CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Ameron International Corporation ("Ameron" or the "Company") is a multinational manufacturer of highly-engineered products and materials for the chemical, industrial, energy, transportation and infrastructure markets. Ameron is a leading producer of water transmission lines; fiberglass-composite pipe for transporting oil, chemicals and corrosive fluids and specialized materials and products used in infrastructure projects. The Company operates businesses in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. The Company has three reportable segments. The Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group manufactures and markets filament-wound and molded composite fiberglass pipe, tubing, fittings and well screens. The Water Transmission Group manufactures and supplies concrete and steel pressure pipe, concrete non-pressure pipe,protective linings for pipe and fabricated steel products, such as large-diameter wind towers. The Infrastructure Products Group consists of two operating segments, which are aggregated: the Hawaii Division which manufactures and sells ready-mix concrete, sand and aggregates, concrete pipe and culverts and the Pole Products Division which manufactures and sells concrete and steel lighting and traffic poles. The markets served by the Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group are worldwide in scope. The Water Transmission Group serves primarily the western U.S. for pipe and sells wind-towers primarily west of the Mississippi river. The Infrastructure Products Group's quarry and ready-mix business operates exclusively in Hawaii, and poles are sold throughout the U.S. Ameron also participates in several joint-venture companies, directly in the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, and indirectly in Egypt.
During the third quarter of 2006, the Company sold its Performance Coatings & Finishes business ("Coatings Business"). The results from this segment have been reported as discontinued operations for all the reporting periods. Accordingly, the following discussions generally reflect summary results from continuing operations unless otherwise noted. However, the net income and net income per share discussions include the impact of discontinued operations.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Liquidity and Capital Resources and Results of Operations are based upon the Company's consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires Management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities during the reporting periods. Management bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
A summary of the Company's significant accounting policies is provided in Note (1) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, under Part II, Item 8. In addition, Management believes the following accounting policies affect the more significant estimates used in preparing the consolidated financial statements.
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Ameron International Corporation and all wholly-owned subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The functional currencies for the Company's foreign operations are the applicable local currencies. The translation from the applicable foreign currencies to U.S.dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted-average exchange rate during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss). The Company advances funds to certain foreign subsidiaries that are not expected to be repaid in the foreseeable future. Translation adjustments arising from these advances are also included in accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss). The timing of repayments of intercompany advances could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements. Additionally, earnings of foreign subsidiaries are often permanently reinvested outside the U.S. Unforeseen repatriation of such earnings could result in significant unrecognized U.S. tax liability. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in other income, net.
Revenue for the Fiberglass-Composite Pipe and Infrastructure Products segments is recognized when risk of ownership and title pass, primarily at the time goods are shipped, provided that an agreement exists between the customer and the Company, the price is fixed or determinable and collection is reasonably assured. Revenue is recognized for the Water Transmission Group primarily under the percentage-of-completion method, typically based on completed units of production, since products are manufactured under enforceable and binding construction contracts, typically are designed for specific applications, are not interchangeable between projects, and are not manufactured for stock. Revenue for the period is determined by multiplying total estimated contract revenue by the percentage-of-completion of the contract and then subtracting the amount of previously recognized revenue. Cost of earned revenue is computed by multiplying estimated contract completion cost by the percentage-ofcompletion of the contract and then subtracting the amount of previously recognized cost. In some cases, if products are manufactured for stock or are not related to specific construction contracts, revenue is recognized under the same criteria used by the other two segments. Revenue under the percentage-of-completion method is subject to a greater level of estimation, which affects the timing of revenue recognition, costs and profits. Estimates are reviewed on a consistent basis and are adjusted periodically to reflect current expectations. Costs attributable to unpriced change orders are treated as costs of contract performance in the period, and contract revenue is recognized if recovery is probable. Disputed or unapproved change orders are treated as claims. Recognition of amounts of additional contract revenue relating to claims occurs when amounts have been received or awarded with recognition based on the percentage-of-completion methodology.
The Company expenses environmental clean-up costs related to existing conditions resulting from past or current operations on a site-by-site basis. Liabilities and costs associated with these matters, as well as other pending litigation and asserted claims arising in the ordinary course of business, require estimates of future costs and judgments based on the knowledge and experience of management and its legal counsel. When the Company's exposures can be reasonably estimated and are probable, liabilities and expenses are recorded. The ultimate resolution of any such exposure to the Company may differ due to subsequent developments.
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market with cost determined principally on the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Certain steel inventories used by the Water Transmission Group are valued using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method. Significant changes in steel levels or costs could materially impact the Company's financial statements. Reserves are established for excess, obsolete and rework inventories based on estimates of salability and forecasted future demand. Management records an allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based on historical experience and expected trends. A significant reduction in demand or a significant worsening of customer credit quality could materially impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures or affiliates ("joint ventures") over which the Company has significant influence are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, whereby the investment is carried at the cost of acquisition, plus the Company's equity in undistributed earnings or losses since acquisition. Investments in joint ventures over which the Company does not have the ability to exert significant influence over the investees' operating and financing activities are accounted for under the cost method of accounting. The Company's investment in TAMCO, a steel mini-mill in California, is accounted for under the equity method. Investments in Ameron Saudi Arabia, Ltd. and Bondstrand, Ltd. are accounted for under the cost method due to management's current assessment of the Company's influence over these joint ventures.
Property, plant and equipment is stated on the basis of cost and depreciated principally using a straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the related assets, generally three to 40 years. The Company reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. If the estimated future, undiscounted cash flows from the use of an asset are less than its carrying value, a write-down is recorded to reduce the related asset to estimated fair value. Actual cash flows may differ significantly from estimated cash flows. Additionally, current estimates of future cash flows may differ from subsequent estimates of future cash flows. Changes in estimated or actual cash flows could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements.
