relative to the Taiwan dollar by approximately by 3.11% in 2012, increased by 3.75% in 2013, and has increased by 5.82% in 2014.

In addition, the negotiated purchase price of our products may be dependent upon market fluctuations in the cost of raw materials such as steel, zinc, and nickel used by our vendors in their manufacturing processes. The final purchase cost of our products may also be dependent upon inflation or deflation in the local economies of vendors in China and Taiwan that could impact the cost of labor used in the manufacture of our products. The Company does identify the directional impact of changes in our product cost, but the quantification of each of these variable impacts cannot be measured as to the individual impact on our product cost with a sufficient level of precision.

The Company took pricing action in response to the increases to our product cost caused by the above factors. The pricing actions resulted in increasing revenues by approximately $12 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The Company has not taken significant pricing action since 2012, however, the Company may take future pricing action, when warranted, in an attempt to offset a portion of product cost increases. The ability of the Company’s operating divisions to institute price increases and seek price concessions, as appropriate, is dependent on competitive market conditions.

Predecessor Period of January 1 – June 29, 2014 vs Year Ended December 31, 2013

Net Sales

Net sales for the first six months of 2014 were $357.4 million, or $2.84 million per shipping day, compared to net sales of $701.6 million, or $2.82 million per shipping day for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in revenue of $344.2 million was directly attributable to comparing operating results of 126 shipping days in the first six months of 2014 to the results from 249 shipping days in the full year of 2013. The sales per shipping day of $2.84 million in the first six months of 2014 was approximately 0.7% higher than the sales per shipping day of $2.82 million in the full year of 2013. The inclusion of the Paulin business in the entire first six months of 2014 and sales improvement of fastener and key products contributed to the higher average sales per day amount.

 

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Table of Contents

Expenses

Operating expenses for the six months ended June 29, 2014 were $182.0 million, after excluding transaction costs of $31.7 million, compared to $281.3 million for the full year of 2013. The decrease in operating expense is primarily due to the shorter 126 day ship period in the first six months of 2014 which provided favorable operating expense variances as compared to the 249 day ship period in the full year of 2013. The first six months of 2014 also includes a significant amount of operating expenses as a result of administrative, stock compensation, and transaction expense incurred in connection with the Merger Transaction. The following changes in underlying trends impacted the change in operating expenses and cost of sales:

 

  •   The Company’s cost of sales was $183.3 million, or 51.3% of net sales, in the first six months of 2014, compared to $359.3 million, or 51.2% of net sales, in the full year of 2013. The primary reason for the decrease in cost of sales was the shorter 126 day ship period in the first six months of 2014. Purchasing efficiencies and stable inventory prices allowed the cost of sales expressed as a percentage of net sales to remain nearly the same as the prior year.

 

  •   Selling expense was $55.3 million, or 15.5% of net sales, in the first six months of 2014, a decrease of $47.1 million compared to $102.4 million, or 14.6% of net sales, in the full year of 2013. The selling expense expressed as a percentage on net sales increased in the first six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013 as a result of costs attributable to the new Paulin business, higher set up costs on customer displays, commissions on key vending sales, and sales service payroll and payroll benefit related expenditures.

 

  •   Warehouse and delivery expense was $41.4 million, or 11.6% of net sales, in the first six months of 2014, a decrease of $37.2 million compared to warehouse and delivery expense of $78.6 million, or 11.2% of net sales, in the full year of 2013. In the first six months of 2014, warehouse and delivery expense expressed as a percentage on net sales increased compared to the full year of 2013 as a result of expenses attributable to the new Paulin business together with higher freight rates.

 

  •   General and administrative (“G&A”) expenses were $20.8 million, or 5.8% of net sales, in the first six months of 2014, a decrease of $14.9 million compared to $35.7 million, or 5.1% of net sales in the full year 2013. In the first six months of 2014, G&A expense expressed as a percentage on net sales increased compared to the full year of 2013 as a result of expenses attributable to the new Paulin business.

 

  •   Stock compensation expenses from stock options primarily related to the Merger Transaction resulted in cost of $39.2 million in the first six months of 2014. The stock compensation expense was $9.0 million in the full year of 2013. The increase in stock compensation expense was the result of an increase in the fair value of the underlying common stock and accelerated vesting of stock options as a result of the Merger Transaction.

 

  •   Transaction expenses of $31.7 million in the first six months of 2014 represent costs for investment banking, legal, and other expenses incurred in connection with the Merger Transaction. Acquisition and integration costs were $8.6 million in the full year of 2013 as a result of the Paulin Acquisition and integration.

 

  •   Depreciation expense was $14.1 million in the first six months of 2014, a decrease of $10.7 million compared to $24.8 million in the full year of 2013. The decrease in depreciation expense was the result of the shorter period for the first six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013.

 

  •   Amortization expense was $11.1 million in the first six months of 2014, a decrease of $11.0 million compared to $22.1 million in the full year of 2013. The decrease in amortization expense was the result of the shorter period for the first six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013.

 

  •   Interest expense, net, was $23.2 million in the first six months of 2014 compared to $48.1 million in the full year of 2013. The decrease in interest expense was the result of the shorter period for the first six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013.

 

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Table of Contents
  •   Other (income) expense, net was ($0.3) million in the first six months of 2014 compared to $4.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The other expenses incurred in 2013 were primarily the result of the restructuring costs incurred to streamline the warehouse distribution system.

Successor Period of June 30 – December 31, 2014 vs Predecessor Year Ended December 31, 2013

Net Sales

Net sales for the last six months of 2014 were $377.3 million, or $3.07 million per shipping day, compared to net sales of $701.6 million, or $2.82 million per shipping day for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in revenue of $324.3 million was directly attributable to comparing operating results of 123 shipping days in the last six months of 2014 to the results from 249 shipping days in the full year of 2013. The sales per shipping day of $3.07 million in the last six months of 2014 was approximately 8.9% higher than the sales per shipping day of $2.82 million in the full year of 2013. The inclusion of the Paulin business in the entire last six months of 2014 and sales improvement of fastener and key products contributed to the higher average sales per day amount.

Expenses

Operating expenses for the last six months of 2014 were $152.5 million, after excluding transaction costs of $22.7 million, compared to $281.3 million for the full year of 2013. The decrease in operating expense is primarily due to the shorter 123 day ship period in the last six months of 2014 which provided favorable operating expense variances as compared to the 249 day ship period in the full year of 2013. The last six months of 2014 also includes a significant amount of operating expenses as a result of increased depreciation and amortization expense incurred in connection with the Merger Transaction. The following changes in underlying trends impacted the change in operating expenses and cost of sales:

 

  •   The Company’s cost of sales was $193.2 million, or 51.2% of net sales, in the last six months of 2014, compared to $359.3 million, or 51.2% of net sales, in the full year of 2013. The primary reason for the decrease in cost of sales was the shorter 123 day ship period in the last six months of 2014. Purchasing efficiencies and stable inventory prices allowed the cost of sales expressed as a percentage of net sales to remain the same as the prior year.

 

  •   Selling expense was $53.2 million, or 14.1% of net sales, in the last six months of 2014, a decrease of $49.1 million compared to $102.4 million, or 14.6% of net sales, in the full year of 2013. The selling expense expressed as a percentage on net sales decreased in the last six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013 as a result of less sales travel and customer display expense.

 

  •   Warehouse and delivery expense was $44.6 million, or 11.8% of net sales, in the last six months of 2014, a decrease of $34.0 million compared to warehouse and delivery expense of $78.6 million, or 11.2% of net sales, in the full year of 2013. In the last six months of 2014, warehouse and delivery expense expressed as a percentage on net sales increased compared to the full year of 2013 as a result of expenses attributable to the new Paulin business together with higher freight rates.

 

  •   G&A expenses were $17.3 million, or 4.6% of net sales, in the last six months of 2014, a decrease of $18.4 million compared to $35.7 million, or 5.1% of net sales in the full year 2013. In the last six months of 2014, G&A expense expressed as a percentage of net sales decreased compared to the full year of 2013 as a result of an adjustment to management bonuses for the reduced earnings level in 2014.

 

  •   Stock compensation expenses from stock options of the successor company resulted in cost of $0.7 million in the last six months of 2014. The stock compensation expense was $9.0 million in the full year of 2013. The 2013 stock compensation expense was the result of an increase in the fair value of the underlying common stock.

 

  •   Transaction expenses of $22.7 million in the last six months of 2014 represent costs for investment banking, legal, and other expenses incurred in connection with the Merger Transaction. Acquisition and integration costs were $8.6 million in the full year of 2013 as a result of the Paulin Acquisition and integration.

 

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Table of Contents
  •   Depreciation expense was $17.3 million in the last six months of 2014, a decrease of $7.5 million compared to $24.8 million in the full year of 2013. The decrease in depreciation expense was the result of the shorter period for the last six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013. In addition, the monthly rate of depreciation expense increased in the last six months of 2014 as a result of a higher amount of fixed assets acquired in connection with the Merger Transaction.

 

  •   Amortization expense was $19.1 million in the last six months of 2014, a decrease of $3.0 million compared to $22.1 million in the full year of 2013. The decrease in amortization expense was the result of the shorter period for the last six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013. In addition, the monthly rate of amortization expense increased in the last six months of 2014 as a result of a higher amount of intangible assets acquired in connection with the Merger Transaction.

 

  •   Interest expense, net, was $27.3 million in the last six months of 2014 compared to $48.1 million in the full year of 2013. The decrease in interest expense was the result of the shorter period for the last six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013. In addition, the monthly rate of interest expense increased in the last six months of 2014 as a result of a higher amount of debt acquired in connection with the Merger Transaction.

 

  •   Other (income) expense, net was $0.6 million in the last six months of 2014 compared to $4.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The other expenses incurred in 2013 were primarily the result of the restructuring costs incurred to streamline the warehouse distribution system.

 

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Results of Operations

Sales and profitability for the year ended December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

 

     Year ended
December 31, 2013
    Year ended
December 31, 2012
 
(dollars in thousands)    Amount      % of
Total
    Amount      % of
Total
 

Net sales

   $ 701,641         100.0   $ 555,465         100.0

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below)

     359,326         51.2     275,016         49.5

Selling

     102,354         14.6     90,498         16.3

Warehouse & delivery

     78,606         11.2     58,097         10.5

General & administrative

     44,691         6.4     39,735         7.2

Acquisition and integration

     8,638         1.2     3,031         0.5

Depreciation

     24,796         3.5     22,009         4.0

Amortization

     22,112         3.2     21,752         3.9

Management and transaction fees to related party

     77         0.0     155         0.0

Other (income) expense, net

     4,600         0.7     4,204         0.8
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income from operations

  56,441      8.0   40,968      7.4

Interest expense

  48,138      6.9   41,138      7.4

Interest expense on junior subordinated debentures

  12,610      1.8   12,610      2.3

Investment income on trust common securities

  (378   (0.1 %)    (378   (0.1 %) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss before taxes

  (3,929   (0.6 %)    (12,402   (2.2 %) 

Income tax benefit

  (2,781   (0.4 %)    (5,168   (0.9 %) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss

$ (1,148   (0.2 %)  $ (7,234   (1.3 %) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2013 vs Year Ended December 31, 2012

Net Sales

Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2013 were $701.6 million, an increase of $146.1 million compared to net sales of $555.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase in revenue was primarily attributable to the acquisition of the Paulin business in 2013 which contributed approximately $130.4 million in incremental net sales to the 2013 period. Our national accounts, All Points, Mexico, and F&I businesses provided favorable revenue gains compared to the prior year, however a decline in retail activity and a reduced level of product penetration in the 2013 period resulted in revenue decreases from the prior year in our engraving and regional accounts.

 

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Expenses

Operating expenses were substantially higher for the year ended December 31, 2013 than for the year ended December 31, 2012. The primary reasons for the increase in operating expenses were the inclusion of the Paulin business for approximately ten months of 2013 and the increase in stock compensation expense. These costs were partially offset by the settlement of the Hy-Ko antitrust case and legal costs related to the Hy-Ko patent infringement and antitrust litigation recorded in 2012. The following changes in underlying trends also impacted the change in operating expenses and cost of sales:

 

  •   The Company’s cost of sales was $359.3 million, or 51.2% of net sales, in the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $275.0 million, or 49.5% of net sales, in the year ended December 31, 2012. The cost of sales percentage in the 2013 period was higher than the comparable 2012 period as a result of the inclusion of the Paulin business which increased cost of sales by 2.5% expressed as a percent of sales. The favorable change in the cost of sales percentage for 2013 excluding Paulin was the result of favorable changes in product cost and sales mix.

 

  •   Selling expense was $102.4 million, or 14.6% of net sales, in the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $90.5 million, or 16.3% of net sales, in the year ended December 31, 2012. Selling expense of approximately $9.6 million was attributable to the new Paulin business in the 2013 period. In 2013, selling expense excluding the Paulin business expressed as a percentage of sales was approximately equal to the prior year.

 

  •   Warehouse and delivery expense was $78.6 million, or 11.2% of net sales, in 2013, an increase of $20.5 million compared to warehouse and delivery expense of $58.1 million, or 10.5% of net sales, in 2012. Warehouse and delivery expense of approximately $18.6 million was attributable to the new Paulin business in the year of 2013. The costs in the remaining Hillman businesses were up approximately $1.9 million from the prior year period primarily from increased warehouse lease cost and freight on customer shipments.

 

  •   G&A expenses were $44.7 million, or 6.4% of net sales in 2013, an increase of $5.0 million compared to $39.7 million, or 7.2% of net sales in 2012. G&A expenses in the 2013 period included approximately $9.0 million in stock compensation cost and approximately $8.3 million in costs from the new Paulin business. G&A expenses in 2012 included approximately $11.7 million in legal fees and settlements related to the Hy-Ko patent infringement and antitrust cases.

 

  •   Acquisition and integration costs were $8.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 primarily as a result of charges for investment banking, legal, and other expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition of Paulin. The acquisition and integration costs were $3.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 as a result of charges for investment banking, legal, and other expenses incurred in connection with the acquisitions of Paulin and Ook.

 

  •   Depreciation expense was $24.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $22.0 million for the prior year. The higher amount of depreciation expense for the 2013 period was primarily due to the additional depreciation expense of the fixed assets acquired as a result of the Paulin Acquisition.

 

  •   Amortization expense was $22.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $21.8 million for the prior year. The slightly higher amount of amortization expense for the 2013 period was due to the additional amortization expense of certain intangible assets acquired as a result of the Paulin Acquisition.

 

  •   Interest expense, net, was $48.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $41.1 million in the prior year. The increase in interest expense was primarily the result of the Company’s higher borrowing levels in both the $265.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 10.875% Senior Notes and the Senior Facilities during 2013 compared to 2012.

 

  •   Other (income) expense, net was $4.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The other expenses incurred in 2013 and 2012 were primarily the result of the restructuring costs incurred to streamline the warehouse distribution system.

 

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Results of Operations – Operating Segments

The following table provides supplemental information of our sales and profitability by operating segment (in 000’s):

 

     Successor            Predecessor  
     Period from
6/30/2014
through

12/31/2014
           Six Months
Ended

6/29/2014
     Year
Ended

12/31/2013
     Year
Ended

12/31/2012
 
              

Segment Revenues

                
 

United States, excluding All Points

   $ 293,219            $ 269,009       $ 541,037       $ 517,135   

All Points

     9,362              10,238         20,798         18,837   

Canada

     70,566              73,867         132,158         12,555   

Mexico

     3,507              3,620         6,842         6,268   

Australia

     638              643         806         670   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

$ 377,292      $ 357,377    $ 701,641    $ 555,465   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segment Income (Loss) from Operations

 
 

United States, excluding All Points

$ 5,072      $ (44,830 $ 52,255    $ 42,896   

All Points

  655        896      1,737      881   

Canada

  3,189        4,214      2,847      (3,050

Mexico

  73        446      629      787   

Australia

  (748     (114   (1,027   (546
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from operations

$ 8,241      $ (39,388 $ 56,441    $ 40,968   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Predecessor Period of January 1 – June 29, 2014 vs Year Ended December 31, 2013

Net Sales

Net sales for the first six months of 2014 were $357.4 million compared to net sales of $701.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in revenue of $344.2 million was directly attributable to comparing operating results of 126 shipping days in the first six months of 2014 to the results from 249 shipping days in the full year of 2013. Although the net sales of each operating segment were less in the first six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013, operating segment sales were comparable to first six months of 2013. The Paulin business contributed approximately $0.9 million in incremental sales to the US segment and $13.3 million in incremental sales to the Canada segment during the first six months of 2014.

Expenses

The operating expenses were substantially lower for the first six months of 2014 than for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in operating expenses of $67.6 million was directly attributable to comparing operating results of 126 shipping days in the first six months of 2014 to the results from 249 shipping days in the full year of 2013.

 

  •   Cost of sales for the US segment was $127.9 million, or 47.6% of net sales in the first six months of 2014 compared to $259.4 million, or 48.0% for the full year of 2013. The cost of sales of the Canada segment was $45.9 million, or 62.2% in the first six months of 2014 compared to $80.7 million, or 61.0% of net sales for the full year of 2013. In the first six months of 2014, unfavorable fluctuations in the Canadian dollar exchange rate resulted in higher costs for the Canada segment.

 

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  •   SG&A expense for the US segment was $131.0 million for the first six months of 2014 compared to $179.9 million in 2013. The decrease in the first six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013 was primarily the result of fewer days of operations which was partially offset by $39.2 million in stock compensation cost related to the Merger Transaction. The SG&A expense of the Canada segment was $22.3 million in the first six months of 2014 compared to $39.1 million in the full year of 2013.

 

  •   Transaction, Acquisition, and Integration (“TA&I”) expense for the US segment was $31.7 million in the first six months of 2014 primarily related to the Merger Transaction. The TA&I expense was $3.0 million in 2013 for the US segment. There was no TA&I expense for the Canada segment in the first six months of 2014 and $5.6 million in the full year of 2013 as a result of expenses for investment banking, legal, and other expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition of Paulin.

 

  •   Depreciation and amortization expense for the US segment was $23.4 million in the first six months of 2014 and $43.5 million in the full year of 2013. The primary reason for the decrease in expense was the comparison of a six month period of 2014 to a twelve month period in 2013.

 

  •   Other (income) expense, net in the US segment was ($0.2) million in the first six months of 2014 compared to $2.8 million in the full year of 2013 as a result of a decrease in restructuring costs incurred to streamline the warehouse distribution system. Other (income) expense in the Canada segment was approximately ($0.3) million in the first six months of 2014 compared to $1.0 million in 2013 as a result of exchange rate losses in 2013. Other (income) expense in the Australia segment was approximately ($0.1) million in the first six months of 2014 compared to $0.6 million in 2013 as a result of exchange rate losses.

Successor Period of June 30 – December 31, 2014 vs Predecessor Year Ended December 31, 2013

Net Sales

Net sales for the last six months of 2014 were $377.3 million compared to net sales of $701.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in revenue of $324.3 million was directly attributable to comparing operating results of 123 shipping days in the last six months of 2014 to the results from 249 shipping days in the full year of 2013. Although the net sales of each operating segment were less in the last six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013, operating segment sales were comparable to last six months of 2013. The Paulin business contributed approximately $11.8 million in incremental sales to the Canada segment during the last six months of 2014.

Expenses

The operating expenses were substantially lower for the last six months of 2014 than for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in operating expenses of $106.0 million was directly attributable to comparing operating results of 123 shipping days in the last six months of 2014 to the results from 249 shipping days in the full year of 2013.

 

  •   Cost of sales for the US segment was $138.6 million, or 47.3% of net sales in the last six months of 2014 compared to $259.4 million, or 48.0% for the full year of 2013. The cost of sales of the Canada segment was $45.6 million, or 64.6% in the last six months of 2014 compared to $80.7 million, or 61.0% of net sales for the full year of 2013. In the last six months of 2014, unfavorable fluctuations in the Canadian dollar exchange rate resulted in higher costs for the Canada segment.

 

  •   SG&A expense for the US segment was $91.9 million for the last six months of 2014 compared to $179.9 million in 2013. The decrease in the last six months of 2014 compared to the full year of 2013 was primarily the result of fewer days of operations and less stock compensation expense. The SG&A expense of the Canada segment was $20.6 million in the last six months of 2014 compared to $39.1 million in the full year of 2013.

 

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  •   TA&I expense for the US segment was $22.1 million in the last six months of 2014 primarily related to the Merger Transaction. The TA&I expense was $3.0 million in 2013 for the US segment. There was $0.6 million in TA&I expense related to the Merger Transaction for the Canada segment in the last six months of 2014 and $5.6 million in the full year of 2013 as a result of expenses for investment banking, legal, and other expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition of Paulin.

