<PAGE> 1
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON DECEMBER 10, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
------------------------
FORM S-3
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
------------------------
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY
(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
DELAWARE 2052 36-3839556
(STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF (PRIMARY STANDARD INDUSTRIAL (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION) CLASSIFICATION CODE NUMBER) IDENTIFICATION NUMBER)
</TABLE>
------------------------
677 LARCH AVENUE
ELMHURST, ILLINOIS 60126
(630) 833-2900
(ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING
AREA CODE, OF REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
------------------------
THOMAS E. O'NEILL
VICE PRESIDENT, SECRETARY AND GENERAL COUNSEL
677 LARCH AVENUE
ELMHURST, ILLINOIS 60126
(630) 833-2900
(NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE,
OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)
------------------------
COPIES TO:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
BRUCE A. TOTH STEPHEN L. BURNS
JOHN L. MACCARTHY CRAVATH, SWAINE & MOORE
WINSTON & STRAWN 825 EIGHTH AVENUE
35 WEST WACKER DRIVE NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10019
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60601 (212) 474-1000
(312) 558-5600
</TABLE>
------------------------
APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC:
As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.
If the only securities being registered on this Form are being offered
pursuant to dividend or interest reinvestment plans, please check the following
box. [ ]
If any of the securities being registered on this form are being offered on
a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933 (the "Securities Act"), check the following box. [ ]
If this form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and
list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement for the same offering. [ ]
If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. [ ]
If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434,
please check the following box. [ ]
------------------------
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
<TABLE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TITLE OF EACH CLASS OF PROPOSED MAXIMUM
SECURITIES TO BE AMOUNT TO BE OFFERING PRICE PROPOSED MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF
REGISTERED REGISTERED(1) PER SHARE(2) AGGREGATE OFFERING PRICE REGISTRATION FEE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Common Stock, par value
$.01 per share.......... 17,828,729 shares $34.28125 $611,191,116 $169,912
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Includes 1,628,729 shares that the Underwriters have the option to purchase
from the Selling Stockholders to cover over-allotments, if any.
(2) Estimated pursuant to Rule 457(c) under the Securities Act for the purpose
of calculating the registration fee based on the average of the reported
high and low sales prices of the common stock of the Registrant on the New
York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") on December 3, 1998.
------------------------
THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL
FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(a) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE
ON SUCH DATE AS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID
SECTION 8(a), MAY DETERMINE.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE> 2
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This Registration Statement contains two forms of prospectus: one to be
used in connection with an underwritten public offering in the United States and
Canada (the "U.S. Prospectus") and one to be used in a concurrent underwritten
public offering outside the United States and Canada (the "International
Prospectus"). The two prospectuses are identical except for the front cover
page. The form of U.S. Prospectus is included herein and is followed by the
alternate cover page to be used in the International Prospectus. The alternate
cover page for the International Prospectus included herein is labeled
"International Prospectus -- Alternate Page." Final forms of each prospectus
will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under Rule 424(b)
under the Securities Act.
<PAGE> 3
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may
not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer
to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these
securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED DECEMBER , 1998
16,200,000 SHARES
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY
COMMON STOCK
------------------------
All of the shares of common stock offered hereby are being sold by the Selling
Stockholders named under "Selling Stockholders". Of the 16,200,000 shares of
common stock being offered, 12,960,000 shares are initially being offered in the
United States and Canada by the U.S. Underwriters and 3,240,000 shares are
initially being concurrently offered outside the United States and Canada by the
International Managers. The offering price and underwriting discounts and
commissions for both offerings are identical. Keebler Foods Company will not
receive any of the proceeds from the offering. The common stock is listed on the
New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "KBL." On December 9, 1998, the last
reported sale price for the common stock was $36.69.
INVESTING IN THE COMMON STOCK INVOLVES CERTAIN RISKS.
SEE "RISK FACTORS" ON PAGE 7.
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES
COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THESE SECURITIES OR DETERMINED IF THIS
PROSPECTUS IS TRUTHFUL OR COMPLETE. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNDERWRITING PROCEEDS TO
PRICE TO DISCOUNTS AND THE SELLING
PUBLIC COMMISSIONS STOCKHOLDERS
-------- ------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share......................................... $ $ $
Total(1).......................................... $ $ $
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) The Selling Stockholders have granted the U.S. Underwriters and the
International Managers an option, exercisable for 30 days from the date of
this prospectus, to purchase a maximum of 1,628,729 additional shares to
cover over-allotments of shares.
Delivery of the shares of common stock will be made on or about
, 1999, against payment in immediately available funds.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON
MERRILL LYNCH & CO. WARBURG DILLON READ LLC
DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE LEHMAN BROTHERS
Prospectus dated , 1999
<PAGE> 4
[INSIDE COVER]
PICTURE OF REPRESENTATIVE BRANDED PRODUCTS
<PAGE> 5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Available Information................. i
Incorporation of Certain Information
by Reference........................ i
Forward-Looking Statements; Certain
Defined Terms; Market Share Data.... ii
Prospectus Summary.................... 1
Risk Factors.......................... 7
Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated
Financial Information............... 10
Selected Historical Financial Data.... 15
Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations....................... 17
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Business.............................. 27
Management............................ 35
Principal and Selling Stockholders.... 37
Certain United States Federal Tax
Considerations for Non-U.S. Holders
of Common Stock..................... 39
Underwriting.......................... 42
Notice to Canadian Residents.......... 45
Legal Matters......................... 46
Experts............................... 46
</TABLE>
------------------------
YOU SHOULD RELY ONLY ON THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT OR TO WHICH
WE HAVE REFERRED YOU. WE HAVE NOT AUTHORIZED ANYONE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH
INFORMATION THAT IS DIFFERENT. THIS DOCUMENT MAY ONLY BE USED WHERE IT IS LEGAL
TO SELL THESE SECURITIES. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT MAY ONLY BE
ACCURATE ON THE DATE OF THIS DOCUMENT.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Keebler files annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and
other information with the Commission. You may read and copy any reports,
statements or other information on file at the Commission's public reference
room in Washington, D.C. You can request copies of those documents, upon payment
of a duplicating fee, by writing to the Commission.
Keebler has filed a Registration Statement on Form S-3 with the Commission.
This prospectus, which forms a part of the Registration Statement, does not
contain all of the information included in the Registration Statement. Certain
information is omitted and you should refer to the Registration Statement and
its exhibits. With respect to references made in this prospectus to any contract
or other document of Keebler, such references are not necessarily complete and
you should refer to the exhibits attached to the Registration Statement for
copies of the actual contract or document. You may review a copy of the
Registration Statement at the Commission's public reference room in Washington,
D.C., and at the Commission's regional offices in Chicago, Illinois and New
York, New York. Please call the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further
information on the operation of the public reference rooms. Keebler's Commission
filings and the Registration Statement can also be reviewed by accessing the
Commission's Internet site at http://www.sec.gov.
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE
The following documents or information filed by Keebler with the Commission
are incorporated in this prospectus by reference and made a part hereof: (i)
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 3, 1998; (ii)
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarters ended April 25, 1998,
July 18, 1998 and October 10, 1998; (iii) Reports on Form 8-K filed August 25,
1998 and October 9, 1998, which was amended on December 10, 1998; and (iv) the
description of common stock contained in the Registration Statement on Form 8-A
filed on December 12, 1997 and amended by Amendment No. 1 on January 27, 1998.
All documents filed by Keebler with the Commission pursuant to Sections
13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act subsequent to the date hereof and
prior to the termination of the Offering shall hereby be deemed to be
incorporated by reference into this prospectus and to be a part hereof from the
date of filing of such documents. Any statement contained in a document
incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to
be modified or superseded for purposes of this prospectus to the extent that a
statement contained herein or in any other subsequently filed documents
i
<PAGE> 6
which also is or is deemed to be incorporated by reference herein modifies or
supersedes such statement. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall
not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this
prospectus.
Keebler will provide without charge to each person to whom a copy of this
prospectus is delivered on the written or oral request of any such person, a
copy of any and all documents incorporated herein by reference (other than
exhibits not specifically incorporated herein by reference). Requests for such
copies should be directed to Thomas E. O'Neill, Keebler Foods Company, 677 Larch
Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois 60126, telephone number (630) 833-2900.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS; CERTAIN DEFINED TERMS; MARKET SHARE DATA
Certain statements incorporated by reference or made in this prospectus
under the captions "Prospectus Summary," "Risk Factors," "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and
"Business" and elsewhere in this prospectus are "forward-looking statements"
within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the
"Reform Act"). These statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions of the
Reform Act. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation,
statements about the competitiveness of the cookie and cracker industry, the
future availability and prices of certain materials, potential regulatory
obligations and Keebler's strategies and other statements contained herein that
are not historical facts. When used in this prospectus, the words "anticipate,"
"believe," "estimate" and similar expressions are generally intended to identify
forward-looking statements. Because such forward-looking statements involve
risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such
forward-looking statements, including but not limited to changes in general
economic and business conditions (including in the cookie and cracker industry),
actions of competitors, Keebler's ability to recover its material costs in the
pricing of its products, the extent to which Keebler is able to develop new
products and markets for its products, the time required for such development,
the level of demand for such products, changes in Keebler's business strategies
and other factors discussed under "Risk Factors."
------------------------
As used in this prospectus, unless the context requires otherwise, (i)
"Keebler" or the "Company" means Keebler Foods Company (the surviving
corporation of the merger between INFLO Holdings Corporation ("INFLO") and
Keebler Corporation) and its predecessors and consolidated subsidiaries, (ii)
"Sunshine" means Sunshine Biscuits, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries, and
(iii) "President" means President International, Inc. and its consolidated
subsidiaries. As used herein, "Artal" means Artal Luxembourg S.A.; "Claremont"
means Claremont Enterprises, Limited; "Flowers" means Flowers Industries, Inc.;
"Nabisco" means Nabisco, Inc.; "common stock" means the common stock, $.01 par
value per share, of Keebler; "offering" means the offering of common stock
contemplated by this prospectus; "Selling Stockholders" means Artal and
Claremont, collectively; "Securities Act" means the Securities Act of 1933; and
"Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Unless stated otherwise, market share data included herein is based on
supermarket, mass merchandiser and drug store sales (measured in pounds) for the
fifty-two week period ended November 8, 1998 as reported by Information
Resources, Inc. ("IRI"). In those instances where market share data included
herein is stated to be based on dollar sales, those dollar sales represent
supermarket, mass merchandiser and drug store sales for the fifty-two week
period ended November 8, 1998 as reported by IRI. Retail sales data included
herein for the U.S. cookie and cracker industry include sales through
supermarkets, mass merchandisers, convenience stores and drug stores as reported
by IRI. Sales to club stores and vending distributors are not included in this
data. With respect to ice cream cone sales, market share data included herein
are based on dollar sales for the fifty-two week period ended November 8, 1998
as reported by IRI for supermarkets only. With respect to the foodservice
industry, market share data included herein are based on sales (measured in
pounds) for the nine-month period ended September 30, 1998 as reported by the
International Foodservice Manufacturers Association.
ii
<PAGE> 7
PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this prospectus.
This summary is not complete and may not contain all of the information that you
should consider before investing in the common stock. You should read the entire
prospectus, and the documents incorporated by reference into it, carefully.
Keebler's operations are comprised of the Keebler business, which was acquired
in January 1996, the Sunshine business, which was acquired in June 1996, and the
President business, which was acquired in September 1998. Unless otherwise
indicated, sales and market share data contained herein include the results of
President for the applicable period.
KEEBLER
Keebler is the second largest cookie and cracker manufacturer in the United
States with annual net sales of over $2.5 billion and a 25.8% share of the U.S.
cookie and cracker market. Keebler markets a majority of its products under
well-recognized brands such as Keebler, Cheez-It, Carr's and Famous Amos. In the
United States, Keebler is the number two manufacturer of branded cookies and
crackers and the number one manufacturer of private label cookies, Girl Scout
cookies and cookies and crackers for the foodservice market. Keebler also is the
number one manufacturer of retail branded ice cream cones in the United States
and is a major producer of retail branded pie crusts. Keebler also produces
custom-baked products for other marketers of branded food products.
BRANDED PRODUCTS. Keebler's branded cookie and cracker products accounted
for 84% of its net sales in the first forty weeks of 1998, excluding President.
Keebler produces nine of the twenty-five best-selling cookies and ten of the
twenty-five best-selling crackers in the United States based on dollar sales.
Keebler's branded cookie and cracker products include, among others, the
following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
KEEBLER BRAND CHEEZ-IT BRAND OTHER BRANDS
------------- -------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Chips Deluxe cookies Cheez-It snack crackers Famous Amos
Pecan Sandies cookies Cheez-It party mix Murray
Fudge Shoppe cookies Nacho Cheez-It snack Carr's
Town House crackers crackers Vienna Fingers
Club crackers Cheez-It Heads and Tails Hydrox
Wheatables crackers crackers Sunshine Krispy
Zesta crackers Cheez-It snack mix Hi-Ho
</TABLE>
DSD DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM. Keebler distributes its branded cookie and cracker
products to approximately 30,000 retail locations through its own national
direct to store sales and distribution system, which is known as a "DSD
distribution system". With this national DSD distribution system, Keebler
services substantially all supermarkets in the United States. Keebler is one of
only two cookie and cracker companies that owns and operates a national DSD
distribution system. Keebler believes its national DSD distribution system
provides it with certain competitive advantages. Sales employees of Keebler's
national DSD distribution system visit supermarkets on average 2.8 times each
week. These employees stock and arrange Keebler's products on store shelves and
build end-aisle and free-standing product displays. This frequent presence of
Keebler employees in supermarkets provides Keebler with a high level of control
over the availability and presentation of its products. Keebler believes that
this control allows it to maintain shelf space, better execute in-store
promotions and more effectively introduce new products. In-store promotions are
important because Keebler believes that purchases of cookies and crackers are
often impulse driven. With the President acquisition, Keebler acquired
President's franchised DSD distribution system which principally distributes
products east of the Mississippi River. The President DSD distribution system is
comprised of independent franchisees who purchase and resell certain President
products. President's DSD distribution system services both supermarkets and
certain non-supermarket channels.
1
<PAGE> 8
INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
In 1997, the U.S. cookie and cracker industry had retail sales of $8.4
billion, with cookie sales of $4.9 billion and cracker sales of $3.5 billion.
Since 1992, consumption per person of cookies and crackers in the United States
has remained stable. The cookie and cracker industry is comprised of distinct
types of products. Cookie product types include, among others, sandwich cookies,
chocolate chip cookies and fudge-covered cookies. Cracker product types include,
among others, saltine crackers, graham crackers and snack crackers.
Supermarkets accounted for 78% of 1997 retail sales in the cookie and
cracker industry with mass merchandisers (such as Wal-Mart), convenience stores
and drug stores accounting for the balance. Since 1992, U.S. annual dollar
supermarket sales of cookies and crackers have increased an average of 1.5% per
year. Moreover, Keebler believes that non-supermarket channels of distribution
are becoming increasingly important.
Keebler and Nabisco are the two largest national participants in the cookie
and cracker industry. Keebler and Nabisco have a combined retail market share of
59.3%, with Keebler having 25.8% and Nabisco having 33.5%. Other participants in
the industry generally operate only in certain regions of the United States or
offer fewer types of cookie and cracker products.
STRATEGY
Since the acquisition of the Keebler business in January 1996, Keebler's
management has employed a business strategy designed to capitalize on its
competitive strengths. The acquisitions of Sunshine and President have enabled
Keebler to further develop this business strategy. The key elements of Keebler's
strategy are:
BUILD ON THE KEEBLER BRAND. Keebler is one of the few packaged food brands
that generates over $1 billion in annual sales. The Keebler brand is recognized
in approximately 99% of U.S. households and is used in approximately two-thirds
of U.S. households. This brand awareness has been developed over many years of
marketing "Elfin Magic" imagery and "Uncommonly Good" Keebler products. Keebler
intends to continue to invest in advertising and promoting the Keebler brand.
Keebler's marketing emphasizes the well known images of Ernie and the other
Keebler Elves and Keebler's Hollow Tree.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF KEEBLER BRAND STRENGTH ACROSS PRODUCT TYPES. There are
many types of cookie and cracker products. Keebler believes that many well known
cookie and cracker brands are only associated with one type of product, such as
chocolate chip cookies, making it difficult for these brands to be used to
market other types of cookie and cracker products. This requires other
manufacturers to invest in creating an entirely new brand identity when
developing a new type of product. In contrast, Keebler believes the strength of
the Keebler brand is its consumer identity across a wide variety of these
product types, which allows Keebler to cost effectively introduce new product
line extensions and market new types of products. Keebler's strategy is also to
focus on products in its portfolio of cookie and cracker products that already
have a strong position or on product types which are not dominated by a
competitor's strong branded product.
EXPAND THE CHEEZ-IT BRAND. Keebler's Cheez-It brand crackers are the number
one selling snack cracker in the United States. Annual retail sales of Cheez-It
brand products exceed $250 million. The Cheez-It brand has a distinctive image
with consumers. Keebler intends to maintain and build on this distinctive image
through new products, advertising and packaging. In 1998, as part of this
strategy, Keebler ran national media advertising for Cheez-It for the first time
in the brand's history. Keebler has also introduced new products, such as
Cheez-It Heads and Tails crackers and Cheez-It snack mix, adding to its
portfolio of Cheez-It products. Sales of Cheez-It products for the first forty
weeks of 1998 increased by 23.7% compared to the same period in 1997.
EXPAND NON-SUPERMARKET SALES. In 1997, 22% of retail cookie and cracker
sales were through mass merchandisers, convenience stores and drug stores.
Keebler believes that its total share of sales to these
2
<PAGE> 9
and other non-supermarket channels, including club stores and vending
distributors, is significantly lower than its share of sales to supermarkets.
Keebler develops products, packaging and distribution tailored to
non-supermarket channels. As a result of these efforts, Keebler's
non-supermarket sales have grown significantly. For example, Keebler's retail
sales through mass merchandisers (excluding President's sales) increased 34% in
the first forty weeks of 1998 compared to the first forty weeks of 1997.
INCREASE THE EFFICIENCY OF ITS OPERATIONS. Keebler intends to continue to
increase the efficiency of its operations and reduce costs. In 1998, Keebler's
management lowered annual costs by approximately $35.0 million principally by
further automating certain bakery and distribution operations and by improving
inventory management. Keebler also has installed an SAP R/3 management
information system resulting in more efficient operations because of the
availability of detailed financial and operational information. Keebler plans to
install this SAP R/3 system in its President facilities in 1999.
CAPITALIZE ON THE PRESIDENT ACQUISITION. The President acquisition provides
Keebler with opportunities and benefits that should help Keebler achieve certain
strategic goals. These include the following:
- President's product mix complements Keebler's by adding strong brands
such as Famous Amos cookies, which has annual retail sales in excess of
$60 million, and Murray sugar free cookies, the number one selling sugar
free cookie, which has annual retail sales in excess of $35 million.
These brands strengthen and diversify the Keebler portfolio of branded
products.
- Keebler believes that the integration of President into its operations
should allow Keebler to operate more efficiently in areas such as
manufacturing, raw material and packaging purchasing and product
distribution.
- The President acquisition also diversifies Keebler's cookie and cracker
business by making Keebler the leading manufacturer of Girl Scout
cookies, a position that President has held for over ten years.
- The President acquisition provides Keebler with an increased market share
in non-supermarket channels. For example, Famous Amos is the number one
selling cookie in vending machines and has a strong presence in club and
convenience stores. Sales of Famous Amos products in non-supermarket
channels are approximately $40 million annually.
PURSUE ACQUISITIONS. Keebler intends to pursue additional acquisitions,
such as the President acquisition, that complement or provide further
opportunities to use its existing brands, manufacturing capabilities or
distribution systems.
RECENT KEEBLER HISTORY
In September 1998, Keebler acquired President. President manufactures and
markets cookies, crackers, brownies and snack cakes. President's brands include
Famous Amos and Murray. President is the leading manufacturer of both Girl Scout
and sugar free cookies in the United States. In 1997, President had net sales of
$441.1 million and a 3.4% share of the U.S. cookie and cracker market.
In June 1996, Keebler acquired Sunshine. By the end of 1996, Keebler
completed its planned integration of Sunshine's operations into those of
Keebler. The combination of Sunshine and Keebler allowed Keebler to achieve
efficiencies in administration, purchasing, production, marketing, sales and
distribution. In particular, Keebler incorporated the sales and distribution of
Sunshine retail branded products into Keebler's national DSD distribution system
which had excess capacity. Filling this excess capacity with Sunshine products
made Keebler's national DSD distribution system more efficient and allowed
Keebler to focus its sales and marketing efforts on its more profitable retail
branded products.
3
<PAGE> 10
In January 1996, Artal, Flowers and certain of Keebler's current management
acquired the Keebler business which is referred to as the "Keebler acquisition."
Artal is a private investment company. Flowers, a New York Stock Exchange-listed
company, is one of the country's largest manufacturers and marketers of fresh
and frozen baked goods. Flowers currently owns approximately 55% of Keebler's
outstanding common stock and will own the same percentage after the offering.
THE OFFERING
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Common stock offered:
U.S. offering............................................ 12,960,000 Shares
International offering................................... 3,240,000 Shares
------------------------------
Total(a)......................................... 16,200,000 Shares
==============================
Total shares outstanding as of December 8, 1998(b)......... 84,108,164
Selling Stockholders....................................... Artal and Claremont
Use of proceeds............................................ Keebler will not receive any
proceeds from the offering
New York Stock Exchange symbol............................. KBL
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(a) If the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers exercise the option
granted to them in connection with the offering to purchase additional
shares of common stock from Artal and Claremont to cover over-allotments,
the total number of shares to be offered would increase by up to 1,628,729
shares.
(b) Does not include 6,473,270 shares of common stock reserved for issuance
under Keebler's 1996 Stock Option Plan, pursuant to which options to
purchase 2,851,250 shares of common stock were outstanding as of December 8,
1998. In addition, 6,500,000 shares of common stock have been reserved for
issuance under the 1998 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan and 300,000 shares of
common stock have been reserved for issuance under the Directors' Plan.
Keebler has granted 2,726,736 options to purchase shares of common stock
pursuant to the 1998 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan and 22,500 options to
purchase shares of common stock pursuant to the Directors' Plan.
4
<PAGE> 11
SUMMARY UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The summary unaudited pro forma financial information below has been
derived from the Pro Forma Financial Information, as defined under "Unaudited
Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Information," included elsewhere in this
prospectus. The operating and other data give effect to the President
acquisition as if it had occurred on December 29, 1996. The summary unaudited
pro forma financial information below does not purport to represent what
Keebler's results of operations would have been if the President acquisition had
occurred on the date indicated or to project Keebler's results of operations for
any future period. The information below should be read together with the Pro
Forma Financial Information included elsewhere in this prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEAR FORTY WEEKS ENDED
ENDED -----------------------------------
JANUARY 3, 1998 OCTOBER 4, 1997 OCTOBER 10, 1998
PRO FORMA PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
--------------- --------------- ----------------
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales....................................... $ 2,501.5 $ 1,889.3 $ 1,983.7
Income from operations.......................... 163.0 117.4 152.1
Net income...................................... 49.3 32.4 68.6
Diluted net income per share.................... 0.61 0.40 0.79
Weighted average shares outstanding............. 80.6 80.1 87.4
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(a).......................... $ 246.3 $ 180.9 $ 213.5
Depreciation and amortization................... 83.3 63.5 61.4
Capital expenditures............................ 53.3 29.2 42.2
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(a) EBITDA, as adjusted, is defined as income from operations before interest,
taxes, depreciation, amortization and restructuring charges. EBITDA, as
adjusted, is presented as additional information because Keebler believes it
to be a useful indicator of a company's ability to meet debt service and
capital expenditure requirements. It is not, however, intended as an
alternative measure of operating results or cash flow from operations (as
determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles).
5
<PAGE> 12
SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA
The summary consolidated historical financial data below as of and for the
fiscal years ended January 1, 1994, December 31, 1994, December 30, 1995,
December 28, 1996 and January 3, 1998 have been derived from the consolidated
financial statements of Keebler and UB Investments US Inc. (the "Predecessor
Company") which have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent
public accountants. The summary consolidated historical financial data below of
Keebler as of and for the forty weeks ended October 4, 1997 and October 10, 1998
have been derived from unaudited financial statements of Keebler and, in the
opinion of Keebler, include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring
adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation thereof. The results of
operations below are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for
any future period. The information below should be read in conjunction with
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and the consolidated financial statements incorporated by reference
into this prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PREDECESSOR COMPANY
------------------------------------------------------
FOUR
YEAR ENDED WEEKS
---------------------------------------- ENDED
JANUARY 1, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 30, JANUARY 26,
1994 1994 1995 1996
---------- ------------ ------------ -----------
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales................................... $1,650.1 $1,599.7 $1,578.6 $101.7
Gross profit................................ 931.5 894.2 831.8 46.8
Nonrecurring charges(c)..................... 120.1 -- 86.5 --
Income (loss) from continuing operations.... (67.6) 46.4 (137.9) (25.5)
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before extraordinary item and cumulative
effect of accounting changes.............. (126.9) (26.9) (165.7) (25.4)
Discontinued operations(d).................. 0.6 3.4 7.4 18.9
Extraordinary item(e)....................... -- -- -- --
Cumulative effect of accounting changes, net
of tax.................................... (20.9) 0.5 -- --
Net income (loss)........................... (147.2) (23.0) (158.3) (6.5)
Diluted net income per share................ -- -- -- --
Weighted average shares outstanding......... -- -- -- --
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(f)...................... $ 98.4 $ 89.5 $ (93.3) $(23.5)
Depreciation and amortization (excluding
items related to discontinued
operations)............................... 45.9 43.1 44.6 2.0
Capital expenditures (excluding expenditures
related to discontinued operations)....... 30.6 54.6 54.2 3.2
BALANCE SHEET DATA (AT END OF PERIOD):
Cash and cash equivalents................... $ 6.4 $ 12.5 $ 3.0 $ 2.1
Total assets................................ 1,043.0 1,001.2 926.9 849.1
Due to affiliate............................ 872.7 551.6 108.0 105.0
Total debt.................................. 263.8 333.2 437.6 371.4
Shareholders' equity (deficit).............. (511.9) (234.9) 51.8 45.3
<CAPTION>
KEEBLER
----------------------------------------------------
FORTY-EIGHT FORTY FORTY
WEEKS YEAR WEEKS WEEKS
ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED
DECEMBER 28, JANUARY 3, OCTOBER 4, OCTOBER 10,
1996(A) 1998 1997 1998(B)
------------ ---------- ---------- -----------
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales................................... $1,645.5 $2,065.2 $1,542.2 $1,626.7
Gross profit................................ 871.3 1,177.2 873.7 948.4
Nonrecurring charges(c)..................... -- -- -- --
Income (loss) from continuing operations.... 70.1 141.4 96.1 124.6
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before extraordinary item and cumulative
effect of accounting changes.............. 17.7 62.4 39.1 62.4
Discontinued operations(d).................. -- -- -- --
Extraordinary item(e)....................... 1.9 5.4 2.7 1.7
Cumulative effect of accounting changes, net
of tax.................................... -- -- -- --
Net income (loss)........................... 15.8 57.0 36.4 60.7
Diluted net income per share................ 0.21 0.70 0.45 0.69
Weighted average shares outstanding......... 76.1 80.6 80.1 87.4
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(f)...................... $ 119.6 $ 202.1 $ 141.6 $ 171.1
Depreciation and amortization (excluding
items related to discontinued
operations)............................... 49.5 60.7 45.5 46.5
Capital expenditures (excluding expenditures
related to discontinued operations)....... 29.4 48.4 26.1 36.0
BALANCE SHEET DATA (AT END OF PERIOD):
Cash and cash equivalents................... $ 12.0 $ 27.2 $ 61.1 $ 17.7
Total assets................................ 1,102.1 1,042.9 1,116.1 1,633.6
Due to affiliate............................ -- -- -- --
Total debt.................................. 457.9 298.8 401.8 654.7
Shareholders' equity (deficit).............. 165.1 222.0 201.5 297.4
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(a)Includes the operating results of Sunshine from the acquisition date of June
4, 1996 through the end of the period presented. See "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
(b)Excludes President's results of operations for the thirteen days in the
period after the acquisition of President on September 28, 1998. President's
balance sheet data as of October 10, 1998 are included in the balance sheet
data as of such date.
(c)Year ended January 1, 1994 includes a restructuring charge of $120.1 million
and year ended December 30, 1995 includes the loss on the impairment of the
Predecessor Company's Salty Snacks business of $86.5 million.
(d)Includes income from operations of the discontinued Frozen Food businesses,
net of tax, of $0.6 million, $3.4 million and $7.4 million for the years
ended January 1, 1994, December 31, 1994 and December 30, 1995, respectively.
Includes a $18.9 million gain on the disposal of the discontinued Frozen Food
businesses, net of tax, for the four weeks ended January 26, 1996.
(e)Relates to losses on the early extinguishment of debt, net of tax.
(f)EBITDA, as adjusted, is defined as income (loss) from continuing operations
before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and restructuring charges.
EBITDA, as adjusted, is presented as additional information because Keebler
believes it to be a useful indicator of a company's ability to meet debt
service and capital expenditure requirements. It is not, however, intended as
an alternative measure of operating results or cash flow from operations (as
determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles).
6
<PAGE> 13
RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider the following factors and other information
in this prospectus before deciding to invest in shares of common stock.
ADVERSE EFFECTS OF COMPETITION ON KEEBLER'S PERFORMANCE
The cookie and cracker market and the other markets in which Keebler
operates are mature and highly competitive. Competition in these markets takes
many forms, including the following:
- establishing favorable brand recognition;
- developing products sought by consumers;
- implementing appropriate pricing;
- providing strong marketing support; and
- obtaining access to retail outlets and sufficient shelf space.
In many of Keebler's markets, there are competitors that are larger and
have greater financial resources than Keebler, including Keebler's primary
competitor, Nabisco. Competition could cause Keebler to lose market share,
increase expenditures or reduce pricing which could have a material adverse
effect on Keebler's business or financial results.
INCREASES IN PRICES OF MAIN INGREDIENTS AND OTHER MATERIALS
The main ingredients that Keebler uses to manufacture its products are
flour, sugar, chocolate, shortening and milk. Keebler also uses paper products,
such as corrugated cardboard, as well as films and plastics, to package its
products. The prices of these materials have been, and Keebler expects them to
continue to be, subject to significant volatility. Keebler may not be able to
pass price increases in these materials on to its customers. Although Keebler
has mitigated the effects of such price increases in the past through its
hedging programs, Keebler may not be successful in protecting itself from
increases in the future. See "Business -- Raw Materials" for a further
discussion of the raw materials used in Keebler's business.
DEPENDENCE ON SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM
Keebler believes that its ability to successfully implement its business
strategy and to operate profitably depends on the continued employment of its
senior management team. If members of the management team become unable or
unwilling to continue in their present positions, Keebler's business and
financial results could be materially adversely affected.
MAJORITY CONTROL OF KEEBLER BY A SINGLE STOCKHOLDER
Flowers owns approximately 55% of Keebler's outstanding common stock.
Accordingly, Flowers controls Keebler and has the power to elect a majority of
the directors, appoint management and approve certain actions requiring the
approval of a majority of Keebler's stockholders. The interests of Flowers could
conflict with the interests of other stockholders of Keebler.
IMPACT OF GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION ON KEEBLER'S OPERATIONS
Keebler's operations and properties are subject to regulation by various
federal, state and local government entities and agencies. As a producer of food
products, Keebler's operations are subject to stringent production, packaging,
quality, labeling and distribution standards, including the Federal Food and
Drug Act. The operations of Keebler's production and distribution facilities are
subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws and workplace
regulations. These laws and regulations include the Occupational Safety and
Health Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water
Act. Keebler believes that its current legal and environmental compliance
programs adequately address such concerns and that it is in substantial
compliance with applicable laws and regulations. However, compliance with, or
any violation of, current and future laws or regulations could require
7
<PAGE> 14
material expenditures by Keebler or otherwise adversely affect Keebler's
business or financial results. See "Business -- Regulation; -- Environmental"
for a further discussion of the environmental and other regulations to which
Keebler's operations and properties are subject.
TRADEMARKS AND OTHER PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
Keebler believes that its trademarks and other proprietary rights are
important to its success and its competitive position. Accordingly, Keebler
devotes substantial resources to the establishment and protection of its
trademarks and proprietary rights. However, the actions taken by Keebler to
establish and protect its trademarks and other proprietary rights may be
inadequate to prevent imitation of its products by others or to prevent others
from claiming violations of their trademarks and proprietary rights by Keebler.
See "Business -- Intellectual Property" for a further discussion of the
trademarks and proprietary rights used in Keebler's business.
PRODUCT LIABILITY; PRODUCT RECALLS
Keebler may be liable if the consumption of any of its products causes
injury, illness or death. Keebler also may be required to recall certain of its
products should they become contaminated or are damaged. Keebler's management is
not aware of any material product liability claim against Keebler or possible
product recall by Keebler. However, a product liability judgment against Keebler
or a product recall could have a material adverse effect on Keebler's business
or financial results.