The Company is self-insured for a portion of the losses and liabilities primarily associated with workers' compensation claims and general, product and vehicle liability. Losses are accrued based upon the Company's estimates of the aggregate liability for claims incurred using historical experience and certain actuarial assumptions followed in the insurance industry. The estimate of self-insurance liability includes an estimate of incurred but not reported claims, based on data compiled from historical experience. Actual experience could differ significantly from these estimates and could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements. The Company purchases varying levels of insurance to cover losses in excess of the self-insured limits. Currently, the Company's primary self-insurance limits are $1.0 million per workers' compensation claim, $.1 million per general, property or product liability claim, and $.25 million per vehicle liability claim.
The Company follows the guidance of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, SFAS No. 87,Employers' Accounting for Pensions, and SFAS No. 106, Employers’Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions, when accounting for pension and other postretirement benefits. Under these accounting standards, assumptions are made regarding the valuation of benefit obligations and the performance of plan assets that are controlled and invested by third-party fiduciaries. Delayed recognition of differences between actual results and expected or estimated results is a guiding principle of these standards. Such delayed recognition provides a gradual recognition of benefit obligations and investment performance over the working lives of the employees who benefit under the plans, based on various assumptions. Assumed discount rates are used to calculate the present values of benefit payments which are projected to be made in the future, including projections of increases in employees' annual compensation and health care costs. Management also projects the future returns on invested assets based principally on prior performance. These projected returns reduce the net benefit costs the Company records in the current period. Actual results could vary significantly from projected results, and such deviations could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements. Management consults with the Company’s actuaries when determining these assumptions. Program changes, including termination, freezing of benefits or acceleration of benefits, could result in an immediate recognition of unrecognized benefit obligations and such recognition could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements.
During 2007, the Company changed the assumed discount rate, and projected rates of increase in compensation levels and health care costs. The discount rate is based on market interest rates.At November 30, 2007, the Company increased the discount rate from 5.95% to 6.15% as a result of the then-current market interest rates on long-term, fixed-income debt securities of highly-rated corporations. In estimating the expected return on assets, the Company considers past performance and future expectations for various types of investments as well as the expected long-term allocation of assets. At November 30, 2007, the Company maintained the expected long-term rate of return on assets assumption at 8.75% to reflect the expectations for future returns in the equity markets. In projecting the rate of increase in compensation levels, the Company considers movements in inflation rates as reflected by market interest rates. At November 30, 2007, the Company increased the assumed annual rate of compensation increase from 3.45% to 3.65%. In selecting the rate of increase in health care costs, the Company considers past performance and forecasts of future health care cost trends.At November 30, 2007, the Company increased the rate of increase in health care costs from 9% to 10%, decreasing ratably until reaching 5% in 2012 and beyond.
Different assumptions would impact the Company’s projected benefit obligations and annual net periodic benefit costs related to pensions, and the accrued other benefit obligations and benefit costs related to postretirement benefits. The following reflects the impact associated with a change in certain assumptions (in thousands):
| |
1% Increase |
1% Decrease |
| |
Increase/(Decrease) in Benefit Obligations |
Increase/(Decrease) in Benefit Costs |
Increase/(Decrease) in Benefit Obligations |
Increase/(Decrease) in Benefit Costs |
Discount Rate:
Pensions |
$ (26,323) |
$ (2,941) |
$31,826 |
$ 3,905 |
Discount Rate:
Other postretirement benefits |
(333) |
(27) |
393 |
25 |
| Expected rate of return on assets |
Not Applicable |
(1,898) |
Not Applicable |
1,898 |
| Rate of increase in compensation levels |
2,597 |
637 |
(2,357) |
(576) |
| Rate of increase in health care costs |
182 |
25 |
(154) |
(20) |
Additional information regarding pensions and other postretirement benefits is disclosed in Note (16) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, under Part II, Item 8.
Management incentive compensation is accrued based on current estimates of the Company's ability to achieve short-term and long-term performance targets.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed for differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities. Such deferred income tax asset and liability computations are based on enacted tax laws and rates applicable to periods in which the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established, when necessary, to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. Quarterly income taxes are estimated based on the mix of income by jurisdiction forecasted for the full fiscal year. The Company believes that it has adequately provided for tax-related matters. The Company is subject to examination by taxing authorities in various jurisdictions. Matters raised upon audit may involve substantial amounts, and an adverse finding could have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The following discussion combines the impact of both continuing and discontinued operations unless otherwise noted.
As of November 30, 2007, the Company's working capital,including cash and cash equivalents, totaled $314.3 million, an increase of $33.8 million, from working capital of $280.5 million as of November 30, 2006. The increase was caused by higher business activity. All of the Company's industry segments had inventory turns of between four and seven times per year.Average days' sales in accounts receivable ranged between 33 and 171 for all segments. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $155.4 million as of November 30, 2007, compared to $139.5 million as of November 30, 2006.
In accordance with SFAS No. 95, Statement of Cash Flows, the consolidated statements of cash flows include cash flows for both continuing and discontinued operations. During 2007, net cash of $63.2 million was generated from operating activities of continuing and discontinued operations, compared to $16.8 million generated in 2006. The higher operating cash flow in 2007 was primarily due to higher earnings, excluding non-cash items and asset sales, and lower growth in operating assets and liabilities. In 2006, the Company's cash from operating activities included net income of $52.2 million, less gain on sale of assets and loss from sale of discontinued operations of $8.7 million, plus non-cash adjustments (depreciation, amortization, deferred taxes, dividends from joint-ventures less than equity income and stock compensation expense) of $14.8 million, offset by changes in operating assets and liabilities of $41.5 million. In 2007, the Company's cash provided by operating activities included net income of $67.2 million, less gain on sale of assets and discontinued operations of $5.9 million, plus similar non-cash adjustments of $28.3 million, offset by corresponding changes in operating assets and liabilities of $26.4 million. The lower operating cash flow in 2006, compared to 2005, was primarily due to higher earnings, excluding the gains on property sales in both years, that were more than offset by an increase in net operating capital related to higher sales in 2006. In 2005, $37.2 million of cash was generated from operating activities. Cash from operating activities included net income of $32.6 million, less gain on sale of assets of $1.6 million, plus similar non-cash adjustments of $24.2 million, offset by changes in operating assets and liabilities of $18.0 million.