 

  •   Depreciation and amortization expense for the US segment was $33.8 million in the last six months of 2014 and $43.5 million in the full year of 2013. The primary reason for the decrease in expense was the comparison of a six month period of 2014 to a twelve month period in 2013 although the last six months of 2014 include depreciation and amortization expense on the stepped up value of fixed and intangible assets as a result of the independent valuation conducted in connection with the Merger Transaction.

 

  •   Other (income) expense, net in the US segment was $1.6 million in the last six months of 2014 compared to $2.8 million in the full year of 2013 primarily as a result of a decrease in restructuring costs incurred to streamline the warehouse distribution system. Other (income) expense in the Canada segment was ($1.8) million in the last six months of 2014 primarily due to gains on foreign currency derivatives. Other (income) expense was $1.0 million in 2013 as a result of exchange rate losses.

 

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Year Ended December 31, 2013 vs Year Ended December 31, 2012

Net Sales

Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased $146.1 million compared to the net sales for the year ended December 31, 2012. The US, All Points, and Canada operating segments generated increased net sales of $23.9 million, $2.0 million, and $119.6 million, respectively. The acquisition of the Paulin business in 2013 contributed approximately $11.1 million in sales to the US segment and $119.3 million in sales to the Canada segment. The remaining increase in US sales was the result of higher sales to Lowe’s, Home Depot and our F&I customers. The All Points sales increased by $2.0 million as a result of the improving economic conditions in the central and southern Florida markets they serve.

Expenses

The operating expenses were substantially higher for the year ended December 31, 2013 than for the year ended December 31, 2012. The primary reasons for the increase in operating expenses was the inclusion of portions of the Paulin business in the US and Canada operating segments and the increase in stock compensation expenses recorded in the US segment.

 

  •   Cost of sales for the US segment was $259.4 million, or 48.0% of net sales in the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $248.0 million, or 48.0% of net sales in the year ended December 31, 2012. The cost of sales of the Canada segment was $80.7 million, or 61.0% of net sales for 2013 compared to $9.0 million, or 71.5% of net sales in the year ended December 31, 2012. The US and Canada segments included incremental Paulin related cost of sales of $8.0 million and $72.9 million, respectively.

 

  •   SG&A expense for the US segment was $179.9 million in 2013 compared to $177.3 million in 2012. The increase in 2013 was primarily the result of the higher sales volume, stock compensation cost of $9.0 million and Paulin expense of $2.5 million which were partially offset by approximately $11.7 million in legal fees and settlements related to the Hy-Ko patent infringement and antitrust cases settled in 2012. The SG&A expense of the Canada segment was $39.1 million in 2013 compared to $5.1 million in 2012. The primary reason for the increase in the Canada segment SG&A was the addition of $34.1 million from the acquisition of Paulin.

 

  •   TA&I expense for the US segment was $3.0 million in 2013 compared to $1.5 million in 2012. The TA&I expense for the Canada segment was $5.6 million in 2013 compared to $1.6 million in 2012. The TA&I expenses in both segments and both years were primarily the result of expenses for investment banking, legal, and other expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition of Paulin.

 

  •   Depreciation and amortization expense in the Canada segment was $2.9 million in 2013 compared to $0.1 million in 2012. The primary reason for the increase in 2013 expense was the acquisition of Paulin which provided incremental depreciation of $2.2 million and incremental amortization of $0.6 million.

 

  •   Other (income) expense, net in the US segment was $2.8 million in 2013 compared to $4.3 million in 2012 as a result of a decrease in restructuring costs incurred to streamline the warehouse distribution system. Other expense in the Canada segment was approximately $1.0 million in 2013 compared to other (income) of ($0.2) million in 2012 as a result of exchange rate losses in 2013 and gains in 2012. Other expense in the Australia segment was approximately $0.6 million in 2013 compared to $0.1 million in 2012 as a result of exchange rate losses.

 

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Income Taxes

Year Ended December 31, 2014 and Year Ended December 31, 2013

The effective income tax rate was 24.6% for the six month Successor period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014 and 35.1% and 70.8% for the six month and twelve month Predecessor periods ended June 29, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

The effective income tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate in the six month Successor period June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014 and the six month Predecessor period ended June 29, 2014 primarily due to certain non-deductible costs associated with the Merger Transaction. The effective income tax rate also differed from the federal statutory rate in the six month Successor period June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014 and the six month Predecessor period ended June 29, 2014, due to a current period benefit caused by the effect of changes in certain state income tax rates on the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities.

The effective income tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate in the twelve month Predecessor period ended December 31, 2013 primarily due to a decrease in the reserve for unrecognized tax benefits. The effective income tax rate also differed from the federal statutory rate in the twelve month Predecessor period ended December 31, 2013 due to the decrease in the valuation reserve recorded against certain deferred tax assets in addition to the effect of state rates.

The remaining differences between the federal statutory rate and the effective tax rate in the six month Successor period June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014 and the six and twelve month Predecessor periods ended June 29, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, were primarily due to state and foreign income taxes. See Note 6, Income Taxes, of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for income taxes and disclosures related to 2014 and 2013 income tax events.

Year Ended December 31, 2013 and Year Ended December 31, 2012

The effective income tax rates were 70.8% and 41.7% for the twelve month Predecessor periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The effective income tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate in the twelve month Predecessor periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 primarily due to a decrease in the reserve for unrecognized tax benefits, as well as the effect of foreign and state taxes. The effective income tax rate also differed from the federal statutory rate in the twelve month Predecessor period ended December 31, 2013 due to the decrease in the valuation reserve recorded against certain deferred tax assets in addition to the effect of state rates. See Note 6, Income Taxes, of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for income taxes and disclosures related to 2013 and 2012 income tax events.

 

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Flows

The statements of cash flows reflect the changes in cash and cash equivalents for the six months ended December 31, 2014 (Successor), six months period ended June 29, 2014 (Predecessor), and for the years ended December 31, 2013 (Predecessor) and 2012 (Predecessor) by classifying transactions into three major categories: operating, investing, and financing activities. The cash flows from the Merger Transaction are separately discussed below.

Merger Transaction

In connection with the Merger Transaction, Successor Holdco issued common stock for $542.9 million in cash. Proceeds from borrowings under the Senior Facilities provided an additional $566.0 million and proceeds from the 6.375% Senior Notes provided $330.0 million, less net aggregate financing fees of $26.4 million. The debt and equity proceeds were used to repay the existing senior debt, 10.875% Senior Notes, and accrued interest thereon of $657.6 million, to repurchase the existing shareholders’ common equity and stock options of $729.6 million. The remaining proceeds were used to pay transaction expenses of $22.0 million and prepaid expenses of $0.1 million.

Operating Activities

Excluding $40.2 million in cash used for the Merger Transaction, net cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended December 31, 2014 was $28.0 million and was the result of the net loss of $3.1 million adjusted for non-cash items of $39.5 million for depreciation, amortization, dispositions of equipment, deferred taxes, deferred financing, stock-based compensation, and other non-cash interest together with cash related adjustments of $8.4 million for routine operating activities, represented by changes in accounts receivable, inventories, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other assets. During the period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, routine operating activities provided cash through a decrease in accounts receivable of $22.4 million, an increase in accounts payable of $6.2 million. This was partially offset by an increase in inventories of $14.6 million, a decrease in other accrued liabilities of $14.5 million, an increase in other items of $0.7 million, a decrease in interest payable on junior subordinated debentures of $1.0 million, and an increase in other assets of $6.1 million.

Net cash provided by operating activities for the six months period ended June 29, 2014 of $11.7 million was the result of the net loss of $44.5 million adjusted for non-cash items of $41.3 million for depreciation, amortization, deferred taxes, deferred financing, and stock-based compensation together with cash related adjustments of $14.9 million for routine operating activities represented by changes in accounts receivable, inventories, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other assets. In the first six months of 2014, routine operating activities used cash through an increase in accounts receivable of $25.2 million, an increase in inventories of $17.9 million, and an increase in other items of $3.8 million. This was partially offset by an increase in accounts payable of $20.8 million, an increase in other accrued liabilities of $31.2 million, decrease in other assets of $8.8 million, and an increase of $1.0 million in interest payable on the junior subordinated debentures. In the first six months of 2014, increases in the accounts payable and accrued liabilities provided cash that was primarily used for seasonal increases in accounts receivable and inventory.

Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2013 of $41.5 million was generated by the net loss of $1.1 million adjusted for non-cash charges of $54.0 million for depreciation, amortization, dispositions of equipment, deferred taxes, deferred financing, stock-based compensation, and other non-cash interest which was partially offset by cash related adjustments of $12.5 million for routine operating activities represented by changes in inventories, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other assets. In 2013, routine operating activities used cash for an increase in inventories of $11.5 million, an increase in accounts receivable of

 

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$9.1 million and other assets of $4.1 million while operating activities provided cash from an increase in accounts payable of $8.4 million, an increase of accrued liabilities of $2.7 million and an increase in other items of $1.1 million.

Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2012 of $23.3 million was generated by the net loss of $7.2 million adjusted for non-cash charges of $33.3 million for depreciation, amortization, dispositions of equipment, deferred taxes, deferred financing, stock-based compensation, and other non-cash interest which was partially offset by cash related adjustments of $10.0 million for routine operating activities represented by changes in inventories, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other assets. In 2012, routine operating activities used cash for an increase in inventories of $10.2 million, an increase in other assets of $4.1, and a decrease in accounts payable of $2.2 million while operating activities provided cash from a decrease in accounts receivable of $1.4 million, an increase of accrued liabilities of $5.0 million, and other items of $0.1 million.

Investing Activities

Excluding $729.6 million in cash used for the Merger Transaction, net cash used by investing activities for the six months ended December 31, 2014 was $15.0 million and consisted of $5.3 million for key duplicating machines, $2.6 million for engraving machines, $4.3 million for computer software and equipment, and $2.8 million for machinery and equipment.

Capital expenditures for the six months ended June 29, 2014 totaled $12.9 million, consisting of $6.7 million for key duplicating machines, $2.9 million for engraving machines, $2.8 million for computer software and equipment, and $0.5 million for machinery and equipment.

Net cash used for investing activities was $140.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The Company used $103.4 million for the Paulin Acquisition. Capital expenditures for the year totaled $38.0 million, consisting of $22.8 million for key duplicating machines, $5.4 million for engraving machines, $5.7 million for computer software and equipment, and $4.1 million for plant equipment and other equipment purchases. The Company received $0.8 million in proceeds from the sale of property and equipment.

Net cash used for investing activities was $24.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. Capital expenditures for the year totaled $24.3 million, consisting of $12.1 million for key duplicating machines, $5.5 million for engraving machines, $5.6 million for computer software and equipment, and $1.1 million for plant equipment and other equipment purchases.

Financing Activities

Excluding $763.2 million in net cash provided by borrowings and capital contributions related to the Merger Transaction, net cash used for financing activities was $17.9 million for the period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014. The Company used $16.0 million of cash for the repayment of revolving credit loans, $2.8 million of cash for the repayment of senior term loans and $0.1 million for the repayment of other credit and capitalized lease obligations. The Company received cash of $1.0 million from the sale of securities to a Board member.

Net cash used for financing activities was $0.6 million for the six months ended June 29, 2014. The Company received cash of $0.5 million from the exercise of stock options and used cash to pay $1.0 million in principal payments on the senior term loans under the Senior Facilities and $0.1 million in principal payments under capitalized lease obligations.

Net cash provided by financing activities was $69.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The borrowings on senior term loans provided $73.6 million, including the discount of $3.2 million and were used to pay the purchase price of the Paulin Acquisition. Other borrowings, net, used an additional $0.9 million in cash.

 

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Net cash provided by financing activities was $54.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The borrowings on senior notes provided $69.2 million, including the premium received of $4.2 million, and were used together with the net proceeds from the term loan financing to pay a portion of the purchase price of the Paulin Acquisition, to repay a portion of indebtedness under the revolving credit facility, and for general Company purposes. During 2012, the Company used cash to make payments of $12.4 million for additional acquisition consideration and $3.2 million for principal payments on the senior term loans. Other borrowings, net provided an additional $0.8 million in cash.

Liquidity

The Company’s management believes that projected cash flows from operations and Revolver availability will be sufficient to fund working capital and capital expenditure needs for the next 12 months.

The Company’s working capital (current assets minus current liabilities) position of $231.3 million as of December 31, 2014 represents a decrease of $7.5 million from the December 31, 2013 level of $238.8 million.

Contractual Obligations

The Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2014 are summarized below:

 

            Payments Due  
(dollars in thousands)    Total      Less Than
One Year
     1 to 3
Years
     3 to 5
Years
     More Than
Five Years
 

Junior Subordinated Debentures (1)

   $ 130,685       $ —         $ —         $ —         $ 130,685   

Interest on Jr Subordinated Debentures

     155,950         12,231         24,463         24,463         94,793   

Long Term Senior Term Loans

     547,250         5,500         11,000         11,000         519,750   

6.375% Senior Notes

     330,000         —           —           —           330,000   

KeyWorks License Agreement

     2,370         419         792         737         422   

Interest payments (2)

     313,558         45,652         90,607         89,672         87,627   

Operating Leases

     61,546         10,192         13,778         9,814         27,762   

Deferred Compensation Obligations

     2,244         494         —           —           1,750   

Capital Lease Obligations

     687         243         343         96         5   

Purchase Obligations (3)

     846         263         583         —           —     

Other Obligations

     2,253         946         1,045         262         —     

Uncertain Tax Position Liabilities

     435         —           —           58         377   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Contractual Cash Obligations (4)

$ 1,547,824    $ 75,940    $ 142,611    $ 136,102    $ 1,193,171   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) The junior subordinated debentures liquidation value is approximately $108,704.
(2) Interest payments for borrowings under the Senior Facilities, the 6.375% Senior Notes, and Revolver borrowings. Interest payments on the variable rate Senior Term Loans were calculated using the actual interest rate of 4.50% as of December 31, 2014. Interest payments on the 6.375% Senior Notes were calculated at their fixed rate and interest payments on Revolver borrowings were calculated using the actual interest rate of 3.41%.
(3) The Company has a purchase agreement with our supplier of key blanks which requires minimum purchases of 100 million key blanks per year. To the extent minimum purchases of key blanks are below 100 million, the Company must pay the supplier $0.0035 per key multiplied by the shortfall. Since the inception of the contract on 1998, the Company has purchased more than the requisite 100 million key blanks per year from the supplier. In 2013, the Company extended this contract for an additional three years.
(4) All of the contractual obligations noted above are reflected on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 except for the interest payments, purchase obligations, and operating leases.

 

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Borrowings

As of December 31, 2014, the Company had $66.3 million available under our secured credit facilities. The Company had approximately $547.9 million of outstanding debt under our secured credit facilities at December 31, 2014, consisting of $547.3 million in term loans and $0.6 million in capitalized lease and other obligations. The term loans consisted of $547.3 million in Term B Loans at a three month LIBOR rate plus margin of 4.50%. The capitalized lease and other obligations were at various interest rates.

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company borrowings were as follows:

 

     December 31, 2014     December 31, 2013  
     Facility      Outstanding      Interest     Facility      Outstanding      Interest  
(dollars in thousands)    Amount      Amount      Rate     Amount      Amount      Rate  

Term B Loan

      $ 547,250         4.50      $ 385,399         3.75

Revolving credit facility

   $ 70,000         —           —        $ 30,000         —           —     

Capital leases & other obligations

        607         various           556         various   
     

 

 

         

 

 

    

Total secured credit

  547,857      385,955   

Senior notes

  330,000      6.375   265,000      10.875
     

 

 

         

 

 

    

Total borrowings

$ 877,857    $ 650,955   
     

 

 

         

 

 

    

Descriptions of the Company’s credit agreement governing the Senior Facilities, as amended, and the 6.375% Senior Notes are contained in the “Financing Arrangements” section of this annual report on Form 10-K.

Terms of the Senior Facilities subject the Company to a revolving facility test condition whereby a senior secured leverage ratio covenant of no greater than 6.5 times last twelve months Adjusted EBITDA comes into effect if more than 35% of the total Revolver commitment is drawn or utilized in letters of credit at the end of a fiscal quarter. If this covenant comes into effect, it may restrict the Company’s ability to incur debt, make investments, pay dividends to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities, or undertake certain other business activities. As of December 31, 2014, the total revolving credit commitment of the Company was 5% utilized.

 

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Adjusted EBITDA

The reconciliation of Net Loss to Adjusted EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 follows:

 

     Year
Ended
2014 (1)
     Year
Ended
2013
     Year
Ended
2012
 

Net loss

   $ (63,463    $ (1,148    $ (7,234

Income tax benefit

     (30,316      (2,781      (5,168

Interest expense, net

     50,400         48,138         41,138   

Interest expense on junior subordinated debentures

     12,610         12,610         12,610   

Investment income on trust common securities

     (378      (378      (378

Depreciation

     31,426         24,796         22,009   

Amortization

     30,221         22,112         21,752   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

EBITDA

  30,500      103,349      84,729   

Stock compensation expense

  39,904      9,006      714   

Management fees

  291      77      155   

Foreign exchange (gain) loss

  (550   2,252      1,171   

Acquisition and integration expense

  57,834      8,638      3,031   

Legal fees and settlements

  1,170      —        11,295   

Restructuring costs

  1,303      4,382      3,684   

Other adjustments

  986      313      2,240   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 131,438    $ 128,017    $ 107,019   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Pro-forma purchasing savings

  3,322   
  

 

 

       

Pro-Forma Adjusted EBITDA

$ 134,760   
  

 

 

       

 

(1) For purposes of the Adjusted EBITDA computation, the predecessor six month period ended June 29, 2014 was combined with the successor six month period ended December 31, 2014.

Related Party Transactions

The Successor has recorded aggregate management fee charges and expenses from the Oak Hill Funds and CCMP of $276 thousand for the six month period ended December 31, 2014. The Predecessor recorded aggregate management fee charges and expenses from the Oak Hill Funds of $15 thousand for the six month period ended June 29, 2014, $77 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2013, and $155 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Gregory Mann and Gabrielle Mann are employed by the All Points subsidiary of Hillman. All Points leases an industrial warehouse and office facility from companies under the control of the Manns. The Company has recorded rental expense for the lease of this facility on an arm’s length basis. In the six month period ended December 31, 2014 the Successor’s rental expense for the lease of this facility was $146 thousand. In the six month period ended June 29, 2014 the Predecessor’s rental expense for the lease of this facility was $165 thousand. The Predecessor’s rental expense for the lease of this facility was $311 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

In connection with the Paulin Acquisition, the Company entered into three leases for five properties containing industrial warehouse, manufacturing plant, and office facilities on February 19, 2013. The owners of the properties under one lease are relatives of Richard Paulin, who is employed by The Hillman Group Canada ULC, and the owner of the properties under the other two leases is a company which is owned by Richard Paulin and certain of his relatives. The Company has recorded rental expense for the three leases on an arm’s length basis. In the six month period ended December 31, 2014 the Successor’s rental expense for these facilities was $371 thousand. In the six month period ended June 29, 2014 the Predecessor’s rental expense for these facilities was $375 thousand. The Predecessor’s rental expense for these facilities was $687 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The Company’s accounting policies are more fully described in Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. As disclosed in that note, the preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Future events cannot be predicted with certainty and, therefore, actual results could differ from those estimates. The following section describes the Company’s critical accounting policies.

Revenue Recognition:

Revenue is recognized when products are shipped or delivered to customers depending upon when title and risks of ownership have passed and the collection of the relevant receivables is probable, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. Sales taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and therefore excluded from revenues in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

The Company offers a variety of sales incentives to our customers primarily in the form of discounts, rebates and slotting fees. Discounts are recognized in the financial statements at the date of the related sale. Rebates are based on the revenue to date and the contractual rebate percentage to be paid. A portion of the cost of the rebate is allocated to each underlying sales transaction. Discounts, rebates, and slotting fees are included in the determination of net sales.

The Company also establishes reserves for customer returns and allowances. The reserve is established based on historical rates of returns and allowances. The reserve is adjusted quarterly based on actual experience. Returns and allowances are included in the determination of net sales.

The Company has determined that our customer product sales arrangements contain multiple elements. The following is a description of the elements present in the typical Hillman sales arrangements:

 

  •   One-time design and set-up of a customized store display.

 

  •   One-time cost of customized store display (such as racks and hooks) and merchandising materials (such as point of sale signage) to hold solely Hillman products.

 

  •   One-time opening order sales of Hillman products for store display.

 

  •   On-going store visits by Hillman sales and service representatives for order taking, maintaining store displays, and exploring new sales opportunities.

 

  •   On-going reorder sales of Hillman products used in store display.

