<PAGE> 1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SCHEDULE 14A
(RULE 14a-101)
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
(AMENDMENT NO. )
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]
Check the appropriate box:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
[ ] Preliminary Proxy Statement [ ] CONFIDENTIAL, FOR USE OF THE COMMISSION
ONLY (AS PERMITTED BY RULE 14a-6(e)(2))
[X] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Rule 14a-12.
</TABLE>
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO.
(NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
(NAME OF PERSON(S) FILING PROXY STATEMENT, IF OTHER THAN THE REGISTRANT)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
[X] No fee required.
[ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: .......
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: ..........
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which the
filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): ............
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: ......................
(5) Total fee paid: .......................................................
[ ] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[ ] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule
0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid
previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number,
or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount Previously Paid: ...............................................
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.: .........................
(3) Filing Party: .........................................................
(4) Date Filed: ...........................................................
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<PAGE> 2
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO.
FOUR LIMITED PARKWAY EAST
REYNOLDSBURG, OHIO 43068
(614) 577-6500
April 20, 2000
Dear Stockholder:
You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to
be held at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Time, on May 18, 2000, in the Fairfield
Room on the Second Floor of the Hyatt Regency Columbus at the Greater Columbus
Convention Center, 350 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215. I hope that you
will all be able to attend and participate in the meeting, at which time I will
have the opportunity to review the business and operations of our company.
The formal Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement are
attached, and the matters to be acted upon by our stockholders are described in
the Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Our Investor Relations telephone
number is (614) 577-6500 should you require assistance in finding the location
of the meeting.
It is important that your shares be represented and voted at the meeting.
Accordingly, after reading the attached Proxy Statement, please sign, date and
return the enclosed proxy card. Your vote is important regardless of the number
of shares you own.
Sincerely yours,
/s/ Michael S. Jeffries
Michael S. Jeffries
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
<PAGE> 3
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
MAY 18, 2000
April 20, 2000
TO THE STOCKHOLDERS:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of
Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (the "Company"), will be held in the Fairfield Room on
the Second Floor of the Hyatt Regency Columbus at the Greater Columbus
Convention Center, 350 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215, on May 18, 2000,
at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Time, for the following purposes:
1. To elect three directors to serve for terms of three years each.
2. To transact any other business which properly comes before the annual
meeting or any adjournment.
Only stockholders of record, as shown by the transfer books of the Company,
at the close of business on March 31, 2000, are entitled to notice of and to
vote at the annual meeting.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ Michael S. Jeffries
Michael S. Jeffries
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
PLEASE FILL IN, DATE AND SIGN THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD AND RETURN IT IN THE
ENVELOPE PROVIDED AS PROMPTLY AS POSSIBLE, WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE
ANNUAL MEETING. IF YOU LATER DESIRE TO REVOKE YOUR PROXY FOR ANY REASON, YOU MAY
DO SO IN THE MANNER DESCRIBED IN THE ATTACHED PROXY STATEMENT.
<PAGE> 4
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO.
FOUR LIMITED PARKWAY EAST
REYNOLDSBURG, OHIO 43068
(614) 577-6500
PROXY STATEMENT
DATED APRIL 20, 2000
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
MAY 18, 2000
This proxy statement and the accompanying proxy card are being mailed to
stockholders of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (the "Company") on or about April 20,
2000, in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the board of directors
of the Company for use at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held May 18,
2000, or any adjournment. The annual meeting will be held at 10:00 a.m., Eastern
Daylight Time, in the Fairfield Room on the Second Floor of the Hyatt Regency
Columbus at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, 350 North High Street,
Columbus, Ohio 43215.
A proxy card for use at the annual meeting accompanies this proxy statement
and is solicited by the board of directors of the Company. Any stockholder
giving a proxy has the power to revoke it prior to its exercise by giving notice
of revocation to the Company in writing, by voting in person at the annual
meeting or by executing a later-dated proxy. However, any such action must be
taken in sufficient time to permit the necessary examination and tabulation of
the subsequent proxy or revocation before the vote is taken.
The expense of preparing, assembling, printing and mailing this proxy
statement, the accompanying proxy card and any other related materials used in
the solicitation of proxies will be paid by the Company. In addition to the use
of the mails, solicitation may be made by associates of the Company by
telephone, mailgram, facsimile, telegraph, cable and personal interview. The
Company has retained Georgeson Shareholder Communications, Inc., New York, New
York, to aid in the solicitation of proxies with respect to shares held by
brokerage houses, custodians, fiduciaries and other nominees for a fee of
approximately $5,000, plus expenses. The Company does not expect to pay any
other compensation for the solicitation of proxies.
Our annual report to stockholders for the fiscal year ended January 29,
2000 (the "1999 fiscal year") is enclosed with this proxy statement.
VOTING AT ANNUAL MEETING
The shares entitled to vote at the annual meeting consist of shares of the
Class A Common Stock, par value $.01 per share (the "Common Stock"), of the
Company, with each share entitling the holder of record to one vote. There are
no cumulative voting rights in the election of directors. At the close of
business on March 31, 2000, the record date for the annual meeting, there were
outstanding 102,029,782 shares of Common Stock. A quorum for the annual meeting
is one-third of the outstanding shares of Common Stock.
<PAGE> 5
PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SHARES
The following table furnishes information regarding the beneficial
ownership of shares of Common Stock by each person known to the Company to
beneficially own more than five percent (5%) of the outstanding shares of Common
Stock as of March 31, 2000 (unless otherwise indicated):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AND ADDRESS AMOUNT AND NATURE OF
OF BENEFICIAL OWNER BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP PERCENT OF CLASS(1)
------------------- -------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
J. P. Morgan & Co. Incorporated 7,852,864(2) 7.7%
60 Wall Street
New York, NY 10260(2)
FMR Corp. 6,497,856(3) 6.4%
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109(3)
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) The percent of class is based on 102,029,782 shares of Common Stock
outstanding on March 31, 2000.
(2) Based on information contained in filings with the Securities and Exchange
Commission dated December 31, 1999, as of that date, J. P. Morgan & Co.
Incorporated, the parent holding company for Morgan Guaranty Trust Company
of New York, J. P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc., J. P. Morgan Florida
Federal Savings Bank and Morgan Tokyo Bank, has sole voting power as to
5,752,142 shares and sole dispositive power as to 7,734,464 shares.
(3) Based on information contained in filings with the SEC (the latest of which
is dated February 14, 2000), as of December 31, 1999, Fidelity Management &
Research Company ("Fidelity"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of FMR Corp. and a
registered investment adviser, is the beneficial owner of 5,577,236 shares
of Common Stock of the Company as a result of acting as investment adviser
to various registered investment companies (the "Fidelity Funds"). Each of
Edward C. Johnson 3d, FMR Corp., through its control of Fidelity, and the
Fidelity Funds has sole power to dispose of the 5,577,236 shares owned by
the Funds. Neither FMR Corp. nor Edward C. Johnson 3d has the sole power to
vote or direct the voting of the shares owned directly by the Fidelity
Funds, which power resides with the Funds' Boards of Trustees. Fidelity
carries out the voting of the shares under written guidelines established by
the Funds' Boards of Trustees. Fidelity has the same address as FMR Corp.