SUPERMARKET CONSOLIDATION
The number of supermarket chains, Keebler's primary customers, has been
reduced in the last several years as supermarket chains have acquired each
other. The larger supermarket customers that have resulted from this
consolidation may seek more favorable terms for their purchases of Keebler's
products. Although Keebler has not received requests for more favorable terms
from these customers, Keebler is aware of other supermarket suppliers who have
received such requests. Keebler sales to its supermarket customers on terms more
favorable to such customers could have a material adverse effect on Keebler's
financial results.
RESTRICTIONS ON PAYMENTS WITH RESPECT TO COMMON STOCK
Keebler's ability to pay dividends on, or repurchase shares of, its common
stock is limited under the terms of its existing debt agreements. Keebler does
not currently intend to pay any cash dividends.
SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
The market price of the common stock could drop as a result of sales of a
large number of unregistered shares of common stock in the market after the
offering, or the perception that such sales could occur. These factors also
could make it more difficult for Keebler to raise funds through future offerings
of common stock.
There will be 84,108,164 shares of common stock outstanding immediately
after the offering. Of these shares, 29,586,661 will be freely transferable
without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act, except for
any shares purchased by "affiliates" of Keebler, as defined in Rule 144 under
the Securities Act. The remaining 54,521,503 shares of common stock outstanding,
including the 46,197,466 shares held by Flowers, will be "restricted securities"
as defined in Rule 144. These shares may be sold in the future without
registration under the Securities Act to the extent permitted by Rule 144 or an
exemption under the Securities Act.
In connection with the offering, Keebler's executive officers and directors
have agreed that, with certain exceptions, they will not sell any shares of
common stock without the consent of Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation for
60 days after the date of this prospectus. In addition, Keebler and certain of
its stockholders have agreed not to sell any shares of common stock without the
consent of Credit Suisse
8
<PAGE> 15
First Boston Corporation for 90 days after the date of this prospectus. See
"Underwriting" for a further discussion of such restrictions and exceptions.
CERTAIN ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS; PREFERRED STOCK
Certain provisions of Keebler's certificate of incorporation could make it
more difficult for a third party to acquire control of Keebler, even if such
change in control would be beneficial to stockholders. The certificate of
incorporation allows Keebler to issue preferred stock without stockholder
approval. Such issuances could make it more difficult for a third party to
acquire Keebler.
9
<PAGE> 16
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information (the
"Pro Forma Financial Information") is based on the historical financial
statements of Keebler and President during the periods presented, adjusted to
give effect to the President acquisition.
The Pro Forma Financial Information for the fiscal year ended January 3,
1998, the forty weeks ended October 4, 1997 and October 10, 1998 give effect to
the President acquisition as if it had occurred on December 29, 1996. The
adjustments are described in the accompanying notes and are based upon available
information and certain assumptions that management believes are reasonable. The
President acquisition will be accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting. The total purchase consideration for the acquisition of President
was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets and liabilities of President
based on their estimated respective fair values. The amount in excess of such
fair values has been accounted for as goodwill. The allocation of the aggregate
purchase price assumed for preparation of the Pro Forma Financial Statements is
preliminary as Keebler believes further refinement is impractical to perform at
this time. However, Keebler does not expect the final allocation of the purchase
price will materially differ from the preliminary allocation set forth herein.
The Pro Forma Financial Information does not purport to represent what
Keebler's results of operations would actually have been had the President
acquisition in fact occurred on December 29, 1996 or to project Keebler's
results of operations for any future period.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED
JANUARY 3, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL
-----------------------------------
KEEBLER PRESIDENT
FISCAL YEAR FISCAL YEAR
ENDED ENDED PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
JANUARY 3, 1998 DECEMBER 27, 1997 RECLASSES(A) ADJUSTMENTS PRO FORMA
--------------- ----------------- ------------ ----------- ---------
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales.................................. $2,065.2 $441.1 $(4.8) $2,501.5
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales............................ 888.0 276.3 (8.8) 1,155.5
Selling, marketing and administrative
expenses............................... 1,026.3 123.9 5.0 $ 5.1 (b) 1,160.3
Other.................................... 9.5 11.9 (0.8) 2.1 (c) 22.7
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income from operations..................... 141.4 29.0 (0.2) (7.2) 163.0
Interest expense, net.................... 33.8 13.9 (0.2) 9.1 (d) 56.6
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before income tax expense........... 107.6 15.1 -- (16.3) 106.4
Income tax expense....................... 45.2 8.1 -- (3.6)(e) 49.7
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before equity in net loss of joint
ventures................................. 62.4 7.0 -- (12.7) 56.7
Equity in net loss of joint ventures..... -- 3.1 -- (3.1)(f) --
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before extraordinary item........... 62.4 3.9 -- (9.6) 56.7
Extraordinary item:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net
of tax................................. 5.4 -- -- 2.0 (g) 7.4
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Net income................................. $ 57.0 $ 3.9 $ -- $(11.6) $ 49.3
======== ====== ===== ====== ========
Basic net income per share:
Income before extraordinary item......... $ 0.80 $ 0.73
Extraordinary item....................... 0.07 0.10
-------- --------
Net income............................... $ 0.73 $ 0.63
======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding........ 77.6 77.6
======== ========
Diluted net income per share:
Income before extraordinary item......... $ 0.77 $ 0.70
Extraordinary item....................... 0.07 0.09
-------- --------
Net income............................... $ 0.70 $ 0.61
======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding........ 80.6 80.6
======== ========
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(h)..................... $ 202.1 $ 46.5 $(0.2) $ (2.1) $ 246.3
Depreciation and amortization.............. 60.7 17.5 -- 5.1 83.3
Capital expenditures....................... 48.4 4.9 -- -- 53.3
</TABLE>
10
<PAGE> 17
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE FORTY WEEKS
ENDED OCTOBER 4, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL
------------------------------------
KEEBLER PRESIDENT
FORTY WEEKS THIRTY-NINE
ENDED WEEKS ENDED PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
OCTOBER 4, 1997 SEPTEMBER 27, 1997 RECLASSES(A) ADJUSTMENTS PRO FORMA
--------------- ------------------ ------------ ----------- ---------
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales.............................. $1,542.2 $350.8 $(3.7) $1,889.3
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales........................ 668.5 217.8 (6.4) 879.9
Selling, marketing and administrative
expenses........................... 770.5 96.0 2.8 $ 3.9 (b) 873.2
Other................................ 7.1 9.8 0.2 1.7 (c) 18.8
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income from operations................. 96.1 27.2 (0.3) (5.6) 117.4
Interest expense, net................ 28.6 10.8 (0.3) 8.2 (d) 47.3
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before income tax expense....... 67.5 16.4 -- (13.8) 70.1
Income tax expense................... 28.4 8.1 -- (3.5)(e) 33.0
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before equity in net loss of
joint ventures....................... 39.1 8.3 -- (10.3)
Equity in net loss of joint
ventures........................... -- 1.9 -- (1.9)(f) 37.1
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before extraordinary item....... 39.1 6.4 -- (8.4) 37.1
Extraordinary item:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt,
net of tax......................... 2.7 -- -- 2.0 (g) 4.7
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Net income............................. $ 36.4 $ 6.4 $ -- $(10.4) $ 32.4
======== ====== ===== ====== ========
Basic net income per share:
Income before extraordinary item..... $ 0.50 $ 0.48
Extraordinary item................... 0.04 0.06
-------- --------
Net income........................... $ 0.46 $ 0.42
======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding.... 77.6 77.6
======== ========
Diluted net income per share:
Income before extraordinary item..... $ 0.49 $ 0.46
Extraordinary item................... 0.04 0.06
-------- --------
Net income........................... $ 0.45 $ 0.40
======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding.... 80.1 80.1
======== ========
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(h)................. $ 141.6 $ 41.3 $(0.3) $ (1.7) $ 180.9
Depreciation and amortization.......... 45.5 14.1 -- 3.9 63.5
Capital expenditures................... 26.1 3.1 -- -- 29.2
</TABLE>
11
<PAGE> 18
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE FORTY WEEKS
ENDED OCTOBER 10, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL
-------------------------------------
KEEBLER PRESIDENT
FORTY WEEKS THIRTY-NINE
ENDED WEEKS ENDED PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
OCTOBER 10, 1998 SEPTEMBER 26, 1998 RECLASSES(A) ADJUSTMENTS PRO FORMA
---------------- ------------------ ------------ ----------- ---------
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales............................... $1,626.7 $360.8 $(3.8) $1,983.7
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales......................... 678.3 218.8 (5.2) 891.9
Selling, marketing and administrative
expenses............................ 816.7 102.2 1.8 $ 3.9 (b) 924.6
Other................................. 7.1 6.4 (0.1) 1.7 (c) 15.1
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income from operations.................. 124.6 33.4 (0.3) (5.6) 152.1
Gain on sale of the joint ventures.... -- 7.7 -- -- 7.7
Interest expense, net................. 17.0 9.2 (0.3) 8.5 (d) 34.4
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before income tax expense........ 107.6 31.9 -- (14.1) 125.4
Income tax expense.................... 45.2 10.2 -- (0.6)(e) 54.8
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before equity in net loss of
joint ventures........................ 62.4 21.7 -- (13.5) 70.6
Equity in net loss of joint
ventures............................ -- 2.2 -- (2.2)(f) --
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Income before extraordinary item........ 62.4 19.5 -- (11.3) 70.6
Extraordinary item:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt,
net of tax.......................... 1.7 0.7 -- (0.4)(g) 2.0
-------- ------ ----- ------ --------
Net income.............................. $ 60.7 $ 18.8 $ -- $(10.9) $ 68.6
======== ====== ===== ====== ========
Basic net income per share:
Income before extraordinary item...... $ 0.75 $ 0.85
Extraordinary item.................... 0.02 0.02
-------- --------
Net income............................ $ 0.73 $ 0.83
======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding..... 83.1 83.1
======== ========
Diluted net income per share:
Income before extraordinary item...... $ 0.71 $ 0.81
Extraordinary item.................... 0.02 0.02
-------- --------
Net income............................ $ 0.69 $ 0.79
======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding..... 87.4 87.4
======== ========
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(h).................. $ 171.1 $ 44.4 $(0.3) $ (1.7) $ 213.5
Depreciation and amortization........... 46.5 11.0 -- 3.9 61.4
Capital expenditures.................... 36.0 6.2 -- -- 42.2
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE> 19
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
(a) Pro forma reclassifications to conform President's consolidated results
of operations with the Keebler basis of presentation. The more significant
adjustments include the reclassification of warehousing and shipping expenses
from cost of sales to selling, marketing and administrative expenses and the
reclassification of cash discounts and sales returns from selling, marketing and
administrative expenses to net sales.
(b) Additional depreciation resulting from the preliminary valuation of
President property, plant and equipment.
(c) Reflects a net increase in other expenses due to:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEAR FORTY WEEKS FORTY WEEKS
ENDED ENDED ENDED
JANUARY 3, OCTOBER 4, OCTOBER 10,
1998 1997 1998
----------- ----------- -----------
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Additional goodwill amortization expense associated with
the President acquisition over a forty year life....... $1.3 $1.1 $1.1
Amortization of costs associated with the President
acquisition over a five year life...................... 0.8 0.6 0.6
---- ---- ----
$2.1 $1.7 $1.7
==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
(d) The following adjustments to net interest expense reflect the
additional borrowings associated with the President acquisition:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEAR FORTY WEEKS FORTY WEEKS
ENDED ENDED ENDED
JANUARY 3, OCTOBER 4, OCTOBER 10,
1998 1997 1998
----------- ----------- -----------
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Elimination of President's historical interest expense.... $(12.9) $(9.7) $(8.3)
Additional interest expense related to the New Credit
Facilities............................................. 22.3 18.2 17.1
Eliminate Keebler's amortization of debt issuance costs
related to debt extinguished as part of the
acquisition............................................ (0.6) (0.5) (0.5)
Amortization of new debt issuance costs................... 0.3 0.2 0.2
------ ----- -----
$ 9.1 $ 8.2 $ 8.5
====== ===== =====
</TABLE>
(e) The pro forma adjustment to income tax expense assumes a combined
effective tax rate of 46.7% for the year ended January 3, 1998, 47.1% for the
forty weeks ended October 4, 1997 and 43.7% for the forty weeks ended October
10, 1998 .
(f) Elimination of the equity in net loss of joint ventures, which were
sold by President prior to the acquisition of President by Keebler.
(g) Reflects a net increase (decrease) in the extraordinary item due to:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEAR FORTY WEEKS FORTY WEEKS
ENDED ENDED ENDED
JANUARY 3, OCTOBER 4, OCTOBER 10,
1998 1997 1998
----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Elimination of the President extraordinary item
associated with writing off unamortized debt issuance
costs................................................. $ -- $ -- $(0.7)
Write off Keebler debt issuance costs related to debt
extinguished as part of the acquisition, net of income
taxes................................................. 2.0 2.0 0.3
---- ---- -----
$2.0 $2.0 $(0.4)
==== ==== =====
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE> 20
(h) EBITDA, as adjusted, is defined as income from operations before
interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and restructuring charges. EBITDA,
as adjusted, is presented as additional information because Keebler believes it
to be a useful indicator of a company's ability to meet debt service and capital
expenditure requirements. It is not, however, intended as an alternative measure
of operating results or cash flow from operations (as determined in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles).
14
<PAGE> 21
SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA
The selected historical financial data presented below as of and for the
fiscal years ended January 1, 1994, December 31, 1994, December 30, 1995,
December 28, 1996 and January 3, 1998 have been derived from the consolidated
financial statements of Keebler and the Predecessor Company incorporated by
reference into this prospectus, which have been audited by
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent public accountants. The unaudited
consolidated financial data of Keebler as of and for the forty weeks ended
October 4, 1997 and October 10, 1998 have been derived from unaudited financial
statements of Keebler incorporated by reference into this prospectus and, in the
opinion of Keebler, include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring
adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation thereof. The results of
operations presented below are not necessarily indicative of results to be
expected for any future period. The information set forth below should be read
in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations" and the consolidated financial statements
incorporated by reference into this prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PREDECESSOR COMPANY
------------------------------------------------------
FOUR
YEAR ENDED WEEKS
---------------------------------------- ENDED
JANUARY 1, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 30, JANUARY 26,
1994 1994 1995 1996
---------- ------------ ------------ -----------
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales.................................... $1,650.1 $1,599.7 $1,578.6 $101.7
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales.............................. 718.6 705.5 746.8 54.9
Selling, marketing and administrative
expenses................................. 878.9 845.7 884.6 71.4
Restructuring charges...................... 120.1 -- -- --
Loss on impairment of Salty Snacks
business................................. -- -- 86.5 --
Other...................................... 0.1 2.1 (1.4) 0.9
-------- -------- -------- ------
Income (loss) from continuing operations..... (67.6) 46.4 (137.9) (25.5)
Interest expense (income), net............... 81.6 74.4 28.3 (0.1)
-------- -------- -------- ------
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before income taxes........................ (149.2) (28.0) (166.2) (25.4)
Income tax expense (benefit)................. (22.3) (1.1) (0.5) --
-------- -------- -------- ------
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before extraordinary item and cumulative
effect of accounting changes............... (126.9) (26.9) (165.7) (25.4)
Discontinued operations:
Income from operations of discontinued
Frozen Food businesses, net of tax....... 0.6 3.4 7.4 --
Gain on disposal of Frozen Food businesses,
net of tax............................... -- -- -- 18.9
-------- -------- -------- ------
Income (loss) before extraordinary item and
cumulative effect of accounting changes.... (126.3) (23.5) (158.3) (6.5)
Extraordinary item:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net
of tax................................... -- -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- ------
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of
accounting changes......................... (126.3) (23.5) (158.3) (6.5)
Cumulative effect of accounting changes,
net of tax............................... (20.9) 0.5 -- --
-------- -------- -------- ------
Net income (loss)............................ $ (147.2) $ (23.0) $ (158.3) $ (6.5)
======== ======== ======== ======
Diluted net income (loss) per share.......... -- -- -- --
Weighted average shares outstanding.......... -- -- -- --
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(c)....................... $ 98.4 $ 89.5 $ (93.3) $(23.5)
Depreciation and amortization (excluding
items related to discontinued
operations)................................ 45.9 43.1 44.6 2.0
Capital expenditures (excluding expenditures
related to discontinued operations)........ 30.6 54.6 54.2 3.2
CASH FLOW DATA:
Cash provided from (used by)
Operating activities....................... $ 22.0 $ (17.4) $ (61.4) $ (0.4)
Investing activities....................... (92.1) (45.9) (52.6) 65.2
Financing activities....................... 58.3 69.4 104.4 (65.7)
-------- -------- -------- ------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents................................ $ (11.8) $ 6.1 $ (9.6) $ (0.9)
======== ======== ======== ======
<CAPTION>
KEEBLER
----------------------------------------------------
FORTY-EIGHT FORTY FORTY
WEEKS YEAR WEEKS WEEKS
ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED
DECEMBER 28, JANUARY 3, OCTOBER 4, OCTOBER 10,
1996(A) 1998 1997 1998(B)
------------ ---------- ---------- -----------
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales.................................... $1,645.5 $2,065.2 $1,542.2 $1,626.7
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales.............................. 774.2 888.0 668.5 678.3
Selling, marketing and administrative
expenses................................. 794.8 1,026.3 770.5 816.7
Restructuring charges...................... -- -- -- --
Loss on impairment of Salty Snacks
business................................. -- -- -- --
Other...................................... 6.4 9.5 7.1 7.1
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) from continuing operations..... 70.1 141.4 96.1 124.6
Interest expense (income), net............... 38.4 33.8 28.6 17.0
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before income taxes........................ 31.7 107.6 67.5 107.6
Income tax expense (benefit)................. 14.0 45.2 28.4 45.2
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before extraordinary item and cumulative
effect of accounting changes............... 17.7 62.4 39.1 62.4
Discontinued operations:
Income from operations of discontinued
Frozen Food businesses, net of tax....... -- -- -- --
Gain on disposal of Frozen Food businesses,
net of tax............................... -- -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before extraordinary item and
cumulative effect of accounting changes.... 17.7 62.4 39.1 62.4
Extraordinary item:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net
of tax................................... 1.9 5.4 2.7 1.7
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of
accounting changes......................... 15.8 57.0 36.4 60.7
Cumulative effect of accounting changes,
net of tax............................... -- -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net income (loss)............................ $ 15.8 $ 57.0 $ 36.4 $ 60.7
======== ======== ======== ========
Diluted net income (loss) per share.......... $ 0.21 $ 0.70 $ 0.45 $ 0.69
-------- -------- -------- --------
-------- -------- -------- --------
Weighted average shares outstanding.......... 76.1 80.6 80.1 87.4
======== ======== ======== ========
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA, as adjusted(c)....................... $ 119.6 $ 202.1 $ 141.6 $ 171.1
Depreciation and amortization (excluding
items related to discontinued
operations)................................ 49.5 60.7 45.5 46.5
Capital expenditures (excluding expenditures
related to discontinued operations)........ 29.4 48.4 26.1 36.0
CASH FLOW DATA:
Cash provided from (used by)
Operating activities....................... $ 53.2 $ 218.3 $ 128.1 $ 103.4
Investing activities....................... (130.1) (41.5) (20.8) (480.1)
Financing activities....................... 86.8 (161.6) (58.2) 367.2
-------- -------- -------- --------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents................................ $ 9.9 $ 15.2 $ 49.1 $ (9.5)
======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
15
<PAGE> 22
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AS OF AS OF
------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------
------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------
JANUARY 1, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 30, JANUARY 26, DECEMBER 28, JANUARY 3,
1994 1994 1995 1996 1996 1998
---------- ------------ ------------- ----------- ------------ ----------
(IN MILLIONS) (IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents.................. $ 6.4 $ 12.5 $ 3.0 $ 2.1 $ 12.0 $ 27.2
Total assets............................... 1,043.0 1,001.2 926.9 849.1 1,102.1 1,042.9
Due to affiliate........................... 872.7 551.6 108.0 105.0 -- --
Total debt................................. 263.8 333.2 437.6 371.4 457.9 298.8
Shareholders' equity (deficit)............. (511.9) (234.9) 51.8 45.3 165.1 222.0
<CAPTION>
AS OF
-------------------------
-------------------------
OCTOBER 4, OCTOBER 10,
1997 1998
----------- -----------
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents.................. $ 61.1 $ 17.7
Total assets............................... 1,116.1 1,633.6
Due to affiliate........................... -- --
Total debt................................. 401.8 654.7
Shareholders' equity (deficit)............. 201.5 297.4
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(a) Includes the operating results of Sunshine from the acquisition date of June
4, 1996 through the end of the period presented. See "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
(b) Excludes President's results of operations for the thirteen days in the
period following the acquisition date of September 28, 1998. President's
balance sheet data as of October 10, 1998 are included in the balance sheet
data as of such date.
(c) EBITDA, as adjusted, is defined as income (loss) from continuing operations
before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and restructuring
charges. EBITDA, as adjusted, is presented as additional information because
Keebler believes it to be a useful indicator of a company's ability to meet
debt service and capital expenditure requirements. It is not, however,
intended as an alternative measure of operating results or cash flow from
operations (as determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles).
16
<PAGE> 23
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
OVERVIEW
General
Keebler sells cookies and crackers, custom-baked products to other
manufacturers of branded food products, pie crusts and ice cream cones. Net
sales are principally affected by product pricing and quality, brand
recognition, new product introductions and product line extensions, marketing
and service. Keebler manages these factors to achieve a sales mix favoring its
higher margin products while driving volume through its national DSD
distribution system.
The principal elements comprising Keebler's cost of sales are raw and
packaging materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. The major raw materials
used in the manufacture of Keebler's products are flour, sugar, chocolate,
shortening and milk. Keebler also uses paper products, such as corrugated
cardboard, as well as films and plastics to package its products. The prices of
these raw materials have been subject to significant volatility. Keebler has
mitigated the effect of such price increases in the past through its hedging
programs, but may not be successful in protecting itself from increases in the
future. In addition to the foregoing factors, cost of sales are affected by the
efficiency of production methods and manufacturing capacity utilization.
Keebler's selling, marketing and administrative expenses are comprised
mainly of labor and lease costs associated with Keebler's national DSD
distribution system, trade and consumer promotion costs, other advertising costs
and the cost of corporate offices. While costs associated with Keebler's
national DSD distribution system and the cost of corporate offices are generally
fixed, promotion and other advertising costs are more variable. Promotion and
other advertising costs represent the largest component of Keebler's cost
structure other than cost of sales and are principally influenced by changes in
net sales.
Keebler is in the process of integrating President into its operations. In
connection with this integration, Keebler is currently undertaking a complete
analysis of its system-wide manufacturing and distribution operations as it
assesses opportunities to improve its operational efficiencies in 1999 and
beyond. Keebler currently anticipates that it will take a restructuring charge
during 1999 when its plans are finalized.
Matters Affecting Comparability
Keebler's operating results for the forty-eight weeks ended December 28,
1996 have been combined with the operating results of the Predecessor Company
for the four weeks ended January 26, 1996 to compare the years ended December
28, 1996 and December 30, 1995. Keebler's operating results for the year ended
December 28, 1996 include the operating results of Sunshine from its acquisition
date of June 4, 1996. Keebler's operating results for the forty weeks ended
October 10, 1998 exclude the operating results of President for the thirteen
days in the period following its acquisition date of September 28, 1998. Such
results will be included in Keebler's results for the year ending January 2,
1999. The operating results of Keebler have been restated to reflect the merger
with INFLO as if it had been effective January 26, 1996.
For the year ended December 30, 1995, the financial results of the
Predecessor Company include the results of operations of the Salty Snacks
business. The Salty Snacks business was liquidated by prior management in
connection with the Keebler acquisition. The condensed results of operations of
the Salty
17
<PAGE> 24
Snacks business, excluding allocations of the fixed portions of selling,
distribution and general administrative expenses, for that year were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 30, 1995
-----------------
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C>
Net sales.................................... $135.7
Loss from continuing operations.............. (25.6)
</TABLE>
For the year ended December 30, 1995, the financial results of the
Predecessor Company also include the results of operations of the Frozen Food
businesses as a discontinued operation.
Keebler's results of operations, expressed as a percentage of net sales,
for the last three years ended December 30, 1995, December 28, 1996 and January
3, 1998 and the forty week periods ended October 4, 1997 and October 10, 1998
are set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED FORTY WEEKS ENDED
---------------------------------------- ------------------------
DECEMBER 30, DECEMBER 28, JANUARY 3, OCTOBER 4, OCTOBER 10,
1995 1996 1998 1997 1998
------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales................................ 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales.......................... 47.3 47.5 43.0 43.3 41.7
Selling, marketing and administrative
expenses............................ 56.0 49.6 49.7 50.0 50.2
Loss on impairment of Salty Snacks
business............................ 5.5 -- -- -- --
Other.................................. (0.1) 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.4
------ ------ ----- ------ -----
Income (loss) from continuing
operations............................. (8.7) 2.5 6.8 6.2 7.7
Interest expense, net.................. 1.8 2.2 1.6 1.8 1.1
------ ------ ----- ------ -----
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before income taxes.................... (10.5) 0.3 5.2 4.4 6.6
Income tax expense..................... -- 0.8 2.2 1.8 2.8
------ ------ ----- ------ -----
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before extraordinary item and
cumulative effect of accounting
changes................................ (10.5) (0.5) 3.0 2.6 3.8
Discontinued operations:
Income from operations of Frozen Food
businesses, net of tax.............. 0.5 -- -- -- --
Gain on disposal of Frozen Food
businesses, net of tax.............. -- 1.1 -- -- --
------ ------ ----- ------ -----
Income (loss) before extraordinary item
and cumulative effect of accounting
changes................................ (10.0) 0.6 3.0 2.6 3.8
Extraordinary item:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt,
net of tax.......................... -- 0.1 0.3 0.2 0.1
------ ------ ----- ------ -----
Net income (loss)........................ (10.0)% 0.5% 2.7% 2.4% 3.7%
====== ====== ===== ====== =====
</TABLE>
COMPARISON OF FIRST FORTY WEEKS OF 1998 TO 1997
Net Sales. For the forty weeks ended October 10, 1998, net sales of
$1,626.7 million were $84.5 million or 5.5% above the same period of the prior
year. Selected price increases combined with a favorable sales mix and volume
growth generated the increased revenue for the period. Sales of branded
products, including new products and line extensions of existing brands,
combined with wider distribution in nonsupermarket channels drove the volume
gains.
18
<PAGE> 25
Gross Profit. Gross profit improvements were realized on a year-to-date
basis, with gross profit of $948.4 million, up $74.7 million from the same
period in 1997, or 1.6 percentage points as a percentage of net sales. Lower
production costs combined with the impact of price increases resulted in the
gross profit margin improvements when compared to the comparable period of a
year ago. Productivity and cost savings have been principally secured through
capital investment in bakery automation projects.
Selling, Marketing and Administrative Expenses. Selling, marketing and
administrative expenses of $816.7 million for the forty weeks ended October 10,
1998 were $46.2 million higher than the comparable period in 1997. Higher
marketing and sales force expenses, offset partially by lower distribution
costs, primarily drove the increased spending for the forty week period. Higher
marketing expenses resulted from Keebler's continued focus on brand-building
advertising and consumer promotions, while improved inventory handling and
deployment accounted for a decline in distribution costs. For the forty weeks
ended October 10, 1998, selling, marketing and administrative expenses, as a
percentage of net sales, were 0.2 percentage points above the comparable prior
year period primarily due to increased marketing expenses.
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations. Income from continuing operations
was $28.5 million higher in the forty week period ended October 10, 1998 versus
the same period in 1997. The growth in operating income for the period was
principally attributable to higher revenues combined with productivity and cost
savings attained from a more efficient cost structure. Results, however, were
partially offset by higher selling, marketing and administrative expenses.
Interest Expense. Net interest expense was $11.6 million lower for the
forty weeks ended October 10, 1998. The decline in net interest expense was
primarily attributable to more favorable interest rates in 1998 and up until
September 28, 1998, lower outstanding debt balances. Additional debt of $385.0
million was incurred on September 28, 1998 to finance the President acquisition.
Also contributing to the lower interest expense was a lower average debt balance
resulting from debt repayments consisting of $70.0 million of principal
pre-payments on term notes and a $29.0 million early extinguishment of a seller
note in the fourth quarter of 1997, as well as from the extinguishment of the
$145.0 million outstanding term note balance in September 1998. The weighted
average interest rate was 0.7 percentage points lower for the forty weeks ended
October 10, 1998 compared to the same period a year ago.
Income Taxes. Income tax expense of $45.2 million for the forty weeks ended
October 10, 1998 was $16.8 million higher than the same period a year ago. The
increase in income tax expense was primarily due to higher pre-tax earnings.
Keebler provided for income taxes at an effective tax rate of 42%. The effective
tax rate exceeded the statutory rate due to nondeductible expenses, principally
amortization of intangibles, including trademarks, trade names and goodwill.
Extraordinary Item Net of Income Taxes. In both 1998 and 1997, Keebler
recorded extraordinary charges for the write-off of unamortized bank fees
associated with the early extinguishment of debt. The debt extinguishment in the
forty week period ended October 10, 1998 was for the $145.0 million payoff of
the outstanding term note balance in conjunction with the $825.0 million of new
credit facilities (the "New Credit Facilities") entered into in connection with
the President acquisition. The after-tax extraordinary charge recorded was $1.7
million in the forty week period ended October 10, 1998 and $2.7 million in the
comparable period in 1997. Related tax benefits for the forty week period ended
October 10, 1998 and the comparable period in 1997 were $1.1 million and $1.9
million, respectively.
Net Income (Loss). Net income for the forty week period ended October 10,
1998 of $60.7 million was $24.3 million higher than the prior year comparable
period. Increased net earnings were the result of revenue growth achieved
through both higher prices and sales mix changes, combined with lower operating
expenses achieved from cost savings programs and lower interest expense.
COMPARISON OF FISCAL 1997 TO 1996
Net Sales. Net sales of $2,065.2 million in 1997 were $318.0 million, or
18.2%, higher than net sales of $1,747.2 million in 1996. The growth in net
sales for 1997 was achieved through incremental sales from both the Sunshine
acquisition and increased volumes. Sunshine results for 1996 were only included
from
19
<PAGE> 26
the acquisition date of June 4, 1996. In 1996, net sales of Sunshine for the
twenty-two weeks ended June 4, 1996 were $229.8 million. Sunshine net sales, in
a full year-on-year comparison, were 27.3% and 29.6% of total Keebler net sales
in 1997 and 1996, respectively. In addition to the incremental revenue
associated with the Sunshine acquisition, increased volumes in 1997 provided
4.5% growth in net sales over the prior year. The volume growth was achieved
through emphasis on more profitable cookie and cracker products, while
discontinuing or repositioning less strategic products, and the introduction of
new products and line extensions.
Gross Profit. Gross profit in 1997 of $1,177.2 million was $259.1 million
higher than the prior year and 4.5 percentage points better as a percent of net
sales. The increase in gross profit in 1997 was due to higher sales, lower
commodity and package material prices and the implementation of cost reduction
and productivity programs. Of the total improvement, approximately 64.5% was
attributed to incremental sales associated with both the Sunshine acquisition
and increased volume. The balance of the improvement was achieved mainly through
further automation of the manufacturing facilities and higher capacity
utilization attributed to streamlining the manufacturing facilities. The shift
toward higher margin brands benefited gross profit by $11.8 million compared to
the prior year. Also contributing to the increase in gross profit in 1997 were
lower prices paid for raw materials, particularly for flour and soybean oil, and
lower prices paid for package materials, primarily for carton, corrugated
cardboard and flexible film.
Selling, Marketing and Administrative Expenses. Selling, marketing and
administrative expenses for 1997 of $1,026.2 million, or 49.7% of net sales,
increased $160.0 million from 1996, but remained relatively stable as a percent
of net sales. Spending rose in 1997 due to both the impact of higher sales and
increased marketing expense. The impact of higher sales contributed $126.9
million to the increase in selling, marketing and administrative expenses.
Marketing expense represented 23.8% of net sales in 1997 compared to 22.2% in
1996. The higher spending rate in 1997 was due to increased brand-building
national advertising and consumer promotions which were up $29.2 million over
the prior year. The increased spending as a result of these factors, along with
inflation, was offset by the impact of higher volumes in a more efficient,
relatively fixed cost, selling and distribution network. Therefore, selling,
marketing and administrative expenses as a percent of net sales remained
comparable to the prior year.
Other. Other expense for 1997 was $2.3 million, or 32.0%, higher than 1996
primarily due to higher bank fees and amortization of intangibles. Bank fees in
1997 were higher than the prior year due to several amendments to Keebler's
financing agreement. Other expenses for 1997 included a full year of
amortization of trademarks and goodwill recorded as part of the Sunshine
acquisition compared to only twenty-eight weeks in 1996.
Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations. Income from continuing operations
of $141.4 million was $96.7 million higher than 1996. The improvement was
attributed to a 18.2% increase in net sales driven by volume growth compounded
by enhanced gross margins resulting from a more profitable mix, cost reductions
and improved productivity. Total benefits realized more than offset incremental
marketing and amortization expense.
Interest Expense. Interest expense of $33.8 million for 1997 was $4.5
million lower than in 1996, primarily due to a lower average debt balance in
1997. The decrease in the average debt balance was the result of principal
pre-payments of $113.8 million on term notes and a $29.0 million pre-payment of
a seller note. In addition, the weighted average interest rate for 1997 was 0.28
percentage points lower than the 1996 weighted average rate.
Income Taxes. Income taxes for the year were provided at an effective tax
rate of 42%. The effective tax rate exceeded the statutory rate due to
nondeductible expenses, principally amortization of intangibles, including
trademarks, trade names and goodwill. In 1996, the effective tax rate for the
forty-eight weeks ended December 28, 1996 was 44.2% and was higher than the 1997
rate due to a preliminary estimate of nondeductible expenses. Income tax expense
was not provided for during the first four weeks of 1996. As part of the Keebler
acquisition, Keebler adjusted the valuation allowance on deferred taxes by $25.1
million to reflect the elimination of certain deferred tax assets revalued in
the purchase price allocation. Keebler carried a deferred tax valuation
allowance of $84.4 million at January 3, 1998 and
20
<PAGE> 27
December 28, 1996 to provide for the uncertainty in realizing the deductibility
of deferred tax assets recognized. Pursuant to the terms of the Keebler
acquisition, the Predecessor Company retained the right to use the net operating
losses for potential carrybacks. Any unused operating losses are then available
to Keebler, but are significantly restricted under current tax law. Therefore,
all net operating loss carryforwards have been fully reserved due to the
uncertainty of their realization.
Discontinued Operations. In 1995, the Predecessor Company adopted plans to
discontinue the operations of the Frozen Food businesses, and in the first four
weeks of 1996, a gain of $18.9 million, net of income taxes, was recognized on
the disposal of the Frozen Food businesses.
Extraordinary Item Net of Income Taxes. In 1997 and 1996, Keebler recorded
extraordinary charges net of tax of $5.4 million and $1.9 million, respectively.
In 1997, $3.8 million of the extraordinary charges, net of tax, related to the
write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the early retirement of the
term notes. An additional $1.6 million net of tax extraordinary charge was
recorded due to a loss on the early extinguishment of a seller note entered into
at the time of the Keebler acquisition. In 1996, the $1.9 million extraordinary
charge, net of tax, related to the write-off of debt issuance costs associated
with the $125.0 million early extinguishment of increasing rate notes.
Net Income (Loss). Net income of $57.0 million in 1997 was $47.7 million
higher than net income of $9.3 million for 1996. The substantial growth in net
income was the result of increased volume, the inclusion of the Sunshine
business for the entire year, improved gross margins and savings achieved by
leveraging the fixed cost structure of the sales and distribution network.
COMPARISON OF FISCAL 1996 TO 1995
Net Sales. Net sales in 1996 increased $168.6 million, or 10.7%, over 1995.
Net sales in 1996 included Sunshine revenues of $291.2 million, while net sales
in 1995 included sales of the Salty Snacks business of $135.7 million. After
adjusting for these changes in Keebler's business, the year-on-year sales
increase was up $13.1 million compared to a year ago. Along with achieving this
growth, Keebler also shifted its sales focus to more profitable brands. The new
focus was accomplished through selected price increases on Keebler branded
cookie and cracker products, a more targeted marketing emphasis, new products
and the discontinuation of weaker products. While volumes in 1996 were
relatively flat compared to volumes in 1995, higher revenues were achieved
through these changes in product mix and selected price increases. Temporary
volume decreases in sales to convenience stores, associated with a change in the
selling organization and product discontinuations, were offset by volume gains
from new products and broadened distribution.
Gross Profit. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for 1996 was 52.6%
compared to 52.7% in 1995. While gross margins, in the aggregate, were down
slightly year-on-year, this belies the significant improvements that were
achieved. The change in sales mix noted above, resulted in an emphasis on more
profitable volume. However, the value-added products emphasized as part of the
1996 sales strategy carried higher production costs than the products sold in
1995. The impact on gross profit of this change in sales mix along with higher
flour prices contributed to higher cost of sales in 1996 versus 1995. Gross
profit margins in 1996 also reflect the inclusion of Sunshine products, which
historically carried a lower gross margin than Keebler branded products. The
impact of higher costs was more than fully offset by increasing capacity
utilization, cost reductions at the bakeries, as well as lowering scrap levels
and achieving a more balanced production. In addition, reductions in bakery
overhead staffing and a more efficient balancing of internal and co-packing
arrangements achieved a lower cost of production.
Selling, Marketing and Administrative Expenses. Selling, marketing and
administrative expenses decreased $18.3 million and improved by 6.4 percentage
points as a percent of net sales in 1996 compared to 1995. Included in 1996
expenses were selling, marketing and administrative expenses of $131.9 million
directly attributable to the Sunshine business; while 1995 included expenses of
$87.4 million directly associated with the Salty Snacks business (excluding
allocation of the fixed portions of selling, distribution and administrative
expenses). Excluding these influences, selling, marketing and administrative
expenses decreased in 1996 compared to 1995 by $62.8 million. The improvement
was principally accomplished
21
<PAGE> 28
through a targeted marketing plan behind Keebler branded products and Keebler's
cost reduction program to rationalize the selling and administrative cost
structure. In 1996, Keebler's focus on spending for trade promotions at the
store level resulted in higher trade allowances which were more than offset by
the $49.5 million decrease in national advertising and consumer promotions. The
cost reductions in the selling and administrative structures were achieved
primarily through headcount reductions of approximately 1,740 and changing from
a relatively higher cost step-van selling organization to independent
distributors to serve the convenience store channel. A decrease in research and
development costs of $9.6 million was primarily attributed to headcount
reductions, more focused new product programs in 1996 and lower project activity
due in part to the liquidation of the Salty Snacks business prior to the Keebler
acquisition. The cost reductions more than offset increased administrative
expenses of management incentives and increased depreciation as a result of the
Keebler and Sunshine acquisitions.
Other. Other income and expense for 1996 was $7.2 million compared to $1.4
million of income for 1995. Other expense in 1996 consisted of $5.2 million of
amortization resulting from both the Keebler and Sunshine acquisitions and bank
service charges. In 1995, other income and expense consisted of $1.7 million of
amortization expense, $1.4 million of miscellaneous expenses and bank service
charges and other income of $4.5 million representing the gain on the sale of
interests in certain logos, trade names, trademarks and service marks registered
or pending registration in Australia, New Zealand, Asia and Europe.
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations. Income from continuing operations
was $44.7 million in 1996, an improvement of $182.5 million over the loss from
continuing operations for 1995. After adjusting the 1995 net operating loss of
$137.9 million for the $25.6 million loss in the Salty Snacks business and the
impairment write down of $86.5 million associated with that business, the
earnings improvement in 1996 over 1995 was $70.5 million. The turnaround
resulted from improved gross margins on Keebler brands, more efficient marketing
expenditures and cost savings achieved in sales and distribution and corporate
overhead. The cumulative savings from these initiatives more than offset
incremental depreciation and amortization expense totaling $9.7 million recorded
as a result of the Keebler and Sunshine acquisitions.
Interest Expense. For 1996, net interest expense was $38.4 million compared
to $28.3 million in 1995. The increase was due to the amortization of debt
issuance costs and higher overall borrowings carrying a higher average interest
rate as compared to the prior year.
Income Taxes. Keebler provided for income taxes at an effective tax rate of
44.2% for the forty-eight weeks ended December 28, 1996. The Predecessor Company
did not provide for any income tax expense for the four weeks ended January 26,
1996. The effective tax rate was higher than the statutory rate because of
nondeductible expenses (principally, amortization of intangibles, including
trademarks, trade names and goodwill). In 1995, there was no provision for
income taxes due to operating losses incurred and the inability to carryback the
losses to recover taxes paid in prior years. As part of the Keebler acquisition,
Keebler adjusted the valuation allowance on deferred taxes by $25.1 million to
reflect the elimination of certain deferred tax assets revalued in the purchase
price allocation. At December 28, 1996, Keebler carried a deferred tax valuation
allowance of $84.4 million to provide for the uncertainty in realizing the
deductibility of deferred tax assets recognized. Pursuant to the terms of the
Keebler acquisition, the Predecessor Company retained the right to use the net
operating losses for potential carrybacks. Any unused operating losses are then
available to Keebler, but are significantly restricted under current tax law.
Therefore, all net operating loss carryforwards have been fully reserved due to
the uncertainty of their realization.
Discontinued Operations. During 1995, the Predecessor Company decided to
dispose of the Frozen Food businesses and, therefore, presented the operations
of those businesses as a discontinued item in the statement of operations. In
the first four weeks of 1996, a gain of $18.9 million net of income taxes on the
disposal of the Frozen Food businesses was recognized.
Extraordinary Item Net of Income Taxes. A before-tax extraordinary loss of
$3.2 million on the early extinguishment of debt was recorded in the second
quarter of 1996. The loss consisted primarily of the
22
<PAGE> 29
write-off of unamortized bank fees incurred when Keebler replaced the Keebler
acquisition bridge loan with the $125.0 million of 10 3/4% Senior Subordinated
Notes. The tax benefit on the extraordinary loss was $1.3 million resulting in
an after-tax loss of $1.9 million.
Net Income (Loss). Net income of $9.3 million for 1996 represented a
substantial improvement over the $158.3 million net loss for the prior year. The
improvement was attributable to operating improvements, the divestiture of the
unprofitable Salty Snacks business and the recognized gain of $18.9 million on
the disposition of the Frozen Food businesses.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
A condensed cash flow statement of Keebler follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FORTY
YEAR ENDED WEEKS ENDED
-------------------------- -----------
DECEMBER 28, JANUARY 3, OCTOBER 10,
1996 1998 1998
------------ ---------- -----------
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH PROVIDED FROM (USED BY)
Operating activities.................................. $ 52.8 $ 218.3 $ 103.4
Investing activities.................................. (64.9) (41.5) (480.1)
Financing activities.................................. 21.1 (161.6) 367.2
------ ------- -------
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS........ $ 9.0 $ 15.2 $ (9.5)
====== ======= =======
</TABLE>
Cash Flow for the Forty Weeks Ended October 10, 1998
During the first forty weeks of 1998, cash provided from operating
activities was $103.4 million. Year-to-date net earnings of $60.7 million,
together with higher current liabilities and income taxes payable than those at
the end of the comparable period in 1997, drove the favorable cash flow. The
timing of payments principally drove the increased current liabilities while the
higher income taxes payable resulted from a 59.4% increase in pre-tax earnings
over the prior year. An increased investment in trade accounts receivable and
inventories compared to the levels at the end of the corresponding period in
1997 combined with spending on plant and facility closing costs and severance
partially offset the above cash sources. The increase in inventory reflected
normal seasonal inventory replenishment as the holiday season approaches.
Spending for plant and facility costs and severance of $5.3 million related to
exit costs associated with the Keebler and Sunshine acquisitions. Spending on
plant and facility closing costs and severance associated with these
acquisitions is expected to conclude by the end of 1998, with the exception of
noncancellable lease obligations which are expected to continue until 2004.
Cash used for investing activities was $480.1 million for the period and
was directly attributable to the $444.8 million, net of cash acquired, used to
consummate the President acquisition. In addition, $36.0 million was used for
capital expenditures made to introduce new products, update and enhance
production facilities and achieve near-term cost savings and efficiencies in the
manufacturing, sales and distribution process.
Financing activities for the first forty weeks of 1998 provided $367.2
million of cash principally from proceeds on long-term debt borrowings under the
New Credit Facilities. In order to finance the President acquisition, total debt
of $530.0 million was incurred under the New Credit Facilities. In addition,
cash proceeds totaling $19.8 million were received by Keebler as a result of
Bermore exercising a warrant in exchange for 6,135,781 shares of common stock at
the time of Keebler's initial public offering. Employee stock options exercised
during the year also provided another $0.5 million of cash. Partially offsetting
these cash sources was the $145.0 million pre-payment of the outstanding term
note balance and a $20.0 million repayment on the revolving facility.
Additionally, $5.7 million was used to repurchase common stock into treasury
under the stock repurchase program.
23
<PAGE> 30
As of October 10, 1998, cash and cash equivalents were $17.7 million,
long-term debt outstanding was $551.4 million and current maturities were $103.3
million. Available borrowings under Keebler's revolving facility under the New
Credit Facilities were $350.0 million of which $85.0 million was outstanding as
of October 10, 1998. Keebler met all financial covenants contained in its
financing agreements. Available cash, as well as existing credit facilities, are
expected to be sufficient to meet Keebler's normal operating requirements for
the foreseeable future.
Cash Flow for 1997 and 1996
Cash provided from operating activities was $218.3 million in 1997 which
was an increase of $165.5 million over the cash provided from operations in
1996. The primary contributors to the positive cash flow for 1997 were net
earnings of $57.0 million, a lower investment in trade accounts receivable and
reduced funding of current liabilities and income taxes. Improved accounts
receivable collection procedures provided $38.2 million of working capital. The
reduced funding of current liabilities was attributable primarily to the timing
of payments, while the increase in income taxes payable was attributable to a
$47.7 million increase in earnings from 1996. Partially offsetting these
benefits was spending on plant and facility closing costs and severance and the
payment of an arbitration award. Spending on plant and facility closing costs
and severance relating to exit costs associated with the Keebler and Sunshine
acquisitions, although down from 1996, accounted for $13.7 million of cash used
by operations for the year ended January 3, 1998. Spending on plant and facility
closing costs and severance associated with these acquisitions is expected to
conclude by the end of 1998, with the exception of noncancellable lease
obligations which are expected to continue until 2004. In addition, Keebler paid
an arbitration award in 1997 regarding a contract production arrangement which
was entered into by the Predecessor Company in the amount of $6.8 million plus
legal fees.
Cash used by investing activities was $41.5 million in 1997 compared to
$64.9 million in 1996. The cash used in 1997 was primarily used to fund capital
expenditures. Capital expenditures were $48.4 million and $32.6 million in 1997
and 1996, respectively. In 1997, capital spending was made principally to
enhance, update or realign the existing production lines, provide distribution
and production efficiencies and to achieve near-term cost savings. Proceeds
received from asset disposals of $7.0 million partially offset capital
expenditures. The sale of the Santa Fe Springs plant in 1997 accounted for $3.6
million of the proceeds with the remainder provided mainly from the sale of
trucks and machinery and equipment. Keebler believes that the capital
expenditure program will continue at a level sufficient to support its
strategies and operating needs.
Cash used by financing activities in 1997 was $161.6 million. In 1997,
Keebler entered into an amendment and restatement of its credit agreement,
proceeds from which were used to extinguish existing term loans of $153.6
million. The extinguishment was funded primarily by a draw down on a revolving
loan facility and $109.8 million under a new term loan. During 1997, the draw
down on the revolving loan facility was completely repaid. Additionally, in the
fourth quarter of 1997, Keebler extinguished $29.0 million of debt related to a
seller note and made $70.0 million in principal prepayments on the term loan
using existing cash resources. Scheduled principal payments of $18.7 million
were made during the year on the term loan and other debt.
Liquidity
Keebler's liquidity prior to the President acquisition in 1998 and during
1997 was provided primarily from a senior credit facility (the "Prior Credit
Facility"). Subsequent to the President acquisition, Keebler's liquidity has
been provided primarily from the $825.0 million of New Credit Facilities. The
New Credit Facilities consist of a $350.0 million revolving facility, a $350.0
million term facility and an additional $125.0 million short-term loan, which
Keebler anticipates will be refinanced with a receivables facility. Any unused
borrowings under the revolving facility are subject to a commitment fee.
Keebler's total debt was $457.9 million, $298.8 million and $654.7 million as of
December 28, 1996, January 3, 1998 and October 10, 1998, respectively. Current
maturities on the total debt outstanding were $18.6 million, $26.4 million and
$103.3 million as of such respective dates. Cash and cash equivalents were $12.0
million,
24
<PAGE> 31
$27.2 million and $17.7 million as of such respective dates. Upon consummation
of the President acquisition, Keebler borrowed $530.0 million under the New
Credit Facilities and used the proceeds to finance the acquisition and repay
$145.0 million of term notes outstanding under the Prior Credit Facility. On
November 10, 1997, Keebler made a $40.0 million prepayment, and on December 8,
1997, Keebler made a $30.0 million prepayment, of principal on outstanding term
notes under the Prior Credit Facility. The prepayments were funded from
available cash and resulted in the recognition of an aggregate fourth quarter
1997 after-tax extraordinary charge of $1.1 million resulting from the loss on
the early extinguishment of this debt. On November 21, 1997, Keebler purchased a
seller note for $31.7 million and cancelled it. The purchase and cancellation of
the seller note resulted in the recognition of a fourth quarter 1997 after-tax
extraordinary charge of $1.6 million resulting from the loss on the early
extinguishment of this debt. Keebler believes that available cash as well as
existing credit facilities will be sufficient to meet normal operating
requirements for the foreseeable future.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments
and Hedging Activities" which is effective for all fiscal quarters of fiscal
years beginning after June 15, 1999. The new statement establishes accounting
and reporting standards for derivative instruments and hedging activities. The
statement requires that all derivatives be recognized as either assets or
liabilities in the statement of financial position and that the instruments be
measured at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a
derivative depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting
designation. The Company has not yet determined the impact the new statement may
have on the consolidated financial statements.
Year 2000 Issue
The Year 2000 Issue arose because many existing computer programs use only
the last two digits to refer to a year. As a result, computer programs may not
properly recognize a year that begins with "20" instead of the familiar "19." If
not corrected, many businesses are at risk for possible computer application
miscalculations or systems failures causing disruptions in business operations.
This risk is commonly referred to as the Year 2000 ("Y2K") Issue.
Keebler utilizes software and related technologies that will be affected by
the date change in the year 2000. Keebler has completed a comprehensive review
of the computer systems and non-information technology systems to identify
potential Y2K issues. As Keebler has implemented the SAP R/3 management
information system and Manugistics software, both of which were
developed/purchased as Y2K compliant, the impact of the Y2K Issue on the
business is not anticipated to be material. Additionally, secondary information
systems, which are not material to Keebler's ability to forecast, manufacture or
deliver product, have been reviewed and Y2K issues identified. Keebler is
currently in the process of correcting or upgrading these systems. Keebler
intends to be Y2K compliant on all critical systems by the end of the first
quarter of 1999.
Keebler is also undertaking efforts to verify, by no later than December
31, 1998, that all material vendors and suppliers will be Y2K compliant. A
comprehensive questionnaire was sent to all of Keebler's significant suppliers
and vendors regarding their Y2K compliance in an attempt to identify any problem
areas with respect to these groups. As no specific issues related to third
parties have been identified to warrant a contingency plan, Keebler has not yet
developed a plan to deal with a Y2K failure caused by a third party, but rather
would intend to do so if a specific problem is identified through the
questionnaires. While there can be no absolute assurance that third parties will
convert their systems in a timely manner and in a way compatible with Keebler's
systems, Keebler believes that its actions with third parties detailed above
minimize these risks.
It is currently estimated that the incremental costs for making Keebler
compliant for the Y2K Issue is approximately $2.0 - $3.0 million, expensed as
incurred. This estimate is also exclusive of Y2K issues regarding the President
acquisition. Keebler is currently conducting a comprehensive review of the
25
<PAGE> 32
computer systems and non-information technology systems to identify potential
Y2K issues for this newly-acquired subsidiary. Many of the Y2K risks at
President will be mitigated through the implementation of the SAP R/3 management
information system, Manugistics software and Keebler's warehouse management
system. This implementation is expected to be completed during 1999.
Based on the progress Keebler has made in addressing its Y2K issues and
Keebler's compliance with the Y2K Issue on its primary business information
systems, Keebler does not foresee significant risks associated with its Y2K
compliance at this time. As Keebler's plan is to address any significant risks
associated with its Y2K issues prior to being affected by them, a comprehensive
contingency plan has not been developed. However, if a significant risk related
to Y2K compliance or a delay in the anticipated timeline for compliance occurs,
Keebler will develop contingency plans as deemed necessary at that time.
The information presented above sets forth the steps taken by Keebler to
address the Y2K Issue. Management does not expect compliance with Y2K Issues or
the most reasonably likely worst case scenario and related contingency plan to
have a material impact on the business, results of operations or financial
condition.
The discussion of Keebler's efforts and management's expectations relating
to Y2K compliance are forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that
forward-looking statements contained in this discussion of the Y2K Issue should
be read in conjunction with Keebler's disclosures under the heading
"Forward-Looking Statements; Certain Defined Terms; Market Share Data."
SEASONALITY
Keebler's net sales, net income and cash flows are affected by the timing
of new product introductions, promotional activities, price increases and a
seasonal sales bias toward the second half of the year due to events such as
back-to-school, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The relative mix between cookie and
cracker sales varies throughout the year with stronger cracker sales in the last
quarter of the calendar year. President's net sales, net income and cash flow
historically have been higher in the first quarter than in any other fiscal
quarter because substantially all sales of Girl Scout cookies have occurred in
that quarter. For this reason, going forward, Keebler expects to realize
proportionately higher net sales, net income and cash flows during the first
quarter of its fiscal year than it historically has experienced.
SELF INSURANCE
Keebler purchases insurance coverage for worker's compensation, general,
product and vehicle liability maintaining certain levels of retained risk
(self-insured portion). Potential losses relating to claims under the
self-insured portion of the policies are accrued in accordance with the
requirements of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 5,
"Accounting for Contingencies." There are no unasserted claims that require a
reserve or disclosure in accordance with SFAS No. 5.
26
<PAGE> 33
BUSINESS
THE COMPANY
Keebler is the second largest cookie and cracker manufacturer in the United
States with annual net sales of over $2.5 billion and a 25.8% share of the U.S.
cookie and cracker markets. Keebler markets a majority of its products under
well-recognized brands such as Keebler, Cheez-It, Carr's and Famous Amos. In the
United States, Keebler is the number two manufacturer of branded cookies and
crackers and the number one manufacturer of private label cookies, Girl Scout
cookies and cookies and crackers for the foodservice market. Keebler also is the
number one manufacturer of retail branded ice cream cones in the United States
and is a major producer of retail branded pie crusts. Keebler also produces
custom-baked products for other marketers of branded food products.
Branded Products. Keebler's branded cookie and cracker products accounted
for 84% of its net sales in the first forty weeks of 1998, excluding President.
Keebler produces nine of the twenty-five best-selling cookies and ten of the
twenty-five best-selling crackers in the United States based on dollar sales.
Keebler's branded cookie and cracker products include, among others, the
following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
KEEBLER BRAND CHEEZ-IT BRAND OTHER BRANDS
------------- -------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Chips Deluxe cookies Cheez-It snack crackers Famous Amos
Pecan Sandies cookies Cheez-It party mix Murray
Fudge Shoppe cookies Nacho Cheez-It snack crackers Carr's
Town House crackers Cheez-It Heads and Tails crackers Vienna Fingers
Club crackers Cheez-It snack mix Hydrox
Wheatables crackers Sunshine Krispy
Zesta crackers Hi-Ho
</TABLE>
DSD Distribution System. Keebler distributes its branded cookie and cracker
products to approximately 30,000 retail locations through its own national
direct to store sales and distribution system, which is known as a "DSD
distribution system". With this national DSD distribution system, Keebler
services substantially all supermarkets in the United States. Keebler is one of
only two cookie and cracker companies that owns and operates a national DSD
distribution system. Keebler believes its national DSD distribution system
provides it with certain competitive advantages. Sales employees of Keebler's
national DSD distribution system visit supermarkets on average 2.8 times each
week. These employees stock and arrange Keebler's products on store shelves and
build end-aisle and free-standing product displays. This frequent presence of
Keebler employees in supermarkets provides Keebler with a high level of control
over the availability and presentation of its products. Keebler believes that
this control allows it to maintain shelf space, better execute in-store
promotions and more effectively introduce new products. In-store promotions are
important because Keebler believes that purchases of cookies and crackers are
often impulse driven. With the President acquisition, Keebler acquired
President's franchised DSD distribution system which principally distributes
products east of the Mississippi River. The President DSD distribution system is
comprised of independent franchisees who purchase and resell certain President
products. President's DSD distribution system services both supermarkets and
certain non-supermarket channels.
INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
In 1997, the U.S. cookie and cracker industry had retail sales of $8.4
billion, with cookie sales of $4.9 billion and cracker sales of $3.5 billion.
Since 1992, consumption per person of cookies and crackers in the United States
has remained stable. The cookie and cracker industry is comprised of distinct
types of products. Cookie product types include, among others, sandwich cookies,
chocolate chip cookies and fudge-covered cookies. Cracker product types include,
among others, saltine crackers, graham crackers and snack crackers.
27
<PAGE> 34
Supermarkets accounted for 78% of 1997 retail sales in the cookie and
cracker industry with mass merchandisers (such as Wal-Mart), convenience stores
and drug stores accounting for the balance. Since 1992, U.S. annual dollar
supermarket sales of cookies and crackers have increased an average of 1.5% per
year. Moreover, Keebler believes that non-supermarket channels of distribution
are becoming increasingly important.
Keebler and Nabisco are the two largest national participants in the cookie
and cracker industry. Keebler and Nabisco have a combined retail market share of
59.3%, with Keebler having 25.8% and Nabisco having 33.5%. Other participants in
the industry generally operate only in certain regions of the United States or
offer fewer types of cookies and cracker products.
STRATEGY
Since the acquisition of the Keebler business in January 1996, Keebler's
management has employed a business strategy designed to capitalize on its
competitive strengths. The acquisitions of Sunshine and President have enabled
Keebler to further develop this business strategy. The key elements of Keebler's
strategy are:
Build on the Keebler Brand. Keebler is one of the few packaged food brands
that generates over $1 billion in annual sales. The Keebler brand is recognized
in approximately 99% of U.S. households and is used in approximately two-thirds
of U.S. households. This brand awareness has been developed over many years of
marketing "Elfin Magic" imagery and "Uncommonly Good" Keebler products. Keebler
intends to continue to invest in advertising and promoting the Keebler brand.
Keebler's marketing emphasizes the well known images of Ernie and the other
Keebler Elves and Keebler's Hollow Tree.
Take Advantage of Keebler Brand Strength Across Product Types. There are
many types of cookie and cracker products. Keebler believes that many well known
cookie and cracker brands are only associated with one type of product, such as
chocolate chip cookies, making it difficult for these brands to be used to
market other types of cookie and cracker products. This requires other
manufacturers to invest in creating an entirely new brand identity when
developing a new product. In contrast, Keebler believes the strength of the
Keebler brand is its consumer identity across a wide variety of these product
types, which allows Keebler to cost effectively introduce new product
extensions, market new types of products and compete in lower volume types of
products. Keebler's strategy is also to focus on products in its portfolio of
cookie and cracker products that already have a strong position or on product
types which are not dominated by a competitor's strong branded product.
Expand the Cheez-It Brand. Keebler's Cheez-It brand crackers are the number
one selling snack cracker in the United States. Annual retail sales of Cheez-It
brand products exceed $250 million. The Cheez-It brand has a distinctive image
with consumers. Keebler intends to maintain and build on this distinctive image
through new products, advertising and packaging. In 1998, as part of this
strategy, Keebler ran national media advertising for Cheez-It for the first time
in the brand's history. Keebler has also introduced new products, such as
Cheez-It Heads and Tails crackers and Cheez-It snack mix, adding to its
portfolio of Cheez-It products. Sales of Cheez-It products for the first forty
weeks of 1998 increased by 23.7% compared to the same period in 1997.
Expand Non-Supermarket Sales. In 1997, 22% of retail cookie and cracker
sales were through mass merchandisers, convenience stores and drug stores.
Keebler believes that its total share of sales to these and other
non-supermarket channels, including club stores and vending distributors, is
significantly lower than its share of sales to supermarkets. Following the
Keebler acquisition in January 1996, Keebler's management began focusing
resources on non-supermarket channels. Keebler develops products, packaging and
distribution tailored to non-supermarket channels. As a result of these efforts,
Keebler's non-supermarket sales have grown significantly. For example, Keebler's
retail sales through mass merchandisers (excluding President's sales) increased
34% in the first forty weeks of 1998 compared to the first forty weeks of 1997.
28
<PAGE> 35
Increase the Efficiency of its Operations. Keebler intends to continue to
increase the efficiency of its operations and reduce costs. In 1998, Keebler's
management lowered annual costs by approximately $35.0 million principally by
further automating certain bakery and distribution operations and by improving
inventory management. Keebler also has installed an SAP R/3 management
information system resulting in more efficient operations because of the
availability of detailed financial and operational information. Keebler plans to
install this SAP R/3 system in its President facilities in 1999.
Capitalize on the President Acquisition. The President acquisition provides
Keebler with a number of opportunities and benefits that should help Keebler
achieve certain strategic goals. These include the following:
- President's product mix complements Keebler's by adding strong brands
such as Famous Amos cookies, which has annual retail sales in excess of
$60 million, and Murray sugar free cookies, which has annual retail sales
in excess of $35 million. These brands strengthen and diversify the
Keebler portfolio of branded products.
- Keebler believes that the integration of President into its operations
should allow Keebler to operate more efficiently in areas such as
manufacturing, raw material and packaging purchasing and product
distribution.
- The President acquisition also diversifies Keebler's cookie and cracker
business by making Keebler the leading manufacturer of Girl Scout
cookies, a position that President has held for over ten years.
- The President acquisition provides Keebler with an increased market share
in non-supermarket channels. For example, Famous Amos is the number one
selling cookie in vending machines and has a strong presence in club and
convenience stores. Sales of Famous Amos products in non-supermarket
channels are approximately $40 million annually.
Pursue Acquisitions. Keebler intends to pursue additional acquisitions,
such as the President acquisition, that complement or provide further
opportunities to use its existing brands, manufacturing capabilities or
distribution systems.
KEEBLER HISTORY
Keebler was founded in 1853. In 1974, Keebler was acquired by United
Biscuits plc ("United Biscuits"). In the early 1980s, Keebler introduced salty
snack products and then expanded its distribution system to accommodate them.
After experiencing initial growth, sales of Keebler's salty snack products began
to decline. In response, Keebler embarked on a strategy aimed at increasing the
sales volume of its other products (i.e. cookies and crackers), in part to
increase utilization of its national DSD distribution system. As a result of
competitive responses to Keebler's actions, Keebler did not increase its share
of the cookie and cracker market. At the time of the Keebler acquisition in
January 1996, Keebler disposed of its Salty Snacks business.
In June 1996, Keebler acquired Sunshine. By the end of 1996, Keebler
completed its planned integration of Sunshine's operations into those of
Keebler. The combination of Sunshine and Keebler allowed Keebler to achieve
efficiencies in administration, purchasing, production, marketing, sales and
distribution. In particular, Keebler incorporated the sales and distribution of
Sunshine retail branded products into Keebler's national DSD distribution system
which had excess capacity. Filling this excess capacity with Sunshine products
made Keebler's national DSD distribution system more efficient and allowed
Keebler to focus its sales and marketing efforts on its more profitable retail
branded products. In January 1996, Artal, Flowers and certain of Keebler's
current management acquired the Keebler business.
In September 1998, Keebler acquired President. President manufactures and
markets cookies, brownies and snack cakes. President's brands include Famous
Amos and Murray. President is also the leading manufacturer of both Girl Scout
and sugar free cookies in the United States. In 1997, President had net sales of
$441.1 million and a 3.4% share of the U.S. cookie and cracker market.
29
<PAGE> 36
PRODUCTS AND MARKETS
Keebler is the second largest cookie and cracker manufacturer in the United
States. Keebler's principal product categories include branded and private label
cookie and cracker products (which are sold in a variety of different flavors,
shapes, fat contents, sizes, weights and packages), pie crusts and ice cream
cones for retail and foodservice markets and custom-baked products for other
marketers of branded food products. Keebler produces and markets nine of the
twenty-five best-selling cookies and ten of the twenty-five best-selling
crackers in the United States based on dollar sales and has a 25.3% share of the
U.S. cookie market and a 26.5% share of the U.S. cracker market. As a result of
the President acquisition, Keebler is the leading manufacturer of cookies for
the Girl Scouts of America.