After consideration of the guidance provided in ASC 605-25-25, we have determined that all elements would be considered together under the same one unit of accounting.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts:

The Company establishes the allowance for doubtful accounts using the specific identification method and also provides a reserve in the aggregate. The estimates for calculating the aggregate reserve are based on historical information which includes the aging of customer receivables and adjustments for any collectability concerns. We have not made any material changes to the accounting methodology used to establish and adjust our aggregate reserve during the past three fiscal years. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions we use to calculate our aggregate reserve. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to losses or gains that could be material. A 5% change in our aggregate reserve at December 31, 2014 would have affected net earnings by less than $0.1 million. Increases to the allowance for doubtful accounts result in a corresponding expense. The Company writes off individual accounts receivable when they become uncollectible. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $0.6 million and $0.7 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

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Inventory Realization:

Inventories consisting predominantly of finished goods are valued at the lower of cost or market, cost being determined principally on the weighted average cost method. Excess and obsolete inventories are carried at net realizable value. The historical usage rate is the primary factor used by the Company in assessing the net realizable value of excess and obsolete inventory. A reduction in the carrying value of an inventory item from cost to market is recorded for inventory with no usage in the preceding twenty-four month period or with on-hand quantities in excess of twenty-four months average usage.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets:

Goodwill represents the excess purchase cost over the fair value of net assets of companies acquired in business combinations. Goodwill is an indefinite lived asset and is assessed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if a triggering event occurs. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit is greater than the fair value, impairment may be present. ASC 350 permits an entity to assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount before applying the two-step goodwill impairment model. This qualitative assessment is referred to as a “step zero” approach. If it is determined through the qualitative assessment that a reporting unit’s fair value is more likely than not greater than its carrying value, the remaining impairment steps would be unnecessary. The qualitative assessment is optional, allowing companies to go directly to the quantitative assessment.

The quantitative assessment for goodwill impairment is a two-step test. Under the first step, the fair value of each reporting unit is compared with its carrying value (including goodwill). If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, an indication of goodwill impairment exists for the reporting unit and the Company must perform step two of the impairment test (measurement). Under step two, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation, in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations. The residual fair value after this allocation is the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill. Fair value of the reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, step two does not need to be performed.

The Company also evaluates indefinite-lived intangible assets (primarily trademarks and trade names) for impairment annually or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is below its carrying amount. ASC 350 permits an entity to assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount before applying the two-step impairment model. In connection with the evaluation, an independent appraiser assessed the value of our intangible assets based on a relief from royalties, excess earnings, and lost profits discounted cash flow model. An impairment charge is recorded if the carrying amount of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds the estimated fair value on the measurement date. No impairment charges were recorded by the Company in 2014 as a result of the qualitative annual impairment assessment.

The Company identified the following four reporting units for testing of goodwill impairment – All Points, Canada, Mexico, and United States excluding All Points. Each of these reporting units is also an operating segment that was assigned goodwill as a result of the Company’s acquisition by CCMP Capital Advisors, LLC in 2014. The goodwill was initially assigned to each of the reporting units based upon an independent valuation appraisal.

 

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In considering the step zero approach to testing goodwill for impairment, the Company performed a qualitative analysis evaluating factors including, but not limited to, macro-economic conditions, market and industry conditions, internal cost factors, competitive environment, results of past impairment tests, and the operational stability and overall financial performance of the reporting units. During the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company utilized a qualitative assessment for reporting units where no significant change occurred and no potential impairment indicators existed since the previous evaluation of goodwill, and concluded it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value was more than its carrying value on a reporting unit basis. No impairment charges were recorded by the Company in 2014 as a result of the qualitative annual impairment assessment.

The Company’s annual impairment assessment is performed for the reporting units as of October 1. In years prior to 2014, the Company did not conduct an optional qualitative assessment of possible goodwill impairment for any reporting unit, rather we went directly to performance of the quantitative assessment. The October 1 goodwill and intangible impairment test data aligns the impairment assessment with the preparation of the Company’s annual strategic plan and allows additional time for a more thorough analysis by the Company’s independent appraiser. An independent appraiser assessed the value of the Company’s reporting units based on a discounted cash flow model and multiple of earnings. Assumptions critical to the Company’s fair value estimates under the discounted cash flow model include the discount rate, projected average revenue growth and projected long-term growth rates in the determination of terminal values. The results of the quantitative assessment in 2013 and 2012 indicated that the fair value of each reporting unit was substantially in excess of its carrying value, in each case by more than 10%. No impairment charges were recorded by the Company in 2013 or 2012 as a result of the quantitative annual impairment assessments.

Long-Lived Assets:

The Company evaluates our long-lived assets for impairment and will continue to evaluate them based on the estimated undiscounted future cash flows as events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable. No impairment charges were recognized for long-lived assets in the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, or 2012.

Income Taxes:

Deferred income taxes are computed using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and income tax basis of assets and liabilities, based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the periods in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are provided for tax benefits where it is more likely than not that certain tax benefits will not be realized. Adjustments to valuation allowances are recorded for changes in utilization of the tax related item. For additional information, see Note 6, Income Taxes, of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Risk Insurance Reserves:

The Company self-insures our product liability, automotive, workers’ compensation, and general liability losses up to $250.0 thousand per occurrence. Catastrophic coverage has been purchased from third party insurers for occurrences in excess of $250.0 thousand up to $40.0 million. The two risk areas involving the most significant accounting estimates are workers’ compensation and automotive liability. Actuarial valuations performed by the Company’s outside risk insurance expert were used to form the basis for workers’ compensation and automotive liability loss reserves. The actuary contemplated the Company’s specific loss history, actual claims reported, and industry trends among statistical and other factors to estimate the range of reserves required. Risk insurance reserves are comprised of specific reserves for individual claims and additional amounts expected for development of these claims, as well as for incurred but not yet reported claims. The Company believes that the liability recorded for such risk insurance reserves is adequate as of December 31, 2014.

 

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We have not made any material changes to the accounting methodology used to establish and adjust our workers’ compensation and automotive liability loss reserves during the past three fiscal years. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions we use to calculate our workers’ compensation and automotive liability loss reserves. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to losses or gains that could be material. A 5% change in our workers’ compensation and automotive liability loss reserves at December 31, 2014 would have affected net earnings by approximately $0.1 million.

The Company self-insures our group health claims up to an annual stop loss limit of $200.0 thousand per participant. Aggregate coverage is maintained for annual group health insurance claims in excess of 125% of expected claims. Historical group insurance loss experience forms the basis for the recognition of group health insurance reserves. The Company believes the liability recorded for such insurance reserves is adequate as of December 31, 2014.

Common Stock:

The Hillman Companies, Inc. has one class of common stock. All outstanding shares of The Hillman Companies, Inc. common stock are owned by Holdco. The management shareholders of Holdco do not have the ability to put their shares back to Holdco.

Under the terms of the Predecessor Stockholders Agreement for the Predecessor Holdco common stock, management shareholders had the ability to put their shares back to Predecessor Holdco under certain conditions, including death or disability. ASC 480-10-S99 requires shares to be classified outside of permanent equity if they can be redeemed and the redemption is not solely within control of the issuer. Further, if it is determined that redemption of the shares is probable, the shares are marked to fair value at each balance sheet date with the change in fair value recorded in additional paid-in capital. The Predecessor Company determined that redemption of the shares was probable as they could be put back to Predecessor Holdco upon death or disability. Accordingly, the 161.2 shares of common stock held by management as of December 31, 2013 were recorded outside permanent equity. These shares were adjusted to the fair value of $16,975 as of December 31, 2013.

At December 31, 2013, the fair value of the management owned common stock of $1,699.89 per share was based upon an independent valuation appraisal of the common stock. An independent appraiser assessed the value of the Company’s common stock based on a discounted cash flow model and multiple of earnings. Assumptions critical to the Company’s common stock value under the discounted cash flow model include the discount rate, projected average revenue growth, and projected long-term growth rates in the determination of terminal values.

Stock-Based Compensation:

Effective June 30, 2014, Holdco established the HMAN Group Holdings Inc. 2014 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2014 Equity Incentive Plan”), pursuant to which Holdco may grant options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, and other stock-based awards for up to an aggregate of 44,021.264 shares of its common stock. The 2014 Equity Incentive Plan is administered by a committee of the Holdco board of directors. Such committee determines the terms of each stock-based award grant under the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan, except that the exercise price of any granted options and the grant price of any granted stock appreciation rights may not be lower than the fair market value of one share of common stock of Holdco as of the date of grant. The options granted were considered equity-classified awards in accordance with ASC Topic 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation”.

 

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The Predecessor Company had a stock-based employee compensation plan. The options had certain put features and, therefore, liability classification was required. The Company elected to use the intrinsic value method to value the option in accordance with ASC Topic 718. See Note 14, Stock-Based Compensation, of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments:

The carrying amounts of the Company’s cash, restricted investments, accounts receivable, short-term borrowings, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities approximate fair value because of the short term maturity of these instruments. The carrying amounts of the long-term debt under the revolving credit facility and variable rate senior term loan approximate the fair value at December 31, 2014 and 2013 as the interest rate is variable and approximates current market rates. The fair values of the fixed rate senior notes and junior subordinated debentures were determined utilizing current trading prices obtained from indicative market data at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. See Note 16, Fair Value Measurements of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements:

In April 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity, which stipulates that the disposal of a component of an entity is to be reported in discontinued operations only if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. The pronouncement also removed the conditions that (a) the operations and cash flows of the component have been (or will be) eliminated from the ongoing operations of the entity as a result of the disposal transaction and (b) the entity will not have any significant continuing involvement in the operations of the component after the disposal transaction. The ASU is effective prospectively for all disposals (except disposals classified as held for sale before the adoption date) or components initially classified as held for sale in periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. We do not believe the adoption of this guidance will have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition. This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The update outlines a five-step model and related application guidance, which replaces most existing revenue recognition guidance. ASU 2014-09 is effective for us in the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, and for interim periods within that year. The amendments can be applied retrospectively to each prior reporting period or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying this standard recognized at the date of initial application. Early application is not permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of implementing this guidance on our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.

In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be achieved after the Requisite Service Period. The issue is the result of a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF). The amendments in this ASU require that a performance target that affects vesting, and that could be achieved after the requisite service period, be treated as a performance condition. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and can be either applied prospectively or retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of implementing this guidance on our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.

 

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In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40): Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. The guidance requires an entity to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued (or within one year after the financial statements are available to be issued when applicable) and to provide related footnote disclosures in certain circumstances. The guidance is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. We do not believe the adoption of this guidance will have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In November 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-17, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting”. The amendments in this ASU apply to the separate financial statements of an acquired entity and its subsidiaries that are a business (either public or nonpublic) when an acquirer obtains control of an acquired entity. An acquired entity may elect the option to apply pushdown accounting in the reporting period in which the change in control event occurs. If pushdown accounting is applied to an individual change in control event, the election is irrevocable. The amendments in the ASU are effective on November 18, 2014. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on the Company’s’ financial condition or results of operations.

 

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Item 7A – Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

The Company is exposed to the impact of interest rate changes as borrowings under the Senior Facilities bear interest at variable interest rates. It is the Company’s policy to enter into interest rate swap and interest rate cap transactions only to the extent considered necessary to meet our objectives.

Based on the Company’s exposure to variable rate borrowings at December 31, 2014, after consideration of the Company’s LIBOR floor rate and interest rate swap agreements, a one percent (1%) change in the weighted average interest rate for a period of one year would change the annual interest expense by approximately $4.2 million.

The Company is exposed to foreign exchange rate changes of the Australian, Canadian and Mexican currencies as it impacts the $152.5 million tangible and intangible net asset value of our Australian, Canadian, and Mexican subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014. The foreign subsidiaries net tangible assets were $67.2 million and the net intangible assets were $85.3 million as of December 31, 2014.

The Company utilizes foreign exchange forward contracts to manage the exposure to currency fluctuations in the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. Dollar. See Note 15, Derivatives and Hedging, of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Item 8 – Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND

FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

 

     Page(s)  

Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

     50-51   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     52   

Consolidated Financial Statements:

  

Consolidated Balance Sheets

     53-54   

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss

     55   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

     56   

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

     57   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     58-99   

Financial Statement Schedule:

  

Valuation Accounts

     100   

 

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Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and that receipts and expenditures of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries, as appropriate; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the assets of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.

The Company’s management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, the end of our fiscal year. Management based its assessment on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Management’s assessment included evaluation of such elements as the design and operating effectiveness of key financial reporting controls, process documentation, accounting policies, and our overall control environment. This assessment is supported by testing and monitoring performed under the direction of management.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluations of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Accordingly, even an effective system of internal control over financial reporting will provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation.

Based on its assessment and solely because of the material weakness described below, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective at December 31, 2014. Management identified pervasive deficiencies related to the design and operating effectiveness of transaction, process level, and management monitoring controls that have a direct impact on the financial reporting of our Canadian subsidiary (The Hillman Group Canada ULC), which in aggregate are considered a material weakness to the overall consolidated financial statements. In 2013, Hillman acquired H. Paulin & Co., which has since been amalgamated with The Hillman Group Canada ULC. There are numerous manual procedures necessary to be performed on both the data input into our legacy system and the subsequent output in order to validate, prepare, and record information in the general ledger of our Canadian subsidiary. These required manual procedures vary in complexity and extend throughout all functions of the entire financial reporting process. Further, there is an ineffective control environment surrounding these manual procedures and management review controls, as well as ineffective controls over change management, critical access, and end user system access to the legacy system. As a result of these deficiencies, financial information may not be accurately reflected in key reports that are used in higher level management review controls or subsequently recorded in the Canadian general ledger.

The Company is not aware of any transactions that were improperly undertaken as a result of this material weakness and therefore does not believe that such material weakness had any material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

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In light of the foregoing conclusion, management undertook additional procedures in order that management could conclude that reasonable assurance exists regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. We reviewed the results of management’s assessment with the Audit Committee of The Hillman Companies, Inc.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

 

/s/ JAMES P. WATERS /s/ ANTHONY A. VASCONCELLOS
James P. Waters Anthony A. Vasconcellos
Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer
Dated: March 27, 2015 Dated: March 27, 2015

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

The Hillman Companies, Inc.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of comprehensive loss, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the six months ended December 31, 2014 (Successor), the six months ended June 29, 2014 (Predecessor), and each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2013 (Predecessor). In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we also have audited financial statement schedule II – Valuation Accounts. These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the six months ended December 31, 2014 (Successor), the six months ended June 29, 2014 (Predecessor), and each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2013 (Predecessor), in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Cincinnati, Ohio

March 27, 2015

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(dollars in thousands)

 

     Successor            Predecessor  
     December 31,
2014
           December 31,
2013
 
ASSETS           

Current assets:

          

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 18,485            $ 34,969   

Restricted investments

     494              2,856   

Accounts receivable, net

     89,884              87,515   

Inventories, net

     204,723              177,580   

Deferred income taxes, net

     13,239              11,096   

Other current assets

     10,324              9,082   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 

Total current assets

  337,149        323,098   

Property and equipment, net

  114,531        95,818   

Goodwill

  621,560        466,227   

Other intangibles, net

  798,941        362,365   

Restricted investments

  1,750        1,530   

Deferred financing fees, net

  24,407        9,798   

Investment in trust common securities

  3,261        3,261   

Other assets

  1,414        2,759   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 

Total assets

$  1,903,013      $  1,264,856   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
Current liabilities:  

Accounts payable

$ 66,462      $ 44,369   

Current portion of senior term loans

  5,500        3,968   

Current portion of capitalized lease and other obligations

  207        219   

Accrued expenses:

 

Salaries and wages

  5,247        11,864   

Pricing allowances

  6,662        6,210   

Income and other taxes

  3,301        3,121   

Interest

  10,587        2,674   

Deferred compensation

  494        2,856   

Other accrued expenses

  7,423        9,031   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

  105,883        84,312   

Long-term senior term loans

  541,750        377,641   

Long-term capitalized lease and other obligations

  400        337   

Long-term senior notes

  330,000        271,750   

Junior subordinated debentures

  130,685        114,941   

Deferred compensation

  1,750        1,530   

Deferred income taxes, net

  273,781        120,060   

Other non-current liabilities

  5,621        15,391   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 

Total liabilities

  1,389,870        985,962   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(dollars in thousands)

     Successor           Predecessor  
     December 31,
2014
          December 31,
2013
 

Common stock with put options:

         

Common stock, $.01 par, 5,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 161.2 issued and outstanding at December 31, 2013

     —               16,975   
  

 

 

        

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)

 
 

Stockholders’ Equity:

 

Preferred Stock:

 

Preferred stock, $.01 par, 5,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013

  —          —     
 

Common Stock:

 

Common stock, $.01 par, 5,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 4,838.8 issued and outstanding at December 31, 2013

  —          —     
 

Additional paid-in capital

  544,604        292,989   

Accumulated deficit

  (18,937     (26,199

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

  (12,524     (4,871
  

 

 

        

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ equity

  513,143        261,919   
  

 

 

        

 

 

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$  1,903,013      $  1,264,856   
  

 

 

        

 

 

 

THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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Table of Contents

THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(dollars in thousands)

 

     Successor           Predecessor  
     Period from
06/30/2014
through
12/31/2014
          Six months
Ended
06/29/2014
    Year
Ended
12/31/2013
    Year
Ended
12/31/2012
 

Net sales

   $ 377,292           $ 357,377      $ 701,641      $ 555,465   

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)

     193,221             183,342        359,326        275,016   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     115,854             156,762        225,651        188,330   

Transaction, acquisition and integration (Note 22)

     22,719             31,681        8,638        3,031   

Depreciation

     17,277             14,149        24,796        22,009   

Amortization

     19,128             11,093        22,112        21,752   

Management fees to related party

     276             15        77        155   

Other expense (income)

     576             (277     4,600        4,204   
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

  8,241        (39,388   56,441      40,968   
 

Interest expense, net

  27,250        23,150      48,138      41,138   

Interest expense on junior subordinated debentures

  6,305        6,305      12,610      12,610   

Investment income on trust common securities

  (189     (189   (378   (378
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss before income taxes

  (25,125     (68,654   (3,929   (12,402
 

Income tax benefit

  (6,188     (24,128   (2,781   (5,168
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

$ (18,937   $ (44,526 $ (1,148 $ (7,234
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss (from above)

$ (18,937   $ (44,526 $ (1,148 $ (7,234
 

Other comprehensive (loss) income:

 

Foreign currency translation adjustments

  (12,524     (95   (5,742   1,051   
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other comprehensive (loss) income

  (12,524     (95   (5,742   1,051   
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive loss

$ (31,461   $ (44,621 $ (6,890 $ (6,183
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(dollars in thousands)

 

     Successor     Predecessor  
     Period from
06/30/2014
through
12/31/2014
    Six months
Ended
06/29/2014
    Year
Ended
12/31/2013
    Year
Ended
12/31/2012
 

Cash flows from operating activities:

          

Net loss

   $ (18,937   $ (44,526   $ (1,148   $ (7,234

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used for) provided by operating activities:

          

Depreciation and amortization

     36,405        25,242        46,908        43,761   

Loss on dispositions of property and equipment

     120        —          777        292   

Deferred income taxes

     (7,226     (24,458     (3,624     (5,613

Deferred financing and original issue discount amortization

     2,405        1,374        2,492        2,180   

Stock-based compensation expense

     675        39,229        9,006        714   

Other non-cash interest and change in value of interest rate swap

     935        —          (418     (787

Changes in operating items:

          

Accounts receivable

     22,434        (25,267     (9,098     1,459   

Inventories

     (14,641     (17,851     (11,467     (10,239

Other assets

     (8,397     8,799        (4,089     (4,109

Accounts payable

     6,187        20,811        8,409        (2,184

Interest payable on junior subordinated debentures

     (1,019     1,019        —          —     

Other accrued liabilities

     (28,291     31,183        2,712        4,968   

Other items, net

     (2,799     (3,843     1,065        72   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash (used for) provided by operating activities

  (12,149   11,712      41,525      23,280   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

Paulin Acquisition

  —        —        (103,416   —     

Acquisition of Hillman Companies, Inc.