Fidelity Management Trust Company, a wholly-owned bank subsidiary of FMR
Corp., is the beneficial owner of 681,980 shares of Common Stock of the
Company as a result of its serving as investment manager of institutional
account(s). Each of Edward C. Johnson 3d and FMR Corp., through its control
of Fidelity Management Trust Company, has sole dispositive power over
681,980 shares and sole power to vote or to direct the voting of 127,250
shares, and no power to vote or to direct the voting of 554,730 shares owned
by the institutional account(s) as reported above. Fidelity Management Trust
Company has the same address as FMR Corp.
Edward C. Johnson 3d is Chairman of FMR Corp. and Abigail P. Johnson is a
director of FMR Corp. Through their ownership of voting common stock and the
execution of a shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family
may be deemed, under the Investment Company Act of 1940, to form a
controlling group with respect to FMR Corp.
Fidelity International Limited ("FIL"), Pembroke Hall, 42 Crowlane,
Hamilton, Bermuda, and various foreign-based subsidiaries provide investment
advisory and management services to a number of non-U.S. investment
companies (the "International Funds") and certain institutional investors.
FIL is the
2
<PAGE> 6
beneficial owner of 238,640 shares of Common Stock. FIL has sole voting
power and sole dispositive power as to these shares. A partnership
controlled by Edward C. Johnson 3d and members of his family owns shares of
FIL voting stock with the right to cast approximately 39.89% of the total
votes which may be cast by all holders of FIL voting stock. Mr. Johnson is
Chairman of FIL.
FMR Corp. and FIL are of the view that they are not acting as a "group" for
purposes of Section 13(d) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that
they are not otherwise required to attribute to each other the beneficial
ownership of securities beneficially owned by the other corporation within
the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act. Therefore,
they are of the view that the shares held by the other corporation need not
be aggregated for purposes of Section 13(d). However, FMR Corp. has
voluntarily made its filings as if all of the shares are beneficially owned
by FMR Corp. and FIL on a joint basis.
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
NOMINEES AND DIRECTORS
Three members of the board of directors of the Company will be elected at
the annual meeting. Directors elected at the annual meeting will hold office for
a three-year term expiring at the annual meeting of stockholders in 2003 or
until their successors are elected and qualified. The nominees of the board of
directors are identified below. The proxies named in the accompanying proxy card
intend to vote the shares represented by the proxies received under this
solicitation for the nominees named below, unless otherwise instructed on the
proxy card. If any nominee is unable or unwilling to serve as a director, the
proxies reserve full discretion to vote the shares represented by the proxies
for the election of the remaining nominees and for the election of any
substitute nominee designated by the board of directors. The board of directors
has no reason to believe that any nominee of the board will be unavailable or
unable to serve as a director if elected.
The three nominees receiving the highest number of votes will be elected as
directors. Shares as to which the authority to vote is withheld and broker
non-votes will not be counted toward the election of directors or toward the
election of the individual nominees specified on the proxy card. Proxies may not
be voted for more than three nominees.
BUSINESS EXPERIENCE
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Nominees of the Board of Directors for Election at the 2000 Annual Meeting
GEORGE FOOS Mr. Foos has been a management consultant focusing on
retail chains and apparel manufacturers since 1989. Prior
thereto, he has served as Chairman of the Board of Emporium
Capwell Department Stores and President and Chief Executive
Officer of May Department Stores, Southern California.
MICHAEL S. JEFFRIES Mr. Jeffries has been Chairman of the Board of the Company
since May 1998 and has been Chief Executive Officer of the
Company since February 1992. Prior to May 1998, Mr.
Jeffries held the title of President of the Company.
</TABLE>
3
<PAGE> 7
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
JOHN W. KESSLER Mr. Kessler has been the Chairman of The New Albany Company
(a real estate development company) since 1988, Chairman of
Marsh & McLennan Real Estate Advisors, Inc. (a real estate
consulting firm) since 1980 and Chairman of John W. Kessler
Company (a real estate development company) since 1975. Mr.
Kessler is also a director of Bank One Corporation.
Directors Whose Terms Continue until the 2001 Annual Meeting
JOHN A. GOLDEN Mr. Golden is a private investor and a retired partner of
Goldman Sachs Group L.P. He had been a limited partner of
Goldman Sachs Group L.P. from 1994 until the initial public
offering of Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. in May 1999. Prior
thereto, he was a general partner of Goldman Sachs Group
L.P. Mr. Golden is also a member of the Board of Trustees
of Colgate University and the Board of Visitors of Columbia
University School of Law. Goldman, Sachs & Co., an
affiliate of Goldman Sachs Group L.P., has from time to
time provided investment banking services to the Company,
for which Goldman, Sachs & Co. has received customary
compensation.
SETH R. JOHNSON Mr. Johnson has been Executive Vice President -- Chief
Operating Officer of the Company since February 2000. Prior
thereto, he had been Vice President -- Chief Financial
Officer of the Company since 1992.
KATHRYN D. SULLIVAN, PH.D. Dr. Sullivan has been President and Chief Executive Officer
of COSI (one of the nation's leading hands-on science
centers located in Columbus, Ohio) since 1996. From 1992 to
1996, she held the post of Chief Scientist, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. From 1978 to 1992,
Dr. Sullivan was a NASA Mission Specialist Astronaut and
veteran of three Shuttle missions, with over 500 hours in
space. In 1988, Dr. Sullivan joined the Naval Reserve, with
a direct commission into the Oceanography program and
designation as Naval Astronaut (Specialist). Dr. Sullivan
is also a director of American Electric Power Company, Inc.
and McDermott International, Inc.
Directors Whose Terms Continue until the 2002 Annual Meeting
RUSSELL M. GERTMENIAN Mr. Gertmenian has been a partner of Vorys, Sater, Seymour
and Pease LLP since 1979 and currently serves as a member
of the firm's Executive Committee. Vorys, Sater, Seymour
and Pease LLP rendered legal services to the Company during
the 1999 fiscal year and continues to so. Mr. Gertmenian is
also a director of AirNet Systems, Inc. and Liqui-Box
Corporation.
</TABLE>
4
<PAGE> 8
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
SAM N. SHAHID, JR. Mr. Shahid has been President and Creative Director of
Shahid & Company, Inc., an advertising and design agency,
since 1993. Prior thereto, he has served as Vice President
and Creative Director of Banana Republic Advertising (an
in-house agency for Banana Republic) and Vice President and
Creative Director of CRK Advertising (an in-house agency
for Calvin Klein). Shahid & Company, Inc. has provided
advertising and design services for the Company since 1995.
Fees paid to Shahid & Company, Inc. by the Company for
services provided during the 1999 fiscal year were
approximately $1.4 million.