Net cash used in investing activities totaled $37.1 million in 2007, compared to $89.7 million generated in 2006. In 2007, the Company generated net proceeds of $16.6 million from the sale of assets, including certain retained properties used by the former Coatings Business. In 2006, the Company generated net proceeds of $10.3 million from the sale of assets. In addition, the Company generated proceeds of $115.0 million from the sale of the Coatings Business in 2006. Net cash used in investing activities included capital expenditures of $47.7 million in 2007, compared to $34.5 million in 2006. In addition to capital expenditures for normal replacement and upgrades of machinery and equipment in both 2006 and 2007, the Company spent $10.8 million and $22.1 million, respectively, to enhance the capabilities of its steel fabrication plant in California to manufacture large-diameter wind towers. Additionally, the Company acquired a Brazilian fiberglass-pipe operation in 2007 for approximately $6.0 million, plus an earn out that could total $1.5 million based on the future performance of the acquired business. In 2006, the assets of a Mexican steel fabrication operation were acquired for approximately $1.0 million. Net cash used in investing activities totaled $21.5 million in 2005, which consisted of $3.9 million from the sale of assets, offset by capital expenditures of $25.4 million. During the year ending November 30, 2008, the Company anticipates spending between $30 and $80 million on capital expenditures. Capital expenditures are expected to be funded by existing cash balances, cash generated from operations or additional borrowings.
Net cash used in financing activities totaled $16.5 million during 2007, compared to $14.0 million in 2006. Net cash used in 2007 consisted of net payment of debt of $10.2 million, payment of Common Stock dividends of $8.2 million and treasury stock purchases of $1.6 million, related to the payment of taxes associated with the vesting of restricted shares.Also in 2007, the Company received $1.6 million from the issuance of Common Stock related to exercised stock options and recognized tax benefits related to stock-based compensation of $2.0 million. Net cash used in 2006 consisted of net payment of debt of $16.1 million, payment of Common Stock dividends of $7.1 million and similar treasury stock purchases of $1.2 million. In 2006, the Company received $8.0 million from the issuance of Common Stock related to exercised stock options and recognized tax benefits related to stock-based compensation of $2.5 million. No net cash was provided by financing activities in 2005. Cash used in 2005 consisted of payment of Common Stock dividends of $6.8 million, debt issuance costs of $.3 million, offset by net issuance of debt of $2.4 million, and a total of $4.8 million from issuance of Common Stock related to the exercise of stock options and treasury shares used to pay withholding taxes on vested restricted shares.
The Company utilizes a $100.0 million revolving credit facility with six banks (the "Revolver"). Under the Revolver, the Company may, at its option, borrow at floating interest rates (LIBOR plus a spread ranging from .75% to 1.625%, determined based on the Company’s financial condition and performance), at any time until September 2010, when all borrowings under the Revolver must be repaid.
The Company's lending agreements contain various restrictive covenants, including the requirement to maintain specified amounts of net worth and restrictions on cash dividends, borrowings, liens, investments, guarantees, and financial covenants. The Company is required to maintain consolidated net worth of $181.4 million plus 50% of net income and 75% of proceeds from any equity issued after January 24, 2003. The Company's consolidated net worth exceeded the covenant amount by $157.1 million as of November 30, 2007.The Company is required to maintain a consolidated leverage ratio of consolidated funded indebtedness to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") of no more than 2.5 times.At November 30, 2007, the Company maintained a consolidated leverage ratio of .83 times EBITDA. Lending agreements require that the Company maintain qualified consolidated tangible assets at least equal to the outstanding secured funded indebtedness. At November 30, 2007, qualifying tangible assets equaled 2.68 times funded indebtedness.Under the most restrictive fixed charge coverage ratio, the sum of EBITDA and rental expense less cash taxes must be at least 1.50 times the sum of interest expense, rental expense, dividends and scheduled funded debt payments.At November 30, 2007, the Company maintained such a fixed charge coverage ratio of 3.09 times. Under the most restrictive provisions of the Company's lending agreements, approximately $27.3 million of retained earnings was not restricted, at November 30, 2007, as to the declaration of cash dividends or the repurchase of Company stock. At November 30, 2007, the Company was in compliance with all covenants.
Cash and cash equivalents at November 30, 2007 totaled $155.4 million, an increase of $16.0 million from November 30, 2006. At November 30, 2007, the Company had total debt outstanding of $74.6 million, compared to $82.5 million at November 30, 2006, and approximately $109.2 million in unused committed and uncommitted credit lines available from foreign and domestic banks. The Company's highest borrowing and the average borrowing levels during 2007 were $84.3 million and $81.3 million, respectively.
The Company contributed $3.0 million to the U.S. pension and $.7 million to the non-U.S. pension plans in 2007. The Company expects to contribute approximately $3.0 million to its U.S. pension plan and $1.2 million to the non-U.S. pension plans in 2008.