  (729,616   —        —        —     

Capital expenditures

  (14,975   (12,933   (38,038   (24,305

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

  —        —        799      3   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used for investing activities

  (744,591   (12,933   (140,655   (24,302
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

Borrowings of senior term loans

  550,000      —        76,800      —     

Repayments of senior term loans

  (387,157   (992   (3,776   (3,200

Discount on senior term loans

  —        —        (3,152   —     

Borrowings of revolving credit loans

  16,000      —        —        19,000   

Repayments of revolving credit loans

  (16,000   —        —        (19,000

Payment of additional acquisition consideration

  —        —        —        (12,387

Principal payments under capitalized lease obligations

  (112   (84   (503   (47

Borrowings of senior notes

  330,000      —        —        65,000   

Repayment of senior notes

  (265,000   —        —        —     

Premium on senior notes

  —        —        —        4,225   

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

  —        474      —        —     

Capital contribution from parent

  542,929      —        —        —     

Capital contribution from board member

  1,000      —        —        —     

Financing fees

  (26,355   —        —        —     

Borrowings under other credit obligations

  —        —        324      1,119   

Repayments of other credit obligations

  (70   —        (683   (297
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

  745,235      (602   69,010      54,413   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

  (3,040   (116   (459   130   

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

  (14,545   (1,939   (30,579   53,521   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

  33,030      34,969      65,548      12,027   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$ 18,485    $ 33,030    $ 34,969    $ 65,548   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(dollars in thousands)

 

     Common
Stock
     Additional
Paid-in
Capital
    Accumulated
Deficit
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
    Total
Stockholders’
Equity
 

Balance at December 31, 2011 - Predecessor

     —           296,544        (17,817     (180     278,547   

Net loss

     —           —          (7,234     —          (7,234

FMV adjustment to common stock with put options (1)

     —           (1,869     —          —          (1,869

Change in cumulative foreign translation adjustment (2)

     —           —          —          1,051        1,051   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2012 - Predecessor

  —        294,675      (25,051   871      270,495   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

  —        —        (1,148   —        (1,148

FMV adjustment to common stock with put options (1)

  —        (6,791   —        —        (6,791

Adjustment to common stock with expired put options (3)

  —        5,105      —        —        5,105   

Change in cumulative foreign translation adjustment (2)

  —        —        —        (5,742   (5,742
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2013 - Predecessor

  —        292,989      (26,199   (4,871   261,919   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

  —        —        (44,526   —        (44,526

FMV adjustment to common stock with put options (1)

  —        (4,876   —        —        (4,876

Exercise of stock options

  —        804      —        —        804   

Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment (2)

  —        —        —        (95   (95
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at June 29, 2014 - Predecessor

  —        288,917      (70,725   (4,966   213,226   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Close Predecessor’s stockholders’ equity at merger date

  —        (288,917   70,725      4,966      (213,226

Capital contribution from parent

  —        542,929      —        —        542,929   

Net loss

  —        —        (18,937   —        (18,937

Stock based compensation

  —        675      —        —        675   

Sale of 1,000 shares to Board member

  —        1,000      —        —        1,000   

Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment (2)

  —        —        —        (12,524   (12,524
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2014 - Successor

$ —      $ 544,604    $ (18,937 $ (12,524 $ 513,143   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) Management of the Predecessor Company controlled 161.2 shares of common stock at December 31, 2013. These shares contained a put feature that allowed redemption at the holder’s option. Prior to the June 30, 2014 Merger Transaction, these shares were classified as temporary equity and adjusted to fair value. See Note 13, Common and Preferred Stock, for further details.
(2) The cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment is the only item of other comprehensive loss.
(3) Former management of the Company controlled 51.9 shares of common stock at December 31, 2013. These shares do not contain the put feature that allows redemption at the holder’s option.

THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

1. Basis of Presentation:

The accompanying financial statements include the consolidated accounts of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively “Hillman” or the “Company”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

On June 30, 2014, affiliates of CCMP Capital Advisors, LLC (“CCMP”) and Oak Hill Capital Partners III, L.P., Oak Hill Capital Management Partners III, L.P. and OHCP III HC RO, L.P. (“Oak Hill Funds”), together with certain current and former members of Hillman’s management, consummated a merger transaction (the “Merger Transaction”) pursuant to the terms and conditions of an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of May 16, 2014. As a result of the Merger Transaction, The Hillman Companies, Inc. remained a wholly-owned subsidiary of OHCP HM Acquisition Corp., which changed its name to HMAN Intermediate II Holdings Corp. (“Predecessor Holdco”), and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of HMAN Group Holdings Inc. (“Successor Holdco” or “Holdco”). The total consideration paid in the Merger Transaction was $1,504,498 including repayment of outstanding debt and including the value of the Company’s outstanding junior subordinated debentures ($105,443 liquidation value at the time of the Merger Transaction).

Prior to the Merger Transaction, affiliates of the Oak Hill Funds owned 95.6% of the Predecessor Holdco’s outstanding common stock and certain current and former members of management owned 4.4% of the Predecessor Holdco’s outstanding common stock. Upon consummation of the Merger Transaction, affiliates of CCMP owned 80.4% of the Successor Holdco’s outstanding common stock, affiliates of the Oak Hill Funds owned 16.9% of the Successor Holdco’s outstanding common stock, and certain current and former members of management owned 2.7% of the Successor Holdco’s outstanding common stock.

The Company’s consolidated balance sheet and its related statements of comprehensive loss, cash flows, and stockholders’ equity for the periods presented prior to June 30, 2014 are referenced herein as the predecessor financial statements (the “Predecessor”). The Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 and its related statements of comprehensive loss, cash flows, and stockholders’ equity for the periods presented subsequent to the Merger Transaction are referenced herein as the successor financial statements (the “Successor”).

The Successor financial statements reflect the allocation of the aggregate purchase price of $1,504,498, including the value of the Company’s junior subordinated debentures, to the assets and liabilities of Hillman based on fair values at the date of the Merger Transaction in accordance with ASC Topic 805, “Business Combinations.” The excess of the purchase price over the net assets has been allocated to goodwill and intangible assets based upon an independent valuation appraisal. The intangible assets and goodwill are not deductible for income tax purposes.

The Company’s financial statements have been presented on the basis of push down accounting in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) No. 805-50-S99. FASB ASC 805-50-S99 states that the push down basis of accounting should be used in a purchase transaction in which the entity becomes wholly-owned by another entity. Under the push down basis of accounting, certain transactions incurred by the parent company which would otherwise be accounted for in the accounts of the parent are “pushed down” and recorded on the financial statements of the subsidiary. Accordingly, certain items resulting from the Merger Transaction have been recorded on the financial statements of the Company.

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

1. Basis of Presentation (continued):

 

The following table reconciles the fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities to the total purchase price:

 

     Amount  

Fair value of consideration transferred

   $ 1,399,055   
  

 

 

 

Cash

$ 28,695   

Accounts Receivable

  113,030   

Inventory

  187,509   

Other current assets

  25,224   

Property and equipment

  117,336   

Goodwill

  624,870   

Intangible assets

  822,620   

Other non-current assets

  3,481   
  

 

 

 

Total assets

  1,922,765   

Less:

Accounts payable

  (65,009

Deferred income taxes

  (275,957

Junior subordinated debentures

  (105,443

Junior subordinated debentures premium

  (22,437

Other liabilities

  (54,864
  

 

 

 

Net assets

$ 1,399,055   
  

 

 

 

The following table indicates the pro-forma financial statements of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2014 (includes transaction costs of $54,400 as discussed in Note 22) and 2013. The pro-forma financial statements give effect to the acquisition (the “Paulin Acquisition”), on February 19, 2013, of all of the issued and outstanding Class A common shares of H. Paulin & Co., Limited (“Paulin”) and the Merger Transaction as if they had each occurred on January 1, 2013.

 

     2014      2013  

Net Sales

   $ 734,669       $ 717,571   

Net Loss

     (4,863      (60,082

The pro-forma results are based on assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable under the circumstances. The pro-forma results are not necessarily indicative of the operating results that would have occurred if the Paulin Acquisition and Merger Transaction had been effective January 1, 2013, nor are they intended to be indicative of results that may occur in the future. The underlying pro-forma information includes the historical results of the Company and Paulin, the Company’s financing arrangements related to the Merger Transaction, and certain purchase accounting adjustments.

Nature of Operations:

The Company is comprised of five separate business segments, the largest of which is (1) The Hillman Group, Inc. (“Hillman Group”) operating primarily in the United States. The other business segments consist of separate subsidiaries of Hillman Group operating in (2) Canada under the names The Hillman Group Canada ULC and H. Paulin & Co., (3) Mexico under the name SunSource Integrated Services de Mexico S.A. de C.V., (4) Florida under the name All Points Industries, Inc., and (5) Australia under the name The Hillman Group Australia Pty. Ltd. Hillman Group provides merchandising services and products such as fasteners

 

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Table of Contents

THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

1. Basis of Presentation (continued):

 

and related hardware items; threaded rod and metal shapes; keys, key duplication systems, and accessories; builder’s hardware; and identification items, such as tags and letters, numbers, and signs, to retail outlets, primarily hardware stores, home centers and mass merchants, pet supply stores, grocery stores, and drug stores. The Canada segment also produces fasteners, stampings, fittings, and processes threaded parts for automotive suppliers, industrial Original Equipment Manufacturers (“OEMs”), and industrial distributors. The Company has approximately 25,000 customers, the largest three of which accounted for 40.7%, 39.7%, and 40.1% of net sales in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. In each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, the Company derived over 10% of its total revenues from two separate customers which operated in the following segments: United States excluding All Points, Canada, and Mexico.

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

Cash and cash equivalents consist of commercial paper, U.S. Treasury obligations, and other liquid securities purchased with initial maturities less than 90 days and are stated at cost which approximates fair value. The Company has foreign bank balances of approximately $4,597 and $6,701 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company maintains cash and cash equivalent balances with financial institutions that exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses related to these balances. Management believes our credit risk is minimal.

Restricted Investments:

The Company’s restricted investments are trading securities carried at fair market value which represent assets held in a Rabbi Trust to fund deferred compensation liabilities owed to the Company’s employees. See Note 11, Deferred Compensation Plan.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts:

The Company establishes the allowance for doubtful accounts using the specific identification method and also provides a reserve in the aggregate. The estimates for calculating the aggregate reserve are based on historical collection experience. Increases to the allowance for doubtful accounts result in a corresponding expense. The Company writes off individual accounts receivable when collection becomes improbable. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $627 and $703 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Inventories:

Inventories consisting predominantly of finished goods are valued at the lower of cost or market, cost being determined principally on the weighted average cost method. Excess and obsolete inventories are carried at net realizable value. The historical usage rate is the primary factor used by the Company in assessing the net realizable value of excess and obsolete inventory. A reduction in the carrying value of an inventory item from cost to market is recorded for inventory with no usage in the preceding 24 month period or with on hand quantities in excess of 24 months average usage.

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued)

 

Property and Equipment:

Property and equipment, including assets acquired under capital leases, are carried at cost and include expenditures for new facilities and major renewals. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. When assets are sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from their respective accounts, and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in income from operations.

Costs incurred to develop software for internal use are capitalized and amortized over the estimated useful life of the software. Costs related to maintenance of internal-use software are expensed as incurred. Costs used for the development of internal-use software were capitalized and placed in to service in the amounts of $5,097 in the Successor period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, $704 in the Predecessor six months ended June 29, 2014 and $2,298 and $5,685 for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Depreciation:

For financial accounting purposes, depreciation, including that related to plant and equipment acquired under capital leases, is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, generally two to 27 years or over the terms of the related leases, whichever is shorter.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets:

Goodwill represents the excess purchase cost over the fair value of net assets of companies acquired in business combinations. Goodwill is an indefinite lived asset and is assessed for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if a triggering event occurs. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit is greater than the fair value, impairment may be present. ASC 350 permits an entity to assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount before applying the two-step goodwill impairment model. This qualitative assessment is referred to as a “step zero” approach. If it is determined through the qualitative assessment that a reporting unit’s fair value is more likely than not greater than its carrying value, the remaining impairment steps would be unnecessary. The qualitative assessment is optional, allowing companies to go directly to the quantitative assessment.

The quantitative assessment for goodwill impairment is a two-step test. Under the first step, the fair value of each reporting unit is compared with its carrying value (including goodwill). If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, an indication of goodwill impairment exists for the reporting unit and the Company must perform step two of the impairment test (measurement). Under step two, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation, in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations. The residual fair value after this allocation is the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill. Fair value of the reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, step two does not need to be performed.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued)

 

The Company also evaluates indefinite-lived intangible assets (primarily trademarks and trade names) for impairment annually or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is below its carrying amount. ASC 350 permits an entity to assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount before applying the two-step impairment model. In connection with the evaluation, an independent appraiser assessed the value of our intangible assets based on a relief from royalties, excess earnings, and lost profits discounted cash flow model. An impairment charge is recorded if the carrying amount of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds the estimated fair value on the measurement date. No impairment charges were recorded by the Company in 2014 as a result of the qualitative annual impairment assessment.

In considering the step zero approach to testing goodwill for impairment, the Company performed a qualitative analysis evaluating factors including, but not limited to, macro-economic conditions, market and industry conditions, internal cost factors, competitive environment, results of past impairment tests, and the operational stability and overall financial performance of the reporting units. During the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company utilized a qualitative assessment for reporting units where no significant change occurred and no potential impairment indicators existed since the previous evaluation of goodwill, and concluded it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value was more than its carrying value on a reporting unit basis. No impairment charges were recorded by the Company in 2014 as a result of the qualitative annual impairment assessment.

The Company’s annual impairment assessment is performed for the reporting units as of October 1. In years prior to 2014, the Company did not conduct an optional qualitative assessment of possible goodwill impairment for any reporting unit, rather we went directly to performance of the quantitative assessment. The October 1 goodwill and intangible impairment test data aligns the impairment assessment with the preparation of the Company’s annual strategic plan and allows additional time for a more thorough analysis by the Company’s independent appraiser. In 2013 and 2012, an independent appraiser assessed the value of The Company’s reporting units based on a discounted cash flow model and multiple of earnings. Assumptions critical to the Company’s fair value estimates under the discounted cash flow model include the discount rate, projected average revenue growth and projected long-term growth rates in the determination of terminal values. The results of the quantitative assessment in 2013 and 2012 indicated that the fair value of each reporting unit was substantially in excess of its carrying value, in each case by more than 10%. No impairment charges were recorded by the Company in 2013 or 2012 as a result of the quantitative annual impairment assessments.

The Company identified the following four reporting units for testing of goodwill impairment – All Points, Canada, Mexico, and United States excluding All Points. Each of these reporting units is also an operating segment that was assigned goodwill as a result of the Company’s acquisition by CCMP Capital Advisors, LLC in 2014. The goodwill was initially assigned to each of the reporting units based upon an independent valuation appraisal.

Long-Lived Assets:

The Company evaluates our long-lived assets for impairment including an evaluation based on the estimated undiscounted future cash flows as events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable. No impairment charges were recognized for long-lived assets in the six month periods ended December 31, 2014 or June 29, 2014 or in the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued)

 

Income Taxes:

Deferred income taxes are computed using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and income tax basis of assets and liabilities, based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the periods in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are provided for tax benefits where management estimates it is more likely than not that certain tax benefits will not be realized. Adjustments to valuation allowances are recorded for changes in utilization of the tax related item. See Note 6, Income Taxes, for additional information.

Risk Insurance Reserves:

The Company self-insures our product liability, automotive, workers’ compensation, and general liability losses up to $250 per occurrence. Catastrophic coverage has been purchased from third party insurers for occurrences in excess of $250 up to $40,000. The two risk areas involving the most significant accounting estimates are workers’ compensation and automotive liability. Actuarial valuations performed by the Company’s outside risk insurance expert were used to form the basis for workers’ compensation and automotive liability loss reserves. The actuary contemplated the Company’s specific loss history, actual claims reported, and industry trends among statistical and other factors to estimate the range of reserves required. Risk insurance reserves are comprised of specific reserves for individual claims and additional amounts expected for development of these claims, as well as for incurred but not yet reported claims. The Company believes the liability recorded for such risk insurance reserves is adequate as of December 31, 2014.

The Company self-insures our group health claims up to an annual stop loss limit of $200 per participant. Aggregate coverage is maintained for annual group health insurance claims in excess of 125% of expected claims. Historical group insurance loss experience forms the basis for the recognition of group health insurance reserves. The Company believes the liability recorded for such health insurance reserves is adequate as of December 31, 2014.

Retirement Benefits:

Certain employees of the Company are covered under a profit-sharing and retirement savings plan (“defined contribution plan”). The plan provides for a matching contribution for eligible employees of 50% of each dollar contributed by the employee up to 6% of the employee’s compensation. In addition, the plan provides an annual contribution in amounts authorized by the Board of Directors, subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.

Paulin sponsors a Deferred Profit Sharing Plan (“DPSP”) and a Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (“RRSP”) for all qualified, full time employees, with at least two years of continuous service. DPSP is an employer-sponsored profit sharing plan registered as a trust with the Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA”). On a periodic basis, Paulin shares business profits with employees by contributing to the DPSP on each employee’s behalf. Employees do not contribute to the DPSP. There is no minimum required contribution; however, DPSPs are subject to maximum contribution limits set by the CRA. The DPSP is offered in conjunction with a RRSP. Depending on the level of seniority and Paulin’s profits, required employee contributions to the RRSP vary from one to five percent of the employee’s gross earnings. All eligible employees may contribute an additional voluntary amount of up to eight percent of the employee’s gross earnings. Paulin is required to match 100% of all employee required contributions, where profit criteria are met. The assets of the RRSP are held separately from those of Paulin in independently administered funds.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued)

 

The Company’s defined contribution plan costs were $983 in the Successor period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, $1,003 in the Predecessor six months period ended June 29, 2014 and $1,843 and $1,426 for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Revenue Recognition:

Revenue is recognized when products are shipped or delivered to customers depending upon when title and risks of ownership have passed and the collection of the relevant receivables is probable, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. Sales taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and therefore excluded from revenues in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

The Company offers a variety of sales incentives to our customers primarily in the form of discounts and rebates. Discounts are recognized in the consolidated financial statements at the date of the related sale. Rebates are estimated based on the revenue to date and the contractual rebate percentage to be paid. A portion of the estimated cost of the rebate is allocated to each underlying sales transaction. Discounts, rebates, and slotting fees are included in the determination of net sales.

The Company also establishes reserves for customer returns and allowances. The reserve is established based on historical rates of returns and allowances. The reserve is adjusted quarterly based on actual experience. Returns and allowances are included in the determination of net sales.

Shipping and Handling:

The costs incurred to ship product to customers, including freight and handling expenses, are included in selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses on the Company’s consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

The Company’s shipping and handling costs were $15,989 in the Successor period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, $14,890 in the Predecessor six months period ended June 29, 2014 and $26,095 and $23,067 for the years ended December 31, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

Research and Development:

The Company expenses research and development costs consisting primarily of internal wages and benefits in connection with improvements to the key duplicating and engraving machines. The Company’s research and development costs were $598 in the Successor period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, $1,094 in the Predecessor period ended June 29, 2014 and $1,366 and $1,222 for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued)

 

Common Stock:

The Hillman Companies, Inc. has one class of common stock. All outstanding shares of The Hillman Companies, Inc. common stock are owned by Holdco. The management shareholders of Holdco do not have the ability to put their shares back to Holdco.

Under the terms of the Predecessor Stockholders Agreement for the Predecessor Holdco common stock, management shareholders had the ability to put their shares back to Predecessor Holdco under certain conditions, including death or disability. ASC 480-10-S99 requires shares to be classified outside of permanent equity if they can be redeemed and the redemption is not solely within control of the issuer. Further, if it is determined that redemption of the shares is probable, the shares are marked to fair value at each balance sheet date with the change in fair value recorded in additional paid-in capital. The Predecessor Company determined that redemption of the shares was probable as they could be put back to Predecessor Holdco upon death or disability. Accordingly, the 161.2 shares of common stock held by management as of December 31, 2013 were recorded outside permanent equity. These shares were adjusted to the fair value of $16,975 as of December 31, 2013.

Stock Based Compensation:

The Company has a stock-based employee compensation plan pursuant to which Holdco may grant options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, and other stock-based awards. The plan is more fully described in Note 14, Stock Based Compensation.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments:

Cash, restricted investments, accounts receivable, short-term borrowings, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities are reflected in the consolidated financial statements at book value, which approximates fair value, due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The carrying amounts of the long-term debt under the revolving credit facility and variable rate senior term loan approximate the fair value at December 31, 2014 and 2013 because the interest rate is variable and approximates current market rates. The fair values of the fixed rate senior notes and junior subordinated debentures at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were determined utilizing current trading prices obtained from indicative market data. See Note 16, Fair Value Measurements.

Derivatives and Hedging:

The Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage our exposures to (1) interest rate fluctuations on our floating rate senior debt; (2) price fluctuations in metal commodities used in our key products; and (3) fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company measures those instruments at fair value and recognizes changes in the fair value of derivatives in earnings in the period of change, unless the derivative qualifies as an effective hedge that offsets certain exposures. The Company enters into derivative instrument transactions with financial institutions acting as the counter-party. The Company does not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes and, therefore, holds no derivative instruments for trading purposes.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued)

 

The relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items are formally documented, in addition to the risk management objective and strategy for each hedge transaction. For interest rate swaps, the notional amounts, rates, and maturities of our interest rate swaps are closely matched to the related terms of hedged debt obligations. The critical terms of the interest rate swap are matched to the critical terms of the underlying hedged item to determine whether the derivatives used for hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the underlying hedged item. If it is determined that a derivative ceases to be a highly effective hedge, the hedge accounting is discontinued and all subsequent derivative gains and losses are recognized in the statement of comprehensive income or loss.