Branded Cookies
The following table sets forth information with respect to certain of
Keebler's leading branded cookie products:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRODUCT TYPE SALES POSITION
------- ---- --------------
(BASED ON DOLLAR SALES)
<S> <C> <C>
Keebler Chips Deluxe Chocolate Chip #2
Keebler Fudge Shoppe Fudge-covered #1
Keebler Sandies Shortbread #1
Keebler Vanilla Wafers Vanilla Wafers #2
Hydrox Chocolate Sandwich #2
</TABLE>
Branded Crackers
The following table sets forth information with respect to certain of
Keebler's leading branded cracker products:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRODUCT TYPE SALES POSITION
------- ---- --------------
(BASED ON DOLLAR SALES)
<S> <C> <C>
Cheez-It Snack #1
Keebler Town House Everyday #2
Keebler Graham Selects Graham #2
Keebler Zesta Saltine #2
Carr's Specialty #1
</TABLE>
Keebler imports and distributes Carr's crackers in the United States under
an exclusive long-term licensing and distribution agreement with United
Biscuits. Carr's crackers are manufactured in the United Kingdom by McVities, a
subsidiary of United Biscuits. Carr's crackers are the best-selling specialty
crackers in the United States. Pursuant to the licensing and distribution
agreement, Keebler has the right to produce new cookie and cracker products
under the Carr's label, which can be marketed throughout the United States.
President's Branded Products
President's branded products include Famous Amos cookies, Murray cookies
(including sugar free cookies) and Plantation brownies. Keebler's research
indicates that Famous Amos is an upscale adult brand. Famous Amos cookies have
annual retail sales in excess of $60 million, are the number one selling cookie
in vending machines and have a strong presence in club and convenience stores.
These non-supermarket channels contribute approximately $40 million in annual
sales of Famous Amos products. Murray sugar free cookies have annual retail
sales in excess of $35 million and are the number one selling sugar free cookies
in the United States. Plantation brownies are the number one selling brownie in
vending machines. President also manufactures Olde New England brownies and
Jackson's, Greg's and Bishop cookies for certain regional markets.
30
<PAGE> 37
Pie Crusts
Preformed pie crusts, sold under the Keebler Ready Crust brand name,
accounted for approximately 73% of the U.S. retail shelf stable preformed pie
crust market (measured in dollars). Keebler's dedicated Keebler Ready Crust
sales team, assisted by a national system of independent brokers, markets
Keebler Ready Crust products, which are shipped directly to customers'
warehouses.
Ice Cream Cones
Keebler branded ice cream cones are the leading retail branded ice cream
cones in the United States with a 33.7% market share. Keebler also markets its
ice cream cones through foodservice channels and produces cones for various
restaurants and ice cream retailers, such as McDonald's and TCBY.
Products for the Foodservice Market
Keebler is the leading supplier of cookies and crackers purchased by the
foodservice market in the United States. Keebler's foodservice products are sold
by a national sales force dedicated exclusively to the foodservice market, with
the assistance of independent brokers. In the foodservice market, Keebler
generally sells to large distributors who sell these products to restaurants and
institutions.
Private Label Products
Keebler manufactures private label products to be sold by retailers under
their own brands. Keebler expanded into the private label cookie and cracker
market in 1993 with its purchase of Bake-Line Products, Inc. ("Bake-Line"), a
producer of private label cookie products. While Bake-Line had historically
concentrated on cookie products, Keebler expanded into the private label cracker
market in 1994. Keebler is the leading manufacturer of private label cookie
products in the United States. Keebler has a 38.6% share of the private label
cookie market. Keebler has a 14.1% share of the private label cracker market.
Keebler serves leading supermarkets in the United States with a variety of
private label products ranging from value-oriented standard products to premium
items that compete with branded alternatives. Keebler's plant in Des Plaines,
Illinois is dedicated to producing private label cookies, and is capable of
producing a wide variety of products with numerous packaging options to meet the
wide-ranging demands of Keebler's private label customers. Keebler's private
label cookies and crackers are shipped via common carrier directly to customer
warehouses and are not distributed through Keebler's national DSD distribution
system.
Girl Scouts of America Relationship
President has been the leading manufacturer of cookies for the Girl Scouts
of America since the mid-1980s. President is currently the exclusive supplier to
more than one-half of the approximately 320 Girl Scout Councils in the United
States and is one of only three cookie manufacturers licensed by the Girl Scouts
of America to manufacture Girl Scout cookies. President has dedicated marketing
personnel which assist the various Girl Scout Councils with sales, marketing and
public relations programs. President employs a team of nine salespersons, as
well as independent brokers, which market to U.S. Girl Scout Councils.
Custom-Baked Products for Other Marketers of Branded Food Products
Keebler manufactures a variety of custom-baked products for other marketers
of branded food products. In particular, Keebler has manufactured Pop Tarts for
Kellogg since the product's introduction in 1963. Keebler also has manufactured
a variety of other Kellogg branded products, including Cracklin' Oat Bran and
Nutri-Grain bars. Custom-baked products produced for other marketers of branded
food products include crackers for Oscar Mayer Lunchables and Starkist Charlie
Tuna snack kits, Kraft Handi-Snacks, Gerber Biter biscuits and McDonaldland
cookies. These custom-baked products are packaged under the customers' labels
and shipped from Keebler plants to the customers' regional warehouses or
distribution centers via common carrier.
31
<PAGE> 38
New Products and Other Innovations
Since the Keebler acquisition, Keebler has focused on new product
introductions and line extensions within its core product types such as Keebler
Snackin' Grahams, Keebler Peanut Butter Fudge Sticks, Cheez-It Heads and Tails,
Cheez-It snack mix, Cheez-It Hot & Spicy and Lemon Creme Vienna Fingers. In
addition, Keebler has introduced innovative product types such as Keebler Cookie
Stix. Keebler has also developed new sizes of its leading products to enable it
to expand in non-supermarket channels and has introduced innovative packaging
such as holographic holiday packaging and resealable stand-up packages for its
Cheez-It snack mix.
CUSTOMERS
Keebler's top 10 customers in the first forty weeks of 1998 accounted for
29.1% of Keebler's net sales. No single customer accounted for more than 5% of
net sales.
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM
Keebler has installed the SAP R/3 management information system allowing
the rapid communication of extensive information among its corporate office,
manufacturing facilities, distribution facilities and sales force. This software
system enables Keebler to (i) improve the efficiency of its manufacturing and
distribution facilities, (ii) service the diverse needs of its decentralized
sales force, (iii) plan production runs and control inventory and (iv) provide
consistent, timely and current information to management. Keebler plans to
install this SAP R/3 system in the President facilities in 1999.
MANUFACTURING AND DISTRIBUTION
Keebler recognizes that the mass distribution of its consumer food products
is an important element in maintaining sales growth and providing service to its
customers. Keebler attempts to meet the changing demands of its customers by
planning appropriate stock levels and reasonable delivery times consistent with
achieving optimal economics of distribution. In order to achieve these
objectives, Keebler has developed a network of manufacturing plants, shipping
centers and distribution warehouses strategically located throughout the
continental United States to provide high national in-store presence. Keebler
uses a combination of Keebler-owned, public and contract carriers to deliver its
products from its distribution points to its customers.
Following the President acquisition, Keebler owns and operates nineteen
manufacturing facilities in the United States. Keebler also owns and operates a
dairy in Fremont, Ohio that produces cheese under a proprietary formula which is
used as an ingredient in Cheez-It crackers.
Keebler's national DSD distribution system uses distribution facilities,
including shipping centers and warehouses, located throughout the United States.
With the President acquisition, Keebler acquired President's franchised DSD
distribution system which distributes products east of the Mississippi River.
The President DSD distribution system is comprised of independent franchisees
who purchase and resell product. President's DSD distribution system services
both supermarkets and certain non-supermarket channels.
Keebler and Nabisco are the only cookie and cracker producers that have
national wholly owned DSD distribution systems, although Pepperidge Farms
operates a national DSD distribution system through independent distributors.
Keebler uses its national DSD distribution system exclusively to serve
supermarkets and mass merchandisers. Convenience stores and vending distributors
are served using a network of independent distributors. In the case of club
stores and foodservice distributions, Keebler uses a dedicated sales force and
ships its products directly to the customers' warehouses.
Keebler uses a warehouse sales and distribution system to sell and
distribute Keebler Ready Crust pie crusts and private label cookies and crackers
to its customers, including retail outlets otherwise served by
32
<PAGE> 39
Keebler's national DSD distribution system. Carr's crackers are sold through a
network of independent specialty distributors.
RAW MATERIALS
The principal raw materials that Keebler uses in its food products consist
of flour, sugar, chocolate, shortening and milk. Keebler also uses paper
products, such as corrugated cardboard, as well as films and plastics to package
its products. Keebler uses hedging techniques to minimize the impact of price
fluctuations and not for speculative or trading purposes. However, such
strategies may not result in a reduction in the Company's raw material costs or
protect the Company from sharp increases in certain raw material costs, which
the Company has experienced in the past. See "Risk Factors -- Increases in
Prices of Main Ingredients and Other Materials" for a further discussion of the
impact of Keebler's use of raw materials.
SEASONALITY
Keebler's net sales, net income and cash flows are affected by the timing
of new product introductions, promotional activities, price increases and a
seasonal sales bias toward the second half of the year due to events such as
back-to-school, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The relative mix between cookie and
cracker sales varies throughout the year with stronger cracker sales in the last
quarter of the calendar year. President's net sales, net income and cash flow
historically have been higher in the first quarter than in any other fiscal
quarter of the calendar year because substantially all sales of Girl Scout
cookies have occurred in that quarter. For this reason, going forward, Keebler
expects to realize proportionately higher net sales, net income and cash flows
during the first quarter of its fiscal year than it historically has
experienced.
EMPLOYEES
Following the President acquisition, Keebler employs approximately 12,300
persons, of which approximately 5,900 are represented by unions. Keebler
believes its relations with its employees to be satisfactory.
COMPETITION
The U.S. branded cookie and cracker industry is led by Keebler and Nabisco,
which together account for 59.3% of sales volume. Smaller competitors include
numerous national, regional and local manufacturers of both branded and private
label products. Competition in Keebler's markets takes many forms including the
following:
- establishing favorable brand recognition;
- developing products sought by consumers;
- implementing appropriate pricing;
- providing strong marketing support; and
- obtaining access to retail outlets and sufficient shelf space.
Nabisco is the largest manufacturer in the U.S. cookie and cracker
industry. Keebler has a 25.8% share of the retail cookie and cracker market,
while Nabisco has a 33.5% share. The remaining industry participants primarily
target certain portions of the industry or focus on certain geographical regions
of the United States.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Keebler owns a number of patents, licenses, trademarks and trade names in
the United States. Keebler's principal trademarks and trade names include
Keebler, Ernie the Keebler Elf, the Hollow Tree logo, Cheez-It, Chips Deluxe,
Club, Famous Amos, Fudge Shoppe, Hi-Ho, Hydrox, Munch'ems, Murray, Olde New
England, Plantation, Ready Crust, Sandies, Soft Batch, Sunshine, Sunshine
Krispy, Toasteds,
33
<PAGE> 40
Town House, Vienna Fingers, Wheatables, and Zesta. Keebler is the exclusive
licensee of the Carr's brand name in the United States. Such trademarks and
trade names are considered to be of material importance to the business of
Keebler since they have the effect of developing brand identification and
maintaining consumer loyalty. Management is not aware of any fact that would
negatively impact the continuing use of any of its patents, licenses, trademarks
or trade names.
REGULATION
As a manufacturer and marketer of food items, Keebler's operations are
subject to regulation by various federal government agencies, including the Food
and Drug Administration, the Department of Agriculture, the Federal Trade
Commission (the "FTC"), the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department
of Commerce, as well as various state agencies, with respect to production
processes, product quality, packaging, labeling, storage and distribution. Under
various statutes and regulations, such agencies prescribe requirements and
establish standards for quality, purity and labeling. The finding of a failure
to comply with one or more regulatory requirements can result in a variety of
sanctions, including monetary fines or compulsory withdrawal of products from
store shelves. In addition, advertising of Keebler's businesses is subject to
regulation by the FTC, and Keebler is subject to certain health and safety
regulations, including those issued under the Occupational Safety and Health
Act. Keebler's operations and properties are subject to federal, state and local
laws and regulations relating to the storage, handling, emission and discharge
of materials and wastes into the environment. The primary environmental laws
affecting Keebler's operations are the Federal Clean Air Act and Clean Water
Act. Keebler may be required to spend significant sums in order to maintain
compliance with environmental laws. Keebler does not believe that compliance
with, or liability under, any environmental laws individually or in the
aggregate will have a material adverse effect on its results of operations or
financial condition. See "Risk Factors -- Impact of Governmental Regulation on
Keebler's Operations" for a further discussion of regulations which Keebler is
subject to in its operations.
LITIGATION
Keebler is involved in routine litigation. Keebler believes none of the
pending or threatened litigation would result in an outcome that would have a
material adverse effect on its results of operations or financial condition.
34
<PAGE> 41
MANAGEMENT
The following is information concerning certain executive officers of
Keebler:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AGE POSITION
---- --- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Robert P. Crozer.................. 51 Chairman of the Board and Director
Sam K. Reed....................... 51 Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President --
E. Nichol McCully................. 44 Finance
David B. Vermylen................. 48 President -- Keebler Brands
Jack M. Lotker.................... 54 President -- Specialty Products
James T. Willard.................. 57 Senior Vice President -- Operations
Thomas E. O'Neill................. 43 Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel
James T. Spear.................... 43 Vice President -- Finance and Corporate Controller
Harry J. Walsh.................... 43 Vice President -- Corporate Planning and Development
</TABLE>
Robert P. Crozer. Mr. Crozer was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Keebler in February 1998. Mr. Crozer has been a Director of Keebler since
March 1996. Mr. Crozer has served as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of
Flowers since 1989. He joined Flowers in 1973 and has been a director of Flowers
since 1989. Mr. Crozer served as Vice President-Marketing of Flowers from 1985
to 1989, Corporate Director of Marketing Planning of Flowers from 1979 to 1985,
as well as President and Chief Operating Officer, Convenience Products Group of
Flowers from 1979 to 1989. Mr. Crozer received both a B.A. and an M.B.A. from
the University of Virginia.
Sam K. Reed. Mr. Reed has been the Chief Executive Officer, President and a
Director of Keebler since the Keebler acquisition in January 1996. Mr. Reed has
twenty-five years of experience in the snack and baking industries. From January
1994 to January 1995 he served as Chief Executive Officer of Specialty Foods
Corporation's $450 million Western Bakery Group division. Prior to that, he was
President and Chief Executive Officer of Mother's Cake and Cookie Co. from 1991
to 1994, and held Executive Vice President positions at Wyndham Bakery Products
from 1988 to 1990 and Murray Bakery Products from 1985 to 1988. Mr. Reed managed
a natural foods company from 1984 to 1985, which later became The Quaker Oats
Company's rice cake division. He started his career in 1974 with Oroweat Foods
Company where he spent ten years in finance, manufacturing and general
management. Mr. Reed received a B.A. from Rice University and an M.B.A. from
Stanford University.
E. Nichol McCully. Mr. McCully has been the Chief Financial Officer and
Senior Vice President-Finance of Keebler since the Keebler acquisition in
January 1996. Mr. McCully has over eleven years of experience as a senior
financial executive in the food industry, most recently as group Chief Financial
Officer for the Western Bakery Group division of Specialty Foods Corporation
from 1993 to 1995. Mr. McCully was Vice President-Finance for Mother's Cake and
Cookie Co. from 1991 until its acquisition by Specialty Foods Corporation in
1993. From 1990 to 1991, he was Vice President-Finance, and from 1988 to 1990,
he was Controller for Spreckels Sugar Co. Prior to entering the food industry,
Mr. McCully held financial management positions with Triad Systems Corporation
and Wells Fargo Leasing Corporation, and he has auditing experience with Arthur
Andersen & Co. Mr. McCully received a B.A. from the University of California at
Berkeley and an M.B.A. from the University of California at Los Angeles. Mr.
McCully is also a Certified Public Accountant.
David B. Vermylen. Mr. Vermylen has been the President-Keebler Brands since
the Keebler acquisition in January 1996. Mr. Vermylen manages Keebler's branded
biscuits, pie crust and imported products sector. He has twenty-four years of
experience in marketing consumer packaged goods including cookies, cereals,
beverages and convenience foods. In 1995, he served as Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer of Brothers Gourmet Coffee, a publicly traded specialty
beverage manufacturer and retailer. He served as President and Chief Operating
Officer from 1994 to 1995 and Vice President-Marketing from 1991 to 1993 at
Mother's Cake and Cookie Co. Mr. Vermylen spent fourteen years in product
management at General Foods from 1974 to 1988 managing a variety of businesses,
including serving as Vice President of Marketing for Post Cereals. Mr. Vermylen
was also a founding partner of a
35
<PAGE> 42
consulting firm specializing in food marketing and grocery distribution. He
holds a B.A. in economics from Georgetown University and an M.B.A. from New York
University.
Jack M. Lotker. Mr. Lotker has been President-Specialty Products of Keebler
since the Keebler acquisition in January 1996. Mr. Lotker has worked in the food
industry for twenty-four years, most recently at Homeland Stores of Oklahoma
from 1988 to 1995. His experience in the baking industry and with DSD
distribution systems includes two years at CPC International as Vice President
and General Manager of Dry Products from 1986 to 1988 and eight years at Arnold
Food Company as Vice President and Group Executive from 1978 to 1986. Mr. Lotker
headed the American Bakers Association Industrial Relations Committee from 1983
to 1986 and has an extensive knowledge of the interaction among food retailing,
wholesale bakery distribution and unionized bakery operations. Mr. Lotker
received his B.A. from Queens College and his M.B.A. from Long Island
University.
James T. Willard. Mr. Willard has been Senior Vice President-Operations of
Keebler since July 1996. With thirty-four years of experience in the food
industry, Mr. Willard most recently was Senior Vice President at Nabisco Biscuit
Co. from 1993 to 1996, and Senior Vice President-Operations and Technical
Services at Nabisco Specialty Products Division from 1991 to 1993. From 1988 to
1991, Mr. Willard was Senior Vice President-Operations at ALPO Pet Foods, Inc.,
and Mr. Willard was Senior Vice President-North American Operations at Cadbury
Schweppes, Inc. from 1986 to 1988. Prior to those assignments, Mr. Willard held
various positions at Nestle Foods Corporation from 1964 to 1986. These positions
were Vice President-U.S. Chocolate Manufacturing (1983 to 1986), General
Manager-Chocolate Manufacturing (1983 to 1986), General Manager-Fruits, Tomatoes
& Meats (1978 to 1980), Division Manager-Manufacturing (1971 to 1975), Assistant
Manager-Quality Control (1970 to 1972), and Microbiologist and Chemist-Regional
Laboratory (1964 to 1970). Mr. Willard received a B.S. from Capital University
and an M.S. from Ohio State University.
Thomas E. O'Neill. Mr. O'Neill has been Vice President, Secretary and
General Counsel of Keebler since December 1996. Mr. O'Neill has spent more than
thirteen years in the food industry, most recently serving as Vice President and
Division Counsel for the Worldwide Beverage Division of The Quaker Oats Company
from December 1994 to December 1996. In that position, Mr. O'Neill was
responsible for all legal matters in both domestic and international markets
concerning the $2 billion division. Mr. O'Neill was Vice President and Division
Counsel of the Gatorade Worldwide Division of The Quaker Oats Company from 1991
through 1994. Prior to joining Quaker Oats in 1985, Mr. O'Neill spent three
years with Winston & Strawn, a law firm based in Chicago. Mr. O'Neill received
both a B.A. and a J.D. from the University of Notre Dame. He also completed
additional work in the executive management program at Harvard University's
Graduate School of Business.
James T. Spear. Mr. Spear has been Vice President Finance and Corporate
Controller of Keebler since July 1995. He originally joined Keebler in February
1992 as Corporate Controller. Before starting with Keebler, Mr. Spear was Chief
Financial Officer of Kirkland & Ellis from 1989 to 1991. From 1979 to 1989, he
was with Price Waterhouse as both an auditor and consultant, mainly with clients
in the food industry. Mr. Spear received a B.A. from Miami University and an
M.B.A. from Indiana University Graduate School of Business. Mr. Spear is also a
Certified Public Accountant.
Harry J. Walsh. Mr. Walsh has been Vice President-Corporate Planning and
Development of Keebler since January 1997, and was the Chief Operating Officer
of Sunshine from June 1996 to January 1997. Mr. Walsh also has seventeen years
of experience with baking and snack food companies with DSD systems, most
recently as Vice President for G.F. Industries, Inc. from 1995 to 1996. From
1994 to 1995, he was President and Chief Operating Officer, and from 1993 to
1994, Chief Financial Officer for Granny Goose Foods, Inc. Mr. Walsh served as
Vice President-Operations for Bell Carter Distributing Company from 1992 to 1993
and as Chief Financial Officer for San Francisco French Bread Co. from 1985 to
1991. From 1983 to 1985, he was Vice President-Finance and from 1981 to 1983,
Controller, for Salerno Megowen Biscuit Company. Prior to entering the food
industry, Mr. Walsh was an auditor with Arthur Andersen & Co. Mr. Walsh received
a B.A. from the University of Notre Dame. Mr. Walsh is also a Certified Public
Accountant.
36
<PAGE> 43
PRINCIPAL AND SELLING STOCKHOLDERS
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial
ownership of common stock as of December 8, 1998, and as adjusted to reflect the
sale of the common stock offered hereby, by (i) all persons known by Keebler to
own beneficially 5% or more of the common stock, (ii) each Director of Keebler,
(iii) the Chief Executive Officer and certain other executive officers, (iv)
each Selling Stockholder and (v) all Directors and executive officers as a
group. Unless otherwise indicated, each of the stockholders has sole voting and
investment power with respect to the shares of common stock beneficially owned
by such stockholders.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES BENEFICIALLY SHARES BENEFICIALLY
OWNED PRIOR TO THE NUMBER OF OWNED AFTER THE
OFFERING (1) SHARES OFFERING (1)
-------------------- BEING --------------------
NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNERS NUMBER PERCENT OFFERED NUMBER PERCENT
------------------------------------- ---------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Flowers Industries, Inc.(2)............... 46,197,466 54.9 -- 46,197,466 54.9
1919 Flowers Circle
Thomasville, Georgia 31757
Artal Luxembourg S.A.(3).................. 17,228,729 20.5 15,654,500(3) 1,574,229(3) 1.9
39 Boulevard Royal
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg 2449
Claremont Enterprises, Limited(4)......... 4,772,770 5.7 545,500(4) 4,227,270(4) 5.0
West Bay Street
P.O. Box N7788
Nassau, Bahamas
Sam K. Reed(5)............................ 1,572,855 1.8 -- 1,572,855 1.8
David B. Vermylen(6)...................... 333,559 * -- 333,559 *
E. Nichol McCully(7)...................... 282,079 * -- 282,079 *
Jack M. Lotker(8)......................... 283,559 * -- 283,559 *
James T. Willard(8)....................... 283,559 * -- 283,559 *
Robert P. Crozer(9)....................... 10,000 * -- 10,000 *
Franklin L. Burke(10)(11)................. 9,500 * -- 9,500 *
Wayne H. Pace(10)......................... 8,500 * -- 8,500 *
Johnston C. Adams, Jr.(10)................ 8,900 * -- 8,900 *
Jimmy M. Woodward(12)..................... 2,000 * -- 2,000 *
G. Anthony Campbell(9).................... 2,004 * -- 2,004 *
Amos R. McMullian(9)...................... 2,000 * -- 2,000 *
C. Martin Wood III(9)..................... 2,000 * -- 2,000 *
Raymond Debbane(13)....................... -- -- -- -- --
Sacha Lainovic(13)........................ -- -- -- -- --
All Directors and executive officers as a
group (consisting of 19 persons)........ 3,198,103 3.7 -- 3,198,103 3.7
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* Less than 1%
(1) Shares beneficially owned and percentage of ownership are based on
84,108,164 shares of common stock outstanding before the offering and
exercisable stock options.
(2) Flowers is currently subject to the periodic reporting and other
information requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.
Flowers' common stock is listed on the NYSE.
(3) Excludes a maximum of 1,574,229 shares to cover over-allotments of shares,
if any. The parent entity of Artal is Artal Group. The address of Artal
Group is the same as the address of Artal.
(4) Excludes a maximum of 54,500 shares to cover over-allotments of shares, if
any. Claremont is a privately held Bahamian limited company.
37
<PAGE> 44
(5) Shares are held by The Sam K. Reed and Victoria P. Reed January 19, 1995
Inter Vivos Trust of which Mr. Reed and his wife are trustees. Includes
999,605 shares subject to stock options that are currently exercisable;
excludes 539,958 shares subject to stock options that are not exercisable
within 60 days.
(6) Includes 233,241 shares subject to stock options that are currently
exercisable; excludes 175,940 shares subject to stock options that are not
exercisable within 60 days.
(7) Includes 213,241 shares subject to stock options that are currently
exercisable; excludes 167,615 shares subject to stock options that are not
exercisable within 60 days.
(8) Includes 213,241 shares subject to stock options that are currently
exercisable; excludes 150,965 shares subject to stock options that are not
exercisable within 60 days. Mr. Lotker's shares are held by the Jack M.
Lotker Revocable Trust of which Mr. Lotker and his wife are co-trustees and
the beneficiaries of which are the Mr. Lotker and various members of his
immediate family.
(9) A director and executive officer of Flowers.
(10) Includes 7,500 shares subject to stock options that are currently
exercisable.
(11) A director of Flowers.
(12) An executive officer of Flowers.
(13) An officer of The Invus Group, Ltd., the U.S. investment advisor for Artal.
38
<PAGE> 45
CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS
FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK
The following is a general discussion of certain U.S. federal income and
estate tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of common stock by a
holder that is not a "U.S. person" (a "non-U.S. holder"). A "U.S. person" is a
person or entity that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is a citizen or
resident of the United States, a corporation, partnership or other entity
taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes created or
organized in the United States or under the laws of the United States or of any
political subdivision thereof, an estate whose income is includible in gross
income for U.S. federal income tax purposes regardless of its source or a trust
subject to the supervision of a court within the United States and the control
of one or more United States persons as described in Section 7701 (a)(30) of
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). An individual will be
deemed to be a resident of the United States for U.S. federal income tax
purposes if: (1) such individual is a lawful permanent resident of the United
States at any time during the taxable year; (2) such individual makes an
election to be treated as a resident pursuant to the provisions of the Code; or
(3) such individual is present in the United States for an aggregate of 183 days
or more during the calendar year. In addition, an individual will be presumed to
be a resident of the United States for U.S. federal income tax purposes if such
individual is present in the United States on at least 31 days in the current
calendar year and for an aggregate of 183 days during the three-year period
ending with the current calendar year (counting, for such purposes all of the
days present in the United States during the current year, one-third of the days
present during the immediately preceding year and one-sixth of the days present
during the second preceding year). This presumption of residence may be rebutted
if an individual is present in the United States for fewer than 183 days during
the current year and it is established that such individual has a "tax home" in
a foreign country and a "closer connection" to such foreign country than to the
United States, with such terms being defined in the Code, provided such
individual has not taken any steps during the current year to apply for
permanent resident status and no such application is pending. Furthermore, the
determination of residence under the Code may be rebutted by application of an
applicable tax treaty or convention between the United States and an appropriate
foreign country that may also treat such individual as a tax resident of such
country. A special definition of U.S. resident applies for U.S. federal estate
tax purposes. Resident aliens are subject to U.S. federal tax as if they were
U.S. citizens.
This discussion is based on the provisions of the Code and administrative
and judicial interpretations as of the date hereof, all of which may be changed
either retroactively or prospectively. This discussion does not address all the
aspects of U.S. federal income and estate taxation that may be relevant to non-
U.S. holders in light of their particular circumstances, nor does it address tax
consequences under the laws of any U.S. state, municipality or other taxing
jurisdiction or under the laws of any jurisdiction other than the United States.
The following discussion is merely a summary of the principal U.S. federal
income and estate tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of common
stock by non-U.S. Holders. Thus, all investors are urged to consult their own
tax advisors with respect to the application and effect of the U.S. federal
income and estate tax consequences (current and prospective) of the ownership
and disposition of the common stock, as well as the application and effect of
the laws of any state, local, foreign, or other taxing jurisdiction.
DIVIDENDS
In the event that dividends are paid to a non-U.S. holder, such dividends
will generally be subject to United States federal withholding tax at a 30% rate
or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty unless
such dividends are effectively connected with a trade or business carried on by
the non-U.S. holder within the United States or, if a tax treaty applies, are
attributable to a United States permanent establishment of the non-U.S. holder,
in which cases the dividends will be taxed as described below in the succeeding
paragraph. Under current U.S. Treasury regulations, dividends paid to an address
outside the United States are presumed to be paid to a resident of the country
of address (unless the payor has knowledge to the contrary) for purposes of the
withholding tax. For dividends paid
39
<PAGE> 46
on or prior to December 31, 1999, the same presumption generally applies to
determine the applicability of a reduced rate of withholding under a U.S. tax
treaty (the "address system"). Thus, non-U.S. holders receiving dividends at
addresses outside the United States generally are not yet required to file tax
forms to obtain the benefit of an applicable treaty rate. Under U.S. Treasury
regulations that were recently finalized, the address system for claiming treaty
benefits is eliminated for payments made after December 31, 1999. Rather, to
claim the benefits of a tax treaty with respect to such dividends, a non-U.S.
holder of Common Stock must file certain forms attesting to the holder's
eligibility to claim such treaty benefits. If there is excess withholding on a
person eligible for a treaty benefit, the person can file for a refund with the
U.S. Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS").
Generally, there is no withholding tax on dividends that are (i)
effectively connected with the non-U.S. holder's conduct of a trade or business
within the United States if a Form 4224 is filed with Keebler or (ii) if a tax
treaty applies, attributable to a United States permanent establishment of the
non-U.S. holder. If either exception applies, the dividends are subject to the
U.S. federal income tax on net income applicable to U.S. persons. Effectively
connected dividends received by a foreign corporation may be subject to an
additional "branch profits tax" at a 30% rate (or a lower rate under an
applicable income tax treaty) when such dividends are deemed repatriated from
the United States.
GAIN ON DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK
A non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax
in respect of gain recognized on a disposition of common stock unless (i) the
gain is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business of the
non-U.S. holder (or of a partnership that holds the Common Stock in which the
non-U.S. holder is a member) in the United States or, if a tax treaty applies,
is attributable to a United States permanent establishment of the non-U.S.
holder, (ii) in the case of a non U.S. holder who is an individual and holds the
common stock as a capital asset (or is a member in a partnership that holds the
common stock as a capital asset), such holder is present in the United States
for 183 or more days in the taxable year of the disposition and either (x) has a
"tax home" in the United States (as specially defined for U.S. federal income
tax purposes) or (y) maintains an office or other fixed place of business in the
United States and the income from the sale of the stock is attributable to such
office or other fixed place of business, (iii) the non-U.S. holder is subject to
tax pursuant to the provision of U.S. tax law applicable to certain U.S.
expatriates or (iv) Keebler is or has been a "U.S. real property holding
corporation" for federal income tax purposes at any time within the shorter of
the five-year period preceding such disposition or such non-U.S. holder's
holding period. Keebler is not currently, has not been and does not anticipate
becoming a "U.S. real property holding corporation" for U.S. federal income tax
purposes. Even if Keebler were to become a U.S. real property holding
corporation, any gain recognized by a non-U.S. Holder, on the disposition of the
common stock, still would not be subject to U.S. tax if the shares were
considered to be "regularly traded" (as per the meaning of the applicable U.S.
Treasury regulations) on an established securities market (e.g., NYSE) and the
non-U.S. Holder did not own, actually, constructively, directly, or indirectly,
at any time during the five year period ending on the date of the disposition,
more than five percent (5%) of the Common Stock.
INFORMATION REPORTING AND BACKUP WITHHOLDING TAX
Pursuant to U.S. Treasury regulations, Keebler must report annually to the
IRS and to each non-U.S. holder the amount of dividends paid to, and the tax
withheld with respect to, such holder, regardless of whether tax was actually
withheld. That information may also be made available to the tax authorities of
the country in which the non-U.S. holder resides.
United States federal backup withholding (which generally is withholding
imposed at the rate of 31% on certain payments to persons not otherwise exempt
who fail to furnish certain identifying information to the IRS) will generally
not apply to dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder that are subject to withholding
at the 30% rate (or would be so subject but for a reduced rate under an
applicable treaty). In addition, for dividends paid on or prior to December 31,
1999, the payor of dividends may rely on the payee's foreign address in
determining that the payee is exempt from backup withholding, unless the payor
has knowledge
40
<PAGE> 47
that the payee is a U.S. person. However, U.S. Treasury regulations that were
recently finalized eliminate this address system for payments made after
December 31, 1999 and require a payee to furnish certain documentation to the
payor so as to be able to claim such exemption from backup withholding.
The backup withholding and information reporting requirements also apply to
the gross proceeds paid to a non-U.S. holder upon the disposition of Common
Stock by or through a U.S. office of a U.S. or foreign broker, unless the holder
certifies to the broker under penalty of perjury as to its name, address and
status as a non-U.S. holder or the holder otherwise establishes an exemption.