Management believes that cash flow from operations and current cash balances, together with currently available lines of credit, will be sufficient to meet operating requirements in 2008. Cash available from operations could be affected by any general economic downturn or any decline or adverse changes in the Company's business, such as a loss of customers or significant raw material price increases. Management does not believe it likely that business or economic conditions will worsen or that costs will increase sufficiently to impact short-term liquidity.
The Company's contractual obligations and commercial commitments at November 30, 2007 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
| Payments Due by Period |
| Contractual Obligations |
Total |
Less than 1 Year |
1-3 Years |
3-5 Years |
5+ Years |
| Long-Term Debt (a) |
$ 74,648 |
$ 17,055 |
$ 27,784 |
$ 14,109 |
$ 15,700 |
| Interest Payments on Debt |
13,077 |
2,981 |
4,365 |
2,095 |
3,636 |
| Operating Leases |
38,455 |
4,289 |
7,665 |
4,574 |
21,927 |
| Purchase Obligations (b) |
528 |
528 |
— |
— |
— |
| Total Contractual Obligations (c) |
$126,708 |
$ 24,853 |
$ 39,814 |
$ 20,778 |
$ 41,263 |
| |
| Commitments Expiring Per Period |
| Commercial Commitments |
Total |
Less than 1 Year |
1-3 Years |
3-5 Years |
5+ Years |
| Standby Letters of Credit (e) |
$ 3,123 |
$ 3,123 |
— |
— |
— |
| Total Commercial Commitments (d) |
$ 3,123 |
$ 3,123 |
— |
— |
— |
(a) Included in long-term debt is $3,674 outstanding under a revolving credit facility, due in 2010, supported by the Revolver.
(b) Future interest payments related to debt obligations, excluding the Revolver and the industrial development bonds.
(c) Obligation to purchase sand used in the Company's ready-mix operations in Hawaii.
(d) The Company has no capitalized lease obligations, unconditional purchase obligations or standby repurchases obligations.
(e) Not included are standby letters of credit totaling $16,067 supporting industrial development bonds with principal of $15,700. The
principal amount of the industrial development bonds is included in long-term debt. The standby letters of credit are issued under the
Revolver.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: 2007 COMPARED WITH 2006
General
Income from continuing operations totaled $61.1 million, or $6.73 per diluted share, on sales of $631.0 million for the year ended November 30, 2007, compared to $50.1 million, or $5.64 per diluted share, on sales of $549.2 million in 2006. All segments had higher sales, and all segments had higher profits due to generally-improved market conditions, except the Water Transmission Group. Income from continuing operations was higher due primarily to sales growth, interest income, higher equity income and a lower effective tax rate. Equity in earnings of TAMCO,Ameron's 50%-owned steel mini-mill in California, increased by $1.8 million in 2007, compared to 2006.
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes, totaled $6.1 million, or $.67 per diluted share, in 2007, compared to $2.1 million, or $.24 per diluted share, in 2006.
The Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group achieved record sales and profits in 2007 as a result of continued strong demand in the oilfield, industrial and marine piping markets worldwide. The Infrastructure Products Group had higher sales and profits due to the strong construction sector in Hawaii, which more than offset a decline in sales and profits from the Pole Products Division. The Water Transmission Group reported higher sales but a loss due to the timing of water pipe projects and the start-up costs and delays in the construction of a new wind tower manufacturing facility.
Sales
Sales increased $81.8 million in 2007, compared to 2006. Sales increased due to higher demand for marine piping, the impact of foreign exchange rates on the Company’s Asian and European operations and higher demand for construction materials in Hawaii due to the continued strength in governmental and commercial construction spending.
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe's sales increased $61.1 million, or 34.6%, in 2007, compared to 2006. Sales from operations in the U.S. increased $6.9 million in 2007 primarily due to increased demand for industrial piping, which offset a decline in demand for onshore oilfield piping. Sales from Asian subsidiary operations increased $31.6 million in 2007, driven by activity in the industrial,marine and offshore segments and the impact of foreign exchange. Sales from European operations increased $21.3 million in 2007 due to growth in industrial, oilfield and marine markets and the impact of foreign exchange. The Brazilian business acquired in October 2007 contributed sales of $1.3 million. The strong demand for oilfield, industrial and marine piping continues to be driven by high oil prices and the high cost of steel piping, the principal substitute for fiberglass pipe. The outlook for the Fiberglass Composite Pipe Group remains favorable.
Water Transmission’s sales increased $15.3 million, or 8.7%, in 2007, compared to 2006. The sales increase was driven by the Company’s entry into the market for large-diameter wind towers and the Group’s operation in South America which benefited from increased demand for water pipe in Colombia. The demand for large-diameter water pipe in the western U.S. remained soft due to completion of projects and a cyclical lull in the building of new projects. Market conditions for water pipe remain soft due to continuation of a cyclical slowdown in water infrastructure projects in the Company's markets. However, the market for wind towers is robust.
Infrastructure Products' sales increased $7.5 million, or 3.8%, in 2007, compared to 2006. The Company’s Hawaiian division had higher sales due to improved pricing and the continued strength of the governmental, commercial and residential construction markets on Oahu and Maui. Pole Products was impacted by the decline in U.S.housing markets and reduced demand for concrete lighting poles. Sales of steel poles for highway and traffic applications increased. Although the housing market has softened, primarily impacting the demand for concrete poles, the outlook for the Infrastructure Products Group’s other construction markets remains firm.
Gross Profit
Gross profit in 2007 was $146.0 million, or 23.1% of sales, compared to $132.4 million, or 24.1% of sales, in 2006. Gross profit increased $13.6 million due to higher sales while the gross profit margin declined due to the reduced profitability of the Water Transmission Group.