Derivative instruments designated in hedging relationships that mitigate exposure to the variability in future cash flows of the variable-rate debt, variable cost of key products and foreign currency exchange rates are considered cash flow hedges. The Company records all derivative instruments in other assets or other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets at their fair values. If the derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge and the hedging relationship qualifies for hedge accounting, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative is recorded in other comprehensive income or loss. Instruments not qualifying for hedge accounting are recognized in the statement of comprehensive income or loss in the period of the change. See Note 15, Derivatives and Hedging.

Translation of Foreign Currencies:

The translation of the Company’s Canadian, Mexican, and Australian local currency based financial statements into U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using an average exchange rate during the period. Cumulative translation adjustments are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income or loss in stockholders’ equity.

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements:

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Reclassifications:

Certain amounts in the prior year financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on the prior periods’ net income or stockholders’ equity.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

3. Recent Accounting Pronouncements:

In April 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity, which stipulates that the disposal of a component of an entity is to be reported in discontinued operations only if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. The pronouncement also removed the conditions that (a) the operations and cash flows of the component have been (or will be) eliminated from the ongoing operations of the entity as a result of the disposal transaction and (b) the entity will not have any significant continuing involvement in the operations of the component after the disposal transaction. The ASU is effective prospectively for all disposals (except disposals classified as held for sale before the adoption date) or components initially classified as held for sale in periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. We do not believe the adoption of this guidance will have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition. This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The update outlines a five-step model and related application guidance, which replaces most existing revenue recognition guidance. ASU 2014-09 is effective for us in the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, and for interim periods within that year. The amendments can be applied retrospectively to each prior reporting period or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying this standard recognized at the date of initial application. Early application is not permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of implementing this guidance on our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.

In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be achieved after the Requisite Service Period. The issue is the result of a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF). The amendments in this ASU require that a performance target that affects vesting, and that could be achieved after the requisite service period, be treated as a performance condition. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and can be either applied prospectively or retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of implementing this guidance on our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40): Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. The guidance requires an entity to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued (or within one year after the financial statements are available to be issued when applicable) and to provide related footnote disclosures in certain circumstances. The guidance is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. We do not believe the adoption of this guidance will have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

3. Recent Accounting Pronouncements (continued):

 

In November 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-17, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting”. The amendments in this ASU apply to the separate financial statements of an acquired entity and its subsidiaries that are a business (either public or nonpublic) when an acquirer obtains control of an acquired entity. An acquired entity may elect the option to apply pushdown accounting in the reporting period in which the change in control event occurs. If pushdown accounting is applied to an individual change in control event, the election is irrevocable. The amendments in the ASU are effective on November 18, 2014. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on the Company’s’ financial condition or results of operations.

 

4. Acquisitions:

On February 19, 2013, the Company consummated the Paulin Acquisition to expand our presence in Canada. The aggregate purchase price of the Paulin Acquisition was $103,416 paid in cash. On March 31, 2013, H. Paulin & Co., Limited was amalgamated with The Hillman Group Canada ULC and continues as a division operating under the trade name of H. Paulin & Co.

Paulin is a leading Canadian distributor and manufacturer of fasteners, fluid system products, automotive parts, and retail hardware components. Paulin’s distribution facilities are located across Canada in Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, and Moncton, as well as in Flint, Michigan and Cleveland, Ohio. Paulin’s manufacturing facilities are located in Ontario, Canada. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the post-acquisition revenues of H. Paulin & Co., Limited were approximately $130,459 and the post-acquisition net income was approximately $3,009.

The following table reconciles the estimated fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities to the total purchase price of the Paulin Acquisition:

 

Accounts receivable

$ 17,259   

Inventory

  55,552   

Other current assets

  2,701   

Property and equipment

  16,121   

Goodwill

  11,687   

Intangibles

  18,967   
  

 

 

 

Total assets acquired

  122,287   

Less:

Deferred income taxes

  (5,437

Liabilities assumed

  (13,434
  

 

 

 

Total purchase price

$ 103,416   
  

 

 

 

The excess of the purchase price over the net assets has been allocated to goodwill and intangible assets based upon an independent valuation appraisal. The Company has made a Section 338(g) election which will impact the deductibility of goodwill for tax purposes.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

5. Related Party Transactions:

The Successor has recorded aggregate management fee charges and expenses from the Oak Hill Funds and CCMP of $276 for the six month period ended December 31, 2014. The Predecessor recorded aggregate management fee charges and expenses from the Oak Hill Funds of $15 for the six month period ended June 29, 2014, $77 for the year ended December 31, 2013, and $155 for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Gregory Mann and Gabrielle Mann are employed by the All Points subsidiary of Hillman. All Points leases an industrial warehouse and office facility from companies under the control of the Manns. The Company has recorded rental expense for the lease of this facility on an arm’s length basis. In the six month period ended December 31, 2014 the Successor’s rental expense for the lease of this facility was $146. In the six month period ended June 29, 2014 the Predecessor’s rental expense for the lease of this facility was $165. The Predecessor’s rental expense for the lease of this facility was $311 for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

In connection with the Paulin Acquisition, the Company entered into three leases for five properties containing industrial warehouse, manufacturing plant, and office facilities on February 19, 2013. The owners of the properties under one lease are relatives of Richard Paulin, who is employed by The Hillman Group Canada ULC, and the owner of the properties under the other two leases is a company which is owned by Richard Paulin and certain of his relatives. The Company has recorded rental expense for the three leases on an arm’s length basis. In the six month period ended December 31, 2014 the Successor’s rental expense for these facilities was $371. In the six month period ended June 29, 2014 the Predecessor’s rental expense for these facilities was $376. The Predecessor’s rental expense for these facilities was $687 for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

6. Income Taxes:

Below are the components of the Company’s income tax provision for the periods indicated:

 

     Successor           Predecessor  
     Period from
06/30/2014
through

12/31/2014
           Six months
Ended

06/29/2014
     Year
Ended

12/31/2013
     Year
Ended

12/31/2012
 
              

Current:

                

Federal & State

   $ 102            $ 105       $ 552       $ 206   

Foreign

     800              212         795         344   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total current

  902        317      1,347      550   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deferred:

 

Federal & State

  (7,081     (23,056   (2,857   (5,000

Foreign

  (98     328      (890   (746
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total deferred

  (7,179     (22,728   (3,747   (5,746
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Valuation allowance

  89        (1,717   (381   28   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income tax benefit

$ (6,188   $ (24,128 $ (2,781 $ (5,168
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company has U.S. federal net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards for tax purposes, totaling $105,867 as of December 31, 2014, that are available to offset future taxable income. These carry forwards expire from 2022 to 2034. Management estimates that the Company will not be able to utilize some of the loss carryforwards before they expire due to limitations imposed by Internal Revenue Code Section 382. A valuation allowance with a year-end balance of $6 has been recorded for these deferred tax assets. In addition, the Company’s foreign subsidiaries have NOL carryforwards aggregating $1,668. A portion of these carryforwards expire from 2031 to 2034. Approximately $1.3 million of the US NOL carryforward has an indefinite life carryforward provided the Company continues to meet certain obligations under Luxembourg’s tax codes. Management has recorded a valuation reserve of $703 against the deferred tax assets recorded for the foreign subsidiary.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

6. Income Taxes: (continued)

 

The Company has state net operating loss carryforwards with an aggregate tax benefit of $4,089 which expire from 2015 to 2034. Management estimates that the Company will not be able to utilize some of the loss carryforwards in certain states before they expire. A valuation allowance with a year-end balance of $290 has been recorded for these deferred tax assets. In 2014, the valuation allowance for state net operating loss carryforwards increased by $72. The increase was primarily a result of a change in the estimation of the utilization of the net operating losses in the carryforward years. In conjunction with the Paulin Acquisition, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset related to the carryforward of a foreign exchange loss. The total carryforward balance at year-end is $194. Management estimates that the Company will not be able to realize the benefit of this deferred tax asset and has recorded a valuation reserve of $74.

The Company fully utilized its federal capital loss carryforward as of December 31, 2013. Management had previously recorded a valuation allowance for this capital loss carryforward to fully offset the deferred tax asset at 2012. In 2013, the valuation allowance for the capital loss carryforward was decreased by $374 due to utilization in the current period. The Company has $294 of general business tax credit carryforwards which expire from 2016 to 2033. A valuation allowance of $149 has been established for these tax credits. The Company has $675 of foreign tax credit carryforwards which expire from 2020 to 2024.

Deferred income taxes reflect the net effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

6. Income Taxes: (continued)

 

The table below reflects the significant components of the Company’s net deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

     Successor Period
As of December 31, 2014
           Predecessor Period
As of December 31, 2013
 
     Current      Non-current            Current      Non-current  

Deferred Tax Asset:

                

Inventory

   $ 9,905       $ —              $ 8,377       $ —     

Bad debt reserve

     956         —                978         —     

Casualty loss reserve

     363         502              297         410   

Accrued bonus / deferred compensation

     1,013         907              1,805         4,608   

Deferred rent

     —           68              —           546   

Derivative security value

     276         —                (120      —     

Deferred distribution of foreign subsidiary

        312                 —     

Deferred financing fees

     —           5,190              —           283   

Deferred revenue - shipping terms

     421                 285         —     

Medical insurance reserve

     373         —                355         —     

Original issue discount amortization

        513              —           596   

Transaction costs

        1,389              —           3,454   

Federal / foreign net operating loss

        37,552              —           20,595   

State net operating loss

        4,089              —           2,524   

Unrecognized tax benefit

        (58           —           (2,024

Tax credit carryforwards

        3,619              —           2,881   

All other

     31         531              (275      824   
  

 

 

    

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross deferred tax assets

  13,338      54,614        11,702      34,697   

Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets

  (99   (1,124     (606   (2,302
  

 

 

    

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets

$ 13,239    $ 53,490      $ 11,096    $ 32,395   
  

 

 

    

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deferred Tax Liability:

 

Intangible asset amortization

$ —      $ 303,124      $ —      $ 135,335   

Property and equipment

  —        24,147        —        17,106   

All other items

  —        —          —        14   
  

 

 

    

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities

$ —      $ 327,271      $ —      $ 152,455   
  

 

 

    

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net deferred tax liability

$ 260,542      $ 108,964   
     

 

 

            

 

 

 

Long term net deferred tax liability

$ 273,781      $ 120,060   

Current net deferred tax asset

  13,239        11,096   

Long term net deferred tax asset

  —          —     
     

 

 

            

 

 

 

Net deferred tax liability

$ 260,542      $ 108,964   
     

 

 

            

 

 

 

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

6. Income Taxes: (continued)

 

Realization of the net deferred tax assets is dependent on the reversal of deferred tax liabilities and generating sufficient taxable income prior to their expiration. Although realization is not assured, management estimates it is more likely than not that the net deferred tax assets will be realized. The amount of net deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward periods are reduced.

Hillman is subject to income taxes in the United States and in certain foreign jurisdictions. In general, it is the practice and intention of the Company to reinvest the earnings of certain of its non-U.S. subsidiaries in those operations. Based on direction from the new management team, the Company’s position with respect to permanent reinvestment of earnings in its foreign subsidiaries was revised in the fourth quarter of 2014. As a result of this management decision, only one of the foreign subsidiaries had accumulated E&P that warranted establishment of a DTA. Due to the availability of a foreign tax credit which can offset the US tax on future distributions from this subsidiary, an overall deferred tax asset of $312 was established in 2014.

As of December 31, 2014, the Company does not have any excess amount for financial reporting over the tax basis in these certain foreign subsidiaries. In 2014 the Company recorded a deferred tax asset of $312 based on undistributed earnings in one of its foreign subsidiaries that is not being indefinitely reinvested.

Below is a reconciliation of statutory income tax rates to the effective income tax rates for the periods indicated:

 

     Successor          Predecessor  
    

Period from
06/30/2014

through

        

Six months

Ended

    Year
Ended
    Year
Ended
 
     12/31/2014           06/29/2014     12/31/2013     12/31/2012  

Statutory federal income tax rate

     35.0          35.0     35.0     35.0

Non-U.S. taxes and the impact of non-U.S. losses for which a current tax benefit is not available

     -11.0          1.5     -19.6     -6.1

State and local income taxes, net of U.S. federal income tax benefit

     2.5          3.0     -0.1     1.9

Adjustment of reserve for change in valuation allowance and other items

     0.5          -0.3     15.0     1.2

Adjustment for change in tax law

     3.1          0.5     8.9     -0.4

Adjustment of unrecognized tax benefits

     0.0          0.0     36.6     11.6

Permanent differences:

             

Acquisition and related transaction costs

     -8.2          -4.0     -4.0     -0.9

Meals and entertainment expense

     -0.2          -0.1     -3.5     -1.1

Foreign tax credit

     2.4          0.0     1.3     0.0

Reconciliation of tax provision to return

     0.0          0.0     2.0     0.5

Reconciliation of other adjustments

     0.5          -0.5     -0.8     0.0
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effective income tax rate

  24.6     35.1   70.8   41.7
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

6. Income Taxes: (continued)

 

On September 13, 2013, the US Treasury and IRS issued final Tangible Property Regulations (“TPR”) under IRC Section 162 and IRC Section 263(a). These regulations address the acquisition, production and improvement of tangible property, and also the disposition of property. The regulations were effective for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2014; however, certain portions may require an accounting method change on a retroactive basis, thus requiring an IRC Section 481(a) adjustment related to fixed assets. The accounting rules under ASC 740 treat the release of the regulations as a change in tax law as of the date of issuance and require the Company to determine whether there will be an impact on its financial statements. Any such impact of the final tangible property regulations would affect deferred taxes only and result in a balance sheet reclassification between current and deferred taxes. The Company is currently analyzing the expected impacts of the TPR but does not believe that they will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The Company will continue to monitor the impact of any future changes to the TPR on the Company prospectively.

The Company has recorded a $1,558 decrease in the reserve for unrecognized tax benefits in the six month Predecessor period ended June 29, 2014 due to the resolution of a recent IRS examination in 2014. The Company has decreased its reserve for unrecognized tax benefits in the six month Successor period June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014 and the six month Predecessor period ended June 29, 2014 by $30 and $1, respectively, related to items previously recognized by the acquired company in its financial statements. A balance of $58 of the remaining unrecognized tax benefit is shown in the financial statements at December 31, 2014 as a reduction of the deferred tax asset for the Company’s net operating loss carryforwards while $377 of the ending reserve is included in the balance of other long term liabilities. The following is a summary of the changes for the periods indicated below:

 

     Successor           Predecessor  
     Period from
06/30/2014
through
12/31/2014
           Six months
Ended
06/29/2014
     Year
Ended
12/31/2013
     Year
Ended
12/31/2012
 

Unrecognized tax benefits - beginning balance

   $ 465            $ 2,024       $ 3,002       $ 4,440   
 

Gross increases - tax positions in current period

     —                —           —           —     

Gross increases - tax positions in prior period

             —           560         —     

Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period

     (30           (1,559      (1,538      (1,438
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Unrecognized tax benefits - ending balance

$ 435      $ 465    $ 2,024    $ 3,002   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Amount of unrecognized tax benefit that, if recognized would affect the company’s effective tax rate

$ 435      $ 465    $ 2,024    $ 3,002   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

6. Income Taxes: (continued)

 

The Company recognizes potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. In conjunction with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”), an interpretation of FASB No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”, which was codified in ASC 740-10, the Company has not recognized any adjustment of interest or penalties in its consolidated financial statements due to its net operating loss position. The Company does not anticipate a decrease in the unrecognized tax benefits for the tax year ending December 31, 2015.

The Company files a consolidated income tax return in the U.S. and numerous consolidated and separate income tax returns in various states and foreign jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2014, with a few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state, and foreign tax examinations by tax authorities for the tax years prior to 2011. However, the IRS can make adjustments to losses carried forward by the Company from 2006 forward and utilized on its federal return.

 

7. Property and Equipment:

Property and equipment, net, consists of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

     Estimated
Useful Life
   Successor           Predecessor  
     (Years)    2014            2013  

Land

   n/a    $ 1,069            $ 1,166   

Buildings

   27      2,184              2,758   

Leasehold improvements

   3-10      4,384              5,808   

Machinery and equipment

   2-10      116,371              143,002   

Furniture and fixtures

   3-8      1,127              1,102   

Construction in process

        3,757              3,352   
     

 

 

         

 

 

 

Property and equipment, gross

  128,892        157,188   

Less: Accumulated depreciation

  14,361        61,370   
     

 

 

         

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

$ 114,531      $ 95,818   
     

 

 

         

 

 

 

Machinery and equipment includes capitalized software of $11,653 and $13,270 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Capitalized interest of $140 and $182 was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

The Predecessor’s depreciation expense for depreciable assets for the six months period ended June 29, 2014 was $14,149, and for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 was $24,796 and $22,009, respectively. The Successor’s depreciation expense for depreciable assets for the period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014 was $17,277.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

8. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets:

Goodwill amounts by reporting unit are summarized as follows:

 

     Goodwill at
December 31, 2013
     Acquisitions
(1)
    Dispositions      Other
(2)
    Goodwill at
December 31, 2014
 

United States, excluding All Points

   $ 446,382       $ 134,038      $ —         $ —        $ 580,420   

All Points

     58         3,302        —           —          3,360   

Canada

     12,785         22,695        —           (2,636     32,844   

Mexico

     7,002         (1,392     —           (674     4,936   

Australia

     —           —          —           —          —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

$ 466,227    $ 158,643    $ —      $ (3,310 $ 621,560   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) Changes in values primarily related to the Merger Transaction.
(2) These amounts relate to adjustments resulting from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

8. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (continued):

 

Definite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives and are subject to impairment testing. The values assigned to intangible assets, in connection with the Merger Transaction and the acquisition of Paulin, were determined through separate independent appraisals. Other intangibles, net, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 consist of the following:

 

     Estimated    Successor           Estimated    Predecessor  
     Useful Life
(Years)
   December 31,
2014
           Useful Life
(Years)
   December 31,
2013
 

Customer relationships

   20    $ 693,852            20    $ 341,500   

Trademarks - All Others

   Indefinite      86,513            Indefinite      54,082   

Trademarks - TagWorks

   5      300            5      240   

Patents

   7-12      32,895            5-20      20,250   

Quick Tag license

   —        —              6      11,500   

Laser Key license

   —        —              5      1,250   

KeyWorks license

   7      4,476            10      4,100   

Non compete agreements

   —        —              5-10      4,450   
     

 

 

            

 

 

 

Intangible assets, gross

  818,036        437,372   

Less: Accumulated amortization

  19,095        75,007   
     

 

 

            

 

 

 

Other intangibles, net

$ 798,941      $ 362,365   
     

 

 

            

 

 

 

The Successor’s accumulated amortization was $19,095 as of December 31, 2014, which includes accumulated amortization of foreign subsidiaries translated using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. The Successor’s amortization expense for amortizable assets was $19,128, including the adjustments resulting from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, for the period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014 and the Predecessor’s expense was $11,093 for the six months period ended June 29, 2014. The Predecessor’s amortization expense for amortizable assets was $22,112 and 21,752 for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For the years ending December 31, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019, the Successor’s amortization expense for amortizable assets is estimated to be $38,187, $38,187, $38,187, $38,187, and $38,187, respectively.

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

9. Long-Term Debt:

On June 30, 2014, Hillman and certain of its subsidiaries closed on a $620,000 senior secured credit facility (the “Senior Facilities”), consisting of a $550,000 term loan and a $70,000 revolving credit facility (“Revolver”). The term loan portion of the Senior Facilities has a seven year term and the Revolver has a five year term. For the first fiscal quarter after June 30, 2014, the Senior Facilities provide term loan borrowings at interest rates based on LIBOR plus a LIBOR Spread of 3.50%, or an Alternate Base Rate (“ABR”) plus an ABR Spread of 2.50%. The LIBOR is subject to a minimum floor rate of 1.00% and the ABR is subject to a minimum floor of 2.00%. Additionally, the Senior Facilities provide Revolver borrowings at interest rates based on LIBOR plus a LIBOR Spread of 3.25%, or an ABR plus an ABR Spread of 2.25%. There is no minimum floor rate for Revolver loans. After the initial fiscal quarter, the borrowing rate shall be adjusted quarterly on a prospective basis on each adjustment date based upon total leverage ratio for initial term loans and the senior secured leverage ratio for Revolver loans. For the fiscal quarter beginning after December 31, 2014, the term loan borrowings will be at an adjusted interest rate of 4.5% and the Revolver loans will be at interest rates based on Libor plus a Libor spread of 3.25% or an ABR plus an ABR spread of 2.25%.

Concurrent with the consummation of the Merger Transaction, Hillman Group issued $330,000 aggregate principal amount of its senior notes due July 15, 2022 (the “6.375% Senior Notes”), which are guaranteed by Hillman Companies and its domestic subsidiaries other than the Hillman Group Capital Trust. Hillman Group pays interest on the 6.375% Senior Notes semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year.