Information reporting requirements, (but not backup withholding) will apply to a
payment of the proceeds of a disposition of common stock by or through a foreign
office of (i) a U.S. broker, (ii) a foreign broker 50% or more of whose gross
income for certain periods is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade
or business in the United States or (iii) a foreign broker that is a "controlled
foreign corporation" for U.S. federal income tax purposes, unless the broker has
documentary evidence in its records that the holder is a non-U.S. holder and
certain other conditions are met, or the holder otherwise establishes an
exemption. Neither backup withholding nor information reporting will generally
apply to a payment of the proceeds of a disposition of common stock by or
through a foreign office of a foreign broker not subject to the preceding
sentence.
Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules will be refunded or
credited against the non-U.S. holder's United States federal income tax
liability, provided that required information is furnished to the IRS.
FEDERAL ESTATE TAXES
Common Stock owned or treated as being owned by an individual who is
neither a citizen nor a resident of the United States for federal estate tax
purposes at the date of death will be included in such individual's gross estate
for U.S. federal estate tax purposes and may be subject to U.S. federal estate
tax unless an applicable estate tax treaty provides otherwise. Estates of
nonresident aliens are generally allowed a statutory credit for U.S. federal
estate tax purposes. Estate tax treaties may permit a larger credit. A special
definition of U.S. resident applies for U.S. federal estate tax purposes.
41
<PAGE> 48
UNDERWRITING
Under the terms and subject to the conditions contained in an Underwriting
Agreement dated , 1999 (the "U.S. Underwriting Agreement"), the
underwriters named below (the "U.S. Underwriters"), for whom Credit Suisse First
Boston Corporation, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, UBS AG
(acting through its division Warburg Dillon Read), Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette
and Lehman Brothers Inc., are acting as representatives (the "U.S.
Representatives"), and under the terms and subject to the conditions contained
in a Subscription Agreement dated , 1999 (the "Subscription Agreement"
and, together with the U.S. Underwriting Agreement, the "Underwriting
Agreement") the managers named below (the "International Managers"), for whom
Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited, Merrill Lynch International, UBS AG
(acting through its division Warburg Dillon Read), Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette
and Lehman Brothers International (Europe), are acting as representatives (the
"International Representatives"), have severally but not jointly agreed to
purchase from the Selling Stockholders the following respective numbers of
shares of common stock:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
U.S. UNDERWRITERS NUMBER OF SHARES
----------------- ----------------
<S> <C>
Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation......................
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated...................................
UBS AG acting through its division Warburg Dillon Read......
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette................................
Lehman Brothers Inc.........................................
---------
Subtotal...............................................
---------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INTERNATIONAL MANAGERS
----------------------
<S> <C>
Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited.................
Merrill Lynch International.................................
UBS AG acting through its division Warburg Dillon Read......
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette................................
Lehman Brothers International (Europe)......................
---------
Subtotal...............................................
---------
Total..................................................
=========
</TABLE>
The U.S. Underwriting Agreement and the Subscription Agreement provide for
concurrent offerings of common stock in the United States and Canada and outside
the United States and Canada. The closing of the offering in the United States
and Canada is a condition to the closing of the offering outside the United
States and Canada.
The Underwriting Agreement provides that the obligations of the U.S.
Underwriters and the International Managers are subject to certain conditions
precedent and that the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers will be
obligated to purchase all the shares of common stock offered hereby (other than
those shares covered by the over-allotment option described below) if any are
purchased. The Underwriting Agreement provides that, in the event of a default
by a U.S. Underwriter or an International Manager, in certain circumstances the
purchase commitments of non-defaulting U.S. Underwriters or International
Managers may be increased or the Underwriting Agreement may be terminated.
The Selling Stockholders have granted to the U.S. Underwriters and the
International Managers an option, exercisable by Credit Suisse First Boston
Corporation ("CSFBC") on behalf of the U.S. Underwriters and the International
Managers, expiring at the close of business on the 30th day after the date of
this prospectus, to purchase up to 1,628,729 additional shares of common stock
at the public offering price, less the underwriting discounts and commissions.
Such option may be exercised only to
42
<PAGE> 49
cover over-allotments, if any, in the sale of the shares of common stock offered
hereby. To the extent that this option to purchase is exercised, each U.S.
Underwriter and each International Manager will become obligated, subject to
certain conditions, to purchase approximately the same percentage of additional
shares being sold to the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers as the
number of shares of common stock set forth next to such U.S. Underwriter's and
International Manager's name in the preceding table bears to the total number of
shares of common stock in such table.
Keebler and the Selling Stockholders have been advised by the U.S.
Representatives and Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited ("CSFBL") on
behalf of the International Managers that the U.S. Underwriters and the
International Managers propose to offer the shares of common stock initially at
the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and,
through the U.S. Representatives and the International Representatives, to
certain dealers at such price less a concession of $ per share, and that the
U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers and such dealers may allow a
discount of $ per share on sales to certain other dealers. After the
offering, the public offering price and concession and discount to dealers may
be changed by the U.S. Representatives and the International Representatives.
The following table summarizes the compensation to be paid to the U.S.
Underwriters and the International Managers by the Selling Stockholders, and the
expenses payable by the Selling Stockholders.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOTAL
--------------------------------
WITHOUT WITH
PER SHARE OVER-ALLOTMENT OVER-ALLOTMENT
--------- -------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Underwriting discounts and commissions paid by the
Selling Stockholders................................ $ $ $
Expenses payable by the Selling Stockholders.......... $ $ $
</TABLE>
The public offering price, the aggregate underwriting discounts and
commissions per share and per share concession and discount to dealers for the
U.S. offering and the concurrent international offering will be identical.
Pursuant to an agreement between the U.S. Underwriters and the International
Managers (the "Intersyndicate Agreement") relating to the offering, changes in
the public offering price, concession and discount to dealers will be made only
upon the mutual agreement of CSFBC on behalf of the U.S. Underwriters and CSFBL
on behalf of the International Managers.
Pursuant to the Intersyndicate Agreement, each of the U.S. Underwriters has
agreed or will agree that, as part of its distribution of shares of common stock
in the United States and Canada and subject to certain exceptions, it has not
offered or sold, and will not offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any shares
of common stock or distribute any prospectus relating to the common stock to any
person outside the United States or Canada or to any other dealer who does not
so agree. Each of the International Managers has agreed or will agree that, as
part of its distribution of shares of common stock outside the United States and
Canada and subject to certain exceptions, it has not offered or sold, and will
not offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any shares of common stock or
distribute any prospectus relating to common stock in the United States or
Canada or to any other dealer who does not so agree. With respect to any U.S.
Underwriter and International Manager, the foregoing representations and
agreements (i) made by it in its capacity as a U.S. Underwriter apply only to it
in its capacity as a U.S. Underwriter and (ii) made by it as an International
Manager apply only to it in its capacity as an International Manager. The
foregoing limitations do not apply to stabilization transactions or to
transactions between the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers
pursuant to the Intersyndicate Agreement. As used herein, "United States" means
the United States of America (including the States and the District of
Columbia), its territories, possessions and other areas subject to its
jurisdiction. "Canada" means Canada, its provinces, territories, possessions and
other areas subject to its jurisdiction, and an offer or sale shall be in the
United States or Canada if it is made to (i) any individual resident in the
United States or Canada or (ii) a corporation, partnership, pension,
profit-sharing or other trust or other entity (including any such entity acting
as an investment adviser with discretionary authority) whose office most
directly involved with the purchase is located in the United States or Canada.
43
<PAGE> 50
Pursuant to the Intersyndicate Agreement, sales may be made between the
U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers of such number of shares of
common stock as may be mutually agreed upon. The price of any shares so sold
shall be the public offering price, less such amount as may be mutually agreed
upon by CSFBC, as representative of the U.S. Underwriters, and CSFBL, as
representative of the International Managers, but not exceeding the selling
concession applicable to such shares. To the extent there are sales between the
U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers pursuant to the Intersyndicate
Agreement, the number of shares of common stock initially available for sale by
the U.S. Underwriters or by the International Managers may be more or less than
the amount appearing on the cover page of this prospectus. Neither the U.S.
Underwriters nor the International Managers are obligated to purchase from the
other any unsold shares of common stock.
Each of the International Managers and the U.S. Underwriters severally
represents and agrees that: (i) it has not affected or sold prior to the date
six months after the date of issue any common stock to persons in the United
Kingdom except to persons whose ordinary activities involve them in acquiring,
holding, managing or disposing of investments (as principal or agent) for the
purposes of their businesses or otherwise in circumstances which have not
resulted or do not result in an offer to the public in the United Kingdom within
the meaning of the Public Offers of Securities Regulations 1995; (ii) it has
complied and will comply with all applicable provisions of the Financial
Services Act 1986 with respect to anything done by it in relation to the common
stock in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom; and (iii) it has only
issued or passed on and will only issue or pass on in the United Kingdom any
document received by it in connection with the issue of the common stock to a
person who is of a kind described in Article II(3) of the Financial Services Act
1986 (Investment Advertisements) (Exemptions) Order 1996 or is a person to whom
such document may otherwise lawfully be issued or passed on.
Keebler, its officers, directors and Flowers, Artal and Claremont have
agreed that, for a period of 60 days (with respect to the officers and
directors) and 90 days (with respect to Keebler, Flowers, Artal and Claremont)
after the date of this prospectus (in either case, the "Lock Up Period"), they
will not offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of, directly
or indirectly, or file with the SEC a registration statement under the
Securities Act relating to, any additional shares of common stock or securities
convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of common stock,
or disclose the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge, disposal or
filing, without the prior written consent of CSFBC, except (i) in the case of
Keebler, issuances pursuant to Keebler's 1996 Stock Option Plan, the 1998
Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan and the Non-Employee Director Stock Plan and (ii)
in the case of certain officers, sales or exchanges in connection with certain
arrangements between such officers, Keebler and CSFBC, as described in the
remainder of this paragraph. Eight senior executives are parties to arrangements
entered into prior to Keebler's initial public offering in 1998, pursuant to
which, subject to certain limitations, the executives may require Keebler to
repurchase their shares of common stock. The maximum aggregate amount which
Keebler can be required to purchase is the greater of (i) 1% of all shares of
common stock then outstanding or (ii) an aggregate purchase obligation of
$25,000,000. As of the date of this prospectus, Keebler has not been informed by
any executive officer of its intention to exercise the right to require Keebler
to repurchase any of such executive officer shares. In addition, pursuant to an
agreement between the eight senior executives and CSFBC, such executives will be
entitled to enter into certain tax-free share exchanges during the Lock-Up
Period.
Keebler and each of the Selling Stockholders have agreed to indemnify the
U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers against certain liabilities,
including civil liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to
payments which the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers may be
required to make in respect thereof.
CSFBC, on behalf of the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers,
may engage in over-allotment, stabilizing transactions, syndicate covering
transactions and penalty bids in accordance with Regulation M under the Exchange
Act. Over-allotment involves syndicate sales in excess of the offering size,
which creates a syndicate short position. Stabilizing transactions permit bids
to purchase the underlying security so long as the stabilizing bids do not
exceed a specified maximum. Syndicate covering transactions involve purchases of
common stock in the open market after the distribution has been
44
<PAGE> 51
completed in order to cover syndicate short positions. Penalty bids permit the
U.S. Representatives to reclaim a selling concession from a syndicate member
when common stock originally sold by such syndicate member is purchased in a
syndicate covering transaction to cover syndicate short positions. Such
stabilizing transactions, syndicate covering transactions and penalty bids may
cause the price of the common stock to be higher than it would otherwise be in
the absence of such transactions. These transactions may be effected on the NYSE
or otherwise and, if commenced, may be discontinued at any time.
NOTICE TO CANADIAN RESIDENTS
RESALE RESTRICTIONS
The distribution of the common stock in Canada is being made only on a
private placement basis exempt from the requirement that Keebler and the Selling
Stockholders prepare and file a prospectus with the securities regulatory
authorities in each province where trades of common stock are effected.
Accordingly, any resale of the common stock in Canada must be made in accordance
with applicable securities laws which will vary depending on the relevant
jurisdiction, and which may require releases to be made in accordance with
available statutory exemptions or pursuant to a discretionary exemption granted
by the applicable Canadian securities regulatory authority. Purchasers are
advised to seek legal advice prior to any resale of the common stock.
REPRESENTATIONS OF PURCHASERS
Each purchaser of common stock in Canada who receives a purchase
confirmation will be deemed to represent to Keebler, the Selling Stockholders
and the dealer from whom such purchase confirmation is received that (i) such
purchaser is entitled under applicable provincial securities laws to purchase
such common stock without the benefit of a prospectus qualified under such
securities laws, (ii) where required by law, that such purchaser is purchasing
as principal and not as agent, and (iii) such purchaser has reviewed the text
above under "Resale Restrictions."
RIGHTS OF ACTION (ONTARIO PURCHASERS)
The securities being offered are those of a foreign issuer and Ontario
purchasers will not receive the contractual right of action prescribed by
section 32 of the Regulation under the Securities Act (Ontario). As a result,
Ontario purchasers must rely on other remedies that may be available, including
common law rights of action for damages or rescission or rights of action under
the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws.
ENFORCEMENT OF LEGAL RIGHTS
All of the issuer's directors and officers as well as the experts named
herein and the Selling Stockholders may be located outside of Canada and, as a
result, it may not be possible for Canadian purchasers to effect service of
process within Canada upon the issuer or such persons. All or a substantial
portion of the assets of the issuer and such persons may be located outside of
Canada and, as a result, it may not be possible to satisfy a judgment against
the issuer or such persons in Canada or to enforce a judgment obtained in
Canadian courts against such issuer or persons outside of Canada.
NOTICE TO BRITISH COLUMBIA RESIDENTS
A purchaser of common stock to whom the Securities Act (British Columbia)
applies is advised that such purchaser is required to file with the British
Columbia Securities Commission a report within ten days of the sale of any
common stock acquired by such purchaser pursuant to this offering. Such report
must be in the form attached to British Columbia Securities Commission Blanket
Order BOR #95/17, a copy of which may be obtained from Keebler. Only one such
report must be filed in respect of common stock acquired on the same date and
under the same prospectus exemption.
45
<PAGE> 52
TAXATION AND ELIGIBILITY FOR INVESTMENT
Canadian purchasers of common stock should consult their own legal and tax
advisors with respect to the tax consequences of an investment in the common
stock in their particular circumstances and with respect to the eligibility of
the common stock in their particular circumstances and with respect to the
eligibility of the common stock for investment by the purchaser under relevant
Canadian Legislation.
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters in connection with the common stock offered hereby
are being passed upon for Keebler by Winston & Strawn, Chicago, Illinois. The
U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers have been represented by
Cravath, Swaine & Moore, New York, New York.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of Keebler and the Predecessor
Company included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Keebler for the year ended
January 3, 1998, and the financial statements of President included as Item
7(a)1 in Keebler's Form 8-K filed on October 9, 1998 and amended on December 10,
1998, have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants,
as set forth in their reports accompanying such financial statements and are
incorporated by reference in this prospectus, in reliance upon such reports of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants, given upon the authority of
that firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
46
<PAGE> 53
[KEEBLER LOGO]
<PAGE> 54
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may
not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer
to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these
securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.
[INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTUS ALTERNATE PAGE]
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED DECEMBER , 1998
16,200,000 SHARES
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY
Common Stock
------------------------
All of the shares of common stock offered hereby are being sold by the Selling
Stockholders named under "Selling Stockholders". Of the 16,200,000 shares
being offered, 3,240,000 shares are initially being offered outside the
United States and Canada by the International Managers and 16,200,000
shares are initially being concurrently offered in the United States
and Canada by the U.S. Underwriters. The offering price and
underwriting discounts and commissions for both offerings
are identical. Keebler Foods Company will not receive any
of the proceeds from the offering. The common stock is
listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol
"KBL." On December 9, 1998, the last reported sale
price for the common stock was $36.69.
INVESTING IN THE COMMON STOCK INVOLVES CERTAIN RISKS.
SEE "RISK FACTORS" ON PAGE 7.
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES
COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THESE SECURITIES OR
DETERMINED IF THIS PROSPECTUS IS TRUTHFUL OR COMPLETE. ANY
REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNDERWRITING PROCEEDS TO
PRICE TO DISCOUNTS AND THE SELLING
PUBLIC COMMISSIONS STOCKHOLDERS
-------- ------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share..............................................
Total(1)...............................................
</TABLE>
(1) The Selling Stockholders have granted the International Managers and the
U.S. Underwriters an option exercisable for 30 days from the date of this
prospectus, to purchase a maximum of 1,628,729 additional shares to cover
over-allotments of shares.
Delivery of the shares of common stock will be made on or about
, 1999, against payment in immediately available funds.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED
MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL WARBURG DILLON READ
DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE LEHMAN BROTHERS
Prospectus dated , 1999
<PAGE> 55
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
ITEM 14. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
The following table sets forth fees payable to the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the New York Stock Exchange, and other estimated expenses
expected to be incurred in connection with the distribution of securities being
registered. All such fees and expenses shall be paid by Keebler:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Securities and Exchange Commission Registration Fee......... $
Transfer Agent Fees and Expenses............................
Printing and Engraving Fees and Expenses....................
Legal Fees and Expenses.....................................
Accounting Fees and Expenses................................
Miscellaneous...............................................
-------
Total............................................. $
=======
</TABLE>
ITEM 15. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law ("DGCL") provides that
a corporation may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to
be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or
proceeding whether civil, criminal or investigative (other than an action by or
in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that he is or was a
director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at
the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of
another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise,
against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgment, fines and amounts paid
in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with such
action, suit or proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a manner he
reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the
corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no
reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. Section 145 further
provides that a corporation similarly may indemnify any such person serving in
any such capacity who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to
any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the
corporation to procure a judgment in its favor, against expenses (including
attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred in connection with the defense
or settlement of such action or suit if he acted in good faith and in a manner
he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the
corporation and except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any
claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be
liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the Delaware Court
of Chancery or such other court in which such action or suit was brought shall
have determined upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but
in view of all of the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and
reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Delaware Court of
Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.
Keebler's Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws provide that
indemnification shall be to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL for all
current or former directors or officers of Keebler.
As permitted by the DGCL, the Certificate of Incorporation provides that
directors of Keebler shall have no personal liability to Keebler or its
stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director,
except (i) for any breach of a director's duty of loyalty to Keebler of its
stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve
intentional misconduct or knowing violations of law, (iii) under Section 174 of
the DGCL or (iv) for any transaction in which a director derives an improper
personal benefit.
II-1
<PAGE> 56
ITEM 16. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) Exhibits. See the Exhibit Index following the signature pages to this
Registration Statement.
(b) Financial Statement Schedules. None.
ITEM 17. UNDERTAKINGS
(a) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the
Registrant pursuant to the provisions described in Item 15, or otherwise, the
Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the
Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
Registrant of expense incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in
connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in
the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling preceding,
submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such
indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities
Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
(b) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that:
(1) For purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act,
the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this
Registration Statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in the form
of prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or
497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this
Registration Statement as of the time it was declared effective.
(2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities
Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall
be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities
offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be
deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(c) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act, each filing of the
Registrant's annual report pursuant to section 13(a) and section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan's
annual report pursuant to section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is
incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement shall be deemed to be a
new Registration Statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
fide offering thereof.
II-2
<PAGE> 57
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Elmhurst, in the State of
Illinois, on the 9th day of December, 1998.
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY
By: /s/ SAM K. REED
--------------------------------------
Name: Sam K. Reed
Title: President and Chief Executive
Officer
POWER OF ATTORNEY
The undersigned directors and officers of Keebler Foods Company do hereby
constitute and appoint E. Nichol McCully and Thomas E. O'Neill, and each of
them, with full power of substitution, our true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and
agents to do any and all acts and things in our name and behalf in our
capacities as directors and officers, and to execute any and all instruments for
us and in our names in the capacities indicated below which such person may deem
necessary or advisable to enable Keebler Foods Company to comply with the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and any rules,
regulations and requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, in
connection with this Registration Statement, including specifically, but not
limited to, power and authority to sign for us, or any of us, in the capacities
indicated below and any and all amendments (including pre-effective and post-
effective amendments or any other registration statement filed pursuant to the
provisions of Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act) hereto; and we do hereby
ratify and confirm all that such person or persons shall do or cause to be done
by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration
Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and
on the dates indicated:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
--------- ----- ----
<C> <S> <C>
/s/ SAM K. REED Chief Executive Officer, December 9, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------- President (Principal
Sam K. Reed Executive Officer) and
Director
/s/ E. NICHOL MCCULLY Chief Financial Officer and December 9, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------- Senior Vice President --
E. Nichol McCully Finance (Principal
Financial Officer)
/s/ JAMES T. SPEAR Vice President Finance and December 9, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------- Corporate Controller
James T. Spear (Principal Accounting
Officer)
/s/ ROBERT P. CROZER Chairman of the Board and December 9, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------- Director
Robert P. Crozer
/s/ RAYMOND DEBBANE Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
Raymond Debbane
/s/ SACHA LAINOVIC Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
Sacha Lainovic
</TABLE>
II-3
<PAGE> 58
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
--------- ----- ----
<C> <S> <C>
/s/ AMOS R. MCMULLIAN Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
Amos R. McMullian
/s/ FRANKLIN L. BURKE Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
Franklin L. Burke
/s/ JIMMY M. WOODWARD Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy M. Woodward
/s/ WAYNE H. PACE Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
Wayne H. Pace
/s/ JOHNSTON C. ADAMS, JR. Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
Johnston C. Adams, Jr.
/s/ G. ANTHONY CAMPBELL Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
G. Anthony Campbell
/s/ C. MARTIN WOOD III Director December 9, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------
C. Martin Wood III
</TABLE>
II-4
<PAGE> 59
EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DOCUMENT AND DESCRIPTION
- ------- ------------------------
<S> <C>
1.1 Form of Underwriting Agreement between Keebler, Artal,
Claremont and the underwriters named therein
1.2 Form of Subscription Agreement between Keebler, Artal,
Claremont and the managers named therein
2.1 Plan and Agreement of Merger dated November 20, 1997 between
Keebler and INFLO Holdings Corporation (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 2.1 of Keebler's Registration Statement
on Form S-1 previously filed with the SEC (file no.
333-42075)
5.1* Form of Opinion of Winston & Strawn re: legality
23.1 Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (independent auditors)
23.2 Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (independent auditors)
24 Powers of Attorney (contained on the signature page hereto)
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* To be filed by amendment
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 1.1
[ - ] SHARES
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY
COMMON STOCK ($0.01 PAR VALUE)
FORM OF UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT
------------------------------
[ - ]
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
[ - ]
As Representatives of the Several Underwriters,
c/o Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation
Eleven Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10010-3629
Dear Sirs:
1. Introductory. The stockholders listed in Schedule B hereto (the
"Selling Stockholders") propose severally to sell (the "U.S. Offering") to the
several underwriters named in Schedule A hereto (the "Underwriters") an
aggregate of [ - ] outstanding shares (the "U.S. Firm Securities") of the Common
Stock, $0.01 par value per share (the "Securities") of Keebler Foods Company, a
Delaware corporation (the "Company"), and also propose to sell to the
Underwriters and the Managers (as defined) an option, exercisable by Credit
Suisse First Boston Corporation ("CSFBC"), for an aggregate of not more than
[ - ] additional outstanding shares (the "Optional Securities") of the Company's
Securities as set forth below. The U.S. Firm Securities and the Optional
Securities that may be sold to the Underwriters are herein collectively called
the "U.S. Securities".
It is understood that the Company and the Selling Stockholders are
concurrently entering into a Subscription Agreement, dated the date hereof (the
"Subscription Agreement"), with Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited
("CSFBL") and the other managers named therein (together with CSFBL, the
"Managers"), relating to the concurrent offering and sale (the "International
Offering") by the Selling Stockholders of an aggregate of [ - ] Securities (the
"International Firm Securities", which together with the Optional Securities
that may be sold to the Managers are hereinafter called the "International
Securities") outside the United States and Canada. The U.S. Firm Securities and
the International Firm Securities are collectively referred to as the "Firm
Securities". The U.S. Securities and the International Securities are
collectively
<PAGE> 2
referred to as the "Offered Securities". To provide for the coordination of
their activities, the Underwriters and the Managers have entered into an
Agreement between U.S. Underwriters and Managers which permits them, among other
things, to sell the Offered Securities to each other for purposes of resale.
2. Representations and Warranties of the Company and the Selling
Stockholders. (a) The Company represents and warrants to, and agrees with, the
several Underwriters that:
(i) A registration statement on Form S-3 (No. 333-[ - ])
relating to the Offered Securities, including a form of prospectus, has
been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"Commission"). The registration statement contains two prospectuses to
be used in connection with the offering and sale of the Offered
Securities: the U.S. prospectus, to be used in connection with the U.S.
Offering, and the international prospectus, to be used in connection
with the International Offering. The international prospectus is
identical to the U.S. prospectus except for the front cover. The
registration statement either (A) has been declared effective under the
Securities Act of 1933 (the "Act"), and is not proposed to be amended
or (B) is proposed to be amended by amendment or post-effective
amendment. If such registration statement (the "initial registration
statement") has been declared effective, either (A) an additional
registration statement (the "additional registration statement")
relating to the Offered Securities may have been filed with the
Commission pursuant to Rule 462(b) ("Rule 462(b)") under the Act and,
if so filed, has become effective upon filing pursuant to such Rule and
the Offered Securities all have been duly registered under the Act
pursuant to the initial registration statement and, if applicable, the
additional registration statement or (B) such an additional
registration statement is proposed to be filed with the Commission
pursuant to Rule 462(b) and will become effective upon filing pursuant
to such Rule and upon such filing the Offered Securities will all have
been duly registered under the Act pursuant to the initial registration
statement and such additional registration statement. If the Company
does not propose to amend the initial registration statement or, if an
additional registration statement has been filed and the Company does
not propose to amend it, and if any post-effective amendment to either
such registration statement has been filed with the Commission prior to
the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the most recent amendment
(if any) to each such registration statement has been declared
effective by the Commission or has become effective upon filing
pursuant to Rule 462(c) ("Rule 462(c)") under the Act or, in the case
of the additional registration statement, Rule 462(b). For purposes of
this Agreement, "Effective Time" with respect to the initial
registration statement or, if filed prior to the execution and delivery
of this Agreement, the additional registration statement means (A) if
the Company has advised the Representatives that it does not propose to
amend such registration statement, the date and time as of which such
registration statement, or the most recent post-effective amendment
thereto (if any) filed prior to the execution and delivery of this
Agreement, was declared effective by the Commission or has become
effective upon filing pursuant to Rule 462(c), or (B) if the Company
has advised the Representatives that it proposes to file an amendment
or post-effective amendment to such registration statement, the date
and time as of which such registration statement, as amended by such
amendment or post-effective amendment, as the case may be, is declared
effective by the Commission. If an additional registration statement
has not been filed prior to the execution and delivery of this
Agreement but the Company has advised the
2
<PAGE> 3
Representatives that it proposes to file one, "Effective
Time" with respect to such additional registration statement means the
date and time as of which such registration statement is filed and
becomes effective pursuant to Rule 462(b). "Effective Date" with
respect to the initial registration statement or the additional
registration statement (if any) means the date of the Effective Time
thereof. The initial registration statement, as amended at its
Effective Time, including (a) all information contained in the
additional registration statement (if any) and deemed to be a part of
the initial registration statement as of the Effective Time of the
additional registration statement pursuant to the General Instructions
of the Form on which it is filed, (b) all information (if any) deemed
to be a part of the initial registration statement as of its Effective
Time pursuant to Rule 430A(b) ("Rule 430A(b)") under the Act and (c)
all other material incorporated by reference therein, is hereinafter
referred to as the "Initial Registration Statement". The additional
registration statement, as amended at its Effective Time, including (a)
the contents of the initial registration statement incorporated by
reference therein, (b) all information (if any) deemed to be a part of
the additional registration statement as of its Effective Time pursuant
to Rule 430A(b) and (c) all other material incorporated by reference
therein, is hereinafter referred to as the "Additional Registration
Statement". The Initial Registration Statement and the Additional
Registration Statement are hereinafter referred to collectively as the
"Registration Statements" and individually as a "Registration
Statement". The form of U.S. prospectus, together with the form of
international prospectus, relating to the Offered Securities, each of
which shall be deemed to include all material incorporated by reference
therein and as first filed with the Commission pursuant to and in
accordance with Rule 424(b) ("Rule 424(b)") under the Act or (if no
such filing is required) as included in a Registration Statement, are
hereinafter referred to as the "Prospectus". No document has been or
will be prepared or distributed in reliance on Rule 434 under the Act.
(ii) If the Effective Time of the Initial Registration
Statement is prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement: (A)
on the Effective Date of the Initial Registration Statement, the
Initial Registration Statement conformed in all material respects to
the requirements of the Act and the rules and regulations of the
Commission (the "Rules and Regulations") and did not include any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact
required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements
therein not misleading, (B) on the Effective Date of the Additional
Registration Statement (if any), each Registration Statement conformed,
or will conform, in all material respects to the requirements of the
Act and the Rules and Regulations and did not include, or will not
include, any untrue statement of a material fact and did not omit, or
will not omit, to state any material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and (C) on
the date of this Agreement, the Initial Registration Statement and, if
the Effective Time of the Additional Registration Statement is prior to
the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Additional
Registration Statement each conforms, and at the time of filing of the
Prospectus pursuant to Rule 424(b) or (if no such filing is required)
at the Effective Date of the Additional Registration Statement in which
the Prospectus is included, each Registration Statement and the
Prospectus will conform, in all material respects to the requirements
of the Act and the Rules and Regulations, and none of such documents
includes, or will include, any untrue statement of a material fact or
omits, or will omit, to state any material fact required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. If
the Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is
3
<PAGE> 4
subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement: on the
Effective Date of the Initial Registration Statement, the Initial
Registration Statement and the Prospectus will conform in all material
respects to the requirements of the Act and the Rules and Regulations,
none of such documents will include any untrue statement of a material
fact or will omit to state any material fact required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading,
and no Additional Registration Statement has been or will be filed.
The two preceding sentences do not apply to statements in or omissions
from a Registration Statement or the Prospectus based upon written
information furnished to the Company by any Underwriter through the
Representatives specifically for use therein, it being understood and
agreed that the only such information is that described as such in
Section 7(c) hereof.
(iii) The Company has been duly incorporated and is validly
existing as a corporation in good standing under the laws of the State
of Delaware, with corporate power and authority to own its properties
and conduct its business as described in the Prospectus; and the
Company is duly qualified to do business as a foreign corporation in
good standing in all other jurisdictions in which its ownership or
lease of property or the conduct of its business requires such
qualification, except where the failure to so qualify would not have,
individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on the
condition (financial or other), results of operation, business or
prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole (a
"Material Adverse Effect").
(iv) Each subsidiary of the Company has been duly incorporated
and is a validly existing corporation in good standing under the laws
of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, with appropriate power and
authority to own its properties and conduct its business as described
in the Prospectus; and each subsidiary of the Company is duly qualified
to do business as a foreign corporation in good standing in all other
jurisdictions in which its ownership or lease of property or the
conduct of its business requires such qualification, except where the
failure to so qualify would not have, individually or in the aggregate,
a Material Adverse Effect; all of the issued and outstanding capital
stock of each subsidiary of the Company has been duly authorized and
validly issued and is fully paid and nonassessable; and, except as
disclosed in the Prospectus, the capital stock of each subsidiary owned
by the Company, directly or through subsidiaries, is owned free from
liens, encumbrances and defects.
(v) The Offered Securities and all other outstanding shares of
capital stock of the Company have been duly authorized and validly
issued, are fully paid and nonassessable and conform to the description
thereof contained in the Prospectus; and, except as disclosed in the
Prospectus, the stockholders of the Company have no preemptive rights
with respect to the Securities.
(vi) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, there are no
contracts, agreements or understandings between the Company and any
person that would give rise to a valid claim against the Company or any
Underwriter for a brokerage commission, finder's fee or other like
payment with respect to the sale of the Offered Securities.
(vii) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, there are no
contracts, agreements or understandings between the Company and any
person granting such person the right to require the Company to file a
registration statement under
4
<PAGE> 5
the Act with respect to any securities of the Company owned or to be
owned by such person or to require the Company to include such
securities in the securities registered pursuant to a Registration
Statement or in any securities being registered pursuant to any other
registration statement filed by the Company under the Act.
(viii) No consent, approval, authorization, or order of, or
filing with, any governmental agency or body or any court is required
to be obtained or made by the Company for the consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement or the Subscription
Agreement in connection with the sale of the Offered Securities, except
such as have been obtained and made under the Act and the
Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the
"HSR Act") and such as may be required under state securities laws.
(ix) The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement
and the Subscription Agreement, and the consummation of the
transactions herein and therein contemplated will not result in a
breach or violation of (A) any of the terms and provisions of, or
constitute a default under, any statute, any rule, regulation or order
of any governmental agency or body or any court, domestic or foreign,
having jurisdiction over the Company or any subsidiary of the Company
or any of their properties, or (B) any agreement or instrument to which
the Company or any such subsidiary is a party or by which the Company
or any such subsidiary is bound or to which any of the properties of
the Company or any such subsidiary is subject, or (C) the charter or
by-laws of the Company or any such subsidiary, except, in the cases of
(A) and (B), where such breach, violation or default, individually or
in the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect.