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group's gross profit increased $26.9 million in 2007, compared to 2006. Profit margins improved to 36.0% in 2007, compared to 33.3% in 2006. Higher margins resulted from improvements in product and market mix, price increases and plant utilization. Increased sales volume and prices generated additional gross profit of $20.3 million while favorable product mix and operating efficiencies generated additional gross profit of $6.6 million in 2007.
Water Transmission Group's gross profit decreased $12.4 million in 2007, compared to 2006. Profit margins declined to 7.3% in 2007, compared to 15.0% in 2006. Higher sales volume increased profit by $2.3 million in 2007. Lower margins negatively impacted gross profit by $14.7 million due to an unfavorable mix of projects, start-up costs associated with the introduction of wind towers and lower efficiencies due to lower pipe sales and the delay in construction of the wind tower plant.
Gross profit in the Infrastructure Products Group increased $4.6 million in 2007, compared to 2006. Profit margins improved to 25.1% in 2007, compared to 23.7% in 2006. Increased sales volume and prices generated additional gross profit of $1.8 million, while higher margins generated additional gross profit of $2.8 million for 2007. Higher margins resulted from price increases and operating efficiencies due to increased production levels in Hawaii.
Additionally, consolidated gross profit was $5.5 million lower in 2007 compared to the same period in 2006 due primarily to increased reserves in 2007 associated with LIFO accounting of certain steel inventories used by the Water Transmission Group. LIFO reserves are not allocated to the operating segments.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses totaled $97.9 million, or 15.5% of sales, in 2007, compared to $94.7 million, or 17.2%
of sales, in 2006. The $3.2 million increase included higher legal fees and claims of $3.1 million, self-insurance reserves of $1.4 million, stock
compensation expense of $.6 million, and commissions and administrative expense of $1.9 million associated with higher sales, offset by
lower pension expense of $3.8 million primarily due to the sale of the Coatings Business and improved funding of the pension plans. The
reduction is SG&A as a percent of sales was due to spending controls and the leverage achieved from higher sales.
Other Income, Net
Other income was $6.0 million in 2007, compared to $11.4 million in 2006. The decrease in other income in 2007 was due primarily to a
$9.0 million gain from the sale of property in Brea, California in 2006. Other income also included royalties and fees from licensees, foreign
currency transaction losses, and other miscellaneous income.
Interest
Net interest income totaled $1.9 million in 2007, compared to net interest expense of $1.7 million in 2006. Net interest income was due to
higher interest income from short-term investments, lower average outstanding debt and less higher-rate, fixed-rate debt than in 2006.
Provision for Income Taxes
Income taxes decreased to $10.4 million in 2007, from $10.9 million in 2006. The effective tax rate on income from continuing operations
decreased to 18.5% in 2007, from 23.0% in 2006. The effective tax in 2007 was reduced by tax benefits of $5.3 million associated with the
decision to dissolve the Company’s wholly-owned United Kingdom subsidiary. The effective tax in 2006 was reduced by tax benefits of $7.2
million primarily as a result of settlements of the 1996 – 1998 and 1999 – 2002 IRS examinations and approval of the Company's research
and development credit refund claims by the Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation. Income from certain foreign operations and joint
ventures is taxed at rates that are lower than the U.S. statutory tax rates. For both 2006 and 2007, the Company provided a full valuation
allowance for the net operating loss carry-overs of its foreign subsidiaries except its subsidiary in the Netherlands. In 2007, the Company
released $3.2 million of valuation allowance related to this subsidiary due to profitability in 2007 and a change in projected profitability in
the future. During the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company recognized a charge to income from continuing operations of approximately
$1.2 million primarily related to an additional valuation allowance for deferred tax assets associated with the Company’s subsidiary in the
Netherlands. This charge represents a correction, rather than a change in estimate,of amounts recorded in prior period financial statements.
Management believes this to be immaterial to prior interim and annual financial statements.
Equity in Earnings of Joint Venture, Net of Taxes
Equity income,which consists of Ameron’s share of the net income of TAMCO, increased to $15.4 million in 2007, compared to $13.6 million
in 2006. Ameron owns 50% of TAMCO, a mini-mill that produces steel rebar for the construction industry in the western U.S. Equity income
is shown net of income taxes. Dividends from TAMCO were taxed at an effective rate of 9.6%, reflecting the dividend exclusion provided to
the Company under current tax laws. The improvement in TAMCO’s earnings was due to increased demand for steel rebar and higher selling
prices, reflecting the continued strong construction market and the high price of steel worldwide.
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes
Income from discontinued operations totaled $6.1 million in 2007, compared to $2.1 million, in 2006. In 2007, the Company completed
disposition of several retained properties formerly used by the Coatings Business and recognized a net gain of $5.3 million. In 2007, the
Company recognized a net gain of $.1 million from the final settlement of the sale of the Coatings Business. In addition, the Company
recognized $.2 million of research and development tax credits related to the retroactive application of tax legislation enacted in December
2006 and $.6 million of net tax benefit due to an adjustment in tax expense related to the gain on sale of the business. This benefit
represented a correction, rather than a change in estimate, of amounts recorded in prior period financial statements. Management believes
this to be immaterial to prior interim and annual financial statements. In 2006, the Company completed the sale of the Coatings Business,
subject to final settlement of certain disputed items which were resolved in 2007, and recognized a pretax gain of $.9 million. Provision for
income taxes related to the gain was $1.0 million, which resulted in a net loss on the sale of $.2 million in 2006. Income from discontinued
operations before the loss on the sale of the Coatings Business, net of taxes, totaled $2.3 million for the year ended November 30, 2006. The
Coatings Business generated $152.2 million of net sales in 2006.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: 2006 COMPARED WITH 2005
General
Income from continuing operations totaled $50.1 million, or $5.64 per diluted share, on sales of $549.2 million in the year ended November
30, 2006, compared to $29.5 million, or $3.44 per diluted share, on sales of $494.8 million for the same period in 2005. All segments had
significantly higher sales and profits, except the Water Transmission Group, due to generally-improved market conditions. Income from
continuing operations was higher due primarily to sales growth, the gain from the sale of the Brea property, lower interest, higher equity
income and a lower effective tax rate. Equity in earnings of TAMCO, Ameron's 50%-owned steel venture in California, increased by $4.5
million, compared to the same period in 2005.