Prior to the consummation of the Merger Transaction, the Company, through Hillman Group, was party to a Senior Credit Agreement (the “Prior Credit Agreement”), consisting of a $30,000 revolving credit line and a $384,400 term loan. The facilities under the Prior Credit Agreement had a maturity date of May 28, 2017. In addition, the Company, through Hillman Group, had issued $265,000 in aggregate principal amount of 10.875% Senior Notes that were scheduled to mature on June 1, 2018. In connection with the Merger Transaction, both the Prior Credit Agreement and the 10.875% Senior Notes were repaid and terminated.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

9. Long-Term Debt: (continued)

 

The Company pays interest to the Hillman Group Capital Trust (“Trust”) on the Junior Subordinated Debentures underlying the Trust Preferred Securities at the rate of 11.6% per annum on their face amount of $105,443, or $12,231 per annum in the aggregate. The Trust will redeem the Trust Preferred Securities when the Junior Subordinated Debentures are repaid, or at maturity on September 30, 2027. The Trust distributes an equivalent amount to the holders of the Trust Preferred Securities. Pursuant to the Indenture that governs the Trust Preferred Securities, the Trust is able to defer distribution payments to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities for a period that cannot exceed 60 months (the “Deferral Period”). During a Deferral Period, the Company is required to accrue the full amount of all interest payable, and such deferred interest payable would become immediately payable by the Company at the end of the Deferral Period. There were no deferrals of distribution payments to holders of the Trust Preferred Securities in 2014 or 2013.

The Senior Facilities provide for customary events of default, including but not limited to, payment defaults, breach of representations or covenants, cross-defaults, bankruptcy events, failure to pay judgments, attachment of its assets, change of control, and the issuance of an order of dissolution. Certain of these events of default are subject to notice and cure periods or materiality thresholds. The Company is also required to comply, in certain circumstances, with a senior secured net leverage ratio covenant. This covenant only applies if, at the end of a fiscal quarter, there are outstanding Revolver borrowings in excess of 35% of the total revolving commitments. As of December 31, 2014, the Revolver loan had no amounts outstanding and the outstanding letters of credit were $3.7 million. The $3.7 million outstanding usage represented 5% of total revolving commitments and this financial covenant was not in effect. The occurrence of an event of default permits the lenders under the Senior Facilities to accelerate repayment of all amounts due. The Company was in compliance with all provisions and covenants of the Senior Facilities as of December 31, 2014.

As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, long-term debt is summarized as follows:

 

     Successor          Predecessor  
     2014           2013  

Revolving credit agreement

   $ —             $ —     

Term Loan B

     547,250             381,609   

6.375% Senior Notes

     330,000             —     

10.875% Senior Notes

     —               271,750   

Capital leases and other obligations

     607             556   
  

 

 

        

 

 

 
  877,857        653,915   

Less: amounts due in one year

  5,707        4,187   
  

 

 

        

 

 

 

Long-term debt

$ 872,150      $ 649,728   
  

 

 

        

 

 

 

The aggregate minimum principal maturities of the long-term debt for each of the five years following December 31, 2014 are as follows:

 

Year

   Amount  

2015

   $ 5,707   

2016

     5,695   

2017

     5,612   

2018

     5,552   

2019

     5,536   

2020 and thereafter

     849,755   

As of December 31, 2014, the Company had $66,277 available under our revolving credit agreement and letter of credit commitments outstanding of $3,723. The Company had outstanding debt of $547,857 under our secured credit facilities at December 31, 2014, consisting of $547,250 in Term B loans and $607 in capitalized lease and other obligations. The term loan consisted of $547,250 in Term B Loans currently at a three (3) month LIBOR rate of 4.50%. The capitalized lease and other obligations were at various interest rates.

Additional information with respect to the fair value of the Company’s fixed rate senior notes and junior subordinated debentures is included in Note 16 – Fair Value Measurements.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

10. Leases:

Certain warehouse, office space, and equipment are leased under capital and operating leases with terms in excess of one year. Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable leases consisted of the following at December 31, 2014:

 

     Capital      Operating  
     Leases      Leases  

2015

   $ 243       $ 10,192   

2016

     218         7,633   

2017

     125         6,145   

2018

     58         5,088   

2019

     38         4,726   

Later years

     5         27,762   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

  687    $ 61,546   
     

 

 

 

Less amounts representing interest

  (80
  

 

 

    

Present value of net minimum lease payments
(including $207 currently payable)

$ 607   
  

 

 

    

The rental expense for all operating leases was $6,511, $5,890, $11,788 and $8,787 for the Successor period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, Predecessor six months period ended June 29, 2014, and years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Certain leases are subject to terms of renewal and escalation clauses.

 

11. Deferred Compensation Plan:

The Company maintains a deferred compensation plan for key employees (the “Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan” or “NQDC”) which allows the participants to defer up to 25% of salary and commissions and up to 100% of bonuses to be paid during the year and invest these deferred amounts into certain Company directed mutual fund investments, subject to the election of the participants. The Company is permitted to make a 25% matching contribution on deferred amounts up to $10, subject to a five year vesting schedule.

As of Successor’s period ended December 31, 2014 and Predecessor’s year ended December 31, 2013, the Company’s consolidated balance sheets included $2,244 and $4,386, respectively, in restricted investments representing the assets held in mutual funds to fund deferred compensation liabilities owed to the Company’s current and former employees. The current portion of the restricted investments was $494 and $2,856 as of Successor’s period ended December 31, 2014 and Predecessor’s year ended December 31, 2013, respectively.

The assets held in the NQDC are classified as an investment in trading securities. The Company recorded trading gains and offsetting compensation expense of $43, $95, $364, and $329 for the Successor’s period ended December 31, 2014, Predecessor’s period ended June 29, 2014, and Predecessor’s years ended December 31, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

During the Successor’s period ended December 31, 2014, Predecessor’s period ended June 29, 2014, and Predecessor’s years ended December 31, 2013, and 2012, distributions from the deferred compensation plan aggregated $0, $2,893, $864, and $357, respectively.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

12. Guaranteed Preferred Beneficial Interest in the Company’s Junior Subordinated Debentures:

In September 1997, The Hillman Group Capital Trust, a Grantor trust, completed a $105,446 underwritten public offering of 4,217,724 Trust Preferred Securities (“TOPrS”). The Trust invested the proceeds from the sale of the preferred securities in an equal principal amount of 11.6% Junior Subordinated Debentures of Hillman due September 2027.

The Trust distributes monthly cash payments it receives from the Company as interest on the debentures to preferred security holders at an annual rate of 11.6% on the liquidation amount of $25.00 per preferred security.

In connection with the public offering of TOPrS, the Trust issued $3,261 of trust common securities to the Company. The Trust invested the proceeds from the sale of the trust common securities in an equal principal amount of 11.6% Junior Subordinated Debentures of Hillman due September 2027. The Trust distributes monthly cash payments it receives from the Company as interest on the debentures to the Company at an annual rate of 11.6% on the liquidation amount of the common security.

The Company may defer interest payments on the debentures at any time, for up to 60 consecutive months. If this occurs, the Trust will also defer distribution payments on the preferred securities. The deferred distributions, however, will accumulate interest at a rate of 11.6% per annum. The Trust will redeem the preferred securities when the debentures are repaid, or at maturity on September 30, 2027. The Company may redeem the debentures before their maturity at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the debentures redeemed, plus accrued interest. When the Company redeems any debentures before their maturity, the Trust will use the cash it receives to redeem preferred securities and common securities as provided in the trust agreement. The Company guarantees the obligations of the Trust on the Trust Preferred Securities.

The Company has determined that the Trust is a variable interest entity and the holders of the Trust Preferred Securities are the primary beneficiaries of the Trust. Accordingly, the Company has de-consolidated the Trust. Summarized below is the financial information of the Trust as of December 31, 2014:

 

Non-current assets - junior subordinated debentures - preferred

$ 127,424   

Non-current assets - junior subordinated debentures - common

  3,261   
  

 

 

 

Total assets

$ 130,685   
  

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities - trust preferred securities

$ 127,424   

Stockholder’s equity - trust common securities

  3,261   
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$ 130,685   
  

 

 

 

The non-current assets for the Trust relate to its investment in the 11.6% junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures of Hillman due September 30, 2027.

The TOPrS constitute mandatorily redeemable financial instruments. The Company guarantees the obligations of the Trust on the Trust Preferred Securities. Accordingly, the guaranteed preferred beneficial interest in the Company’s junior subordinated debentures is presented in long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

12. Guaranteed Preferred Beneficial Interest in the Company’s Junior Subordinated Debentures: (continued)

 

On June 30, 2014, the Junior Subordinated Debentures were recorded at the fair value of $131,141 based on the price underlying the Trust Preferred Securities of $30.32 per share upon close of trading on the NYSE Amex on that date plus the liquidation value of the trust common securities. The Company is amortizing the premium on the Junior Subordinated Debentures of $22,437 over their remaining life.

 

13. Common and Preferred Stock:

Common Stock

After consummation of the Merger Transaction, The Hillman Companies, Inc. has one class of common stock. All outstanding shares of The Hillman Companies, Inc. common stock are owned by Holdco. The management shareholders of Holdco do not have the ability to put their shares back to Holdco.

Under the terms of the Predecessor Stockholders Agreement for the Predecessor Holdco common stock, management shareholders had the ability to put their shares back to Predecessor Holdco under certain conditions, including death or disability. ASC 480-10-S99 requires shares to be classified outside of permanent equity if they can be redeemed and the redemption is not solely within control of the issuer. Further, if it is determined that redemption of the shares is probable, the shares are marked to fair value at each balance sheet date with the change in fair value recorded in additional paid-in capital. The Predecessor Company determined that redemption of the shares was probable as they could be put back to Predecessor Holdco upon death or disability. Accordingly, the 161.2 shares of common stock held by management as of December 31, 2013 were recorded outside permanent equity. These shares were adjusted to the fair value of $16,975 as of December 31, 2013.

Preferred Stock

The Hillman Companies has one class of preferred stock, with 5,000 shares authorized and none issued or outstanding as of December 31, 2014 or 2013.

 

14. Stock-Based Compensation:

OHCP HM Acquisition Corp. 2010 Stock Option Plan

Effective May 28, 2010, the Predecessor established the OHCP HM Acquisition Corp. 2010 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “Predecessor Option Plan”), pursuant to which Predecessor Holdco granted non-qualified stock options for the purchase of Predecessor Holdco common stock. Immediately prior to the consummation of the Merger Transaction, there were outstanding options to purchase 44,180 shares of Predecessor Holdco common stock. In connection with the Merger Transaction, the Predecessor Option Plan was terminated, and all options outstanding thereunder were cancelled. Upon consummation of the Merger Transaction, each outstanding option to purchase shares of Predecessor Holdco common stock was converted into the right to receive, in cash, a portion of the merger consideration in the Merger Transaction.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

14. Stock-Based Compensation: (continued)

 

Option holders were not required by the terms of the Predecessor Option Plan or the Predecessor Stockholders Agreement to hold the shares for any period of time following exercise. Liability classification was required because this arrangement permits the holders to put the shares back without being exposed to the risks and rewards of the shares for a reasonable period of time. Consistent with past practice, the Company elected to use the intrinsic value method to value the options. Immediately prior to the cancelation of the Predecessor Option Plan, the stock option liability was $48,517.

HMAN Group Holdings Inc. 2014 Equity Incentive Plan

Effective June 30, 2014, Holdco established the HMAN Group Holdings Inc. 2014 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2014 Equity Incentive Plan”), pursuant to which Holdco may grant options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, and other stock-based awards for up to an aggregate of 44,021.264 shares of its common stock. The 2014 Equity Incentive Plan is administered by a committee of the Holdco board of directors. Such committee determines the terms of each stock-based award grant under the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan, except that the exercise price of any granted options and the grant price of any granted stock appreciation rights may not be lower than the fair market value of one share of common stock of Holdco as of the date of grant.

In 2014, Holdco granted a total of 35,817.010 non-qualified stock options with certain time-vesting and performance vesting conditions under the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan. The options were granted with an exercise price equal to the grant date fair value of the underlying securities. As of December 31, 2014, a total of 8,204.254 shares were available for future stock-based award grants.

The fair value of 18,208.5 time-vested options granted by Holdco was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: dividend yield equaling 0%, risk-free interest rate of 2.1%, expected volatility assumed to be 32.0%, and expected term from 6.5 years to 6.75 years. The fair value of an option was $372.598.

Compensation expense of $675 was recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of Comprehensive Loss for the period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, there was $6,110 of unrecognized compensation expense for unvested common options. The expense will be recognized as a charge to earnings over a weighted average period of approximately 4.5 years.

Holdco also granted 17,608.5 performance-based stock options that ultimately vest depending upon satisfaction of conditions that only arise in the event of a sale of the Company. No compensation expense will be recognized on these stock options unless it becomes probable the performance conditions will be satisfied.

 

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14. Stock-Based Compensation (continued):

 

A summary of successor stock option activity for the six months ended December 31, 2014 is presented below:

 

     Number
of
Shares
     Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price Per
Share
     Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(Years)
     Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 

Outstanding at June 30, 2014

     —           —           —           —     

Granted

     35,817.010       $ 1,000         —           —     

Exercised or converted

     —           —           —           —     

Forfeited or expired

     —           —           —           —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2014

  35,817.010    $ 1,000      9.50 years    $ —     

Exercisable at December 31, 2014

  —      $ —        —      $ —     

OHCP HM Acquisition Corp. Deferred Stock Unit Plan U.S.:

Effective December 31, 2013, Predecessor Holdco established the OHCP HM Acquisition Corp. Deferred Stock Unit Plan U.S. for Senior Officers (the “DSU Plan”). The DSU Plan permitted an eligible executive to elect to have a short-term incentive award paid in the form of deferred stock units, which are bookkeeping entries equivalent in value to one share of Predecessor Holdco common stock.

The deferred stock units issued under the DSU Plan in respect to fiscal year 2013 (the “2013 DSUs”) were exchanged for the right to receive a cash payment in the aggregate amount of $1,323 in connection with the closing of the Merger Transaction. In connection with the Merger Transaction, the DSU Plan was terminated, and all deferred stock units outstanding thereunder were cancelled.

 

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15. Derivatives and Hedging:

The Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage our exposures to (1) interest rate fluctuations on our floating rate senior debt; (2) price fluctuations in metal commodities used in our key products; and (3) fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company measures those instruments at fair value and recognizes changes in the fair value of derivatives in earnings in the period of change, unless the derivative qualifies as an effective hedge that offsets certain exposures.

Interest Rate Swap Agreements - On June 24, 2010, the Company entered into a forward Interest Rate Swap Agreement (the “2010 Swap”) with a two-year term for a notional amount of $115,000. The forward start date of the 2010 Swap was May 31, 2011 and it terminated on May 31, 2013. The 2010 Swap fixed the interest rate at 2.47% plus the applicable interest rate margin.

The 2010 Swap was initially designated as a cash flow hedge. Effective April 18, 2011, the Company executed the second amendment to the Prior Credit Agreement which modified the interest rate on the Prior Senior Facilities (the “Prior Senior Facilities”). The critical terms for the 2010 Swap no longer matched the terms of the amended Prior Senior Facilities and the 2010 Swap was de-designated. As a result, $643 of previously unrecognized losses recorded as a component of other comprehensive income or loss was recognized as interest expense in year ended December 31, 2011. The 2011 adjustments of $284 to the fair value of the 2010 Swap were recorded as a reduction in interest expense in the statement of comprehensive loss for the favorable change in fair value since December 31, 2010.

At December 31, 2012, the fair value of the 2010 Swap was $(418) and was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in other current liabilities with a reduction in interest expense recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the favorable change of $787 in fair value since December 31, 2011.

The 2010 Swap had no value at December 31, 2014 or at December 31, 2013. Adjustments of $418 to the fair value of the 2010 Swap were recorded as a reduction in interest expense in the statement of comprehensive loss for the favorable change in fair value from December 31, 2012 until its termination on May 31, 2013.

On September 3, 2014, the Company entered into a forward Interest Rate Swap Agreement (the “2014 Swap No. 1”) with a three-year term for a notional amount of $90,000. The forward start date of the 2014 Swap No. 1 is October 1, 2015 and its termination date is September 30, 2018. The 2014 Swap No. 1 fixes the interest rate at 2.2% plus the applicable interest rate margin.

On September 3, 2014, the Company entered into a forward Interest Rate Swap Agreement (the “2014 Swap No. 2”) with a three-year term for a notional amount of $40,000. The effective date of the 2014 Swap No. 2 is October 1, 2015 and its termination date is September 30, 2018. The 2014 Swap No. 2 fixes the interest rate at 2.2% plus the applicable interest rate margin.

The total fair value of the interest rate swaps was $(935) as of December 31, 2014 and was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in other non-current liabilities with an increase in interest expense recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the unfavorable change of $935 in fair value since the inception.

 

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15. Derivatives and Hedging: (continued)

 

The Company’s interest rate swap agreements did not qualify for hedge accounting treatment because they did not meet the provisions specified in ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”).

Interest Rate Cap Agreements - On May 20, 2013, the Company entered into an Interest Rate Cap Agreement (the “2013 Rate Cap No. 1”) with a two-year term for a notional amount of $150,000 and the maximum LIBOR interest rate set at 1.25%. 2013 Rate Cap No. 1 became effective on May 28, 2013 and was terminated effective as of June 19, 2014.

On May 20, 2013, the Company entered into an Interest Rate Cap Agreement (the “2013 Rate Cap No. 2”) with a two-year term for a notional amount of $75,000 and the maximum LIBOR interest rate set at 1.25%. 2013 Rate Cap No. 2 became effective on May 28, 2013 and was terminated effective as of June 19, 2014.

Adjustments of $(53) to the fair value of the rate caps were recorded as an increase in interest expense in the predecessor statement of comprehensive loss for the six months ended June 29, 2014 for the unfavorable change since December 31, 2013.

As of December 31, 2013, the fair value of the interest rate caps of $53 was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in non-current other assets with an increase in interest expense recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the unfavorable change of $(81) in fair value since the inception.

The Company’s interest rate cap agreements did not qualify for hedge accounting treatment because they did not meet the provisions specified in ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging, (“ASC 815”).

Metal Swap Agreements - On April 20, 2012, the Company entered into a Commodity Metal Swap Agreement (the “2012 Metal Swap No. 1”) with an approximate eight-month term for 35 MT of copper at a notional amount of $294.7. The maturity date was December 31, 2012 and the 2012 Metal Swap No. 1 fixed the copper price at $8.42 per MT.

On May 30, 2012, the Company entered into a Commodity Metal Swap Agreement (the “2012 Metal Swap No. 2”) with an approximate seven-month term for 10 MT of copper at a notional amount of $77.9. The maturity date was December 31, 2012 and the 2012 Metal Swap No. 2 fixed the copper price at $7.79 per MT.

On May 30, 2012, the Company entered into a Commodity Metal Swap Agreement (the “2012 Metal Swap No. 3”) with an approximate ten-month term for 35 MT of copper at a notional amount of $272.5. The maturity date was March 31, 2013 and the 2012 Metal Swap No. 3 fixed the copper price at $7.785 per MT.

The Company uses metal commodity swap agreements to hedge anticipated purchases of key blanks which can fluctuate with changes in copper prices. The Company’s current metal swap agreements did not qualify for hedge accounting treatment because they did not meet the provisions specified in ASC 815. Accordingly, the gain or loss on these derivatives was recognized in current earnings.

 

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15. Derivatives and Hedging: (continued)

 

At December 31, 2012, the fair value of 2012 Metal Swap No. 1 was $17 and was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in other current assets with a decrease in cost of sales recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the favorable change in fair value since the inception date in the second quarter of 2012. At December 31, 2012, the fair value of 2012 Metal Swap No. 2 and 2012 Metal Swap No. 3 was ($6) and was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in other current liabilities with an increase in cost of sales recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the unfavorable change in fair value since the inception dates in the second quarter of 2012.

As of December 31, 2013, each of the 2012 metal swap agreements expired and had no value. A decrease in cost of sales was recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the favorable change in fair value since December 31, 2012.

Foreign Currency Forward Contracts - On December 18, 2012, the Company entered into a Foreign Currency Forward Contract (the “2012 FX Contract”) with an approximate six-month term for a notional amount of C$105,000. The 2012 FX Contract maturity date was May 21, 2013 and fixed the Canadian to U.S. dollar forward exchange rate at 0.9989. The purpose of the 2012 FX Contract was to manage the Company’s exposure to fluctuations in the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar investment used in the Paulin Acquisition.

At December 31, 2012, the fair value of the 2012 FX Contract was ($1,475) and was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in other current liabilities with an increase in other expense recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the unfavorable change in fair value since its inception.

The 2012 FX Contract was settled in connection with the Paulin Acquisition. Prior to its settlement on February 19, 2013, an increase in other expense of $1,138 was recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the unfavorable change in fair value from December 31, 2012.