</TABLE>
NOMINATION PROCEDURE
Stockholders wishing to nominate directors for election must provide timely
notice in writing. To be timely, a stockholder's notice must be delivered or
mailed to the Secretary of the Company not less than 120 days nor more than 150
days before the first anniversary date of the Company's proxy statement in
connection with the last annual meeting of stockholders. Each stockholder
nomination must contain the following information: (a) the name and address of
the nominating stockholder; (b) the name, age, business and residence addresses
of the nominee; (c) the principal occupation or employment of the nominee; (d)
the number of shares of the Company beneficially owned by the nominating
stockholder and the nominee; (e) any other information concerning the nominee
that must be disclosed of nominees in proxy solicitations under the SEC's rules;
and (f) a description of any arrangement or understanding between the nominating
stockholder and the nominee or any other person providing for the nomination.
Each nomination must be accompanied by the written consent of the proposed
nominee to be named in the proxy statement and to serve if elected. No person
may be elected as a director unless he or she has been nominated by a
stockholder in the manner just described or by the Company's board of directors.
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Company's board of directors held seven meetings and took action in
writing without a meeting on five occasions in the 1999 fiscal year. During the
1999 fiscal year, all of the incumbent directors attended 75% or more of the
total number of meetings of the board and of committees of the board on which
they served held during the period they served.
The board of directors has standing compensation, executive and audit
committees. The board has no standing nominating committee or committee
performing similar functions.
The compensation committee is charged with reviewing executive compensation
and administering the Company's stock option and performance incentive plans.
The members of the compensation committee are Messrs. Kessler (Chair) and Foos.
Members of the compensation committee held five meetings and took action in
writing without a meeting on seven occasions in the 1999 fiscal year.
The executive committee may exercise, to the fullest extent permitted by
law, all of the powers and authority granted to the board. The executive
committee may also declare dividends, authorize the issuance of stock and
authorize the seal of the Company to be affixed to papers that require it. The
members of the executive committee are Messrs. Jeffries (Chair), Gertmenian and
Golden. Members of the executive committee took action in writing without a
meeting on one occasion in the 1999 fiscal year.
The audit committee recommends the firm to be employed as the Company's
independent auditors and reviews the scope of the audit and audit fees. In
addition, the audit committee consults with the independent
5
<PAGE> 9
auditors with regard to the plan of audit, the resulting audit report and the
accompanying management letter, and confers with the independent auditors with
regard to the adequacy of internal accounting controls, as appropriate, out of
the presence of management. The members of the audit committee are Messrs.
Golden (Chair) and Gertmenian and Ms. Sullivan. Members of the audit committee
held five meetings in the 1999 fiscal year.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
In addition to Messrs. Jeffries and Johnson, Raymond Attanasio, Diane Chang
and Leslee K. O'Neill also serve as executive officers of the Company. Mr.
Attanasio, age 48, has been Senior Vice President -- Human Resources of the
Company since February 2000. Prior thereto, he held the position of Vice
President -- Human Resources of the Company from August 1998 to February 2000,
and was Vice President -- General Merchandising Manager -- Men's at J. Crew,
Inc. from May 1991 to June 1998. Ms. Chang, age 44, has been Senior Vice
President -- Sourcing of the Company since February 2000. Prior thereto, she
held the position of Vice President -- Sourcing of the Company from May 1998 to
February 2000 and for six and one-half years prior thereto, Ms. Chang held the
position of Senior Vice President -- Manufacturing at J. Crew, Inc. Ms. O'Neill,
age 39, has been Senior Vice President -- Planning and Allocation of the Company
since February 2000. Prior thereto, she held the position of Vice President --
Planning and Allocation of the Company from February 1994 to February 2000.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table furnishes information regarding the beneficial
ownership of shares of Common Stock by each of the directors of the Company, by
each of the individuals named in the Summary Compensation Table and by all
current executive officers and directors of the Company as a group, as well as
certain other information, as of March 31, 2000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF
SHARES OF
DIRECTOR COMMON STOCK
NAME, POSITION WITH THE COMPANY CONTINUOUSLY TERM BENEFICIALLY PERCENT
AND/OR PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION, AGE SINCE EXPIRES OWNED(1) OF CLASS(2)
-------------------------------- ------------ ------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Raymond Attanasio....................... ** ** 12,356(3) *
Senior Vice President -- Human
Resources of the Company, 48
Diane Chang............................. ** ** 13,175(3) *
Senior Vice President -- Sourcing of
the Company, 44
Michele S. Donnan-Martin................ ** ** 0(4) *
Former Vice President -- General
Merchandising Manager -- Women's of
the Company, 36
George Foos............................. 1998 2000 8,220(3) *
Director; Management Consultant, 79
Russell M. Gertmenian................... 1999 2002 7,300(3)(5) *
Director; Partner of Vorys, Sater,
Seymour and Pease LLP, 52
</TABLE>
6
<PAGE> 10
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF
SHARES OF
DIRECTOR COMMON STOCK
NAME, POSITION WITH THE COMPANY CONTINUOUSLY TERM BENEFICIALLY PERCENT
AND/OR PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION, AGE SINCE EXPIRES OWNED(1) OF CLASS(2)
-------------------------------- ------------ ------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
John A. Golden.......................... 1998 2001 42,054(3) *
Director; Private Investor and Retired
Limited Partner of Goldman Sachs Group
L.P., 55
Michael S. Jeffries..................... 1996 2000 1,331,357(3)(6) 1.3%
Director; Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company, 55
Seth R. Johnson......................... 1998 2001 109,077(3) *
Director; Executive Vice
President -- Chief Operating Officer
of the Company, 46
John W. Kessler......................... 1998 2000 9,944(3) *
Director; Chairman of The New Albany
Company, Chairman of Marsh & McLennan
Real Estate Advisors, Inc. and
Chairman of John W. Kessler Company,
64
Leslee K. O'Neill....................... ** ** 61,232(3) *
Senior Vice President -- Planning and
Allocation of the Company, 39
Sam N. Shahid, Jr....................... 1998 2002 7,684(3) *
Director; President and Creative
Director of Shahid & Company, Inc., 58
Kathryn D. Sullivan, Ph.D............... 2000 2001 0 *
Director; President and Chief
Executive Officer of COSI, 48
All current executive officers and
directors as a group (11 persons)..... ** ** 1,602,399(3) 1.6%
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* Less than 1%
** Not applicable.
(1) Unless otherwise indicated, each individual has voting and dispositive power
over the listed shares and such voting and dispositive power is exercised
solely by the named individual or shared with a spouse.
(2) The percent of class is based upon the sum of 102,029,782 shares of Common
Stock outstanding on March 31, 2000, and the number of shares, if any, as to
which the named individual has the right to acquire beneficial ownership
upon the exercise of options exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2000.
(3) Includes the following number of shares issuable upon the exercise of
outstanding options exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2000: Mr.
Attanasio, 10,100; Ms. Chang, 10,150; Ms. Donnan-Martin, 0; Mr. Foos, 7,000;
Mr. Gertmenian, 5,000; Mr. Golden, 7,000; Mr. Jeffries, 798,857; Mr.
Johnson, 68,935; Mr. Kessler, 7,000; Ms. O'Neill, 46,634; Mr. Shahid, 7,000;
and all current executive officers and directors as a group, 967,676.
(4) Does not include shares held of record by spouse.
(5) Includes 600 shares held by son.
(6) Includes 800 shares held by son.