(x) Each of this Agreement and the Subscription Agreement has
been duly authorized, validly executed and delivered by the Company.
(xi) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, the Company and
its subsidiaries have good and marketable title to all real properties
and all other properties and assets owned by them, in each case free
from liens, encumbrances and defects that would materially affect the
value thereof or materially interfere with the use made or to be made
thereof by them; and except as disclosed in the Prospectus, the Company
and its subsidiaries hold any leased real or personal property under
valid and enforceable leases with no exceptions that would,
individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.
(xii) The Company and its subsidiaries possess adequate
certificates, authorities or permits issued by appropriate governmental
agencies or bodies necessary to conduct the business now operated by
them and have not received any notice of proceedings relating to the
revocation or modification of any such certificate, authority or permit
that, if determined adversely to the Company or any of its
subsidiaries, individually or in the aggregate, could be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect.
(xiii) No labor dispute with the employees of the Company or
any subsidiary exists or, to the knowledge of the Company, is imminent
that could be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
5
<PAGE> 6
(xiv) The Company and its subsidiaries own, possess or can
acquire on reasonable terms, adequate trademarks, trade names and
other rights to inventions, know-how, patents, copyrights,
confidential information and other intellectual property
(collectively, "intellectual property rights") necessary to conduct
the business now operated by them, or presently employed by them, and
have not received any notice of infringement of or conflict with
asserted rights of others with respect to any intellectual property
rights that, if determined adversely to the Company or any of its
subsidiaries, individually or in the aggregate, could be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect.
(xv) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, neither the
Company nor any of its subsidiaries is in violation of any statute, any
rule, regulation, decision or order of any governmental agency or body
or any court, domestic or foreign, relating to the use, disposal or
release of hazardous or toxic substances or relating to the protection
or restoration of the environment or human exposure to hazardous or
toxic substances (collectively, "environmental laws"), owns or operates
any real property contaminated with any substance that is subject to
any environmental laws, is liable for any off-site disposal or
contamination pursuant to any environmental laws, or is subject to any
claim relating to any environmental laws, which violation,
contamination, liability or claim, individually or in the aggregate,
could be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; and the Company is
not aware of any pending investigation which might lead to such a
claim.
(xvi) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, there are no
pending actions, suits or proceedings against or affecting the Company,
any of its subsidiaries or any of their respective properties that, if
determined adversely to the Company or any of its subsidiaries,
individually or in the aggregate, could be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect, or would materially and adversely affect the ability of
the Company to perform its obligations under this Agreement, or which
are otherwise material in the context of the sale of the Offered
Securities; and, to the Company's knowledge, no such actions, suits or
proceedings are threatened or contemplated.
(xvii) The financial statements included in each Registration
Statement and the Prospectus present fairly the financial position of
the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries as of the dates shown and
their results of operations and cash flows for the periods shown, and
such financial statements have been prepared in conformity with the
generally accepted accounting principles in the United States applied
on a consistent basis; the schedules included in each Registration
Statement present fairly the information required to be stated therein;
and the assumptions used in preparing the pro forma financial
statements included in each Registration Statement and the Prospectus
provide a reasonable basis for presenting the significant effects
directly attributable to the transactions or events described therein,
the related pro forma adjustments give appropriate effect to those
assumptions, and the pro forma columns therein reflect the proper
application of those adjustments to the corresponding historical
financial statement amounts.
(xviii) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, since the date
of the latest audited financial statements included in the Prospectus
there has been no material adverse change, nor any development or event
involving a prospective material adverse change, in the condition
(financial or other), business, properties or
6
<PAGE> 7
results of operations of the Company and its subsidiaries
individually, or taken as a whole, and, except as disclosed in or
contemplated by the Prospectus, there has been no dividend or
distribution of any kind declared, paid or made by the Company on any
class of its capital stock.
(xix) The Company is not and, after giving effect to the
offering and sale of the Offered Securities, will not be an "investment
company" as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940.
(b) Each Selling Stockholder, severally and not jointly,
represents and warrants to, and agrees with, the several Underwriters
that:
(i) Such Selling Stockholder is duly incorporated (if
such Selling Stockholder is a corporation) and validly
existing and, to the extent such concept exists in the
relevant jurisdiction, in good standing under the laws of the
jurisdiction of its incorporation.
(ii) Each of this Agreement and the Subscription
Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and, to the
extent such concept exists in the relevant jurisdiction,
delivered by such Selling Stockholder.
(iii) The execution and delivery by such Selling
Stockholder of, and the performance by such Selling
Stockholder of its obligations under, this Agreement and the
Subscription Agreement, will not contravene any provision of
applicable law, or the organizational documents of such
Selling Stockholder (if such Selling Stockholder is a
corporation), or any agreement or other instrument binding
upon such Selling Stockholder or any of its assets or any
judgment, order or decree of any governmental body, agency or
court having jurisdiction over such Selling Stockholder or any
of its assets, except where such contravention would not have,
individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect,
and no consent, approval, authorization, or order of, or
qualification or filing with, any governmental agency or body
or any court is required to be obtained or made by such
Selling Stockholder for the performance by such Selling
Stockholder of its obligations under this Agreement or the
Subscription Agreement, except (A) such as have been obtained
or made, (B) such as may be required by the securities or Blue
Sky laws of the various states of the United States of America
in connection with the offer and sale of the Offered
Securities in the United States of America and (C) such as may
be required by the securities laws of any jurisdiction outside
the United States of America.
(iv) Such Selling Stockholder has, and on each
Closing Date hereinafter mentioned will have, valid
unencumbered title to the Offered Securities to be sold by
such Selling Stockholder on such date and the legal right and
power, and all authorization and approval required by law, to
enter into this Agreement and the Subscription Agreement and
to sell, assign, transfer and deliver the Offered Securities
to be sold by such Selling Stockholder.
(v) Upon delivery of the Offered Securities to be
sold by such Selling Stockholder pursuant to this Agreement
and the Subscription Agreement and payment therefor as
contemplated by this Agreement and
7
<PAGE> 8
the Subscription Agreement, marketable title to the Offered
Securities will pass to the Underwriters free and clear of
any security interests, claims, liens, equities and other
encumbrances, other than security interests, liens, equities
or other encumbrances arising solely from the actions of the
Underwriters.
(vi) There are no material agreements or arrangements
relating to the Company or its subsidiaries to which such
Selling Stockholder, or to the best of such Selling
Stockholder's knowledge, to which any direct or indirect
stockholder of such Selling Stockholder is a party, which are
required to be described in the Registration Statements or the
Prospectus or to be filed as exhibits thereto that are not so
described or filed.
(vii) (a) Each Registration Statement, when such
Registration Statement became effective, did not contain and
each such Registration Statement, as amended or supplemented,
if applicable, will not contain any untrue statement of a
material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
misleading, (b) each Registration Statement and the Prospectus
comply and, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, will
comply in all material respects with the Act and the
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder
and (c) the Prospectus does not contain and, as amended or
supplemented, if applicable, will not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the
circumstances under which they were made, not misleading,
except that the foregoing representations and warranties apply
only to the extent that any statements or omissions in each
Registration Statement or the Prospectus are based upon
information relating to such Selling Stockholder and any
direct or indirect stockholder of such Selling Stockholder
furnished to the Company in writing by such Selling
Stockholder expressly for use therein.
3. Purchase, Sale and Delivery of Offered Securities. On the basis of
the representations, warranties and agreements herein contained, but subject to
the terms and conditions herein set forth, each Selling Stockholder agrees,
severally and not jointly, to sell to the Underwriters, and each Underwriter
agrees, severally and not jointly, to purchase from each Selling Stockholder, at
a purchase price of $[ - ] per share, that number of U.S. Firm Securities
(rounded up or down, as determined by CSFBC in its discretion, in order to avoid
fractions) obtained by multiplying the number of U.S. Firm Securities set forth
opposite the name of such Selling Stockholder in Schedule B hereto by a fraction
the numerator of which is the number of U. S. Firm Securities set forth opposite
the name of such Underwriter in Schedule A hereto and the denominator of which
is the total number of U.S. Firm Securities.
Each of the Selling Stockholders will deliver the U.S. Firm Securities
to the Representatives for the accounts of the Underwriters, against payment of
the purchase price in immediately available funds by official bank check or
checks or wire transfer to an account at a bank acceptable to CSFBC drawn to the
order of each of the Selling Stockholders at the office of Cravath, Swaine &
Moore ("Underwriters' Counsel"), at 10:00 a.m., New York time, on [ - ], or at
such other time not later than seven full business days thereafter as CSFBC and
the Selling Stockholders determine, such time being herein referred to as the
"First Closing Date". For purposes of Rule 15c6-1 under the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), the First Closing
8
<PAGE> 9
Date (if later than the otherwise applicable settlement date) shall be the
settlement date for payment of funds and delivery of securities for all the
Offered Securities sold pursuant to the U.S. Offering and the International
Offering. The certificates for the U.S. Firm Securities so to be delivered will
be in definitive form, in such denominations and registered in such names as
CSFBC requests and will be made available for checking and packaging at the
above office of Underwriters' Counsel at least 24 hours prior to the First
Closing Date.
In addition, upon written notice from CSFBC given to the Company and
the Selling Stockholders from time to time not more than 30 days subsequent to
the date of the Prospectus, the Underwriters may purchase all or less than all
of the Optional Securities at the purchase price per Security to be paid for the
U.S. Firm Securities. Each of the Selling Stockholders agrees, severally and not
jointly, to sell to the Underwriters the respective numbers of Optional
Securities obtained by multiplying the number of Optional Securities specified
in such notice by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of shares set
forth opposite the names of such Selling Stockholders in Schedule B hereto under
the caption "Number of Optional Securities to be Sold" and the denominator of
which is the total number of Optional Securities (subject to adjustment by CSFBC
to eliminate fractions). Such Optional Securities shall be purchased from each
Selling Stockholder for the account of each Underwriter and Manager in the same
proportion as the number of U.S. Firm Securities set forth opposite such
Underwriter's name bears to the total number of U.S. Firm Securities and the
number of International Firm Securities set forth opposite such Manager's name
bears to the total number of International Firm Securities (subject to
adjustment by CSFBC to eliminate fractions) and may be purchased by the
Underwriters only for the purpose of covering over-allotments made in connection
with the sale of the Firm Securities. No Optional Securities shall be sold or
delivered unless the U.S. Firm Securities and the International Firm Securities
previously have been, or simultaneously are, sold and delivered. The right to
purchase the Optional Securities or any portion thereof may be exercised from
time to time and to the extent not previously exercised may be surrendered and
terminated at any time upon notice by CSFBC to the Selling Stockholders.
Each time for the delivery of and payment for the Optional Securities,
being herein referred to as an "Optional Closing Date", which may be the First
Closing Date (the First Closing Date and each Optional Closing Date, if any,
being sometimes referred to as a "Closing Date"), shall be determined by CSFBC
but shall be not later than five full business days after written notice of
election to purchase Optional Securities is given. Each of the Selling
Stockholders will deliver the Optional Securities being purchased on each
Optional Closing Date to the Representatives for the accounts of the several
Underwriters, against payment of the purchase price in immediately available
funds by official bank check or checks or wire transfer to an account at a bank
acceptable to CSFBC drawn to the order of each of the Selling Shareholders, at
the above office of Underwriters' Counsel. The certificates for the Optional
Securities being purchased on each Optional Closing Date will be in definitive
form, in such denominations and registered in such names as CSFBC requests upon
reasonable notice prior to such Optional Closing Date and will be made available
for checking and packaging at the above office of Underwriters' Counsel at a
reasonable time in advance of such Optional Closing Date.
4. Offering by Underwriters. It is understood that the several
Underwriters propose to offer the U.S. Securities for sale to the public as set
forth in the Prospectus.
9
<PAGE> 10
5. Certain Agreements of the Company. The Company agrees with the
several Underwriters that:
(a) If the Effective Time of the Initial Registration
Statement is prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the
Company will file the Prospectus with the Commission pursuant to and in
accordance with subparagraph (1) (or, if applicable and if consented to
by CSFBC, subparagraph (4)) of Rule 424(b) not later than the earlier
of (A) the second business day following the execution and delivery of
this Agreement or (B) the fifteenth business day after the Effective
Date of the Initial Registration Statement. The Company will advise
CSFBC promptly of any such filing pursuant to Rule 424(b). If the
Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is prior to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement and an additional registration
statement is necessary to register a portion of the Offered Securities
under the Act but the Effective Time thereof has not occurred as of
such execution and delivery, the Company will file the additional
registration statement or, if filed, will file a post-effective
amendment thereto with the Commission pursuant to and in accordance
with Rule 462(b) on or prior to 10:00 p.m., New York time, on the date
of this Agreement or, if earlier, on or prior to the time the
Prospectus is printed and distributed to any Underwriter, or will make
such filing at such later date as shall have been consented to by
CSFBC.
(b) The Company will advise CSFBC promptly of any proposal to
amend or supplement the initial or any additional registration
statement as filed or the related prospectus or the Initial
Registration Statement, the Additional Registration Statement (if any)
or the Prospectus and will not effect such amendment or supplementation
without CSFBC's consent (which will not be unreasonably withheld); and
the Company will also advise CSFBC promptly of the effectiveness of
each Registration Statement (if its Effective Time is subsequent to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement) and of any amendment or
supplementation of a Registration Statement or the Prospectus and of
the institution by the Commission of any stop order proceedings in
respect of a Registration Statement and will use its best efforts to
prevent the issuance of any such stop order and to obtain as soon as
possible its lifting, if issued.
(c) If, at any time when a prospectus relating to the Offered
Securities is required to be delivered under the Act in connection with
sales by any Underwriter or dealer, any event occurs as a result of
which the Prospectus as then amended or supplemented would include an
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact
necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the
circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, or if it is
necessary at any time to amend the Prospectus to comply with the Act,
the Company will promptly notify CSFBC of such event and will promptly
prepare and file with the Commission, at its own expense, an amendment
or supplement which will correct such statement or omission or an
amendment which will effect such compliance. Neither CSFBC's consent
to, nor the Underwriters' delivery of, any such amendment or supplement
shall constitute a waiver of any of the conditions set forth in Section
6.
(d) As soon as practicable, but not later than the
Availability Date (as defined below), the Company will make generally
available to its securityholders
10
<PAGE> 11
an earnings statement covering a period of at least 12 months
beginning after the Effective Date of the Initial Registration
Statement (or, if later, the Effective Date of the Additional
Registration Statement) which will satisfy the provisions of Section
11(a) of the Act. For the purpose of the preceding sentence,
"Availability Date" means the 45th day after the end of the fourth
fiscal quarter following the fiscal quarter that includes such
Effective Date, except that, if such fourth fiscal quarter is the last
quarter of the Company's fiscal year, "Availability Date" means the
90th day after the end of such fourth fiscal quarter.
(e) The Company will furnish to the Representatives copies of
each Registration Statement (five of which will be signed and will
include all exhibits), each related preliminary prospectus, and, so
long as a prospectus relating to the Offered Securities is required to
be delivered under the Act in connection with sales by any Underwriter
or dealer, the U.S. Prospectus and all amendments and supplements to
such documents, in each case in such quantities as CSFBC reasonably
requests. The Prospectus shall be so furnished on or prior to 3:00
p.m., New York time, on the business day following the later of the
execution and delivery of this Agreement or the Effective Time of the
Initial Registration Statement. All other such documents shall be so
furnished as soon as available. The Company will pay the expenses of
printing and distributing to the Underwriters all such documents.
(f) The Company will arrange for the qualification of the
Offered Securities for sale under the laws of such jurisdictions as
CSFBC designates and will continue such qualifications in effect so
long as required for the distribution; provided, that in no event shall
the Company be obligated to qualify to do business in any jurisdiction
where it is not now so qualified or to take any action which would
subject it to general service of process in any jurisdiction where it
is not now so subject.
(g) During the period of 5 years hereafter, the Company will
furnish to the Representatives and, upon request, to each of the other
Underwriters, as soon as practicable after the end of each fiscal year,
a copy of its annual report to stockholders for such year; and the
Company will furnish to the Representatives (i) as soon as available, a
copy of each report and any definitive proxy statement of the Company
filed with the Commission under the Exchange Act or mailed to
stockholders, and (ii) from time to time, such other information
concerning the Company as CSFBC may reasonably request.
(h) For a period of 90 days after the date of the initial
public offering of the Offered Securities (the "Lockup Period"), the
Company will not offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise
dispose of, directly or indirectly, or file (other than on a Form S-8)
with the Commission a registration statement under the Act relating to,
any additional shares of its Securities or securities convertible into
or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of its Securities, or
publicly disclose the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge,
disposition or filing, without the prior written consent of CSFBC,
except issuances of Securities pursuant to the conversion or exchange
of convertible or exchangeable securities or the exercise of warrants
or options, in each case outstanding on the date hereof, grants of
employee stock options pursuant to the terms of a plan in effect on the
date hereof, issuances of Securities pursuant to the exercise of such
options or issuances of Securities pursuant to the Company's dividend
reinvestment plan. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection
(h), the Company may file, but
11
<PAGE> 12
may not offer, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities during the
Lockup Period pursuant to, a registration statement in connection with
(A) the exercise by Artal Luxembourg S.A ("Artal") of any remaining
demand registration rights under the Artal Stock Purchase Agreement
(the "Artal Agreement"), dated as of January 28, 1998, among Artal,
Flowers Industries, Inc. ("Flowers") and the Company or (B) the
exercise of any related incidental registration rights by Claremont,
Limited ("Claremont") under the Claremont Stock Purchase Agreement (the
"Claremont Agreement"), dated as of January 28, 1998, among Claremont,
Artal, Flowers and the Company.
The Company agrees with the several Underwriters that the Company will
pay all expenses incident to the performance of its obligations and the
obligations of the Selling Stockholders under this Agreement, for any filing
fees and other expenses (including fees and disbursements of counsel) incurred
in connection with qualification of the Offered Securities for sale under the
laws of such jurisdictions as CSFBC designates and the printing of memoranda
relating thereto, for any travel expenses of the Company's officers and
employees and any other expenses of the Company in connection with attending or
hosting meetings with prospective purchasers of the Offered Securities, for any
transfer taxes on the sale of the Offered Securities to the Underwriters and for
expenses incurred in printing and distributing preliminary prospectuses and the
Prospectus (including any amendments and supplements thereto) to the
Underwriters.
Each Selling Stockholder agrees to deliver to CSFBC, attention:
Transactions Advisory Group, on or prior to the First Closing Date, a properly
completed and executed United States Treasury Department Form W-9 (or other
applicable form or statement specified by Treasury Department regulations in
lieu thereof).
Each Selling Stockholder agrees, during the Lockup Period, not to
offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of, directly or
indirectly, any additional shares of the Securities of the Company or securities
convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of Securities, or
publicly disclose the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge or
disposition, without the prior written consent of CSFBC. Notwithstanding the
provisions of this paragraph, the Company may file, but may not offer, sell or
otherwise dispose of any securities during the Lockup Period pursuant to, a
registration statement in connection with (A) the exercise by Artal of any
remaining demand registration rights under the Artal Agreement or (B) the
exercise of any related incidental registration rights by Claremont under the
Claremont Agreement.
6. Conditions of the Obligations of the Underwriters. The obligations
of the several Underwriters to purchase and pay for the U.S. Firm Securities on
the First Closing Date and the Optional Securities to be purchased on each
Optional Closing Date will be subject to the accuracy of the representations and
warranties on the part of the Company and the Selling Stockholders herein, to
the accuracy of the statements of Company officers made pursuant to the
provisions hereof, to the performance by the Company and the Selling
Stockholders of their obligations hereunder and to the following additional
conditions precedent:
(a) The Representatives shall have received a letter, dated
the date of delivery thereof (which, if the Effective Time of the
Initial Registration Statement is prior to the execution and delivery
of this Agreement, shall be on or prior to the date of this Agreement
or, if the Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is
subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, shall be
prior to the filing of the amendment or post-effective amendment to the
12
<PAGE> 13
registration statement to be filed shortly prior to such Effective
Time), of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP confirming that they are
independent public accountants within the meaning of the Act and the
applicable published Rules and Regulations thereunder and stating to
the effect that:
(i) in their opinion the financial statements and
schedules examined by them and included in the Registration
Statements comply as to form in all material respects with the
applicable accounting requirements of the Act and the related
published Rules and Regulations;
(ii) they have performed the procedures specified by
the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants for a
review of interim financial information as described in
Statement of Auditing Standards No. 71, Interim Financial
Information, on the unaudited financial statements included in
the Registration Statements;
(iii) on the basis of the review referred to in
clause (ii) above, a reading of the latest available interim
financial statements of the Company, inquiries of officials of
the Company who have responsibility for financial and
accounting matters and other specified procedures, nothing
came to their attention that caused them to believe that:
(A) the unaudited financial statements
included in the Registration Statements do not comply
as to form in all material respects with the
applicable accounting requirements of the Act and the
related published Rules and Regulations or any
material modifications should be made to such
unaudited financial statements for them to be in
conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles;
(B) the unaudited consolidated net sales,
net operating income and net income and net income
per share amounts for the 40-week periods ended
October 4, 1997 and October 10, 1998, included in the
Prospectus do not agree with the amounts set forth in
the unaudited consolidated financial statements for
those same periods or were not determined on a basis
substantially consistent with that of the
corresponding amounts in the audited statements of
income;
(C) at the date of the latest available
balance sheet read by such accountants, or at a
subsequent specified date not more than three
business days prior to the date of this Agreement,
there was any change in the capital stock or any
increase in short-term indebtedness or long-term debt
of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries or,
at the date of the latest available balance sheet
read by such accountants, there was any decrease in
consolidated net assets, as compared with amounts
shown on the latest balance sheet included in the
Prospectus;
(D) for the period from the closing date of
the latest income statement included in the
Prospectus to the closing date of the latest
available income statement read by such accountants
there were any decreases, as compared with the
corresponding
13
<PAGE> 14
period of the previous year and with the period of
corresponding length ended the date of the latest
income statement included in the Prospectus, in
consolidated net sales, net operating income in the
total or per share amounts of consolidated, net
income; or
(E) the unaudited pro forma consolidated
financial statements included in the Prospectus do
not comply as to form in all material respects with
the applicable accounting requirements of the Act and
the related published Rules and Regulations
thereunder or the pro forma adjustments have not been
properly applied to the historical amounts in the
compilation of those statements;
except in all cases set forth in clauses (C) and (D) above for
changes, increases or decreases which the Prospectus discloses
have occurred or may occur or which are described in such
letter; and
(iv) they have compared specified dollar amounts (or
percentages derived from such dollar amounts) and other
financial information contained in the Registration Statements
(in each case to the extent that such dollar amounts,
percentages and other financial information are derived from
the general accounting records of the Company and its
subsidiaries subject to the internal controls of the Company's
accounting system or are derived directly from such records by
analysis or computation) with the results obtained from
inquiries, a reading of such general accounting records and
other procedures specified in such letter and have found such
dollar amounts, percentages and other financial information to
be in agreement with such results, except as otherwise
specified in such letter.
For purposes of this subsection, (i) if the Effective Time of the
Initial Registration Statement is subsequent to the execution and
delivery of this Agreement, "Registration Statements" shall mean the
initial registration statement as proposed to be amended by the
amendment or post-effective amendment to be filed shortly prior to its
Effective Time, (ii) if the Effective Time of the Initial Registration
Statement is prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement but
the Effective Time of the Additional Registration Statement is
subsequent to such execution and delivery, "Registration Statements"
shall mean the Initial Registration Statement and the additional
registration statement as proposed to be filed or as proposed to be
amended by the post-effective amendment to be filed shortly prior to
its Effective Time, and (iii) "Prospectus" shall mean the prospectus
included in the Registration Statements.
(b) The Representatives shall have received a letter, dated
the date of delivery thereof (which, if the Effective Time of the
Initial Registration Statement is prior to the execution and delivery
of this Agreement, shall be on or prior to the date of this Agreement
or, if the Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is
subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, shall be
prior to the filing of the amendment or post-effective amendment to the
registration statement to be filed shortly prior to such Effective
Time), of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP with respect to the financial
statements and other financial information of President International,
Inc. included in the Registration Statements, in a form substantially
similar to that set forth in paragraph (a) above.
14
<PAGE> 15
(c) If the Effective Time of the Initial Registration
Statement is not prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement,
such Effective Time shall have occurred not later than 10:00 p.m., New
York time, on the date of this Agreement or such later date as shall
have been consented to by CSFBC. If the Effective Time of the
Additional Registration Statement (if any) is not prior to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement, such Effective Time shall
have occurred not later than 10:00 p.m., New York time, on the date of
this Agreement or, if earlier, the time the Prospectus is printed and
distributed to any Underwriter, or shall have occurred at such later
date as shall have been consented to by CSFBC. If the Effective Time of
the Initial Registration Statement is prior to the execution and
delivery of this Agreement, the Prospectus shall have been filed with
the Commission in accordance with the Rules and Regulations and Section
5(a) of this Agreement. Prior to such Closing Date, no stop order
suspending the effectiveness of a Registration Statement shall have
been issued and no proceedings for that purpose shall have been
instituted or, to the knowledge of any Selling Stockholder, the Company
or the Representatives, shall be contemplated by the Commission.
(d) Subsequent to the execution and delivery of this
Agreement, there shall not have occurred (i) any change, or any
development or event involving a prospective change, in the condition
(financial or other), business, properties or results of operations of
the Company or its subsidiaries which, in the judgment of a majority in
interest of the Underwriters including the Representatives, is material
and adverse and makes it impractical or inadvisable to proceed with
completion of the public offering or the sale of and payment for the
Offered Securities; (ii) any downgrading in the rating of any debt
securities of the Company by any "nationally recognized statistical
rating organization" (as defined for purposes of Rule 436(g) under the
Act), or any public announcement that any such organization has under
surveillance or review its rating of any debt securities of the Company
(other than an announcement with positive implications of a possible
upgrading, and no implication of a possible downgrading, of such
rating); (iii) any suspension or limitation of trading in securities
generally on the NYSE, or any setting of minimum prices for trading on
such exchange, or any suspension of trading of any securities of the
Company on any exchange or in the over-the-counter market; (iv) any
banking moratorium declared by U.S. Federal or New York authorities; or
(v) any outbreak or escalation of major hostilities in which the United
States is involved, any declaration of war by Congress or any other
substantial national or international calamity or emergency if, in the
judgment of a majority in interest of the Underwriters including the
Representatives, the effect of any such outbreak, escalation,
declaration, calamity or emergency makes it impractical or inadvisable
to proceed with completion of the public offering or the sale of and
payment for the Offered Securities.
(e) The Representatives shall have received an opinion, dated
such Closing Date, of Winston & Strawn, counsel for the Company, in the
form attached hereto as Annex I.
(f) The Representatives shall have received the opinion, dated
such Closing Date of each of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, U.S. counsel
for Artal, Arendt & Medernach, Luxembourg counsel for Artal, Battle
Fowler, U.S. counsel
15
<PAGE> 16
for Claremont, and Appleby Spurling & Kempe, Bermuda counsel for
Claremont, in the forms attached hereto as Annexes II, III, IV and V,
respectively.
(g) The Representatives shall have received from Cravath,
Swaine & Moore, counsel for the Underwriters, such opinion or opinions,
dated such Closing Date, with respect to such matters as the
Representatives may require, and the Selling Stockholders and the
Company shall have furnished to such counsel such documents as they
request for the purpose of enabling them to pass upon such matters.
(h) The Representatives shall have received a certificate,
dated such Closing Date, of the President or any Vice President and a
principal financial or accounting officer of the Company in which such
officers, to the best of their knowledge after reasonable
investigation, shall state that: the representations and warranties of
the Company in this Agreement and the Subscription Agreement are true
and correct; the Company has complied with all agreements and satisfied
all conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied hereunder at or
prior to such Closing Date; no stop order suspending the effectiveness
of any Registration Statement has been issued and no proceedings for
that purpose have been instituted or are contemplated by the
Commission; the Additional Registration Statement (if any) satisfying
the requirements of subparagraphs (1) and (3) of Rule 462(b) was filed
pursuant to Rule 462(b), including payment of the applicable filing fee
in accordance with Rule 111(a) or (b) under the Act, prior to the time
the Prospectus was printed and distributed to any underwriter; and,
subsequent to the dates of the most recent financial statements in the
Prospectus, there has been no material adverse change, nor any
development or event involving a prospective material adverse change,
in the condition (financial or other), business, properties or results
of operations of the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole
except as set forth in or contemplated by the Prospectus or as
described in such certificate.
(i) The Representatives shall have received a letter, dated
such Closing Date, of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP which meets the
requirements of subsection (a) of this Section, except that the
specified date referred to in such subsection will be a date not more
than three business days prior to such Closing Date for the purposes of
this subsection.
(j) The Representatives shall have received a letter, dated
such Closing Date, of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP which meets the
requirements of subsection (b) of this Section, except that the
specified date referred to in such subsection will be a date not more
than three business days prior to such Closing Date for the purposes of
this subsection.
(k) Flowers shall have furnished to the Representatives a
letter substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto and addressed to
the Representatives relating to sales of shares of Securities or any
securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for such
Securities, and each such letter shall be in full force and effect on
the Closing Date.
(l) Each executive officer and director of the Company shall
have furnished to the Representatives a letter substantially in the
form of Exhibit B hereto and addressed to the Representatives relating
to sales of shares of Securities or any securities convertible into or
exercisable or exchangeable for
16
<PAGE> 17
such Securities, and each such letter shall be in full force and
effect on the Closing Date.
(m) Each Selling Stockholder shall deliver to the
Representatives a properly completed and executed United States
Treasury Form W-9 (or other applicable form or statement specified by
Treasury Department regulations in lieu thereof).
Each of the Selling Stockholders and the Company will furnish the
Representatives with such conformed copies of such opinions, certificates,
letters and documents as the Representatives reasonably request. CSFBC may in
its sole discretion waive on behalf of the Underwriters compliance with any
conditions to the obligations of the Underwriters hereunder, whether in respect
of an Optional Closing Date or otherwise.
7. Indemnification and Contribution. (a) The Company will indemnify and
hold harmless each Underwriter and each Selling Stockholder against any losses,
claims, damages or liabilities, joint or several, to which such Underwriter or
Selling Stockholder, as the case may be, may become subject, under the Act or
otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in
respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement or alleged
untrue statement of any material fact contained in any Registration Statement,
the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, or any related
preliminary prospectus, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or
alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and will reimburse
each Underwriter and each Selling Stockholder for any legal or other expenses
reasonably incurred by such Underwriter or Selling Stockholder, as the case may
be, in connection with investigating or defending any such loss, claim, damage,
liability or action as such expenses are incurred; provided, however, that the
Company will not be liable in any such case to the extent that any such loss,
claim, damage or liability arises out of or is based upon an untrue statement or
alleged untrue statement in or omission or alleged omission from any of such
documents in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished
to the Company (i) by any Underwriter through the Representatives specifically
for use therein, it being understood and agreed that the only such information
furnished by any Underwriter consists of the information described as such in
subsection (c) below or (ii) by any Selling Stockholder specifically for use
therein.
(b) Each of the Selling Stockholders, severally and not jointly, will
indemnify and hold harmless each Underwriter against any losses, claims, damages
or liabilities, joint or several, to which such Underwriter may become subject,
under the Act or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, damages or
liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any
untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of any material fact contained in
any Registration Statement, the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement
thereto, or any related preliminary prospectus, or arise out of or are based
upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required
to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading,
in each case to the extent, but only to the extent, that such untrue statement
or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission was made in reliance
upon and in conformity with written information about such Selling Stockholder
(or any direct or indirect stockholders of such Selling Stockholder) furnished
to the Company by such Selling Stockholder specifically for use therein, and
will reimburse each Underwriter for any legal or other expenses reasonably
incurred by such Underwriter in connection with investigating or defending any
such loss, claim, damage, liability or action as such expenses are incurred;
17
<PAGE> 18
provided, however, that such Selling Stockholder will not be liable in any such
case to the extent that any such loss, claim, damage or liability arises out of
or is based upon an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement in or omission
or alleged omission from any of such documents in reliance upon and in
conformity with written information furnished to the
Company by an Underwriter through the Representatives specifically for use
therein, it being understood and agreed that the only such information furnished
by any Underwriter consists of the information described as such in subsection
(c) below.
(c) Each Underwriter will severally and not jointly indemnify and hold
harmless the Company and each Selling Stockholder against any losses, claims,
damages or liabilities to which the Company or such Selling Stockholder may
become subject, under the Act or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims,
damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based
upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of any material fact
contained in any Registration Statement, the Prospectus, or any amendment or
supplement thereto, or any related preliminary prospectus, or arise out of or
are based upon the omission or the alleged omission to state therein a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein
not misleading, in each case to the extent, but only to the extent, that such
untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission was
made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to
the Company by such Underwriter through the Representatives specifically for use
therein, and will reimburse any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by
the Company and each Selling Stockholder in connection with investigating or
defending any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action as such expenses are
incurred, it being understood and agreed that the only such information
furnished by any Underwriter consists of the following information in the
Prospectus furnished on behalf of each Underwriter: the concession and
reallowance figures appearing in the fifth paragraph under the caption
"Underwriting" and the over-allotments and stabilizing language appearing in the
thirteenth paragraph under the caption "Underwriting".