During 2013, the Company entered into multiple foreign currency forward contracts (the “2013 FX Contracts”) with maturity dates ranging from July 2013 to December 2014 and a total notional amount of C$44,591. The 2013 FX Contracts fixed the Canadian to U.S. dollar forward exchange rate at points ranging from 1.02940 to 1.08210. The purpose of the 2013 FX Contracts was to manage the Company’s exposure to fluctuations in the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar.

At December 31, 2013, the fair value of the 2013 FX Contracts was ($42) and was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in other current liabilities with an increase in other expense of $42 recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss.

During 2014, the Company entered into multiple foreign currency forward contracts (the “2014 FX Contracts”) with maturity dates ranging from March 2014 to December 2015. The 2014 FX Contracts fixed the Canadian to U.S. dollar forward exchange rate at points ranging from 1.06800 to 1.1740. The purpose of the 2014 FX Contracts is to manage the Company’s exposure to fluctuations in the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar.

 

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15. Derivatives and Hedging: (continued)

 

The total notional amount of contracts outstanding was C$31,032 and C$26,856 as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The total fair value of the 2014 FX Contracts was $1,247 as of December 31, 2014 and was reported on the consolidated balance sheet in other current assets. An increase in other income of $1,289 was recorded in the statement of comprehensive loss for the favorable change in fair value from December 31, 2013.

The Company’s FX Contracts did not qualify for hedge accounting treatment because they did not meet the provisions specified in ASC 815. Accordingly, the gain or loss on these derivatives was recognized in current earnings.

The Company does not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes and, therefore, holds no derivative instruments for trading purposes.

Additional information with respect to the fair value of derivative instruments is included in Note 16 – Fair Value Measurements.

 

16. Fair Value Measurements:

The Company uses the accounting guidance that applies to all assets and liabilities that are being measured and reported on a fair value basis. The guidance defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The guidance also establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. Assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:

 

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

Level 2: Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

 

Level 3: Unobservable inputs reflecting the reporting entity’s own assumptions.

The accounting guidance establishes a hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of quoted market prices and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. An asset or liability’s level is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

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16. Fair Value Measurements: (continued)

 

The following tables set forth the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis during the period, by level, within the fair value hierarchy:

 

     As of December 31, 2014  
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Trading securities

   $ 2,244       $ —         $ —         $ 2,244   

Interest rate swaps

     —           (935      —           (935

Foreign exchange forward contracts

     —           1,247         —           1,247   
     As of December 31, 2013  
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Trading securities

   $ 4,386       $ —         $ —         $ 4,386   

Interest rate caps

     —           53         —           53   

Foreign exchange forward contracts

     —           (42      —           (42

Trading securities are valued using quoted prices on an active exchange. Trading securities represent assets held in a Rabbi Trust to fund deferred compensation liabilities and are included as restricted investments on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

For the Successor period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, the unrealized gains on these securities of $43 were recorded as other income. The unrealized gains on these securities of $95, $364, and $329 were recorded as other income by the Predecessor for the six months period ended June 29 and years ended December 31, 2013, and 2012, respectively. An offsetting entry for the same amount, increasing the deferred compensation liability and compensation expense within SG&A, was also recorded for the corresponding periods.

The Company utilizes interest rate cap and interest rate swap contracts to manage our targeted mix of fixed and floating rate debt, and these contracts are valued using observable benchmark rates at commonly quoted intervals for the full term of the cap and swap contracts. As of December 31, 2014, the interest rate swaps were included in other non-current liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2014 the interest rate caps had expired and had no value. As of December 31, 2013 the interest rate caps were included in other current assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

The Company utilizes foreign exchange forward contracts to manage our exposure to currency fluctuations in the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar. The forward contracts were valued using observable benchmark rates at commonly quoted intervals during the term of the forward contract. The foreign exchange forward contracts were included in other current assets as of December 31, 2014 and other current liabilities as of December 31, 2013 on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

 

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16. Fair Value Measurements: (continued)

 

The fair value of the Company’s fixed rate senior notes and junior subordinated debentures as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 were determined by utilizing current trading prices obtained from indicative market data. As a result, the fair value measurement of the Company’s senior term loans is considered to be Level 2.

 

     December 31, 2014      December 31, 2013  
     Carrying
Amount
     Estimated
Fair Value
     Carrying
Amount
     Estimated
Fair Value
 

6.375% Senior Notes

   $ 330,000       $ 315,563       $ —         $ —     

10.875% Senior Notes

     —           —           271,750         285,538   

Junior Subordinated Debentures

     130,685         137,764         114,941         131,480   

The carrying amounts of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value because of the short term maturity of these instruments and the carrying value of the variable rate senior term loans approximates fair value as the interest rate is variable and approximates current market rates.

Additional information with respect to the derivative instruments is included in Note 15 – Derivatives and Hedging. Additional information with respect to the Company’s fixed rate senior notes and junior subordinated debentures is included in Note 9 – Long-Term Debt.

 

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17. Commitments and Contingencies:

The Company self-insures our product liability, automotive, workers’ compensation, and general liability losses up to $250 per occurrence. Catastrophic coverage has been purchased from third party insurers for occurrences in excess of $250 up to $40,000. The two risk areas involving the most significant accounting estimates are workers’ compensation and automotive liability. Actuarial valuations performed by the Company’s outside risk insurance expert were used by the Company’s management to form the basis for workers’ compensation and automotive liability loss reserves. The actuary contemplated the Company’s specific loss history, actual claims reported, and industry trends among statistical and other factors to estimate the range of reserves required. Risk insurance reserves are comprised of specific reserves for individual claims and additional amounts expected for development of these claims, as well as for incurred but not yet reported claims. The Company believes that the liability of approximately $2,253 recorded for such risk insurance reserves is adequate as of December 31, 2014.

As of December 31, 2014, the Company has provided certain vendors and insurers letters of credit aggregating $3,723 related to our product purchases and insurance coverage of product liability, workers’ compensation, and general liability.

The Company self-insures our group health claims up to an annual stop loss limit of $200 per participant. Aggregate coverage is maintained for annual group health insurance claims in excess of 125% of expected claims. Historical group insurance loss experience forms the basis for the recognition of group health insurance reserves. Provisions for losses expected under these programs are recorded based on an analysis of historical insurance claim data and certain actuarial assumptions. The Company believes that the liability of approximately $2,378 recorded for such group health insurance reserves is adequate as of December 31, 2014.

On October 1, 2013, Hillman Group filed a complaint against Minute Key Inc., a manufacturer of fully-automatic, self-service key duplication kiosks, in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio (Western Division), seeking a declaratory judgment of non-infringement and invalidity of a U.S. patent issued to Minute Key Inc. on September 10, 2013. Hillman Group’s filing against Minute Key Inc. was in response to a letter dated September 10, 2013 in which Minute Key Inc. alleged that Hillman Group’s FastKey™ product infringes the newly-issued patent.

On October 23, 2013, Minute Key Inc. filed an answer and counterclaim against Hillman Group alleging patent infringement. Minute Key Inc. also requested that the court dismiss Hillman Group’s complaint, enter judgment against Hillman Group that we are willfully and deliberately infringing the patent, grant a permanent injunction, and award unspecified monetary damages to Minute Key Inc.

Minute Key Inc. later filed two motions on March 17, 2014 seeking to voluntarily withdraw its counterclaim alleging infringement by Hillman Group and also to dismiss Hillman Group’s complaint for non-infringement and invalidity. Shortly after an April 23, 2014 court-ordered mediation, Minute Key Inc. provided Hillman Group with a covenant promising not to sue for infringement of two of its patents against any existing Hillman Group product, including the FastKey™ and Key Express™ products.

Hillman Group filed a motion on May 9, 2014 seeking to add additional claims to the case against Minute Key Inc. under Federal and Ohio state unfair competition statutes. These claims relate to Minute Key Inc.’s business conduct during competition with Hillman Group over a mutual client.

 

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17. Commitments and Contingencies: (continued)

 

In an August 15, 2014 order, the court granted Minute Key Inc.’s March 17, 2014 motions to dismiss the claims relating to patent infringement, but also granted Hillman Group’s May 9, 2014 motion to add its unfair competition claims.

Hillman Group formally amended its complaint to add the unfair competition claims on September 4, 2014, and Minute Key Inc. answered on September 29, 2014 without filing any counterclaims. Minute Key Inc. filed a motion on October 1, 2014 to move the case from Cincinnati to either the District of Colorado or the Western District of Arkansas. The court denied that motion on February 3, 2015.

Because the lawsuit remains in a preliminary stage, it is not yet possible to assess the impact, if any, that the lawsuit will have on the Company. As a result of the Minute Key Inc. covenant not to sue, however, the Company’s FastKey™ and Key Express™ products no longer face any threat of patent infringement liability from two of Minute Key Inc.’s patents. The scope of the lawsuit has changed from a bilateral dispute over patent infringement to a lawsuit solely about Minute Key Inc.’s business conduct. Hillman Group intends to continue to pursue this lawsuit vigorously and believes that it has meritorious claims for Minute Key Inc.’s unfair competition.

On July 14, 2014, PrimeSource Building Products, Inc., a supplier of products and materials in the building, construction, and do-it-yourself industries (“PrimeSource”), filed a complaint against Hillman Group in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas (Dallas Division) alleging trademark infringement, unfair competition, and unjust enrichment. On August 8, 2014, Hillman Group filed a motion to dismiss the complaint and, on August 29, 2014, PrimeSource filed an amended complaint. On September 12, 2014, Hillman Group filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint and, on October 3, 2014, PrimeSource filed a response to the motion to dismiss the amended complaint. On October 17, 2014, Hillman Group filed a reply in support of its motion to dismiss the amended complaint. The motion to dismiss the amended complaint remains pending before the court.

In addition to its earlier-filed complaint, PrimeSource filed a motion for preliminary injunction on July 30, 2014. On August 20, 2014, Hillman Group filed a response in opposition to the motion for preliminary injunction and, on September 3, 2014, PrimeSource filed a reply in support of its motion for preliminary injunction. On October 1, 2014, Hillman Group filed a surreply in opposition to the motion for preliminary injunction. The parties held a court hearing on the motion for preliminary injunction on March 24 and 25, 2015 and the court announced that it intends to enter a ruling on the motion by March 31, 2015.

Because the lawsuit is in a preliminary stage, it is not yet possible to assess the impact, if any, that the lawsuit will have on the Company. However, Hillman Group believes that it has meritorious defenses to the claims and intends to defend the lawsuit vigorously. Also, Hillman Group’s third party insurer has agreed to defend Hillman Group in the case subject to the right to withdraw its defense and/or to disclaim any obligation to indemnify Hillman Group, and reserving the right to seek a judicial determination that it is not obligated to defend or indemnify Hillman Group.

 

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17. Commitments and Contingencies: (continued)

 

On December 15, 2014, Maria Santos, on behalf of herself and all others similarly situated, filed a complaint against Hillman Group and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (“Wal-Mart”) in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Western Division) alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the California Unruh Civil Rights Act, and the California Disabled Persons Act. On behalf of herself and all others similarly situated, Ms. Santos claims to seek, among other things, (1) a preliminary and permanent injunction to correct the alleged violations of these acts, (2) a declaration that Hillman Group and Wal-Mart are violating these acts, and (3) unspecified money damages, as well as recovery of court costs and attorneys’ fees. On January 5, 2015, Hillman Group filed its answer.

The Company has paid a portion of the legal fees incurred by Wal-Mart and its affiliates in this lawsuit in connection with the agreement to license Hillman Group’s products in Wal-Mart’s stores, and expects to pay, in the future, the reasonable legal fees incurred by Wal-Mart in this case.

Because the lawsuit is in a preliminary stage, it is not yet possible to assess the impact or range of loss, if any, that the lawsuit will have on the Company. However, Hillman Group has retained counsel, believes that is has meritorious defenses to the claims, and intends to defend the lawsuit vigorously.

In addition, legal proceedings are pending which are either in the ordinary course of business or incidental to the Company’s business. Those legal proceedings incidental to the business of the Company are generally not covered by insurance or other indemnity. In the opinion of the Company’s management, the ultimate resolution of the pending litigation matters will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, operations, or cash flows of the Company.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

18. Statements of Cash Flows:

Supplemental disclosures of cash flows information are presented below:

 

     Successor            Predecessor  
     Period from
June 30, 2014
through
December 31, 2014
           Six months ended
June 29,
2014
     Year ended
December 31,
2013
     Year ended
December 31,
2012
 

Cash paid during the period for:

                

Interest on junior subordinated debentures

   $ 6,116            $ 6,116       $ 12,232       $ 12,232   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Interest

$ 25,858      $ 21,702    $ 45,260    $ 38,880   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income taxes

$ 8      $ 856    $ 1,078    $ 479   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-cash investing activities:

 

Property and equipment purchased with capital lease

$ 76      $ 241    $ 358    $ 155   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

19. Quarterly Data (unaudited):

 

2014

   Total     Fourth     Third      Second     First  

Net sales

   $ 734,669      $ 181,336      $ 195,956       $ 202,598      $ 154,779   

(Loss) income from operations

     (31,147     6,953        23,306         (69,003     7,597   

Net (loss) income

     (63,463     (4,959     1,812         (56,254     (4,062

2013

   Total     Fourth     Third      Second     First  

Net sales

   $ 701,641      $ 172,629      $ 192,382       $ 192,711      $ 143,919   

Income from operations

     56,441        8,655        22,429         17,573        7,784   

Net (loss) income

     (1,148     (2,974     1,748         4,663        (4,585

 

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20. Concentration of Credit Risks:

Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and trade receivables. The Company places our cash and cash equivalents with high credit quality financial institutions. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to sales and trade receivables are limited due to the large number of customers comprising the Company’s customer base and their dispersion across geographic areas. The Company performs periodic credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and generally does not require collateral.

For the year ended December 31, 2014, the largest three customers accounted for 40.7% of combined sales of the Successor and Predecessor and 42.2% of the year-end accounts receivable balance. For the Predecessor’s year ended December 31, 2013, the largest three customers accounted for 39.7% of sales and 44.2% of the year-end accounts receivable balance. For the Predecessor’s year ended December 31, 2012, the largest three customers accounted for 40.1% of sales and 49.7% of the year-end accounts receivable balance. No other customer accounted for more than 5.0% of the Company’s total sales in 2014, 2013, or 2012. In each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, the Company derived over 10% of its total revenues from two separate customers which operated in the following segments: United States excluding All Points, Canada, and Mexico.

Concentration of credit risk with respect to purchases and trade payables are limited due to the large number of vendors comprising the Company’s vendor base, with dispersion across different industries and geographic areas. The Company’s largest vendor in terms of annual purchases accounted for 5.0% of the combination of the purchases of the Successor and Predecessor and 1.1% of the Successor’s total trade payables on December 31, 2014. The Company’s largest vendor in terms of annual purchases accounted for 5.0% of the Predecessor’s total purchases and 2.0% of the Predecessor’s total trade payables on December 31, 2013. The Company’s largest vendor in terms of annual purchases accounted for 6.7% of the Predecessor’s total purchases and 4.7% of the Predecessor’s total trade payables on December 31, 2012.

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

21. Segment Reporting and Geographic Information:

The Company’s segment reporting structure uses the Company’s management reporting structure as the foundation for how the Company manages our business. The Company periodically evaluates our segment reporting structure in accordance with ASC 350-20-55 and has concluded that it has five reportable segments as of December 31, 2014. During 2013, the operations of Paulin were combined into the operations of the Canada segment. The United States segment, excluding All Points and the Canada segment are considered material by Company’s management as of December 31, 2014. The segments are as follows:

 

•   United States – excluding the All Points division

 

•   All Points

 

•   Canada

 

•   Mexico

 

•   Australia

The United States segment distributes fasteners and related hardware items, threaded rod, keys, key duplicating systems, accessories, and identification items, such as tags and letters, numbers, and signs to hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, and other retail outlets primarily in the United States. This segment also provides innovative pet identification tag programs to a leading pet products retail chain using a unique, patent-protected/patent-pending technology and product portfolio.

The All Points segment is a Florida-based distributor of commercial and residential fasteners catering to the hurricane protection industry in the southern United States. All Points has positioned itself as a major supplier to manufacturers of railings, screen enclosures, windows, and hurricane shutters.

The Canada segment distributes fasteners and related hardware items, threaded rod, keys, key duplicating systems, accessories, and identification items, such as tags and letters, numbers, and signs to hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, industrial distributors, automotive aftermarket distributors, and other retail outlets and industrial Original Equipment Manufacturers (“OEMs”) in Canada. The Canada segment also produces fasteners, stampings, fittings, and processes threaded parts for automotive suppliers and industrial OEMs.

The Mexico segment distributes fasteners and related hardware items to hardware stores, home centers, mass merchants, and other retail outlets in Mexico.

The Australia segment distributes keys, key duplicating systems, and accessories to home centers and other retail outlets in Australia.

The Company uses profit or loss from operations to evaluate the performance of our segments. Profit or loss from operations is defined as income from operations before interest and tax expenses. Hillman accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties, at current market prices. Segment revenue excludes sales between segments, which is consistent with the segment revenue information provided to the Company’s chief operating decision maker. Segment income (loss) from operations for Mexico and Australia include insignificant costs allocated from the United States, excluding All Points segment, while the remaining operating segments do not include any allocations.

The transaction expenses incurred in connection with the Merger Transaction were recorded in the United States segment. For further information, see Note 22, Transaction, Acquisition, and Integration Expenses.

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

21. Segment Reporting and Geographic Information (continued):

 

The table below presents revenues and income from operations for the reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012.

 

     Successor           Predecessor  
     Period from
June 30, 2014
through
December 31, 2014
          Six months
Ended
June 29,
2014
    Year
Ended
December 31,
2013
    Year
Ended
December 31,
2012
 

Revenues

             

United States, excluding All Points

   $ 293,219           $ 269,009      $ 541,037      $ 517,135   

All Points

     9,362             10,238        20,798        18,837   

Canada

     70,566             73,867        132,158        12,555   

Mexico

     3,507             3,620        6,842        6,268   

Australia

     638             643        806        670   
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

$ 377,292      $ 357,377    $ 701,641    $ 555,465   
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Segment Income (Loss) from Operations

 

United States, excluding All Points

$ 5,072      $ (44,830 $ 52,255    $ 42,896   

All Points

  655        896      1,737      881   

Canada

  3,189        4,214      2,847      (3,050

Mexico

  73        446      629      787   

Australia

  (748     (114   (1,027   (546
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total segment income (loss) from operations

$ 8,241      $ (39,388 $ 56,441    $ 40,968   
  

 

 

        

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

21. Segment Reporting and Geographic Information (continued):

Assets by segment as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:

 

     Successor            Predecessor  
     As of
December 31,
2014
           As of
December 31,
2013
 

Assets:

          

United States, excluding All Points

   $ 1,522,371            $ 936,008   

All Points

     16,108              8,379   

Canada

     346,691              300,906   

Mexico

     15,886              17,964   

Australia

     1,957              1,599   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 

Total Assets

$ 1,903,013      $ 1,264,856   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 
         
     Successor            Predecessor  
     As of
December 31,
2014
           As of
December 31,
2013
 

Cash & cash equivalents:

          

United States, excluding All Points

   $ 13,192            $ 27,632   

All Points

     696              714   

Canada

     3,186              5,039   

Mexico

     1,396              1,570   

Australia

     15              14   
  

 

 

         

 

 

 

Consolidated cash & cash equivalents

$ 18,485      $ 34,969   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Following is revenue based on products for the Company’s significant product categories:

 

     Successor            Predecessor  
     Period from June 30,
2014 through
December 31, 2014
           Six months
ended
June 29,
2014
     Year
ended December 31,
2013
     Year
ended
December 31,
2012
 

Net sales

                

Keys

   $ 48,327            $ 45,511       $ 90,518       $ 86,943   

Engraving

     25,465              24,065         48,442         48,979   

Letters, numbers and signs

     19,439              16,145         34,045         32,251   

Fasteners

     241,636              232,221         450,234         308,770   

Threaded rod

     16,269              16,535         31,802         33,326   

Code cutter

     1,425              1,392         2,680         2,851   

Builders hardware

     10,482              10,106         17,320         16,370   

Other

     14,249              11,402         26,600         25,975   
  

 

 

         

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Consolidated net sales

$  377,292      $  357,377    $  701,641    $  555,465   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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THE HILLMAN COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

22. Transaction, Acquisition, and Integration Expenses:

During the period from June 30, 2014 through December 31, 2014, the Successor incurred $22,719 in transaction expenses primarily for legal, professional, and other advisory services in connection with the acquisition of the Company. The Successor transaction expenses include a payment of $15,000 to CCMP Capital Advisors for services related to the Merger Transaction.

For the six months period ended June 29, 2014, the Predecessor incurred $31,681 in transaction expenses primarily for investment banking, legal, and advisory services related to the Merger Transaction.