7
<PAGE> 11
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
In his Form 5 for the 1999 fiscal year, Mr. Jeffries reported the indirect
beneficial ownership of additional shares held by his son which were
inadvertently omitted from Mr. Jeffries' original Form 3 filed in September
1996. During the 1999 fiscal year, each of Ms. Donnan-Martin and her husband
Charles W. Martin, both former executive officers of the Company, filed late one
report reporting two transactions by Ms. Donnan-Martin.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
The following table shows, for the last three fiscal years, the cash
compensation and other benefits paid or provided by the Company to each of the
named individuals.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LONG TERM COMPENSATION
-------------------------
AWARDS
-------------------------
ANNUAL COMPENSATION SHARES
----------------------- RESTRICTED UNDERLYING
FISCAL STOCK OPTIONS ALL OTHER
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY($) BONUS($)(1) AWARDS($)(2) GRANTED(#) COMPENSATION($)
- --------------------------- ------ --------- ----------- ------------ ---------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Michael S. Jeffries......... 1999 $925,962 $1,668,580 $1,096,652(4) 4,661,430(4) $348,891(3)
Chairman and Chief 1998 $692,308 $1,400,000 $3,695,625(4) 2,000,000(4) $232,943
Executive Officer 1997 $596,154 $1,200,000 $8,000,000(4) 2,000,000(4) $190,184
Seth R. Johnson............. 1999 $392,789 $ 421,536 $ 365,551(4) 302,742(4) $106,311(3)
Executive Vice
President -- 1998 $320,385 $ 325,000 $ 460,500(4) 0 $ 69,431
Chief Operating Officer 1997 $261,923 $ 265,000 $ 186,750(4) 350,000(4) $ 55,010
Diane Chang................. 1999 $431,635 $ 229,210 $ 219,322(4) 600(4) $ 35,499(3)
Senior Vice President -- 1998 $292,308 $ 240,000 $ 898,625(4) 100,000(4) $ 53,333(6)
Sourcing(5) 1997 -- -- -- -- --
Michele S. Donnan-Martin.... 1999 $381,635 $ 184,800 -- 3,942(4) $112,152(3)
Former Vice President -- 1998 $348,077 $ 420,000 $ 767,500(4) 0 $ 87,394
General Merchandising 1997 $320,000 $ 390,000 $ 311,250(4) 450,000(4) $ 66,453
Manager -- Women's(7)
Leslee K. O'Neill........... 1999 $292,789 $ 263,460 $ 146,229(4) 202,142(4) $ 70,051(3)
Senior Vice President -- 1998 $226,443 $ 180,000 $ 307,000(4) 200,000(4) $ 52,991
Planning and Allocation(8) 1997 $190,962 $ 148,800 $ 124,500(4) 14,000(4) $ 39,025
Raymond Attanasio........... 1999 $337,116 $ 179,153 $ 146,229(4) 30,400(4) $ 7,061(3)
Senior Vice President -- 1998 $143,077 $ 111,600 $ 307,000(4) 70,000(4) $ 0
Human Resources(8) 1997 $ -- $ -- $ -- -- $ --
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Represents for each fiscal year, the aggregate of the performance-based
incentive compensation for the Spring and Fall selling seasons.
(2) Represents for each individual, the restricted stock awards for the
specified fiscal year under the Company's 1996 Stock Option and Performance
Incentive Plan for awards of restricted shares of Common Stock (1998
Restatement governs awards made for 1998 and 1999). Information set forth
above is based on the closing price of the Common Stock on the date on which
the awards were made.
8
<PAGE> 12
The awards of restricted shares of Common Stock and grant date values
discussed below reflect the two-for-one stock split distributed on June 15,
1999.
On February 1, 2000, 52,692, 17,564, 10,538, 7,026 and 7,026 restricted
shares of Common Stock were granted to Mr. Jeffries, Mr. Johnson, Ms. Chang,
Ms. O'Neill and Mr. Attanasio, respectively, based on business performance
for the 1999 fiscal year. The per share value of Common Stock on the date of
grant was $20.8125. These awards vest 10% on the date of grant, and 20%, 30%
and 40% on the first through third anniversaries of the grant date, subject,
in each case, to the holder's continued employment with the Company.
On February 1, 1999, 60,000, 12,000, 12,000, 20,000, 8,000 and 8,000
restricted shares of Common Stock were granted to Mr. Jeffries, Mr. Johnson,
Ms. Chang, Ms. Donnan-Martin, Ms. O'Neill and Mr. Attanasio, respectively,
based on business performance for the 1998 fiscal year. The per share value
of Common Stock on the then most recent prior date on which there were sales
(January 29, 1999) was $38.375. These awards vest 10% on the grant date, and
20%, 30% and 40% on the first through third anniversaries of the grant date,
subject, in each case, to the holder's continued employment with the
Company.
On August 1, 1998, 60,000 restricted shares of Common Stock were granted to
Mr. Jeffries. The per share value of Common Stock on such date was $23.2188.
This award vests 10% on the grant date, and 20%, 30% and 40% on the first
through third anniversaries of the grant date, subject to continued
employment with the Company.
On May 11, 1998, 20,000 restricted shares of Common Stock were granted to
Ms. Chang. The per share value of Common Stock on such date was $21.9063.
This award vests 100% on the fifth anniversary of the grant date, subject to
continued employment with the Company.
On February 1, 1998, 12,000, 20,000 and 8,000 restricted shares of Common
Stock were granted to Mr. Johnson, Ms. Donnan-Martin and Ms. O'Neill,
respectively, based on business performance for the 1997 fiscal year. The
per share value of Common Stock on the then most recent prior date on which
there were sales (January 30, 1998) was $15.5625. These awards vest 10% on
the grant date, and 20%, 30% and 40% on the first through third
anniversaries of the grant date, subject, in each case, to the holder's
continued employment with the Company.
On May 13, 1997, 1,000,000 restricted shares of Common Stock were granted to
Mr. Jeffries. The per share value of Common Stock on such date was $8.00.
This award is earned subject to established financial performance measures
and once earned, vests over six years, subject to continued employment with
the Company.
As of January 29, 2000, the aggregate holdings of restricted shares of
Common Stock and the market value of such holdings for the named individuals
were: Mr. Jeffries, 715,810 shares, $15,926,773; Mr. Johnson, 21,714 shares,
$483,137; Ms. Chang, 30,800 shares, $685,300; Ms. Donnan-Martin, 54,514
shares, $1,212,937; Ms. O'Neill, 15,314 shares, $340,737; and Mr. Attanasio,
7,200 shares, $160,200 (based on the $22.25 fair market value of Common
Stock as of Friday, January 28, 2000). The holdings of Mr. Jeffries, Mr.
Johnson, Ms. Chang, Ms. O'Neill and Mr. Attanasio do not include the 52,692,
17,564, 10,538, 7,026 and 7,026 restricted shares, respectively, granted on
February 1, 2000 as noted in the second paragraph of this footnote since
these restricted shares were granted after the end of the 1999 fiscal year.