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes, totaled $2.1 million, or $.24 per diluted share, in 2006, compared to $3.1 million, or $.36
per diluted share, in 2005. During the third quarter of 2006, the Company completed the sale of its Coatings Business and recognized a
pretax gain of $.9 million. The Coatings Business generated sales of $152.2 million and $209.8 million in 2006 and 2005, respectively.
The Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group achieved record sales and profits in 2006 as a result of the increased demand for oilfield piping in
North America, continued strong demand in the marine market worldwide and increased shipments to the Middle East from the Company’s
Asian subsidiary operations. The Infrastructure Products Group had significantly higher sales and profits due to the strong construction
sector in Hawaii and throughout the U.S. The Water Transmission Group reported lower sales and profits due to a cyclical slowdown in the
market and a major piping project in Northern California that was completed in early 2006.
Sales
Sales increased $54.4 million in 2006, compared to 2005. Sales increased due to higher demand for onshore oilfield and marine piping, the
impact of foreign exchange rates on the Company’s Asian fiberglass pipe subsidiary operations, higher demand for construction materials
in Hawaii, and higher demand for concrete and steel poles due to the continued strength of housing construction throughout the U.S.
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe's sales increased $42.7 million, or 31.8%, in 2006, compared to 2005. Sales from operations in the U.S. increased
$17.7 million in 2006 primarily due to increased demand for onshore oilfield piping. Sales from Asian subsidiary operations increased $18.6
million in 2006, driven by activity in the industrial, marine and offshore segments and the impact of foreign exchange. Sales in Europe
increased $6.4 million in 2006 due to volume growth in industrial and marine markets.
Water Transmission’s sales decreased $17.7 million, or 9.2%, in 2006, compared to 2005. The Water Transmission Group benefited from a
major pipe project in Northern California throughout 2005, which was completed in the first quarter of 2006.
Infrastructure Products' sales increased $29.2 million, or 17.3%, in 2006, compared to 2005. Higher demand for concrete and steel poles was
due principally to the continued strong housing market and improved market penetration, particularly in the southeast U.S. The Company’s
Hawaiian division had higher sales due to the continued strength of the governmental, commercial and residential construction markets on
Oahu and Maui.
Gross Profit
Gross profit in 2006 was $132.4 million, or 24.1% of sales, compared to $125.2 million, or 25.3% of sales, in 2005. Gross profit increased $7.2
million due to higher sales.
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group's gross profit increased $17.2 million in 2006, compared to 2005. Profit margins improved to 33.3% for
2006, compared to 31.0% for 2005. Higher margins resulted from improvements in product and market mix, and price increases. Increased
sales volume generated additional gross profit of $13.2 million while favorable product mix generated additional gross profit of $4.0 million
in 2006.
Water Transmission Group's gross profit decreased $20.1 million in 2006, compared to 2005. Profit margins declined to 15.0% for 2006,
compared to 24.1% in 2005. Lower sales volume reduced profit by $4.3 million in 2006. Lower margins negatively impacted gross profit by
$15.8 million due to an unfavorable mix of projects, start-up costs associated with the introduction of wind towers and lower efficiencies
due to lower sales.
Gross profit in the Infrastructure Products Group increased $10.5 million in 2006, compared to 2005. Profit margins improved to 23.7% for
2006, compared to 21.6% in 2005. Increased sales volume generated additional gross profit of $6.3 million, while higher margins generated
additional gross profit of $4.2 million in 2006. Higher margins resulted from price increases and operating efficiencies due to increased
production levels.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses totaled $94.7 million, or 17.2% of sales, in 2006, compared to $90.3 million, or 18.2% of
sales, in 2005. The $4.4 million increase included higher incentive and stock compensation expense of $4.9 million, higher employee benefit costs
of $1.4 million, and higher commission and administrative expense of $7.5 million associated with higher sales, offset by higher legal fees and
settlement costs of $6.8 million and self-insurance expense of $2.6 million in 2005.
Other
Income, Net
Other income increased from $2.1 million in 2005 to $11.4 million in 2006 due primarily to the $9.0 million gain from the sale of the Brea
property. Other income included royalties and fees from licensees, foreign currency transaction losses, and other miscellaneous income.
Interest
Net interest expense totaled $1.7 million in 2006, compared to $5.5 million in 2005. The decrease in net interest expense was due to higher
interest income from short-term investments and the lower average outstanding debt and less higher-rate, fixed-rate debt.
Provision for Income Taxes
Income taxes decreased to $10.9 million in 2006 from $11.0 million in 2005. The effective tax rate on income from continuing operations
decreased to 23% in 2006 from 35% for the same period in 2005. The effective tax in 2006 was lower than the tax at the statutory rate,with the difference of $7.2 million due to settlement of the 1996-1998 and 1999-2002 IRS examinations, final approval of the Company's 1998-
2000 research and development credit refund claims, and settlements with other foreign and local jurisdictions. Also, the rate in 2005 was
higher as a result of the one-time repatriation of foreign earnings under the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.