For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Predecessor incurred $8,638 of expenses for banking, legal, and other professional fees incurred in connection with the Paulin Acquisition.

For the year ended December 31, 2012, the Predecessor incurred $3,031 of expenses for banking, legal, and other professional fees incurred in connection with the Ook Acquisition and the Paulin Acquisition.

 

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Financial Statement Schedule:

Schedule II - VALUATION ACCOUNTS

(dollars in thousands)

 

     Deducted From
Assets in
Balance Sheet
 
     Allowance for
Doubtful
Accounts
 

Ending Balance - December 31, 2011

     641   

Additions charged to cost and expense

     643   

Deductions due to:

  

Others

     (179 )(A) 
  

 

 

 

Ending Balance - December 31, 2012

  1,105   

Additions charged to cost and expense

  29   

Additions from acquired company

  115   

Deductions due to:

Others

  (546
  

 

 

 

Ending Balance - December 31, 2013

  703   

Additions charged to cost and expense

  226   

Deductions due to:

Others

  (302
  

 

 

 

Ending Balance - December 31, 2014

$ 627   
  

 

 

 

Notes:

 

(A) Includes write-off of accounts receivable (net of bad debt recoveries).

 

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Item 9 – Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

None.

Item 9A – Controls and Procedures.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), are those controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that material information relating to The Hillman Companies, Inc. required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the chief executive officer and the chief financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. The Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the chief executive officer and the chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon that evaluation, and solely as a result of the material weakness in internal control over financial reporting described below, the Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were not effective, as of the end of the period covered by this Report. We view our internal control over financial reporting as an integral part of our disclosure controls and procedures.

In light of the foregoing conclusion, the Company’s management undertook additional procedures in order that management could conclude that reasonable assurance exists regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the consolidated financial statements included in this Report. Accordingly, notwithstanding the material weakness described below, the Company’s management has concluded that the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report fairly present in all material respects the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows for the period presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Commission, internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the Company’s Board of Directors, management, and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and includes those policies and procedures that:

 

  •   Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and the dispositions of assets;

 

  •   Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with appropriate authorizations; and

 

  •   Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

 

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The Company’s management has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, using the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992 framework). Based on such evaluation, management concluded that internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2014. Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting is set forth above under the heading, “Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” in Item 8 of this annual report on Form 10-K.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the entity’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented, or detected and corrected on a timely basis. As a result of management’s assessment, the Company concluded that the material weakness described below existed as of December 31, 2014.

Management identified pervasive deficiencies related to the design and operating effectiveness of transaction, process level, and management monitoring controls that have a direct impact on the financial reporting of our Canadian subsidiary (The Hillman Group Canada ULC), which in aggregate are considered a material weakness. In 2013, Hillman acquired H. Paulin & Co., which has since been amalgamated with The Hillman Group Canada ULC. There are numerous manual procedures required to be performed on both the data input into our legacy system and the subsequent output in order to validate, prepare, and record information in the general ledger. These required manual procedures vary in complexity and extend throughout all functions of the entire financial reporting process. Further, there is an ineffective control environment surrounding these aforementioned manual procedures, management review controls, as well as ineffective controls over change management, critical access, and end user system access to the legacy system. As a result of these deficiencies, financial information may not be accurately reflected in key reports that are used in higher level management review controls or subsequently recorded in the general ledger.

The Company is not aware of any transactions that were improperly undertaken as a result of this material weakness and therefore does not believe that such material weakness had any material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Plan for Remediation of Material Weakness.

Management is, and intends to continue, taking appropriate and reasonable steps to make the necessary improvements to remediate this material weakness in internal control over financial reporting. In particular, a senior management team has been assigned responsibility for internal controls within the Canadian subsidiary and training will be provided to all employees in financial reporting roles. A thorough evaluation of all processes, controls and the legacy system will be conducted and enhancements will be made where necessary, and ultimately, the legacy system will be migrated to a new platform and additional resources will be added where deemed appropriate.

Management believes that the measures described above will facilitate remediation of the material weakness we have identified and will continue to strengthen our internal control over financial reporting. The Company is actively involved in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of its internal control over financial reporting.

Attestation Report of Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

This annual report does not contain an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Commission that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

 

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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2014, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting under Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

Item 9B – Other Information.

None.

 

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PART III

Item 10 – Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance.

The following is a summary of the biographies for at least the last five years of Hillman’s directors and officers. In connection with the Merger Transaction, all of Hillman’s directors (except James P. Waters) resigned and Douglas J. Cahill, Alberto J. Delgado, Max W. Hillman, Jr., Kevin M. Mailender, and Tyler J. Wolfram were elected to the Board of Directors effective June 30, 2014. Aaron Jagdfeld, Richard F. Zannino, Jonathan R. Lynch, and Philip K. Woodlief were elected to the Board of Directors effective August 7, 2014, August 18, 2014, November 13, 2014, and February 10, 2015, respectively.

Directors

 

Name and Age

  

Position and Five-year Employment History

Douglas J. Cahill (55)

   Mr. Cahill has served as director since June 2014 and as Chairman since September 2014. Mr. Cahill has been a Managing Director of CCMP since July 2014 and previously was an Executive Advisor of CCMP from March 2013. Mr. Cahill served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Oreck, the manufacturer of upright vacuums and cleaning products, from May 2010 until December 2012. Prior to joining Oreck, Mr. Cahill served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Doane Pet Care Company, a private label manufacturer of pet food and former CCMP portfolio company. Prior to joining Doane in 1997, Mr. Cahill spent 13 years at Olin Corporation, a diversified manufacturer of metal and chemicals, where he served in a variety of managerial and executive roles. Mr. Cahill serves as a Board Member for Junior Achievement of Middle Tennessee and at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management. In January 2009, Mr. Cahill was appointed as an Advisor to Mars Incorporated. Mr. Cahill is the Chairman of Jamieson Laboratories and a Director of Ollie’s Bargain Outlet. Mr. Cahill serves as the Chairman of our board of directors due to his financial, investment, and extensive management experience.

Alberto J. Delgado (44)

   Mr. Delgado has served as director since June 2014. Mr. Delgado has been a Managing Director of CCMP since 2006 and is a member of CCMP’s Investment Committee. Prior to joining CCMP in 2006, Mr. Delgado was with J.P. Morgan Capital Corporation for three years. Previously, Mr. Delgado worked in the Latin America Mergers and Acquisitions group and the Structured Finance group at J.P. Morgan & Co. Mr. Delgado currently serves on the board of directors of Edwards Group Limited and Newark E&P Holdings, LLC. Mr. Delgado was selected to serve on our board of directors due to his financial, investment, and business experience.

Max W. Hillman, Jr. (68)

   Mr. Hillman has served as director since September 2001. Prior to retirement from his executive position, effective July 1, 2013, Mr. Hillman was President and Chief Executive Officer and member of

 

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Name and Age

  

Position and Five-year Employment History

   the Board of Directors of Hillman and Chief Executive Officer of Hillman Group. From 2000 to 2001, Mr. Hillman was Co-Chief Executive Officer of Hillman Group. Mr. Hillman presently serves on the board of Woodstream Corp., Sunsource Technology Services Inc., and West Chester Holdings, Inc. Mr. Hillman previously served as a director of State Industrial Products from 2006 to 2011. Mr. Hillman’s qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his former roles as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Hillman Group.

Aaron Jagdfeld (43)

   Mr. Jagdfeld has served as director since August 2014. Mr. Jagdfeld has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of Generac Power Systems, Inc. since September 2008 and a director of Generac since November 2006. Mr. Jagdfeld began his career at Generac in the finance department in 1994 and became Generac’s Chief Financial Officer in 2002. In 2007, he was appointed President and was responsible for sales, marketing, engineering, and product development. Prior to joining Generac, Mr. Jagdfeld worked in the audit practice of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin office of Deloitte & Touche. Mr. Jagdfeld was selected to serve on our board of directors due to his extensive management and financial experience.

Jonathan R. Lynch (47)

   Mr. Lynch has served as director since November 2014. Mr. Lynch has been a Managing Director of CCMP since 1993 and is a member of CCMP’s Investment Committee. Prior to joining CCMP, Mr. Lynch was a member of the Mergers and Acquisitions division of Prudential Securities. Mr. Lynch serves on the board of directors of Infogroup, Inc. Mr. Lynch is past President of the Venture Investors Association of NY (VIANY) and a member of the board of advisors of the Georgetown University School of Business. Mr. Lynch was selected to serve on our board of directors due to his financial, investment, and business experience.

Kevin M. Mailender (37)

   Mr. Mailender has served as director since May 2010. Mr. Mailender has been a Partner of Oak Hill Capital Management, LLC since 2013 and previously was a Principal of Oak Hill Capital Management between 2008 and 2013 and a Vice President of Oak Hill Capital Management between 2004 and 2008. Mr. Mailender currently serves as a director of Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc., Earth Fare, Inc., and Berlin Packaging, LLC. Mr. Mailender was selected to serve on our board of directors due to his financial, investment, and business experience.

James P. Waters (53)

   Mr. Waters has served as director since May 2013. Effective as of Mr. Hillman’s retirement on July 1, 2013, Mr. Waters was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Hillman and Hillman Group. From 2011 to 2013, Mr. Waters was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Hillman and Hillman

 

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Name and Age

  

Position and Five-year Employment History

   Group. From 2001 to 2011, Mr. Waters was Chief Financial Officer and Secretary of Hillman and Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Secretary of Hillman Group. Mr. Waters has been with the Company since 1999. Mr. Waters presently serves on the board of Apollo Retail Services. Mr. Waters’s qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his role as Chief Executive Officer of Hillman and Hillman Group.

Tyler J. Wolfram (48)

   Mr. Wolfram has served as director since May 2010. Mr. Wolfram has been a Managing Partner of Oak Hill Capital Management, LLC since 2013 and previously was a Partner of Oak Hill Capital Management between 2001 and 2013. Mr. Wolfram is a member of Oak Hill Management’s Executive Committee and Investment Committee. Mr. Wolfram served on the board of directors of Duane Reade Holdings, Inc. from 2004 until 2010 and on the board of directors of NSA International, Inc. from 2006 until 2013 and currently serves as a director of Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc., Earth Fare, Inc., and Berlin Packaging, LLC. Mr. Wolfram was selected to serve on our board of directors due to his financial, investment, and business experience.

Philip K. Woodlief (61)

   Mr. Woodlief has served as director since February 2015. Mr. Woodlief has been an independent financial consultant since 2007 and an Adjunct Professor of Management at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Business since October 2010. At Vanderbilt, Mr. Woodlief has taught Financial Statement Research and Financial Statement Analysis. In 2014, Mr. Woodlief was also an Adjunct Professor at Belmont University, teaching Integrated Accounting Principles. Prior to 2008, Mr. Woodlief was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Doane Pet Care, a global manufacturer of pet products. Prior to 1998, Mr. Woodlief was Vice President and Corporate Controller of Insilco Corporation, a diversified manufacturer of consumer and industrial products. Mr. Woodlief began his career in 1979 at KPMG Peat Marwick in Houston, Texas, progressing to the Senior Manager level in the firm’s Energy and Natural Resources practice. Mr. Woodlief is a certified public accountant (inactive). Mr. Woodlief was selected to serve on our board of directors due to his financial and business experience.

Richard F. Zannino (56)

   Mr. Zannino has served as director since August 2014. Mr. Zannino has been a Managing Director of CCMP since July 2009 and is a member of CCMP’s Investment Committee. Prior to joining CCMP, Mr. Zannino was Chief Executive Officer and a member of the board of directors of Dow Jones & Company. Mr. Zannino joined Dow Jones as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in February 2001 before his promotion to Chief Operating Officer in July 2002 and to Chief Executive Officer

 

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Name and Age

  

Position and Five-year Employment History

   and Director in February 2006. Prior to joining Dow Jones, Mr. Zannino was Executive Vice President in charge of strategy, finance, M&A, technology, and a number of operating units at Liz Claiborne. Mr. Zannino joined Liz Claiborne in 1998 as Chief Financial Officer. In 1998, Mr. Zannino served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of General Signal. From 1993 until early 1998, Mr. Zannino was at Saks Fifth Avenue, ultimately serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Zannino is currently a member of the board of directors of Infogroup Inc., Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, Pure Gym (U.K.), Jamieson Laboratories (Canada), Francesca’s Holdings Corporation, Estee Lauder, and IAC/InterActiveCorp. and is a trustee of Pace University. Mr. Zannino was selected to serve on our board of directors due to his financial, investment, and business experience.
  

All directors hold office until their successors are duly elected and qualified.

Committees

The Company is a controlled company within the meaning of the NYSE Amex listing standards because an affiliate of CCMP owns more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common voting stock. Accordingly, the Company is exempt from the requirements of the NYSE Amex listing standards to maintain a majority of independent directors on the Company’s board of directors and to have a nominating committee and a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors.

The Company does not have a nominating committee, but it does have a compensation committee. The board of directors believes that it is not necessary to utilize a nominating committee. Director nominees for the Company are selected by the board of directors following receipt of recommendations of potential candidates from the Chairman of the Board of the Company. The board of directors is not limited by the recommendation of the Chairman and may select other nominees. There is no charter setting forth these procedures and the board of directors has no policy regarding the consideration of any director candidates recommended by shareholders. While the board of directors does not have a formal policy on diversity, it will consider issues of diversity, including diversity of gender, race, and national origin, education, professional experiences, and differences in viewpoints and skills when filling vacancies on the board of directors.

The current members of the audit committee are Aaron Jagdfeld and Philip K. Woodlief, both of whom are considered independent under the SEC standards and the NYSE AMEX listing standards. In addition, Kevin M. Mailender, James P. Waters, and Richard F. Zannino have observer rights with the audit committee. The Company has previously received an exemption from AMEX to Section 121 of the AMEX Company Guide that requires the audit committee to have three members. The board of directors has determined that each of Messrs. Jagdfeld and Woodlief is an “audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of applicable rules of the SEC.

Risk Oversight and Board Structure

The board of directors executes its oversight responsibility for risk management with the assistance of its audit committee and compensation committee. The audit committee oversees the Company’s risk management activities, generally, and is charged with reviewing and discussing with management the Company’s major risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor, control, and manage these exposures. The audit committee’s meeting agendas include discussions of individual risk areas throughout the year, as well as an annual summary of the risk management process, including the Company’s risk assessment and

 

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risk management guidelines. The compensation committee oversees the Company’s compensation policies generally to determine whether they create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. The audit committee and compensation committee report the results of their oversight activities to the board of directors.

The compensation committee has conducted a comprehensive review of the Company’s compensation structure from the perspective of enterprise risk management and the design and operation of its executive and employee compensation plans, policies, and arrangements generally, including the performance objectives and target levels used in connection with our annual performance-based bonuses and stock option awards. The compensation committee has concluded that there are no risks arising from the Company’s compensation policies and practices for its employees that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. Our compensation program as a whole does not encourage or incentivize our executives or other employees to take unnecessary and excessive risks or engage in other activities and behavior that threaten the value of the Company or the investments of its shareholders, as evidenced by the following design features that we believe mitigate risk taking:

Base Salaries

Base salaries are fixed in amount and thus do not encourage risk taking.

Annual Performance Based Bonuses

The compensation committee believes that the Company’s annual bonus program is structured to appropriately balance risk and the desire to focus executives on specific short-term goals important to the Company’s success. While specific performance criteria are set and communicated in advance, the Company does not consider that the pursuit of these objectives may encourage unnecessary or excessive risk taking or lead to behaviors that focus executives on their individual enrichment rather than the Company’s long-term welfare.

Stock Options

Executives are also eligible to receive stock options to acquire Holdco common stock under the HMAN Group Holdings Inc. 2014 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2014 Equity Incentive Plan”). The 2014 Equity Incentive Plan is administered by the Holdco board of directors. In fiscal year 2014, the Holdco board of directors granted 35,217.010 options to members of executive management. These option grants included options subject to service-vesting (in four equal annual installments beginning on the second anniversary of the grant date), with possible acceleration upon a change of control. Since the vesting is staggered and in some cases tied directly to long-term performance, employees should not be incentivized to achieve only short-term increases in stock price.

Code of Ethics

The Company has adopted a code of business conduct and ethics which applies to its directors, senior officers, including its Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer, as well as every employee of the Company. The Company’s code of business conduct and ethics can be accessed at its website at www.hillmangroup.com. Information contained or linked on our website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report and should not be considered a part of this annual report. The Company will disclose amendments to or waivers from a provision of the code of business conduct and ethics on Form 8-K.

 

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The executive officers of the Company (including the executive officers of The Hillman Group, Inc. and The Hillman Group Canada ULC, wholly-owned indirect subsidiaries of the Company) are set forth below:

Executive Officers

 

Name and Age

  

Position with the Company;

Five-year Employment History

James P. Waters (53)    Chief Executive Officer of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and The Hillman Group, Inc. See page 105 for five-year employment history.
Anthony A. Vasconcellos (50)    Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and The Hillman Group, Inc. since October 2011. From October 2011 to May 2012, Mr. Vasconcellos also served as Secretary of The Hillman Companies, Inc. and The Hillman Group, Inc. From July 2010 through January 2011, Mr. Vasconcellos was a consultant with Vasco Company. From September 1998 to April 2010, Mr. Vasconcellos served as Chief Financial Officer, and from 2005 also as Executive Vice President, of Townsquare Media, Inc. (formerly known as Regent Communications, Inc.). On January 9, 2015, the Company filed a Form 8-K disclosing that Mr. Vasconcellos will be departing from the Company no later than March 31, 2015. On March 16, 2015, Jeffrey S. Leonard joined the Company as Executive Vice President of Finance and, on April 1, 2015, Mr. Leonard will be appointed as Chief Financial Officer of the Company.
Richard C. Paulin (60)    President of The Hillman Group Canada ULC since February 2013. From May 1990 to February 2013, Mr. Paulin served as President of H. Paulin & Co., Limited.
Jeffrey Jonsohn (66)    Vice President of Operations of The Hillman Group Canada ULC since February 2013. From May 1996 to February 2013, Mr. Jonsohn served as Vice President of Operations of H. Paulin & Co., Limited. On March 4, 2015, the Company filed a Form 8-K disclosing that Mr. Jonsohn will be departing from the Company no later than June 30, 2015.

 

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Robert J. Lackman (58)

Executive Vice President of Global Operations of The Hillman Group, Inc. since August 2013. From November 2010 to August 2013, Mr. Lackman served as Senior Vice President of Operations for The Hillman Group, Inc. Prior to joining Hillman in November 2010, Mr. Lackman was employed by Duro Bag Manufacturing Co., where he served as Executive Vice President of Purchasing and Supply Chain from November 2008. From January 2007 to October 2008, he served as Vice President of Purchasing and Supply Chain of Broder Bros., Co. Prior to 2007, he held the position of Director of Procurement, Global Importing & Supply Chain of Xpedx. On March 4, 2015, the Company filed a Form 8-K disclosing that Mr. Lackman entered into a consulting arrangement with the Company for 90 days following the termination of his employment on February 27, 2015.

All executive officers hold office at the pleasure of the board of directors.

 

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Item 11 – Executive Compensation

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

This Compensation Discussion and Analysis provides an overview and analysis of our compensation programs, the compensation decisions we have made under these programs, and the factors we considered in making these decisions with respect to the compensation earned by the following individuals, who as determined under the rules of the SEC are collectively referred to herein as our “NEOs” for fiscal year 2014:

 

  •   James P. Waters, Chief Executive Officer

 

  •   Anthony A. Vasconcellos, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

 

  •   Richard C. Paulin, President, The Hillman Group Canada ULC

 

  •   Jeffrey Jonsohn, Vice President of Operations, The Hillman Group Canada ULC

 

  •   Robert J. Lackman, Executive Vice President of Global Operations, The Hillman Group, Inc.

Overview of the Compensation Program

Compensation Philosophy

The objective of Hillman’s corporate compensation and benefits program is to establish and maintain competitive total compensation programs that will attract, motivate, and retain the qualified and skilled workforce necessary for the continued success of Hillman. To help align compensation paid to executive officers with the achievement of corporate goals, Hillman has designed its cash compensation program as a pay-for-performance based system that rewards NEOs for their individual performance and contribution in achieving corporate goals. In determining the components and levels of NEO compensation each year, the Compensation Committee considers Company performance, the business objectives for specific divisions of the Company, personal management performance objectives, as well as each individual’s performance and potential to enhance long-term stockholder value. To remain competitive, the Compensation Committee also periodically reviews compensation survey information published by various organizations as another factor in setting NEO compensation. The Compensation Committee relies on judgment and does not have any formal guidelines or formulas for allocating between long-term and currently paid compensation, cash and non-cash compensation, or among different forms of non-cash compensation for the Company’s NEOs.

 

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Components of Total Compensation

Compensation packages in 2014 for the Company’s NEOs were comprised of the following elements:

Short-Term Compensation Elements