Dividends will not be paid or accrue with respect to the restricted shares
until they vest. As long as any performance-based goals established in
respect of the restricted shares have been satisfied for purposes of Section
162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, any other restrictions or
conditions on the
9
<PAGE> 13
restricted shares will immediately terminate upon the death or total
disability of the named individual or upon the occurrence of defined changes
of control of the Company.
(3) Represents for each individual, the amount of employer matching and
supplemental contributions allocated to his or her account under certain of
the Company's qualified and non-qualified defined contribution plans during
1999.
(4) Reflects the two-for-one stock split distributed on June 15, 1999.
(5) Ms. Chang became an executive officer of the Company on May 11, 1998.
(6) Represents sign-on bonus paid to Ms. Chang upon joining the Company.
(7) Ms. Donnan-Martin resigned from her position as an executive officer of the
Company effective August 16, 1999.
(8) Ms. O'Neill and Mr. Attanasio became executive officers of the Company on
January 27, 2000.
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN AWARDS
Other than the restricted stock performance awards disclosed in the Summary
Compensation Table, no awards were granted in respect of the 1999 fiscal year to
the named individuals.
OPTIONS
The following table summarizes information concerning options granted to
the named individuals under the Company's 1996 Stock Option and Performance
Incentive Plan (1998 Restatement) during the Company's 1999 fiscal year. The
information reflects the two-for-one stock split distributed on June 15, 1999.
OPTION GRANTS IN 1999 FISCAL YEAR
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
POTENTIAL REALIZABLE
VALUE AT ASSUMED
NUMBER OF PERCENT OF ANNUAL RATES OF STOCK
SHARES TOTAL OPTIONS PRICE APPRECIATION FOR
UNDERLYING GRANTED TO EXERCISE OPTION TERM($)(2)
OPTIONS ASSOCIATES PRICE PER EXPIRATION ---------------------------
NAME GRANTED (#)(1) IN FISCAL YEAR SHARE ($/SH) DATE 5% 10%
---- -------------- -------------- ------------ ---------- ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Michael S. Jeffries......... 210,430 3.67% $37.6875 2/1/2009 $ 4,987,500 $ 12,639,303
45,000 0.78% $39.2812 3/1/2009 $ 1,111,668 $ 2,817,185
4,400,000 76.66% $44.0000 7/23/2009 $121,754,000 $308,548,540
6,000 0.10% $42.0000 8/1/2009 $ 158,481 $ 401,623
Seth R. Johnson............. 2,742 0.05% $37.6875 2/1/2009 $ 64,989 $ 164,696
300,000 5.23% $40.3750 3/2/2009 $ 7,617,486 $ 19,304,206
Diane Chang................. 600 0.01% $37.6875 2/1/2009 $ 14,221 $ 36,039
Michele S. Donnan-Martin.... 3,942 0.07% $37.6875 2/1/2009 $ 93,431 $ 236,773
Leslee K. O'Neill........... 2,142 0.04% $37.6875 2/1/2009 $ 50,769 $ 128,657
200,000 3.48% $40.3750 3/2/2009 $ 5,078,324 $ 12,869,470
Raymond Attanasio........... 400 0.01% $37.6875 2/1/2009 $ 9,481 $ 24,026
30,000 0.52% $40.3750 3/2/2009 $ 761,749 $ 1,930,421
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) On February 1, 1999, options covering 210,430, 2,742, 600, 3,942, 2,142 and
400 shares were granted to Mr. Jeffries, Mr. Johnson, Ms. Chang, Ms.
Donnan-Martin, Ms. O'Neill and Mr. Attanasio,
10
<PAGE> 14
respectively. These options vest 25% on the first through fourth
anniversaries of the grant date, subject to continued employment with the
Company.
On March 1, 1999, options covering 45,000 shares were granted to Mr.
Jeffries. These options vest 25% on the first through fourth anniversaries
of the grant date, subject to continued employment with the Company.
On July 23, 1999, options covering 4,400,000 shares were granted to Mr.
Jeffries. These options vest 25% on the fourth through seventh anniversaries
of the grant date, subject to continued employment with the Company.
On August 1, 1999, options covering 6,000 shares were granted to Mr.
Jeffries. These options vest 25% on the first through fourth anniversaries
of the grant date, subject to continued employment with the Company.
On March 2, 1999, options covering 300,000, 200,000 and 30,000 shares were
granted to Mr. Johnson, Ms. O'Neill and Mr. Attanasio, respectively. These
options vest on a graduated basis on the first through sixth anniversaries
of the grant date, subject to continued employment with the Company.
Each of these options becomes fully exercisable in the event of defined
changes of control of the Company or upon the death or total disability of
the named individual.
(2) The assumed rates of growth were selected by the SEC for illustrative
purposes only and are not intended to predict or forecast future stock
prices. Actual realized values, if any, on option exercises will be
dependent on the actual appreciation of the Common Stock over the term of
the options.
The following table summarizes information concerning options exercised
during the Company's 1999 fiscal year by each of the named individuals and the
number and value of shares of Common Stock subject to unexercised options held
as of the end of the 1999 fiscal year by those individuals.
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN 1999 FISCAL YEAR
AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF SHARES
UNDERLYING UNEXERCISED VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
SHARES OPTIONS AT IN-THE-MONEY OPTIONS AT
ACQUIRED FISCAL YEAR-END (#) FISCAL YEAR-END ($)
ON VALUE --------------------------------- ---------------------------------
NAME EXERCISE (#) REALIZED ($)(1) EXERCISABLE(2) UNEXERCISABLE(2) EXERCISABLE(2) UNEXERCISABLE(2)
---- ------------ --------------- -------------- ---------------- -------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Michael S.
Jeffries.......... -- $ 0 410,000 8,511,430 $5,842,500 $26,362,500
Seth R. Johnson..... 64,750 $2,097,882 15,000 585,992 $ 104,063 $ 3,158,813
Diane Chang......... -- $ 0 10,000 90,600 $ 625 $ 5,625
Michele S. Donnan-
Martin............ 117,000 $3,113,104 15,000 377,942 $ 104,063 $ 4,452,000
Leslee K. O'Neill... 24,800 $ 542,499 10,000 391,742 $ 625 $ 716,175
Raymond Attanasio... -- $ 0 7,000 93,400 $ 0 $ 0
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Calculated on the basis of the number of shares acquired, multiplied by the
excess of the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date of
exercise over the exercise price of each option.
11
<PAGE> 15
(2) "Value of Unexercised In-the-Money Options at Fiscal Year-End" is calculated
on the basis of the number of shares subject to each option, multiplied by
the excess of the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the last
trading day prior to fiscal year-end ($22.25) over the exercise price of
such option.
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS
Directors who are not associates of the Company receive an annual retainer
of $10,000 per year (increased by $1,500 for each committee chair held), plus a
fee of $1,000 for each board meeting attended ($400 for a telephonic meeting)
and, as committee members, receive $600 per committee meeting attended ($200 for
a telephonic meeting). Each action in writing taken by the board or any
committee entitles each such director to be paid $200. Associates and officers
who are directors receive no additional compensation for services rendered as
directors. Under the Company's 1996 Stock Plan for Non-Associate Directors (1998
Restatement), each director who is not an associate of the Company receives (i)
the grant of an option to acquire 10,000 shares of Common Stock at a price equal
to the fair market value of such shares upon election to the board (or in the
case of a director first elected to the board prior to July 16, 1998, on July
16, 1998), (ii) annual grants of options to purchase 2,000 shares of Common
Stock at a price equal to the fair market value of such shares at the date of
grant and (iii) 50% of the annual retainer in shares of Common Stock. The
options vest 25% on the first through fourth anniversaries of the grant date,
subject to continued service as a director, and have terms of ten years. The
options become fully exercisable in the event of defined changes of control of
the Company or upon the death or total disability of a director.