Equity in Earnings of Joint Venture, Net of Taxes
Equity income, which consists of Ameron’s share of the results of TAMCO, increased to $13.6 million in 2006, compared to $9.0 million in
2005. Dividends from TAMCO were taxed at an effective rate of 11.3% and 10.4%, respectively, in 2006 and 2005, reflecting the dividend
exclusion provided to the Company under current tax laws. The improvement in TAMCO’s earnings was due to increased demand for steel
rebar and higher selling prices, reflecting the continued strong construction market and the high prices of steel worldwide.
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes
During the third quarter of 2006, the Company completed the sale of the Coatings Business and recognized a pretax gain of $.9 million.
Provision for income taxes related to the gain was $1.0 million, which resulted in a net loss of $.2 million in 2006. Income from discontinued
operations before the loss on the sale of the Coatings Business, net of taxes, totaled $2.3 million in 2006, compared to $3.1 million in 2005. The Coatings Business generated $152.2 million and $209.8 million in net sales in 2006 and 2005, respectively.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET FINANCING
The Company does not have any off-balance sheet financing, other than listed in the Liquidity and Capital Resources Section herein.All of the
Company's subsidiaries are included in the financial statements,and the Company does not have relationships with any special purpose entities.
CONTINGENCIES
The Company is one of numerous defendants in various asbestos-related personal injury lawsuits. These cases generally seek unspecified damages for asbestos-related diseases based on alleged exposure to products previously manufactured by the Company and others, and at this time the Company is generally not aware of the extent of injuries allegedly suffered by the individuals or the facts supporting the claim that injuries were caused by the Company's products.Based upon the information available to it at this time, the Company is not in a position to evaluate its potential exposure, if any, as a result of such claims or future similar claims, if any, that may be filed.Hence,no amounts have been accrued for loss contingencies related to these lawsuits in accordance with Statements of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 5, "Accounting for Contingencies." The Company continues to vigorously defend all such lawsuits.As of November 30, 2007, the Company was a defendant in asbestos-related cases involving 60 claimants, compared to 145 claimants as of November 30, 2006. The Company is not in a position to estimate the number of additional claims that may be filed against it in the future. For the year ended November 30, 2007, there were new claims involving 19 claimants, dismissals and/or settlements involving 104 claimants and no judgments. Net costs and expenses incurred by the Company for the year ended November 30, 2007 in connection with asbestos-related claims were approximately $.2 million.
As of November 30, 2006, the Company was one of numerous defendants in various silica-related personal injury lawsuits involving seven claimants. As of November 30, 2007, the Company was no longer a defendant in any silica-related cases. No net costs and expenses were incurred by the Company for the year ended November 30, 2007 in connection with silica-related claims.
In May 2003, Dominion Exploration and Production, Inc. and Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc. (collectively "Dominion") brought an action against the Company in Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans, Louisiana as owners of an offshore production facility known as a SPAR. Dominion seeks damages allegedly sustained by it resulting from delays in delivery of the SPAR caused by the removal and replacement of certain coatings containing lead and/or lead chromate for which the manufacturer of the SPAR alleged the Company was responsible. Dominion contends that the Company made certain misrepresentations and warranties to Dominion concerning the lead-free nature of those coatings. Dominion's petition as filed alleged a claim for damages in an unspecified amount; however,Dominion's economic expert has since estimated Dominion's damages at approximately $128 million, a figure which the Company contests. This matter is in discovery and no trial date has yet been established. The Company believes that it has meritorious defenses to this action. Based upon the information available to it at this time, the Company is not in a position to evaluate the ultimate outcome of this matter.
In April 2004, Sable Offshore Energy Inc. ("Sable"), as agent for certain owners of the Sable Offshore Energy Project, brought an action against various coatings suppliers and application contractors, including the Company and two of its subsidiaries, Ameron (UK) Limited and Ameron B.V. (collectively "Ameron Subsidiaries") in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, Canada. Sable seeks damages allegedly sustained by it resulting from performance problems with several coating systems used on the Sable Offshore Energy Project, including coatings products furnished by the Company and the Ameron Subsidiaries. Sable's originating notice and statement of claim alleged a claim for damages in an unspecified amount; however, Sable has since alleged that its claim for damages against all defendants is approximately 428 million Canadian dollars, a figure which the Company and the Ameron Subsidiaries contest. This matter is in discovery, and no trial date has yet been established. The Company believes that it has meritorious defenses to this action. Based upon the information available to it at this time, the Company is not in a position to evaluate the ultimate outcome of this matter.
In addition, certain other claims, suits and complaints that arise in the ordinary course of business, have been filed or are pending against the Company.Management believes that these matters are either adequately reserved, covered by insurance, or would not have a material effect on the Company's financial position, cash flows, or its results of operations if disposed of unfavorably.