(d) Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party under this Section
of notice of the commencement of any action, such indemnified party will, if a
claim in respect thereof is to be made against an indemnifying party under
subsection (a), (b) or (c) above, notify the indemnifying party of the
commencement thereof; but the omission so to notify the indemnifying party will
not relieve it from any liability which it may have to any indemnified party
otherwise than under subsection (a), (b) or (c) above. In case any such action
is brought against any indemnified party and it notifies an indemnifying party
of the commencement thereof, the indemnifying party will be entitled to
participate therein and, to the extent that it may wish, jointly with any other
indemnifying party similarly notified, to assume the defense thereof, with
counsel satisfactory to such indemnified party (who shall not, except with the
consent of the indemnified party, be counsel to the indemnifying party), and
after notice from the indemnifying party to such indemnified party of its
election so to assume the defense thereof, the indemnifying party will not be
liable to such indemnified party under this Section for any legal or other
expenses subsequently incurred by such indemnified party in connection with the
defense thereof other than reasonable costs of investigation. No indemnifying
party shall, without the prior written consent of the indemnified party, effect
any settlement of any pending or threatened action in respect of which any
indemnified party is or could have been a party and indemnity could have been
sought hereunder by such indemnified party unless such settlement includes an
unconditional release of such indemnified party from all liability on any claims
that are the subject matter of such action.
18
<PAGE> 19
(e) If the indemnification provided for in this Section is unavailable
or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party under subsection (a), (b)
or (c) above, then each indemnifying party shall contribute to the amount paid
or payable by such indemnified party as a result of the losses, claims, damages
or liabilities referred to in subsection (a), (b) or (c) above (i) in such
proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the
Company and the Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the Underwriters on
the other from the offering of the Offered Securities or (ii) if the allocation
provided by clause (i) above is not permitted by applicable law, in such
proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred
to in clause (i) above but also the relative fault of the Company and the
Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the Underwriters on the other in
connection with the statements or omissions which resulted in such losses,
claims, damages or liabilities as well as any other relevant equitable
considerations. The relative benefits received by the Company and the Selling
Stockholders on the one hand and the Underwriters on the other shall be deemed
to be in the same proportion as the total net proceeds from the offering
(before deducting expenses) received by the Selling Stockholders bear to the
total underwriting discounts and commissions received by the Underwriters. The
relative fault shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether
the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or the omission or
alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by
the Company, the Selling Stockholders or the Underwriters and the parties'
relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or
prevent such untrue statement or omission. The amount paid by an indemnified
party as a result of the losses, claims, damages or liabilities referred to in
the first sentence of this subsection (e) shall be deemed to include any legal
or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party in connection
with investigating or defending any action or claim which is the subject of
this subsection (e). Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection (e), no
Underwriter shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the amount
by which the total price at which the Securities underwritten by it and
distributed to the public were offered to the public exceeds the amount of any
damages which such Underwriter has otherwise been required to pay by reason of
such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission. No
person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section
11(f) of the Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was
not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation. The Underwriters' obligations
in this subsection (e) to contribute are several in proportion to their
respective underwriting obligations and not joint.
(f) The obligations of the Company and each Selling Stockholder under
this Section shall be in addition to any liability which the Company and such
Selling Stockholder may otherwise have and shall extend, upon the same terms and
conditions, to each person, if any, who controls any Underwriter within the
meaning of the Act; and the obligations of the Underwriters under this Section
shall be in addition to any liability which the respective Underwriters may
otherwise have and shall extend, upon the same terms and conditions, to each
director of the Company, to each officer of the Company who has signed a
Registration Statement and to each person, if any, who controls the Company
within the meaning of the Act.
The maximum liability of each Selling Stockholder to indemnify or
contribute payments pursuant to this Section 7 shall not exceed the aggregate
net proceeds (after deducting the Underwriters' discount) of the Offered
Securities (including the sale of shares on exercise of the over-allotment
option, if any) to such Selling Stockholder.
19
<PAGE> 20
8. Default of Underwriters. If any Underwriter or Underwriters default
in their obligations to purchase Offered Securities hereunder on either the
First Closing Date or any Optional Closing Date and the aggregate number of
shares of Offered Securities that such defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters
agreed but failed to purchase does not exceed 10% of the total number of shares
of Offered Securities that the Underwriters are obligated to purchase on such
Closing Date, CSFBC may make arrangements satisfactory to the Selling
Stockholders for the purchase of such Offered Securities by other persons,
including any of the Underwriters, but if no such arrangements are made by such
Closing Date, the non-defaulting Underwriters shall be obligated severally, in
proportion to their respective commitments hereunder, to purchase the Offered
Securities that such defaulting Underwriters agreed but failed to purchase on
such Closing Date. If any Underwriter or Underwriters so default and the
aggregate number of shares of Offered Securities with respect to which such
default or defaults occur exceeds 10% of the total number of shares of Offered
Securities that the Underwriters are obligated to purchase on such Closing Date
and arrangements satisfactory to CSFBC and the Selling Stockholders for the
purchase of such Offered Securities by other persons are not made within 36
hours after such default, this Agreement will terminate without liability on the
part of any non-defaulting Underwriter, the Company or the Selling Stockholders,
except as provided in Section 9 (provided that if such default occurs with
respect to Optional Securities after the First Closing Date, this Agreement will
not terminate as to the U.S. Firm Securities or any Optional Securities
purchased prior to such termination). As used in this Agreement, the term
"Underwriter" includes any person substituted for an Underwriter under this
Section. Nothing herein will relieve a defaulting Underwriter from liability for
its default.
9. Survival of Certain Representations and Obligations. The respective
indemnities, agreements, representations, warranties and other statements of the
Selling Stockholders, of the Company or its officers and of the several
Underwriters set forth in or made pursuant to this Agreement will remain in full
force and effect, regardless of any investigation, or statement as to the
results thereof, made by or on behalf of any Underwriter, any Selling
Stockholder, the Company or any of their respective representatives, officers or
directors or any controlling person, and will survive delivery of and payment
for the Offered Securities. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section
8 or if for any reason the purchase of the Offered Securities by the
Underwriters is not consummated, the Company shall remain responsible for the
expenses to be paid or reimbursed by them pursuant to Section 5 and the
respective obligations of the Company, the Selling Stockholders and the
Underwriters pursuant to Section 7 shall remain in effect, and if any Offered
Securities have been purchased hereunder the representations and warranties in
Section 2 and all obligations under Section 5 shall also remain in effect. If
the purchase of the Offered Securities by the Underwriters is not consummated
for any reason other than solely because of the termination of this Agreement
pursuant to Section 8 or the occurrence of any event specified in clause (iii),
(iv) or (v) of Section 6(d), the Company will reimburse the Underwriters for all
out-of-pocket expenses (including fees and disbursements of counsel) reasonably
incurred by them in connection with the offering of the Offered Securities.
10. Notices. All communications hereunder will be in writing and, if
sent to the Underwriters, will be mailed, delivered or telegraphed and confirmed
to the Representatives, c/o Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation, Eleven
Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010-3629, Attention: Investment Banking
Department-Transactions Advisory Group, or, if sent to the Company, will be
mailed, delivered or telegraphed and confirmed to it at 677 Larch Avenue,
Elmhurst, Illinois 60126, Attention: Thomas E. O'Neill, or, if sent to Artal
Luxembourg S.A., will be mailed, delivered or telegraphed
20
<PAGE> 21
and confirmed to it at 39 Boulevard Royal, Luxembourg City, Luxembourg 2449,
Attention: Managing Director, or, if sent to Claremont Enterprises, Ltd, will
be mailed, delivered or telegraphed and confirmed to it at c/o G.F. Industries,
Inc., 999 Baker Way, Suite 200, San Mateo, CA 94404, Attention: Michael
Uytengsu; provided, however, that any notice to an Underwriter pursuant to
Section 7 will be mailed, delivered or telegraphed and confirmed to such
Underwriter.
11. Successors. This Agreement will inure to the benefit of and be
binding upon the parties hereto and their respective personal representatives,
heirs and successors and the officers and directors and controlling persons
referred to in Section 7, and no other person will have any right or obligation
hereunder.
12. Representation. The Representatives will act for the several
Underwriters in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement,
and any action under this Agreement taken by the Representatives jointly or by
CSFBC will be binding upon all the Underwriters.
13. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all such
counterparts shall together constitute one and the same Agreement.
14. APPLICABLE LAW. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED
IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO
PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAWS.
Each of the Company and the Selling Stockholders hereby submits to the
non-exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal and state courts in the Borough of
Manhattan in The City of New York in any suit or proceeding arising out of or
relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
If the foregoing is in accordance with the Representatives'
understanding of our agreement, kindly sign and return to the Company one of the
counterparts hereof,
21
<PAGE> 22
whereupon it will become a binding agreement among the Selling Stockholders, the
Company and the several Underwriters in accordance with its terms.
Very truly yours,
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY,
by
---------------------------------
Name:
Title:
ARTAL LUXEMBOURG S.A.,
by
---------------------------------
Name:
Title:
CLAREMONT ENTERPRISES, LTD
by
---------------------------------
Name:
Title:
22
<PAGE> 23
The foregoing Underwriting Agreement is
hereby confirmed and accepted as of the
date first above written.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
[ - ]
As Representatives of the several U.S. Underwriters
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
by
-------------------------------
Name:
Title:
23
<PAGE> 24
SCHEDULE A
Number of U.S.
Firm Securities
Underwriter to be Purchased
- ----------- ---------------
Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation
------------
Total ==============
<PAGE> 25
SCHEDULE B
Number of
Number of U.S. Optional
Firm Securities Securities
Selling Stockholder to be Sold to be Sold
- ------------------- ---------- ----------
Artal Luxembourg S.A.
----------- ----------
Claremont Enterprises, Ltd
----------- ----------
Total
<PAGE> 26
Annex I
[Form of Opinion of Winston & Strawn]
<PAGE> 27
Annex II
[Form of Opinion of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett]
<PAGE> 28
Annex III
[Form of Opinion of Arendt & Medernach]
<PAGE> 29
Annex IV
[Form of Opinion of Battle Fowler]
<PAGE> 30
Annex V
[Form of Opinion of Appleby Spurling & Kempe]
<PAGE> 31
Exhibit A
[ ]
Keebler Foods Company
677 Larch Avenue
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation
[ - ]
c/o Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation
Eleven Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10010
Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited
[ - ]
c/o Credit Suisse First Boston Limited
One Cabot Square
London E14 4QJ
ENGLAND
Dear Sirs:
As an inducement to the Underwriters and Managers to execute
the Underwriting and/or Subscription Agreement, pursuant to which a secondary
offering will be made of the Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share (the
"Securities") of Keebler Foods Company (the "Company"), the undersigned hereby
agrees that, for a period of 90 days after the public offering (the
"Commencement Date") of the Securities pursuant to the Underwriting and/or
Subscription Agreement to which you are or expect to become parties, the
undersigned will not offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose
of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Securities or securities convertible
into or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of Securities, or publicly
disclose the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge or disposal without
the prior written consent of Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation.
In furtherance of the foregoing, the Company and its transfer
agent and registrar are hereby authorized to decline to make any transfer of
shares of Securities if such transfer would constitute a violation or breach of
this Agreement.
This Agreement shall be binding on the undersigned and the
respective successors, heirs, personal representatives and assigns of the
undersigned. This Agreement shall lapse and become null and void if the
Commencement Date shall not have occurred on or before the date that is 90 days
after the date of this Agreement.
Very truly yours,
________________________________
<PAGE> 32
Exhibit B
[ ]
Keebler Foods Company
677 Larch Avenue
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation
[ - ]
c/o Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation
Eleven Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10010
Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited
[ - ]
c/o Credit Suisse First Boston Limited
One Cabot Square
London E14 4QJ
ENGLAND
Dear Sirs:
As an inducement to the Underwriters and Managers to execute
the Underwriting and/or Subscription Agreement, pursuant to which a secondary
offering will be made of the Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share (the
"Securities") of Keebler Foods Company (the "Company"), the undersigned hereby
agrees that, for a period of 60 days after the public offering (the
"Commencement Date") of the Securities pursuant to the Underwriting and/or
Subscription Agreement to which you are or expect to become parties, the
undersigned will not offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose
of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Securities or securities convertible
into or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of Securities, or publicly
disclose the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge or disposal without
the prior written consent of Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph (i) the undersigned shall be
entitled to exercise its rights to require the Company to repurchase a certain
amount of its shares of Common Stock of the Company in accordance with the
Management Stockholders Agreement dated May 10, 1996, as amended and
supplemented on February 3, 1998, and (ii) the undersigned shall be entitled to
enter into certain tax free share exchanges as agreed upon between the
undersigned and Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation.
In furtherance of the foregoing, the Company and its transfer
agent and registrar are hereby authorized to decline to make any transfer of
shares of Securities if such transfer would constitute a violation or breach of
this Agreement.
This Agreement shall be binding on the undersigned and the
respective successors, heirs, personal representatives and assigns of the
undersigned. This Agreement shall lapse and become null and void if the
Commencement Date shall not have occurred on or before the date that is 60 days
after the date of this Agreement.
Very truly yours,
________________________________
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 1.2
[ - ] SHARES
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY
COMMON STOCK ($0.01 PAR VALUE)
FORM OF SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT
------------------------------
London, England
[ - ]
To: CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED
[ - ]
c/o: CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED ("CSFBL")
One Cabot Square
London, England E14 4QJ
Dear Sirs:
1. Introductory. The stockholders listed in Schedule B hereto (the
"Selling Stockholders") propose severally to sell (the "International Offering")
to the several Managers named in Schedule A hereto (the "Managers") an aggregate
of [ - ] outstanding shares (the "International Firm Securities") of the Common
Stock, $0.01 par value per share (the "Securities") of Keebler Foods Company, a
Delaware corporation (the "Company"), and also propose to sell to the Managers
and the U.S. Underwriters (as defined) an option, exercisable by CSFBC (as
defined below), for an aggregate of not more than [ - ] additional outstanding
shares (the "Optional Securities") of the Company's Securities as set forth
below. The International Firm Securities and the Optional Securities that may be
sold to the Managers are herein collectively called the "International
Securities".
It is understood that the Company and the Selling Stockholders are
concurrently entering into an Underwriting Agreement, dated the date hereof (the
"Underwriting Agreement"), with certain United States underwriters listed in
Schedule A thereto (the "U.S. Underwriters"), for whom Credit Suisse First
Boston Corporation ("CSFBC"), [ - ] are acting as representatives (the "U.S.
Representatives"), relating to the concurrent offering and sale of an aggregate
of [ - ] shares of Securities (the "U.S. Firm Securities") in the United States
and Canada (the "U.S. Offering"), which together with the Optional Securities
that may be sold to the U.S. Underwriters in the United States and Canada are
hereinafter called the "U.S. Securities". The International Firm Securities and
the U.S. Firm Securities are collectively referred to as the "Firm Securities".
The International Securities and the U.S. Securities are collectively referred
to as the "Offered Securities". To provide for the coordination of their
activities, the Managers and the U.S. Underwriters have entered into an
Agreement between U.S. Underwriters and
<PAGE> 2
2
Managers which permits them, among other things, to sell the Offered Securities
to each other for purposes of resale.
2. Representations and Warranties of the Company and the Selling
Stockholders. (a) The Company represents and warrants to, and agrees with, the
several Managers that:
(i) A registration statement on Form S-3 (No. 333-[ - ]) relating
to the Offered Securities, including a form of prospectus, has been
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission").
The registration statement contains two prospectuses to be used in
connection with the offering and sale of the Offered Securities: the
U.S. prospectus, to be used in connection with the U.S. Offering, and
the international prospectus, to be used in connection with the
International Offering. The international prospectus is identical to
the U.S. prospectus except for the front cover. The registration
statement either (A) has been declared effective under the Securities
Act of 1933 (the "Act"), and is not proposed to be amended or (B) is
proposed to be amended by amendment or post-effective amendment. If
such registration statement (the "initial registration statement") has
been declared effective, either (A) an additional registration
statement (the "additional registration statement") relating to the
Offered Securities may have been filed with the Commission pursuant to
Rule 462(b) ("Rule 462(b)") under the Act and, if so filed, has become
effective upon filing pursuant to such Rule and the Offered Securities
all have been duly registered under the Act pursuant to the initial
registration statement and, if applicable, the additional registration
statement or (B) such an additional registration statement is proposed
to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 462(b) and will become
effective upon filing pursuant to such Rule and upon such filing the
Offered Securities will all have been duly registered under the Act
pursuant to the initial registration statement and such additional
registration statement. If the Company does not propose to amend the
initial registration statement or, if an additional registration
statement has been filed and the Company does not propose to amend it,
and if any post-effective amendment to either such registration
statement has been filed with the Commission prior to the execution and
delivery of this Agreement, the most recent amendment (if any) to each
such registration statement has been declared effective by the
Commission or has become effective upon filing pursuant to Rule 462(c)
("Rule 462(c)") under the Act or, in the case of the additional
registration statement, Rule 462(b). For purposes of this Agreement,
"Effective Time" with respect to the initial registration statement or,
if filed prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the
additional registration statement means (A) if the Company has advised
CSFBL that it does not propose to amend such registration statement,
the date and time as of which such registration statement, or the most
recent post-effective amendment thereto (if any) filed prior to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement, was declared effective by the
Commission or has become effective upon filing pursuant to Rule 462(c),
or (B) if the Company has advised CSFBL that it proposes to file an
amendment or post-effective amendment to such registration statement,
the date and time as of which such registration statement, as amended
by such amendment or post-effective amendment, as the case may be, is
declared effective by the Commission. If an additional registration
statement has not been filed prior to the execution
<PAGE> 3
3
and delivery of this Agreement but the Company has advised CSFBL that
it proposes to file one, "Effective Time" with respect to such
additional registration statement means the date and time as of which
such registration statement is filed and becomes effective pursuant to
Rule 462(b). "Effective Date" with respect to the initial registration
statement or the additional registration statement (if any) means the
date of the Effective Time thereof. The initial registration statement,
as amended at its Effective Time, including (a) all information
contained in the additional registration statement (if any) and deemed
to be a part of the initial registration statement as of the Effective
Time of the additional registration statement pursuant to the General
Instructions of the Form on which it is filed, (b) all information (if
any) deemed to be a part of the initial registration statement as of
its Effective Time pursuant to Rule 430A(b) ("Rule 430A(b)") under the
Act and (c) all other material incorporated by reference therein, is
hereinafter referred to as the "Initial Registration Statement." The
additional registration statement, as amended at its Effective Time,
including (a) the contents of the initial registration statement
incorporated by reference therein, (b) all information (if any) deemed
to be a part of the additional registration statement as of its
Effective Time pursuant to Rule 430A(b) and (c) all other material
incorporated by reference therein, is hereinafter referred to as the
"Additional Registration Statement". The Initial Registration Statement
and the Additional Registration Statement are hereinafter referred to
collectively as the "Registration Statements" and individually as a
"Registration Statement". The form of U.S. prospectus, together with
the form of international prospectus, relating to the International
Securities, each of which shall be deemed to include all material
incorporated by reference therein and as first filed with the
Commission pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 424(b) ("Rule
424(b)") under the Act or (if no such filing is required) as included
in a Registration Statement, are hereinafter referred to as the
"Prospectus". No document has been or will be prepared or distributed
in reliance on Rule 434 under the Act.
(ii) If the Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement
is prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement: (A) on the
Effective Date of the Initial Registration Statement, the Initial
Registration Statement conformed in all material respects to the
requirements of the Act and the rules and regulations of the Commission
(the "Rules and Regulations") and did not include any untrue statement
of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
misleading, (B) on the Effective Date of the Additional Registration
Statement (if any), each Registration Statement conformed, or will
conform, in all material respects to the requirements of the Act and
the Rules and Regulations and did not include, or will not include, any
untrue statement of a material fact and did not omit, or will not omit,
to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary
to make the statements therein not misleading, and (C) on the date of
this Agreement, the Initial Registration Statement and, if the
Effective Time of the Additional Registration Statement is prior to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Additional Registration
Statement each conforms, and at the time of filing of the Prospectus
pursuant to Rule 424(b) or (if no such filing is required) at the
Effective Date of the Additional Registration Statement in which the
<PAGE> 4
4
Prospectus is included, each Registration Statement and the Prospectus
will conform, in all material respects to the requirements of the Act
and the Rules and Regulations, and none of such documents includes, or
will include, any untrue statement of a material fact or omits, or will
omit, to state any material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. If the
Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is subsequent to
the execution and delivery of this Agreement: on the Effective Date of
the Initial Registration Statement, the Initial Registration Statement
and the Prospectus will conform in all material respects to the
requirements of the Act and the Rules and Regulations, none of such
documents will include any untrue statement of a material fact or will
omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and no
Additional Registration Statement has been or will be filed. The two
preceding sentences do not apply to statements in or omissions from a
Registration Statement or the Prospectus based upon written information
furnished to the Company by any Manager through CSFBL specifically for
use therein, it being understood and agreed that the only such
information is that described as such in Section 7(c) hereof.
(iii) The Company has been duly incorporated and is validly
existing as a corporation in good standing under the laws of the State
of Delaware, with corporate power and authority to own its properties
and conduct its business as described in the Prospectus; and the
Company is duly qualified to do business as a foreign corporation in
good standing in all other jurisdictions in which its ownership or
lease of property or the conduct of its business requires such
qualification, except where the failure to so qualify would not have,
individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on the
condition (financial or other), results of operations, business or
prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole (a
"Material Adverse Effect").
(iv) Each subsidiary of the Company has been duly incorporated and
is a validly existing corporation in good standing under the laws of
the jurisdiction of its incorporation, with appropriate power and
authority to own its properties and conduct its business as described
in the Prospectus; and each subsidiary of the Company is duly qualified
to do business as a foreign corporation in good standing in all other
jurisdictions in which its ownership or lease of property or the
conduct of its business requires such qualification, except where the
failure to so qualify would not have, individually or in the aggregate,
a Material Adverse Effect; all of the issued and outstanding capital
stock of each subsidiary of the Company has been duly authorized and
validly issued and is fully paid and nonassessable; and, except as
disclosed in the Prospectus, the capital stock of each subsidiary owned
by the Company, directly or through subsidiaries, is owned free from
liens, encumbrances and defects.
(v) The Offered Securities and all other outstanding shares of
capital stock of the Company have been duly authorized and validly
issued, are fully paid and nonassessable and conform to the description
thereof contained in the Prospectus; and, except as disclosed in the
Prospectus, the stockholders of the Company have no preemptive rights
with respect to the Securities.
<PAGE> 5
5
(vi) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, there are no
contracts, agreements or understandings between the Company and any
person that would give rise to a valid claim against the Company or any
Manager or U.S. Underwriter for a brokerage commission, finder's fee or
other like payment with respect to the sale of the Offered Securities.
(vii) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, there are no
contracts, agreements or understandings between the Company and any
person granting such person the right to require the Company to file a
registration statement under the Act with respect to any securities of
the Company owned or to be owned by such person or to require the
Company to include such securities in the securities registered
pursuant to a Registration Statement or in any securities being
registered pursuant to any other registration statement filed by the
Company under the Act.
(viii) No consent, approval, authorization, or order of, or filing
with, any governmental agency or body or any court is required to be
obtained or made by the Company for the consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement or the Underwriting
Agreement in connection with the sale of the Offered Securities, except
such as have been obtained and made under the Act and the
Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the
"HSR Act") and such as may be required under state securities laws.
(ix) The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and
the Underwriting Agreement, and the consummation of the transactions
herein and therein contemplated will not result in a breach or
violation of (A) any of the terms and provisions of, or constitute a
default under, any statute, any rule, regulation or order of any
governmental agency or body or any court, domestic or foreign, having
jurisdiction over the Company or any subsidiary of the Company or any
of their properties, (B) any agreement or instrument to which the
Company or any such subsidiary is a party or by which the Company or
any such subsidiary is bound or to which any of the properties of the
Company or any such subsidiary is subject, or (C) the charter or
by-laws of the Company or any such subsidiary, except, in the cases of
(A) and (B), where such breach, violation or default, individually or
in the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect.
(x) Each of this Agreement and the Underwriting Agreement has been
duly authorized, validly executed and delivered by the Company.
(xi) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, the Company and its
subsidiaries have good and marketable title to all real properties and
all other properties and assets owned by them, in each case free from
liens, encumbrances and defects that would materially affect the value
thereof or materially interfere with the use made or to be made thereof
by them; and except as disclosed in the Prospectus, the Company and its
subsidiaries hold any leased real or personal property under valid and
enforceable leases with no exceptions that would, individually or in
the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.
<PAGE> 6
6
(xii) The Company and its subsidiaries possess adequate
certificates, authorities or permits issued by appropriate governmental
agencies or bodies necessary to conduct the business now operated by
them and have not received any notice of proceedings relating to the
revocation or modification of any such certificate, authority or permit
that, if determined adversely to the Company or any of its
subsidiaries, individually or in the aggregate, could be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect.
(xiii) No labor dispute with the employees of the Company or any
subsidiary exists or, to the knowledge of the Company, is imminent that
could be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
(xiv) The Company and its subsidiaries own, possess or can acquire
on reasonable terms, adequate trademarks, trade names and other rights
to inventions, know-how, patents, copyrights, confidential information
and other intellectual property (collectively, "intellectual property
rights") necessary to conduct the business now operated by them, or
presently employed by them, and have not received any notice of
infringement of or conflict with asserted rights of others with respect
to any intellectual property rights that, if determined adversely to
the Company or any of its subsidiaries, individually or in the
aggregate, could be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
(xv) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, neither the Company
nor any of its subsidiaries is in violation of any statute, any rule,
regulation, decision or order of any governmental agency or body or any
court, domestic or foreign, relating to the use, disposal or release of
hazardous or toxic substances or relating to the protection or
restoration of the environment or human exposure to hazardous or toxic
substances (collectively, "environmental laws"), owns or operates any
real property contaminated with any substance that is subject to any
environmental laws, is liable for any off-site disposal or
contamination pursuant to any environmental laws, or is subject to any
claim relating to any environmental laws, which violation,
contamination, liability or claim, individually or in the aggregate,
could be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; and the Company is
not aware of any pending investigation which might lead to such a
claim.
(xvi) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, there are no pending
actions, suits or proceedings against or affecting the Company, any of
its subsidiaries or any of their respective properties that, if
determined adversely to the Company or any of its subsidiaries,
individually or in the aggregate, could be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect, or would materially and adversely affect the ability of
the Company to perform its obligations under this Agreement or the
Underwriting Agreement, or which are otherwise material in the context
of the sale of the Offered Securities; and, to the Company's knowledge,
no such actions, suits or proceedings are threatened or contemplated.
(xvii) The financial statements included in each Registration
Statement and the Prospectus present fairly the financial position of
the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries as of the dates shown and
their results of operations and cash flows for the periods shown, and
such financial
<PAGE> 7
7
statements have been prepared in conformity with the generally accepted
accounting principles in the United States applied on a consistent
basis; the schedules included in each Registration Statement present
fairly the information required to be stated therein; and the
assumptions used in preparing the pro forma financial statements
included in each Registration Statement and the Prospectus provide a
reasonable basis for presenting the significant effects directly
attributable to the transactions or events described therein, the
related pro forma adjustments give appropriate effect to those
assumptions, and the pro forma columns therein reflect the proper
application of those adjustments to the corresponding historical
financial statement amounts.
(xviii) Except as disclosed in the Prospectus, since the date of
the latest audited financial statements included in the Prospectus
there has been no material adverse change, nor any development or event
involving a prospective material adverse change, in the condition
(financial or other), business, properties or results of operations of
the Company and its subsidiaries individually, or taken as a whole,
and, except as disclosed in or contemplated by the Prospectus, there
has been no dividend or distribution of any kind declared, paid or made
by the Company on any class of its capital stock.
(xix) The Company is not and, after giving effect to the offering
and sale of the Offered Securities, will not be an "investment company"
as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940.
(b) Each Selling Stockholder, severally and not jointly,
represents and warrants to, and agrees with, the several Managers that:
(i) Such Selling Stockholder is duly incorporated (if such Selling
Stockholder is a corporation) and validly existing and, to the extent
such concept exists in the relevant jurisdiction, in good standing
under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation.
(ii) Each of this Agreement and the Underwriting Agreement has
been duly authorized, executed and, to the extent such concept exists
in the relevant jurisdiction, delivered by such Selling Stockholder.
(iii) The execution and delivery by such Selling Stockholder of,
and the performance by such Selling Stockholder of its obligations
under, this Agreement and the Underwriting Agreement, will not
contravene any provision of applicable law, or the organizational
documents of such Selling Stockholder (if such Selling Stockholder is a
corporation), or any agreement or other instrument binding upon such
Selling Stockholder or any of its assets or any judgment, order or
decree of any governmental body, agency or court having jurisdiction
over such Selling Stockholder or any of its assets, except where such
contravention would not have, individually or in the aggregate, a
Material Adverse Effect, and no consent, approval, authorization, or
order of, or qualification or filing with, any governmental agency or
body or any court is required to be obtained or made by such Selling
Stockholder for the performance by such Selling Stockholder of its
obligations under this
<PAGE> 8
8
Agreement or the Underwriting Agreement, except (A) such as have been
obtained or made, (B) such as may be required by the securities or Blue
Sky laws of the various states of the United States of America in
connection with the offer and sale of the Offered Securities in the
United States of America and (C) such as may be required by the
securities laws of any jurisdiction outside the United States of
America.
(iv) Such Selling Stockholder has, and on each Closing Date
hereinafter mentioned will have, valid unencumbered title to the
Offered Securities to be sold by such Selling Stockholder on such date
and the legal right and power, and all authorization and approval
required by law, to enter into this Agreement and the Underwriting
Agreement and to sell, assign, transfer and deliver the Offered
Securities to be sold by such Selling Stockholder.
(v) Upon delivery of the Offered Securities to be sold by such
Selling Stockholder pursuant to this Agreement and the Underwriting
Agreement and payment therefor as contemplated by this Agreement and
the Underwriting Agreement, marketable title to the Offered Securities
will pass to the Managers free and clear of any security interests,
claims, liens, equities and other encumbrances, other than security
interests, liens, equities or other encumbrances arising solely from
the actions of the Underwriters.
(vi) There are no material agreements or arrangements relating to
the Company or its subsidiaries to which such Selling Stockholder, or
to the best of such Selling Stockholder's knowledge, to which any
direct or indirect stockholder of such Selling Stockholder is a party,
which are required to be described in the Registration Statements or
the Prospectus or to be filed as exhibits thereto that are not so
described or filed.
(vii) (a) Each Registration Statement, when such Registration
Statement became effective, did not contain and each such Registration
Statement, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, will not contain
any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements
therein not misleading, (b) each Registration Statement and the
Prospectus comply and, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, will
comply in all material respects with the Act and the applicable rules
and regulations of the Commission thereunder and (c) the Prospectus
does not contain and, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, will
not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a
material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of
the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, except
that the foregoing representations and warranties apply only to the
extent that any statements or omissions in each Registration Statement
or the Prospectus are based upon information relating to such Selling
Stockholder and any direct or indirect stockholder of such Selling
Stockholder furnished to the Company in writing by such Selling
Stockholder expressly for use therein.
3. Purchase, Sale and Delivery of Offered Securities. On the basis of
the representations, warranties and agreements herein contained, but subject to
the terms and conditions herein set forth, each Selling Stockholder agrees,
severally and not
<PAGE> 9
9
jointly, to sell to the Managers, and each Manager agrees, severally and not
jointly, to purchase from each Selling Stockholder, at a purchase price of $[ -
] per share, that number of International Firm Securities (rounded up or down,
as determined by CSFBC in its discretion, in order to avoid fractions) obtained
by multiplying the number of International Firm Securities set forth opposite
the name of such Selling Stockholder in Schedule B hereto by a fraction the
numerator of which is the number of International Firm Securities set forth
opposite the name of such Manager in Schedule A hereto and the denominator of
which is the total number of International Firm Securities.
Each of the Selling Stockholders will deliver the International Firm
Securities to CSFBL for the accounts of the Managers, against payment of the
purchase price in U.S. dollars in immediately available funds by official bank
check or checks or wire transfer to an account at a bank acceptable to CSFBL
drawn to the order of each of the Selling Shareholders at the office of Cravath,
Swaine & Moore ("Underwriters' Counsel"), at 10:00 a.m., New York time, on [ -
], or at such other time not later than seven full business days thereafter as
CSFBL and the Selling Stockholders determine, such time being herein referred to
as the "First Closing Date". For purposes of Rule 15c6-1 under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), the First Closing Date
(if later than the otherwise applicable settlement date) shall be the settlement
date for payment of funds and delivery of securities for all the Offered
Securities sold pursuant to the U.S. Offering and the International Offering.