Effective October 1, 1998, the Company established the Abercrombie & Fitch
Co. Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan (the "Directors' Plan"). Voluntary
participation in the Directors' Plan enables a director of the Company to defer
all or a part of his or her director's fees, including federal income tax
thereon. The deferred fees will be credited to a stock account where they will
be converted into shares of Common Stock. Distribution of the deferred funds is
made in a single lump sum transfer of the whole shares (plus cash representing
the value of fractional shares) commencing within 30 days of the earlier of (a)
the date specified by a director at the time a deferral election is made or (b)
the date the director ceases to serve on the board.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH CERTAIN EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
In 1997, the Company entered into individual employment agreements with Mr.
Jeffries and Mr. Johnson. Pursuant to these agreements, Mr. Jeffries serves as
the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Johnson serves as the
Company's Executive Vice President -- Chief Operating Officer. The initial term
of each agreement is six years, with automatic one-year extensions thereafter
unless either party gives written notice to the contrary. Mr. Jeffries'
agreement provides for a minimum base salary of $600,000, and Mr. Johnson's
agreement provides for a minimum base salary of $265,000. Mr. Jeffries'
agreement also provides for life insurance coverage of $10 million. Each
agreement also provides for incentive compensation performance plan
participation as determined by the board. Mr. Jeffries' bonus opportunity is to
be at least 100% of his base salary upon attainment of target. Under each
agreement, upon the failure of the Company to extend the initial term of the
agreement or the termination of the executive's employment either by the Company
other than for cause or by the executive for good reason, the executive will
continue to receive his then current base salary and medical and dental benefits
for one year after the termination date. If the executive's employment is
terminated by the Company for cause, by the executive other than for good
reason, or by reason of the executive's death, or if
12
<PAGE> 16
the executive gives written notice not to extend the term of the agreement, the
Company will pay the executive any base salary and other compensation earned but
not yet paid under his employment agreement. Under the agreements, Mr. Jeffries
and Mr. Johnson agree not to compete with the Company or solicit its employees
or customers during the employment term and for one year thereafter. Each
agreement provides for disability benefits in addition to the benefits available
under the Company's disability plans. In the event any "parachute" excise tax is
imposed on Mr. Jeffries or Mr. Johnson, he will be entitled to tax reimbursement
payments.
On November 17, 1999, the Company loaned the amount of $1.5 million to Mr.
Jeffries. This loan matures on May 31, 2000. As of March 31, 2000, the aggregate
amount of principal and interest outstanding under the promissory note
evidencing this loan was $1,536,062. On March 1, 2000, the Company loaned an
additional amount of $1.5 million to Mr. Jeffries. This loan matures on August
28, 2000. As of March 31, 2000, the aggregate amount of principal and interest
outstanding under the promissory note evidencing this loan was $1,508,014.
Interest at the rate of 6.5% per annum is charged on each loan prior to
maturity. The purpose of the loans was to enable Mr. Jeffries to maintain his
ownership position in the Company's shares.
In 1999, the employment agreement between Ms. Donnan-Martin and the Company
was amended and restated in order to reflect her resignation as an executive
officer effective August 16, 1999 and her resignation from employment effective
February 21, 2000. Under the amended and restated employment agreement, Ms.
Donnan-Martin continued her employment with the Company on a special assignment
basis until February 21, 2000, at which time she resigned. Under her agreement,
Ms. Donnan-Martin was compensated at her base salary in effect on August 16,
1999 ($385,000) until February 21, 2000, but ceased to be eligible to
participate in the incentive compensation performance plan as of August 16,
1999. She retained all rights to vest in and exercise her options and restricted
shares until February 21, 2000, according to the terms of the applicable plans
and agreements. The agreement provides severance benefits following her
resignation on February 21, 2000 equal to her current base salary and
reimbursement of health insurance continuation costs through October 11, 2000.
Under her agreement, Ms. Donnan-Martin has agreed not to compete with the
Company or solicit its employees or customers during the period ending on
October 11, 2000.
REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The compensation committee of the Company's board of directors reviews and
approves the Company's executive compensation philosophy and policies and the
application of those policies to the compensation of executive officers. The
Company and the compensation committee have also retained independent
compensation consultants to assist in developing the Company's executive officer
compensation program.
COMPENSATION PHILOSOPHY
The Company seeks to apply a consistent philosophy to compensation for all
leadership associates, including senior executives. The primary goal of the
compensation program is to link total executive compensation to performance that
enhances stockholder value. Accordingly, total compensation for leadership
individuals is structured to provide a lower proportion as fixed compensation
and a much higher variable proportion keyed to business and stock performance.
13
<PAGE> 17
The Company's philosophy is built on the following basic principles:
To Pay for Outstanding Performance
The Company believes in paying for results. Individuals in leadership roles
are compensated based on a combination of total company, and individual
performance factors. Total company performance is evaluated primarily based on
the degree to which financial targets are met. Individual performance is
evaluated based on several factors, including continuing to build the A&F brand,
attainment of specific merchandise and financial objectives, building and
developing a strong leadership team, developing an infrastructure to support
future business growth, and controlling expenses. In addition, a significant
portion of total compensation is in the form of equity-based award opportunities
to directly tie any increased compensation to increased stockholder value.
To Pay Competitively
The Company is committed to providing a total compensation program designed
to attract the best senior leaders to the business and retain the best,
consistently highest performers. To achieve this goal, the Company sets
guidelines based on what it believes to be competitive with the compensation
paid by other companies that compete with the Company for executive officers and
other key employees having the experience and abilities that are necessary to
manage the Company's business.
PRINCIPAL COMPENSATION ELEMENTS
The principal elements of executive compensation at the Company are base
salary, short-term performance-based cash incentive compensation and
equity-based incentive plans. Decisions for each compensation element of the
Company's executive officers generally are made by the compensation committee
although compensation levels for executive officers other than the Chief
Executive Officer are recommended to the compensation committee by the Chief
Executive Officer, who has substantially greater knowledge of the contributions
made by the other executive officers. Subject to the needs of the Company, its
policy is to attempt to design all cash incentive and equity-based compensation
plans to meet the requirements for deductibility under the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986.
Base Salary
The compensation committee annually reviews and approves the base salary of
each executive officer and the Chief Executive Officer. In determining salary
adjustments, the compensation committee considers the size and responsibility of
the individual's position, the Company's overall performance, the individual's
overall performance and future potential, and the base salaries paid by
competitors to employees in comparable positions. This comparative data may not
include the compensation paid by all of the companies that are included in the
Standard & Poor's Retail Stores Composite Index which is used for comparative
purposes in the STOCKHOLDER RETURN GRAPH.