The Company is subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations concerning the environment and is currently participating in administrative proceedings at several sites under these laws.While the Company finds it difficult to estimate with any certainty the total cost of remediation at the several sites, on the basis of currently available information and reserves provided, the Company believes that the outcome of such environmental regulatory proceedings will not have a material effect on the Company's financial position, cash flows, or its results of operations.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In July 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” FIN No. 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an entity’s financial statements in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 109 and prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for financial statement disclosure of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The minimum threshold is defined in FIN No. 48 as a tax position that is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit to be recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. FIN No. 48 must be applied to all existing tax positions upon initial adoption. The cumulative effect of applying FIN No. 48 at adoption is to be reported as an adjustment to beginning retained earnings for the year of adoption. FIN No. 48 is effective for the first quarter of the Company’s 2008 fiscal year and is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” which formally defines fair value, creates a standardized framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), and expands fair value measurement disclosures. SFAS No. 157 will be effective for the first quarter of the year ending November 30, 2008. The Company is evaluating whether the adoption of SFAS No. 157 will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, "Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans," amending FASB Statement No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions,” FASB Statement No. 88, “Employers’ Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits,” FASB Statement No. 106, “Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions,” and FASB Statement No. 132, “Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits.” SFAS No. 158 requires companies to recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of a defined benefit postretirement plan (other than a multiemployer plan) as an asset or liability in its financial statements and to recognize changes in that status in the year in which the changes occur. SFAS No. 158 also requires a company to measure the funded status of a plan as of the date of its year-end financial statements. The Company adopted the recognition provisions of SFAS No. 158 in fiscal year 2007. See Note (16) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, under Part II, Item 8, for information regarding the impact of adopting the recognition provisions of SFAS No. 158. The Company has not yet adopted the measurement provisions which are not effective until fiscal 2009. The Company is evaluating whether the adoption of the measurement provision of SFAS No. 158 will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue No. 06-4, “Accounting for Deferred Compensation and Postretirement Benefit Aspects of Endorsement Split-Dollar Life Insurance Arrangements,” effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2007. EITF Issue No. 06-4 requires that, for split-dollar life insurance arrangements providing a benefit to an employee extending to postretirement periods, an employer should recognize a liability for future benefits in accordance with SFAS No. 106. EITF Issue No. 06-4 requires that recognition of the effects of adoption should be either by (a) a change in accounting principle through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the year of adoption or (b) a change in accounting principle through retrospective application to all prior periods. The Company is evaluating whether the adoption of EITF Issue No. 06-4 will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” SFAS No. 159 permits companies to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. SFAS No. 159 seeks to improve the overall quality of financial reporting by providing companies the opportunity to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently without having to apply complex hedge accounting provisions. SFAS No. 159 will be effective for the year ending November 30, 2008. The Company is evaluating whether the adoption of SFAS No. 159 will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" PROVISIONS OF THE
PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
Any of the statements contained in this report that refer to the Company's forecasted, estimated or anticipated future results are forwardlooking
and reflect the Company's current analysis of existing trends and information.Actual results may differ from current expectations
based on a number of factors affecting Ameron's businesses, including competitive conditions and changing market conditions. In addition,
matters affecting the economy generally, including the state of economies worldwide, can affect the Company's results. These forwardlooking
statements represent the Company's judgment only as of the date of this report.Since actual results could differ materially, the reader
is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. Moreover, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these
forward-looking statements.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Foreign Currency Risk
The Company operates internationally, giving rise to exposure to market risks from changes in foreign exchange rates. From time to time, the Company borrows in various currencies to reduce the level of net assets subject to changes in foreign exchange rates or purchases foreign exchange forward and option contracts to hedge firm commitments, such as receivables and payables, denominated in foreign currencies. The Company does not use the contracts for speculative or trading purposes.At November 30, 2007, the Company had 12 foreign currency forward contracts expiring at various dates through February 2008, with an aggregate notional value of $6.3 million and fair value of $6.3 million. Such instruments are carried at fair value,with related adjustments recorded in other income.
Debt Risk
The Company has variable-rate, short-term and long-term debt as well as fixed-rate, long-term debt. The fair value of the Company's fixedrate debt is subject to changes in interest rates.The estimated fair value of the Company's variable-rate debt approximates the carrying value of such debt since the variable interest rates are market-based, and the Company believes such debt could be refinanced on materially similar terms. The Company is subject to the availability of credit to support new requirements and to refinance long-term and short-term debt.
At November 30, 2007, the estimated fair value of notes payable by the Company totaling $20.0 million,with a fixed rate of 5.36% per annum, was $20.1 million.The Company is required to repay these notes in annual installments of $10.0 million in 2008 and 2009. At November 30, 2007, the estimated fair value of notes payable by the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary in Singapore totaling approximately $35.3 million,with a fixed rate of 4.25% per annum,was $35.3 million. These notes must be repaid in installments of approximately $7.1 million per year beginning in 2008. The Company had $7.2 million of variable-rate industrial development bonds payable at a rate of 3.81% per annum at November 30, 2007, payable in 2016. The Company also had $8.5 million of variable-rate industrial development bonds payable at a rate of 3.81% per annum at November 30, 2007, payable in 2021. The industrial revenue bonds are supported by the Revolver. The Company borrowed $3.7 million under various foreign short-term bank facilities that are supported by the Revolver, which permits borrowings up to $100.0 million through September 2010. The average interest rate of such borrowings by foreign subsidiaries was 13.51% per annum at November 30, 2007.
| |
Expected Maturity Date |
Total Outstanding
As of November 30, 2006 |
| (Dollars in thousands) |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
Thereafter |
Recorded Value |
Fair Value |
| Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Long-Term Debt: |
| Fixed-rate secured notes, payable in US$ |
10,000 |
10,000 |
|
|
|
|
$ 20,000 |
20,114 |
| Average interest rate |
5.36% |
5.36% |
|
|
|
|
5.36% |
|
|
Fixed-rate secured notes,
payable in Singapore Dollars |
7,055 |
7,055 |
7,055 |
7,055 |
7,055 |
|
35,274 |
35,330 |
| Average interest rate |
4.25% |
4.25% |
4.25% |
4.25% |
4.25% |
|
4.25% |
|
|
Variable-rate bank revolving credit facilities,
payable in local currencies |
|
|
|
3,674 |
|
|
3,652 |
3,652 |
| Average interest rate |
|
|
|
13.51% |
|
|
13.51% |
|
|
Variable-rate industrial development bonds,
payable in US$ |
|
|
|
|
|
7,200 |
7,200 |
7,200 |
| Average interest rate |
|
|
|
|
|
3.81% |
3.81% |
|
|
Variable-rate industrial development bonds,
payable in US$ |
|
|
|
|
|
8,500 |
8,500 |
8,500 |
| Average interest rate |
|
|
|
|
|
3.81% |
3.81% |
|
|
|