The certificates for the International Firm Securities so to be delivered will
be in definitive form, in such denominations and registered in such names as
CSFBL requests and will be made available for checking and packaging at the
above office of Underwriters' Counsel at least 24 hours prior to the First
Closing Date.
In addition, upon written notice from CSFBC given to the Company and
the Selling Stockholders from time to time not more than 30 days subsequent to
the date of the Prospectus, the Managers may purchase all or less than all of
the Optional Securities at the purchase price per Security to be paid for the
International Firm Securities. Each of the Selling Stockholders agree, severally
and not jointly, to sell to the Managers the respective numbers of Optional
Securities obtained by multiplying the number of Optional Securities specified
in such notice by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of shares set
forth opposite the names of such Selling Stockholders in Schedule B hereto under
the caption "Number of Optional Securities to be Sold" and the denominator of
which is the total number of Optional Securities (subject to adjustment by CSFBL
to eliminate fractions). Such Optional Securities shall be purchased from each
Selling Stockholder for the account of each Manager and U.S. Underwriter in the
same proportion as the number of International Firm Securities set forth
opposite such Manager's name bears to the total number of International Firm
Securities and the number of U.S. Firm Securities set forth opposite such U.S.
Underwriter's name bears to the total number of U.S. Firm Securities (subject to
adjustment by CSFBL to eliminate fractions) and may be purchased by the Managers
only for the purpose of covering over-allotments made in connection with the
sale of the Firm Securities. No Optional Securities shall be sold or delivered
unless the International Firm Securities and the U.S. Firm Securities previously
have been, or simultaneously are, sold and delivered. The right to purchase the
Optional Securities or any portion thereof may be exercised from time to
<PAGE> 10
10
time and to the extent not previously exercised may be surrendered and
terminated at any time upon notice by CSFBC to the Selling Stockholders.
Each time for the delivery of and payment for the Optional Securities,
being herein referred to as an "Optional Closing Date", which may be the First
Closing Date (the First Closing Date and each Optional Closing Date, if any,
being sometimes referred to as a "Closing Date"), shall be determined by CSFBC
but shall be not later than five full business days after written notice of
election to purchase Optional Securities is given. Each of the Selling
Stockholders will deliver the Optional Securities being purchased on each
Optional Closing Date to CSFBL for the accounts of the several Managers, against
payment of the purchase price in immediately available funds by official bank
check or checks or wire transfer to an account at a bank acceptable to CSFBL
drawn to the order of each of the Selling Stockholders, at the above office of
Underwriters' Counsel. The certificates for the Optional Securities being
purchased on each Optional Closing Date will be in definitive form, in such
denominations and registered in such names as CSFBL requests upon reasonable
notice prior to such Optional Closing Date and will be made available for
checking and packaging at the above office of Underwriters' Counsel at a
reasonable time in advance of such Optional Closing Date.
4. Offering by Managers. It is understood that the several Managers
propose to offer the International Securities for sale to the public as set
forth in the Prospectus.
In connection with the distribution of the International Securities,
the Managers, through a stabilizing manager, may over-allot or effect
transactions on any exchange, in any over-the-counter market or otherwise which
stabilize or maintain the market prices of the International Securities at
levels other than those which might otherwise prevail, but in such event and in
relation thereto, the Managers will act for themselves and not as agents of the
Company, and any loss resulting from over-allotment and stabilization will be
borne, and any profit arising therefrom will be beneficially retained, by the
Managers. Such stabilizing, if commenced, may be discontinued at any time.
5. Certain Agreements of the Company. The Company agrees with the
several Managers that:
(a) If the Effective Time of the Initial Registration
Statement is prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the
Company will file the Prospectus with the Commission pursuant to and in
accordance with subparagraph (1) (or, if applicable and if consented to
by CSFBL, subparagraph (4)) of Rule 424(b) not later than the earlier
of (A) the second business day following the execution and delivery of
this Agreement or (B) the fifteenth business day after the Effective
Date of the Initial Registration Statement. The Company will advise
CSFBL promptly of any such filing pursuant to Rule 424(b). If the
Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is prior to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement and an additional registration
statement is necessary to register a portion of the Offered Securities
under the Act but the Effective Time thereof has not occurred as of
such execution and delivery, the Company will file the additional
registration statement or, if filed, will file a post-effective
<PAGE> 11
11
amendment thereto with the Commission pursuant to and in accordance
with Rule 462(b) on or prior to 10:00 p.m., New York time, on the date
of this Agreement or, if earlier, on or prior to the time the
Prospectus is printed and distributed to any Manager or U.S.
Underwriter, or will make such filing at such later date as shall have
been consented to by CSFBL.
(b) The Company will advise CSFBL promptly of any proposal to
amend or supplement the initial or any additional registration
statement as filed or the related prospectus or the Initial
Registration Statement, the Additional Registration Statement (if any)
or the Prospectus and will not effect such amendment or supplementation
without CSFBL's prior consent (which will not be unreasonably
withheld); and the Company will also advise CSFBL promptly of the
effectiveness of each Registration Statement (if its Effective Time is
subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement) and of any
amendment or supplementation of a Registration Statement or the
Prospectus and of the institution by the Commission of any stop order
proceedings in respect of a Registration Statement and will use its
best efforts to prevent the issuance of any such stop order and to
obtain as soon as possible its lifting, if issued.
(c) If, at any time when a prospectus relating to the Offered
Securities is required to be delivered under the Act in connection with
sales by any U.S. Underwriter, Manager or dealer, any event occurs as a
result of which the Prospectus as then amended or supplemented would
include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of
the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, or if it
is necessary at any time to amend the Prospectus to comply with the
Act, the Company will promptly notify CSFBL of such event and will
promptly prepare and file with the Commission, at its own expense, an
amendment or supplement which will correct such statement or omission
or an amendment which will effect such compliance. Neither CSFBL's
consent to, nor the Managers' delivery of, any such amendment or
supplement shall constitute a waiver of any of the conditions set forth
in Section 6.
(d) As soon as practicable, but not later than the
Availability Date (as defined below), the Company will make generally
available to its securityholders an earnings statement covering a
period of at least 12 months beginning after the Effective Date of the
Initial Registration Statement (or, if later, the Effective Date of the
Additional Registration Statement) which will satisfy the provisions of
Section 11(a) of the Act. For the purpose of the preceding sentence,
"Availability Date" means the 45th day after the end of the fourth
fiscal quarter following the fiscal quarter that includes such
Effective Date, except that, if such fourth fiscal quarter is the last
quarter of the Company's fiscal year, "Availability Date" means the
90th day after the end of such fourth fiscal quarter.
(e) The Company will furnish to the Managers copies of each
Registration Statement (five of which will be signed and will include
all exhibits), each related preliminary prospectus and so long as a
prospectus relating to the Offered Securities is required to be
delivered under the Act in
<PAGE> 12
12
connection with sales by any Manager or dealer, the International
Prospectus and all amendments and supplements to such documents, in
each case in such quantities as CSFBL reasonably requests. The
Prospectus shall be so furnished on or prior to 3:00 p.m., New York
time, on the business day following the later of the execution and
delivery of this Agreement or the Effective Time of the Initial
Registration Statement. All other such documents shall be so furnished
as soon as available. The Company will pay the expenses of printing and
distributing to the Managers all such documents.
(f) The Company will arrange for the qualification of the
Offered Securities for sale under the laws of such jurisdictions as
CSFBL designates and will continue such qualifications in effect so
long as required for the distribution; provided, that in no event shall
the Company be obligated to qualify to do business in any jurisdiction
where it is not now so qualified or to take any action which would
subject it to general service of process in any jurisdiction where it
is not now so subject.
(g) No action has been or, prior to the completion of the
distribution of the Offered Securities, will be taken by the Company in
any jurisdiction outside the United States and Canada that would permit
a public offering of the Offered Securities, or possession or
distribution of the International Prospectus, or any amendment or
supplement thereto, or any related preliminary prospectus issued in
connection with the offering of the Offered Securities, or any other
offering material, in any country or jurisdiction where action for that
purpose is required.
(h) During the period of 5 years hereafter, the Company will
furnish to CSFBL and, upon request, to each of the other Managers, as
soon as practicable after the end of each fiscal year, a copy of its
annual report to stockholders for such year; and the Company will
furnish to CSFBL (i) as soon as available, a copy of each report and
any definitive proxy statement of the Company filed with the Commission
under the Exchange Act or mailed to stockholders, and (ii) from time to
time, such other information concerning the Company as CSFBL may
reasonably request.
(i) For a period of 90 days after the date of the initial
public offering of the Offered Securities (the "Lockup Period"), the
Company will not offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise
dispose of, directly or indirectly, or file (other than on a Form S-8)
with the Commission a registration statement under the Act relating to,
any additional shares of its Securities or securities convertible into
or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of its Securities, or
publicly disclose the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge,
disposition or filing, without the prior written consent of CSFBC,
except issuances of Securities pursuant to the conversion or exchange
of convertible or exchangeable securities or the exercise of warrants
or options, in each case outstanding on the date hereof, grants of
employee stock options pursuant to the terms of a plan in effect on the
date hereof, issuances of Securities pursuant to the exercise of such
options or issuances of Securities pursuant to the Company's dividend
reinvestment plan. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection
(h), the Company may file, but may not offer, sell or otherwise dispose
of any securities during the Lockup Period pursuant to, a
<PAGE> 13
13
registration statement in connection with (A) the exercise by Artal
Luxembourg S.A. ("Artal") of any remaining demand registration rights
under the Artal Stock Purchase Agreement (the "Artal Agreement"),
dated as of January 28, 1998, among Artal, Flowers Industries, Inc.
("Flowers") and the Company or (B) the exercise of any related
incidental registration rights by Claremont, Enterprises, Ltd
("Claremont") under the Claremont Stock Purchase Agreement (the
"Claremont Agreement"), dated as of January 28, 1998, among Claremont,
Artal, Flowers and the Company.
The Company agrees with the several Managers and the U.S. Underwriters
that the Company will pay all expenses incident to the performance of its
obligations and the obligations of the Selling Stockholders under this
Agreement, for any filing fees and other expenses (including fees and
disbursements of counsel) incurred in connection with qualification of the
Offered Securities for sale under the laws of such jurisdictions as CSFBL
designates and the printing of memoranda relating thereto, for any travel
expenses of the Company's officers and employees and any other expenses of the
Company in connection with attending or hosting meetings with prospective
purchasers of the Offered Securities, for any transfer taxes on the sale of the
Offered Securities to the Managers and for expenses incurred in printing and
distributing preliminary prospectuses and the Prospectus (including any
amendments and supplements thereto) to the Managers.
Each Selling Stockholder agrees to deliver to CSFBC, attention:
Transactions Advisory Group, on or prior to the First Closing Date, a properly
completed and executed United States Treasury Department Form W-9 (or other
applicable form or statement specified by Treasury Department regulations in
lieu thereof).
Each Selling Stockholder agrees, during the Lockup Period, not to
offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of, directly or
indirectly, any additional shares of the Securities of the Company or securities
convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of Securities, or
publicly disclose the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge or
disposition, without the prior written consent of CSFBC. Notwithstanding the
provisions of this paragraph, the Company may file, but may not offer, sell or
otherwise dispose of any securities during the Lockup Period pursuant to, a
registration statement in connection with (A) the exercise by Artal of any
remaining demand registration rights under the Artal Agreement or (B) the
exercise of any related incidental registration rights by Claremont under the
Claremont Agreement.
6. Conditions of the Obligations of the Managers. The obligations of
the several Managers to purchase and pay for the International Firm Securities
on the First Closing Date and the Optional Securities to be purchased on each
Optional Closing Date will be subject to the accuracy of the representations and
warranties on the part of the Company and the Selling Stockholders herein, to
the accuracy of the statements of Company officers made pursuant to the
provisions hereof, to the performance by the Company and the Selling
Stockholders of their obligations hereunder and to the following additional
conditions precedent:
(a) The Managers shall have received a letter, dated the date
of delivery thereof (which, if the Effective Time of the Initial
Registration Statement is prior to the execution and delivery of this
Agreement, shall be on
<PAGE> 14
14
or prior to the date of this Agreement or, if the Effective Time of the
Initial Registration Statement is subsequent to the execution and
delivery of this Agreement, shall be prior to the filing of the
amendment or post-effective amendment to the registration statement to
be filed shortly prior to such Effective Time), of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in the form agreed upon and set forth in
Section 6(a) of the Underwriting Agreement.
(b) The Managers shall have received a letter, dated the date
of delivery thereof (which, if the Effective Time of the Initial
Registration Statement is prior to the execution and delivery of this
Agreement, shall be on or prior to the date of this Agreement or, if
the Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is subsequent
to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, shall be prior to the
filing of the amendment or post-effective amendment to the registration
statement to be filed shortly prior to such Effective Time), of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP with respect to the financial statements and
other financial information of President International, Inc. included
in the Registration Statements, in a form substantially similar to that
referenced in paragraph (a) above.
(c) If the Effective Time of the Initial Registration
Statement is not prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement,
such Effective Time shall have occurred not later than 10:00 p.m., New
York time, on the date of this Agreement or such later date as shall
have been consented to by CSFBL. If the Effective Time of the
Additional Registration Statement (if any) is not prior to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement, such Effective Time shall
have occurred not later than 10:00 p.m., New York time, on the date of
this Agreement or, if earlier, the time the Prospectus is printed and
distributed to any Manager or U.S. Underwriter, or shall have occurred
at such later date as shall have been consented to by CSFBL. If the
Effective Time of the Initial Registration Statement is prior to the
execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Prospectus shall have
been filed with the Commission in accordance with the Rules and
Regulations and Section 5(a) of this Agreement. Prior to such Closing
Date, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of a Registration
Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings for that purpose
shall have been instituted or, to the knowledge of any Selling
Stockholder, the Company or the Managers, shall be contemplated by the
Commission.
(d) Subsequent to the execution and delivery of this
Agreement, there shall not have occurred (A) a change in U.S. or
international financial, political or economic conditions or currency
exchange rates or exchange controls as would, in the judgment of CSFBL,
be likely to prejudice materially the success of the proposed issue,
sale or distribution of the International Securities, whether in the
primary market or in respect of dealings in the secondary market, or
(B)(i) any change, or any development or event involving a prospective
change, in the condition (financial or other), business, properties or
results of operations of the Company or its subsidiaries which, in the
judgment of CSFBL, is material and adverse and makes it impractical or
inadvisable to proceed with completion of the public offering or the
sale of and payment for the Offered Securities; (ii) any downgrading in
the rating of any debt securities of the Company by any "nationally
recognized statistical
<PAGE> 15
15
rating organization" (as defined for purposes of Rule 436(g) under the
Act), or any public announcement that any such organization has under
surveillance or review its rating of any debt securities of the Company
(other than an announcement with positive implications of a possible
upgrading, and no implication of a possible downgrading, of such
rating); (iii) any suspension or limitation of trading in securities
generally on the NYSE, or any setting of minimum prices for trading on
such exchange, or any suspension of trading of any securities of the
Company on any exchange or in the over-the-counter market; (iv) any
banking moratorium declared by U.S. Federal or New York authorities; or
(v) any outbreak or escalation of major hostilities in which the United
States is involved, any declaration of war by the United States
Congress or any other substantial national or international calamity or
emergency if, in the judgment of CSFBL, the effect of any such
outbreak, escalation, declaration, calamity or emergency makes it
impractical or inadvisable to proceed with completion of the public
offering or the sale of and payment for the International Securities.
(e) The Managers shall have received an opinion, dated such
Closing Date, of Winston & Strawn, counsel for the Company, in the form
agreed upon and set forth in Annex I to the Underwriting Agreement.
(f) The Managers shall have received the opinion, dated such
Closing Date, of each of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, U.S. counsel for
Artal, Arendt & Medernach, Luxembourg counsel for Artal, Battle
Fowler, U.S. counsel for Claremont, and Appleby Spurling & Kempe,
Bermuda counsel for Claremont, in the form agreed upon and set forth
in Annexes II, III, IV and V, respectively, to the Underwriting
Agreement.
(g) The Managers shall have received from Cravath, Swaine &
Moore, counsel for the Managers, such opinion or opinions, dated such
Closing Date, with respect to such matters as the Managers may require,
and the Selling Stockholders and the Company shall have furnished to
such counsel such documents as they request for the purpose of enabling
them to pass upon such matters.
(h) The Managers shall have received a certificate, dated such
Closing Date, of the President or any Vice President and a principal
financial or accounting officer of the Company in which such officers,
to the best of their knowledge after reasonable investigation, shall
state that: the representations and warranties of the Company in this
Agreement and the Underwriting Agreement are true and correct; the
Company has complied with all agreements and satisfied all conditions
on its part to be performed or satisfied hereunder at or prior to such
Closing Date; no stop order suspending the effectiveness of any
Registration Statement has been issued and no proceedings for that
purpose have been instituted or are contemplated by the Commission; the
Additional Registration Statement (if any) satisfying the requirements
of subparagraphs (1) and (3) of Rule 462(b) was filed pursuant to Rule
462(b), including payment of the applicable filing fee in accordance
with Rule 111(a) or (b) under the Act, prior to the time the Prospectus
was printed and distributed to any Manager or U.S. Underwriter; and,
subsequent to the dates of the most recent financial statements in the
Prospectus, there has
<PAGE> 16
16
been no material adverse change, nor any development or event involving
a prospective material adverse change, in the condition (financial or
other), business, properties or results of operations of the Company
and its subsidiaries taken as a whole except as set forth in or
contemplated by the Prospectus or as described in such certificate.
(i) The Managers shall have received a letter, dated such
Closing Date, of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP which meets the
requirements of subsection (a) of this Section, except that the
specified date referred to in such subsection will be a date not more
than three business days prior to such Closing Date for the purposes of
this subsection.
(j) The Managers shall have received a letter, dated such
Closing Date, of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP which meets the
requirements of subsection (b) of this Section, except that the
specified date referred to in such subsection will be a date not more
than three business days prior to such Closing Date for the purposes of
this subsection.
(k) Flowers shall have furnished to the U.S. Representatives a
letter substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto and addressed to
the U.S. Representatives relating to sales of shares of Securities or
any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for such
Securities, and each such letter shall be in full force and effect on
the Closing Date.
(l) Each executive officer and director of the Company shall
have furnished to the U.S. Representatives a letter substantially in
the form of Exhibit B hereto and addressed to the U.S. Representatives
relating to sales of shares of Securities or any securities convertible
into or exercisable or exchangeable for such Securities, and each such
letter shall be in full force and effect on the Closing Date.
(m) Each Selling Stockholder shall deliver to the U.S.
Representatives a properly completed and executed United States
Treasury Form W-9 (or other applicable form or statement specified by
Treasury Department regulations in lieu thereof).
(n) On such Closing Date, the U.S. Underwriters shall have
purchased the U.S. Firm Securities or the Optional Securities, as the
case may be, pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement.
Each of the Selling Stockholders and the Company will furnish the Managers with
such conformed copies of such opinions, certificates, letters and documents as
the Managers reasonably request. CSFBL may in its sole discretion waive on
behalf of the Managers compliance with any conditions to the obligations of the
Managers hereunder, whether in respect of an Optional Closing Date or otherwise.
7. Indemnification and Contribution. (a) The Company will indemnify and
hold harmless each Manager and each Selling Stockholder against any losses,
claims, damages or liabilities, joint or several, to which such Manager or
Selling Stockholder, as the case may be, may become subject, under the Act or
otherwise,
<PAGE> 17
17
insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect
thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue
statement of any material fact contained in any Registration Statement, the
Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, or any related preliminary
prospectus, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or alleged omission
to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to
make the statements therein not misleading, and will reimburse each Manager and
each Selling Stockholder for any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by
such Manager or Selling Stockholder, as the case may be, in connection with
investigating or defending any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action as
such expenses are incurred; provided, however, that the Company will not be
liable in any such case to the extent that any such loss, claim, damage or
liability arises out of or is based upon an untrue statement or alleged untrue
statement in or omission or alleged omission from any of such documents in
reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the
Company (i) by any Manager through CSFBL specifically for use therein, it being
understood and agreed that the only information furnished by any Manager
consists of the information described as such in subsection (c) below or (ii) by
any Selling Stockholder specifically for use therein.
(b) Each of the Selling Stockholders, severally and not jointly, will
indemnify and hold harmless each Manager against any losses, claims, damages or
liabilities, joint or several, to which such Manager may become subject, under
the Act or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or
actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement
or alleged untrue statement of any material fact contained in any Registration
Statement, the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, or any
related preliminary prospectus, or arise out of or are based upon the omission
or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, in each case
to the extent, but only to the extent, that such untrue statement or alleged
untrue statement or omission or alleged omission was made in reliance upon and
in conformity with written information about such Selling Stockholder (or any
direct or indirect stockholders of such Selling Stockholder) furnished to the
Company by such Selling Stockholder specifically for use therein, and will
reimburse each Manager for any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by
such Manager in connection with investigating or defending any such loss, claim,
damage, liability or action as such expenses are incurred; provided, however,
that such Selling Stockholder will not be liable in any such case to the extent
that any such loss, claim, damage or liability arises out of or is based upon an
untrue statement or alleged untrue statement in or omission or alleged omission
from any of such documents in reliance upon and in conformity with written
information furnished to the Company by a Manager through CSFBL specifically for
use therein, it being understood and agreed that the only such information
furnished by any Manager consists of the information described as such in
subsection (c) below.
(c) Each Manager will severally and not jointly indemnify and hold
harmless the Company and each Selling Stockholder against any losses, claims,
damages or liabilities to which the Company or such Selling Stockholder may
become subject, under the Act or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims,
damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based
upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of any material fact
contained in any Registration Statement, the Prospectus, or any amendment or
supplement thereto, or any related preliminary
<PAGE> 18
18
prospectus, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or the alleged
omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, in each case to the
extent, but only to the extent, that such untrue statement or alleged untrue
statement or omission or alleged omission was made in reliance upon and in
conformity with written information furnished to the Company by such Manager
through CSFBL specifically for use therein, and will reimburse any legal or
other expenses reasonably incurred by the Company and each Selling Stockholder
in connection with investigating or defending any such loss, claim, damage,
liability or action as such expenses are incurred, it being understood and
agreed that the only such information furnished by any Manager consists of the
following information in the Prospectus furnished on behalf of each Manager: the
concession and reallowance figures appearing in the fifth paragraph under the
caption "Subscription and Sale" and the over-allotments and stabilizing language
appearing in the thirteenth paragraph under the caption "Subscription and Sale".
(d) Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party under this Section
of notice of the commencement of any action, such indemnified party will, if a
claim in respect thereof is to be made against an indemnifying party under
subsection (a), (b) or (c) above, notify indemnifying party of the commencement
thereof; but the omission so to notify the indemnifying party will not relieve
it from any liability which it may have to any indemnified party otherwise than
under subsection (a), (b) or (c) above. In case any such action is brought
against any indemnified party and it notifies an indemnifying party of the
commencement thereof, the indemnifying party will be entitled to participate
therein and, to the extent that it may wish, jointly with any other indemnifying
party similarly notified, to assume the defense thereof, with counsel
satisfactory to such indemnified party (who shall not, except with the consent
of the indemnified party, be counsel to the indemnifying party), and after
notice from the indemnifying party to such indemnified party of its election so
to assume the defense thereof, the indemnifying party will not be liable to such
indemnified party under this Section for any legal or other expenses
subsequently incurred by such indemnified party in connection with the defense
thereof other than reasonable costs of investigation. No indemnifying party
shall, without the prior written consent of the indemnified party, effect any
settlement of any pending or threatened action in respect of which any
indemnified party is or could have been a party and indemnity could have been
sought hereunder by such indemnified party unless such settlement includes an
unconditional release of such indemnified party from all liability on any claims
that are the subject matter of such action.
(e) If the indemnification provided for in this Section is unavailable
or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party under subsection (a), (b)
or (c) above, then each indemnifying party shall contribute to the amount paid
or payable by such indemnified party as a result of the losses, claims, damages
or liabilities referred to in subsection (a), (b) or (c) above (i) in such
proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the
Company and the Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the Managers on the
other from the offering of the Offered Securities or (ii) if the allocation
provided by clause (i) above is not permitted by applicable law, in such
proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred
to in clause (i) above but also the relative fault of the Company and the
Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the Managers on the other in connection
with the statements or omissions which resulted in such losses, claims, damages
or
<PAGE> 19
19
liabilities as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative
benefits received by the Company and the Selling Stockholders on the one hand
and the Managers on the other shall be deemed to be in the same proportion as
the total net proceeds from the offering (before deducting expenses) received by
the Selling Stockholders bear to the total underwriting discounts and
commissions received by the Managers. The relative fault shall be determined by
reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement
of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact
relates to information supplied by the Company, the Selling Stockholders or the
Managers and the parties' relative intent, knowledge, access to information and
opportunity to correct or prevent such untrue statement or omission. The amount
paid by an indemnified party as a result of the losses, claims, damages or
liabilities referred to in the first sentence of this subsection (e) shall be
deemed to include any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such
indemnified party in connection with investigating or defending any action or
claim which is the subject of this subsection (e). Notwithstanding the
provisions of this subsection (e), no Manager shall be required to contribute
any amount in excess of the amount by which the total price at which the
Securities underwritten by it and distributed to the public were offered to the
public exceeds the amount of any damages which such Manager has otherwise been
required to pay by reason of such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission
or alleged omission. No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within
the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Act) shall be entitled to contribution from
any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation. The
Managers' obligations in this subsection (e) to contribute are several in
proportion to their respective underwriting obligations and not joint.
(f) The obligations of the Company and each Selling Stockholder under
this Section shall be in addition to any liability which the Company and such
Selling Stockholder may otherwise have and shall extend, upon the same terms and
conditions, to each person, if any, who controls any Manager within the meaning
of the Act; and the obligations of the Managers under this Section shall be in
addition to any liability which the respective Managers may otherwise have and
shall extend, upon the same terms and conditions, to each director of the
Company, to each officer of the Company who has signed a Registration Statement
and to each person, if any, who controls the Company within the meaning of the
Act.
The maximum liability of each Selling Stockholder to indemnify or
contribute payments pursuant to this Section 7 shall not exceed the aggregate
proceeds (after deducting the Underwriters' discount) of the Offered Securities
(including the sale of shares on exercise of the over-allotment option, if any)
to such Selling Stockholder.
8. Default of Managers. If any Manager or Managers default in their
obligations to purchase Offered Securities hereunder on either the First Closing
Date or any Optional Closing Date and the aggregate number of shares of Offered
Securities that such defaulting Manager or Managers agreed but failed to
purchase does not exceed 10% of the total number of shares of Offered Securities
that the Managers are obligated to purchase on such Closing Date, CSFBL may make
arrangements satisfactory to the Selling Stockholders for the purchase of such
Offered Securities by other persons, including any of the Managers, but if no
such arrangements are made by such Closing Date the non-defaulting Managers
shall be obligated severally, in proportion to their respective commitments
hereunder, to
<PAGE> 20
20
purchase the Offered Securities that such defaulting Managers agreed but failed
to purchase on such Closing Date. If any Manager or Managers so default and the
aggregate number of shares of Offered Securities with respect to which such
default or defaults occur exceeds 10% of the total number of shares of Offered
Securities that the Managers are obligated to purchase on such Closing Date and
arrangements satisfactory to CSFBL and the Selling Stockholders for the purchase
of such Offered Securities by other persons are not made within 36 hours after
such default, this Agreement will terminate without liability on the part of any
non-defaulting Manager, the Company or the Selling Stockholders, except as
provided in Section 9 (provided that if such default occurs with respect to
Optional Securities after the First Closing Date, this Agreement will not
terminate as to the International Firm Securities or any Optional Securities
purchased prior to such termination). As used in this Agreement, the term
"Manager" includes any person substituted for a Manager under this Section.
Nothing herein will relieve a defaulting Manager from liability for its default.
9. Survival of Certain Representations and Obligations. The respective
indemnities, agreements, representations, warranties and other statements of the
Selling Stockholders, of the Company or its officers and of the several Managers
set forth in or made pursuant to this Agreement will remain in full force and
effect, regardless of any investigation, or statement as to the results thereof,
made by or on behalf of any Manager, any Selling Stockholder, the Company or any
of their respective representatives, officers or directors or any controlling
person, and will survive delivery of and payment for the Offered Securities. If
this Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 8 or if for any reason the
purchase of the Offered Securities by the Managers is not consummated, the
Company shall remain responsible for the expenses to be paid or reimbursed by it
pursuant to Section 5 and the respective obligations of the Company, the Selling
Stockholders and the Managers pursuant to Section 7 shall remain in effect, and
if any Offered Securities have been purchased hereunder the representations and
warranties in Section 2 and all obligations under Section 5 shall also remain in
effect. If the purchase of the Offered Securities by the Managers is not
consummated for any reason other than solely because of the termination of this
Agreement pursuant to Section 8 or the occurrence of any event specified in
Section 6(d)(A) or clause (iii), (iv), or (v) of Section 6(d)(B), the Company
will reimburse the Managers for all out-of-pocket expenses (including fees and
disbursements of counsel) reasonably incurred by them in connection with the
offering of the Offered Securities.
10. Notices. All communications hereunder will be in writing and, if
sent to the Managers, will be mailed, delivered or telexed and confirmed to
CSFBL at One Cabot Square, London E14 4QJ England, Attention: Company Secretary,
or, if sent to the Company, will be mailed, delivered or telegraphed and
confirmed to it at 677 Larch Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois 60126, Attention: Thomas
E. O'Neill, or, if sent to Artal Luxembourg S.A., will be mailed, delivered or
telegraphed and confirmed to it at 39 Boulevard Royal, Luxembourg City,
Luxembourg 2449, Attention: Managing Director, or, if sent to Claremont,
Enterprises, Ltd, will be mailed, delivered or telegraphed and confirmed to it
at c/o G.F. Industries, Inc., 999 Baker Way, Suite 200, San Mateo, CA 94404,
Attention: Michael Uytengsu; provided, however, that any notice to a Manager
pursuant to Section 7 will be mailed, delivered or telexed and confirmed to
such Manager.
<PAGE> 21
21
11. Successors. This Agreement will inure to the benefit of and be
binding upon the parties hereto and their respective personal representatives,
heirs and successors and the officers and directors and controlling persons
referred to in Section 7, and no other person will have any right or obligation
hereunder.
12. Representation of Managers. CSFBL will act for the several Managers
in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and any
action under this Agreement taken by CSFBL will be binding upon all the
Managers.
13. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all such
counterparts shall together constitute one and the same Agreement.
14. APPLICABLE LAW. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND
CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD
TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAWS.
Each of the Company and the Selling Stockholders hereby submits to the
non-exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal and state courts in the Borough of
Manhattan in The City of New York in any suit or proceeding arising out of or
relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
If the foregoing is in accordance with the Managers' understanding of
our agreement, kindly sign and return to the Company one of the counterparts
hereof,
<PAGE> 22
22
whereupon it will become a binding agreement between and among the Selling
Stockholders, the Company and the several Managers in accordance with its terms.
Very truly yours,
KEEBLER FOODS COMPANY,
by
------------------------------
Name:
Title:
ARTAL LUXEMBOURG S.A.,
by
------------------------------
Name:
Title:
CLAREMONT, ENTERPRISES, LTD
by
------------------------------
Name:
Title:
<PAGE> 23
23
The foregoing Subscription Agreement is
hereby confirmed and accepted as of the date
first above written.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED
[ - ]
c/o CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED
One Cabot Square
London, England E14 4QJ
Each by its duly authorized attorney-in-fact
By CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED
by
--------------------------------------------
Name:
Title:
<PAGE> 24
24
SCHEDULE A
NUMBER OF
INTERNATIONAL FIRM
SECURITIES TO BE
MANAGER PURCHASED
------- ------------------
Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited
----------
Total
==========
<PAGE> 25
25
SCHEDULE B
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF
INTERNATIONAL FIRM NUMBER OF OPTIONAL
SELLING STOCKHOLDER SECURITIES TO BE SOLD SECURITIES TO BE SOLD
- ------------------- --------------------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Artal Luxembourg S.A.
Claremont, Enterprises, Ltd
------------- -------------
Total......................... ============= =============
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
of Keebler Foods Company on Form S-3 of our report dated February 18, 1998, on
our audits of the consolidated financial statements and financial statement
schedule of Keebler Foods Company. We also consent to the references to our firm
under the captions "Experts," "Summary Consolidated Historical Financial Data"
and "Selected Historical Financial Data."
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Chicago, Illinois
December 9, 1998
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 23.2
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Prospectus
constituting part of this Registration Statement on Form S-3 of our report dated
February 27, 1998 relating to the financial statements of President
International, Inc., which appears on page F-6 of the Current Report on Form
8-K/A dated December 10, 1998 of Keebler Foods Company. We also consent to the
references to our firm under the caption "Experts."
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Atlanta, Georgia
December 9, 1998