Individual performance is measured against the following factors: seasonal
and annual business goals, business growth and profitability, and the
recruitment and development of future leadership talent. These factors are
considered subjectively in the aggregate, and none of these factors is accorded
a formula weight.
14
<PAGE> 18
Performance-Based Cash Incentive Compensation
The Company has employed a short-term performance-based cash incentive
compensation plan for specified key leadership positions that provides for
incentive payments for each six-month operating season, based on the extent to
which pre-established objective goals are attained.
The goals under this plan have been based on operating income. However,
goals also may be based on other objectives and/or criteria, depending on the
Company's business strategy. These goals are set at the beginning of each
six-month operating season, and are based on an analysis of historical
performance and growth expectations for the Company and progress toward
achieving the Company's strategic plan.
Target cash incentive compensation opportunities are established annually
for eligible executives stated as a specified percentage of base salary. The
amount of performance-based incentive compensation earned by participating
executives can range from zero to double their incentive target, based upon the
extent to which the pre-established financial goals are met or exceeded.
Equity-Based Incentive Programs
The compensation committee believes that continued emphasis on equity-based
compensation opportunities encourages performance that enhances stockholder
value, thereby further linking leadership and stockholder objectives. In 1999,
the compensation committee awarded equity-based incentive compensation under two
programs: an option program and a restricted stock program under which
restricted shares of Common Stock are granted and earned based on seasonal and
annual financial performance. The compensation committee believes that
restricted share awards, which are earned based on financial performance and the
ultimate vesting of which is subject to continued employment, assist the Company
in retaining key high performing executives.
Award opportunities for each eligible participant are based on guidelines
which include the individual's responsibility level, competitive practice and
the market price of the Company's Common Stock. In determining the award for an
executive officer, the compensation committee evaluated competitive practice and
the executive officer's performance and criticality to the business.
Options
In 1999, options were granted to executives in the amounts shown in the
OPTION GRANTS IN 1999 FISCAL YEAR table. The option program utilizes vesting
periods to encourage retention of key executives. The options granted to the
individuals named in the table vest over varying periods ranging from four to
seven years beginning on the grant date, subject to continued employment with
the Company. The exercise price for each option granted is equal to the fair
market value of the underlying Common Stock on the date of the grant.
Performance-Based Restricted Shares
In 1999, the compensation committee continued a program under which
executives, including the individuals named in the Summary Compensation Table,
are eligible to receive restricted shares of Common Stock based on the
achievement of pre-established financial goals. Executives can earn from zero to
double their targeted number of restricted shares based upon the extent to which
financial goals are met or exceeded. If earned, these restricted shares vest
over four years, subject to continued employment.
15
<PAGE> 19
CEO COMPENSATION
Mr. Jeffries and the Company entered into an employment agreement in 1997
with an initial term of six years, under which Mr. Jeffries receives a minimum
base salary of $600,000 per year plus certain other benefits. The employment
agreement also entitles Mr. Jeffries to participate in the performance-based
cash incentive compensation plan at a level of at least 100% of base salary upon
attainment of the goals.
The compensation committee can increase Mr. Jeffries' base salary and
performance-based cash incentive target above the levels established by the
employment agreement to reflect the Company's performance.
In 1999, as in prior years, in establishing Mr. Jeffries' compensation
package, the compensation committee considered competitive practices, the extent
to which the Company achieved operating income and earnings growth objectives
and the continued brand growth strategy and execution. These factors were
considered subjectively in the aggregate and none of these factors was accorded
specific weight.
As a result, Mr. Jeffries' base salary was increased 35.7%, from $700,000
to $950,000, while his performance-based cash incentive target remained at 100%.
Mr. Jeffries received an option grant covering 4,400,000 shares that vests
ratably over four years beginning on the fourth anniversary and ending on the
seventh anniversary of the grant date, subject to his continued employment with
the Company. Additionally, Mr. Jeffries received option grants covering 261,430
shares that vest ratably over four years beginning on the first anniversary of
the grant date, subject to his continued employment with the Company. Mr.
Jeffries was also granted 52,692 restricted shares of Common Stock based on the
Company's financial performance for the 1999 fiscal year. These restricted
shares will vest over four years, subject to Mr. Jeffries' continued employment
with the Company.
The compensation committee believes that under Mr. Jeffries' leadership,
the Company's performance over the past seven years has been exceptional.
Specifically, in 1999, the Company posted a net sales increase of 28%, an
operating income increase of 45%, and an earnings per share increase of 45% over
the prior year's earnings per share. As a result of that performance, Mr.
Jeffries earned significantly above targeted levels under the performance-based
cash incentive compensation plan, and the performance-based restricted stock
program.
SUBMITTED BY THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE OF THE COMPANY'S BOARD OF
DIRECTORS:
John W. Kessler (Chair)
George Foos
16
<PAGE> 20
STOCKHOLDER RETURN GRAPH
The following graph shows the changes, over the 1999, 1998 and 1997 fiscal
years and the three-month period in the 1996 fiscal year commencing after the
Company's initial public offering, in the value of $100 invested in the Common
Stock of the Company, the Standard & Poor's MidCap 400 Composite Stock Price
Index (the "S&P MidCap 400 Index") and the Standard & Poor's Retail Stores
Composite Index (the "S&P Retail Stores Composite Index"). The plotted points
represent the closing price on the last day of the fiscal year indicated.
COMPARISON OF CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*
AMONG ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO.,
THE S&P RETAIL STORES COMPOSITE INDEX AND
THE S&P MIDCAP 400 INDEX
[GRAPH]
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO. S&P MIDCAP 400 S&P RETAIL COMPOSITE
----------------------- -------------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
9/26/96* 100 100 100
1/97 86 115 97
1/98 195 144 144
1/99 480 161 237
1/00 267 187 237
</TABLE>
*$100 INVESTED ON 9/26/96 IN STOCK OR ON 8/31/96 IN INDEX-INCLUDING
REINVESTMENT OF DIVIDENDS. FISCAL YEAR ENDING JANUARY 29.
17
<PAGE> 21
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
During the Company's 1999 fiscal year, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP served as
the Company's independent auditors and in that capacity rendered a report on the
Company's consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal year ended
January 29, 2000. The Company annually reviews the selection of its independent
auditors. No selection has yet been made for the current fiscal year.
Representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP are expected to be present at
the annual meeting. They will be available to respond to appropriate questions
and may make a statement if they so desire.
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
Stockholders of the Company seeking to bring business before the 2001
annual meeting, or to nominate candidates for election as directors at that
annual meeting, must provide timely notice thereof in writing. To be timely, a
stockholder's notice must be delivered to or mailed and received at the
principal executive offices of the Company no later than December 21, 2000. The
Company's Amended and Restated Bylaws specify certain requirements for a
stockholder's notice to be in proper written form. In addition, a stockholder
who seeks to have any proposal included in the Company's proxy statement related
to the 2001 annual meeting must comply with the requirements of Regulation 14A
under the Exchange Act, including Rule 14a-8 thereof. Proposals by stockholders
intended to be presented at the 2001 annual meeting should be mailed to
Abercrombie & Fitch Co., Four Limited Parkway East, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068.
OTHER MATTERS
The board of directors knows of no other matters to be brought before the
annual meeting. However, if any other matter is properly presented at the
meeting, the persons acting under proxies solicited by the board of directors,
will vote and act according to their best judgments in light of the conditions
then prevailing.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ Michael S. Jeffries
Michael S. Jeffries
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
18
<PAGE> 22
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO.
PROXY FOR ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON MAY 18, 2000
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned holder(s) of shares of Class A Common Stock of Abercrombie &
Fitch Co. (the "Company") hereby constitutes and appoints Michael S. Jeffries
and Seth R. Johnson, or either of them, the Proxy or Proxies of the undersigned,
with full power of substitution, to attend the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of
the Company to be held on Thursday, May 18, 2000, in the Fairfield Room of the
Hyatt Regency Columbus at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, 350 North High
Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215, at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Time, and any
adjournment(s) thereof, and to vote all of the shares which the undersigned is
entitled to vote at such Annual Meeting or at any adjournment(s) thereof:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
1. ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
[ ] FOR all nominees listed below [ ] WITHHOLD AUTHORITY [ ] *EXCEPTIONS
to vote for all nominees listed below
</TABLE>
NOMINEES: GEORGE FOOS MICHAEL S. JEFFRIES JOHN W. KESSLER
*(INSTRUCTION: TO WITHHOLD AUTHORITY TO VOTE FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL NOMINEE, MARK
THE "EXCEPTIONS" BOX AND STRIKE A LINE THROUGH THAT NOMINEE'S
NAME.)
2. IN THEIR DISCRETION, THE PROXIES ARE AUTHORIZED TO VOTE UPON SUCH OTHER
MATTERS (NONE KNOWN AT THE TIME OF SOLICITATION OF THIS PROXY) AS MAY
PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE ANNUAL MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENT(S) THEREOF.
(Continued, and to be executed and dated on other side.)
(Continued from other side)
WHERE A CHOICE IS INDICATED, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY
EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED OR NOT VOTED AS SPECIFIED. IF NO CHOICE IS INDICATED, THE
SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES
LISTED IN ITEM NO. 1 AS DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY. IF ANY OTHER MATTERS ARE
PROPERLY BROUGHT BEFORE THE ANNUAL MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENT(S) THEREOF OR IF A
NOMINEE FOR ELECTION AS A DIRECTOR NAMED IN THE PROXY STATEMENT IS UNABLE TO
SERVE OR FOR GOOD CAUSE WILL NOT SERVE, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS PROXY
WILL BE VOTED IN THE DISCRETION OF THE PROXIES ON SUCH MATTERS OR FOR SUCH
SUBSTITUTE NOMINEE(S) AS THE DIRECTORS MAY RECOMMEND.
All proxies previously given or executed by the undersigned are hereby revoked.
The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the accompanying Notice of Annual
Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement for the May 18, 2000 meeting and
Annual Report to Stockholders for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2000.
Address Change Mark Here [ ]
Dated: , 2000
-----------------
-----------------------------
Signature of Stockholder(s)
-----------------------------
Signature of Stockholder(s)
Please sign exactly as your
name appears hereon. When
shares are registered in two
names, both stockholders
should sign. When signing as
attorney, executor,
administrator, guardian or
trustee, please give full
title as such. If stockholder
is a corporation, please sign
in full corporate name by
President or other authorized
officer. If stockholder is a
partnership or other entity,
please sign in entity name by
authorized person. (Please
note any change of address on
this proxy.)
PLEASE FILL IN, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.
VOTES MUST BE INDICATED (X) IN BLACK OR BLUE INK. [X]
<PAGE> 23
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO.
PROXY FOR ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON MAY 18, 2000
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned holder(s) of shares of Class A Common Stock of Abercrombie &
Fitch Co. (the "Company") hereby constitutes and appoints Michael S. Jeffries
and Seth R. Johnson, or either of them, the Proxy or Proxies of the undersigned,
with full power of substitution, to attend the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of
the Company to be held on Thursday, May 18, 2000, in the Fairfield Room of the
Hyatt Regency Columbus at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, 350 North High
Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215, at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Time, and any
adjournment(s) thereof, and to vote all of the shares which the undersigned is
entitled to vote at such Annual Meeting or at any adjournment(s) thereof:
WHERE A CHOICE IS INDICATED, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY
EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED OR NOT VOTED AS SPECIFIED. IF NO CHOICE IS INDICATED, THE
SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES
LISTED IN ITEM NO. 1 AS DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY. IF ANY OTHER MATTERS ARE
PROPERLY BROUGHT BEFORE THE ANNUAL MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENT(S) THEREOF OR IF A
NOMINEE FOR ELECTION AS A DIRECTOR NAMED IN THE PROXY STATEMENT IS UNABLE TO
SERVE OR FOR GOOD CAUSE WILL NOT SERVE, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS PROXY
WILL BE VOTED IN THE DISCRETION OF THE PROXIES ON SUCH MATTERS OR FOR SUCH
SUBSTITUTE NOMINEE(S) AS THE DIRECTORS MAY RECOMMEND.
All proxies previously given or executed by the undersigned are hereby revoked.
The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the accompanying Notice of Annual
Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement for the May 18, 2000 meeting and
Annual Report to Stockholders for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2000.
------------
SEE REVERSE
SIDE
------------
(Continued, and to be executed and dated on other side.)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
/\ FOLD AND DETACH HERE /\
<PAGE> 24
VOTES MUST BE INDICATED
X (X) IN BLACK OR BLUE INK.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR all WITHHOLD AUTHORITY
nominees *EXCEPTIONS to vote for all NOMINEES:
listed nominees listed
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1. ELECTION OF DIRECTORS [ ] [ ] [ ] GEORGE FOOS
MICHAEL S. JEFFRIES
JOHN W. KESSLER
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
*(INSTRUCTION: TO WITHHOLD AUTHORITY TO VOTE FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL NOMINEE,
MARK THE "EXCEPTIONS" BOX AND WRITE THE INDIVIDUAL'S NAME ON THE LINE ABOVE.)
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
2. IN THEIR DISCRETION, THE PROXIES ARE AUTHORIZED TO VOTE UPON
SUCH OTHER MATTERS (NONE KNOWN AT THE TIME OF SOLICITATION OF
THIS PROXY) AS MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE ANNUAL MEETING OR
ANY ADJOURNMENT(S) THEREOF. Address Change [ ]
Mark Here
</TABLE>
Please sign exactly as your name
appears hereon. When shares are
registered in two names, both
stockholders should sign. When
signing as attorney, executor,
administrator, guardian or trustee,
please give full title as such. If
stockholder is a corporation, please
sign in full corporate name by
President or other authorized
officer. If stockholder is a
partnership or other entity, please
sign in entity name by authorized
person. (Please note any change of
address on this proxy.)
Dated:_______________________, 2000
____________________________________
Signature of Stockholder(s)
____________________________________
Signature of Stockholder(s)
PLEASE FILL IN, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
/\ FOLD AND DETACH HERE /\
