<PAGE>
U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
[X] Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 1999
[ ] Transition Report Under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act
For the transition period from ________________ to ____________________
Commission File Number 0-22439
FISHER COMPANIES INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
WASHINGTON 91-0222175
-------------------- ------------------
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification Number)
1525 One Union Square
600 University Street
Seattle, Washington 98101-3185
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(206) 624-2752
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required
to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for
the past 90 days.
Yes X No
--------- ---------
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes
of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:
Common Stock, $1.25 par value, outstanding as of June 30, 1999: 8,550,690
<PAGE>
PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
The following Consolidated Financial Statements are presented for the
Registrant, Fisher Companies Inc. and wholly owned subsidiaries.
1. Consolidated Statement of Income:
Three and six months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998.
2. Consolidated Balance Sheet:
June 30, 1999 and December 31, 1998.
3. Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows:
Six months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998.
4. Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income:
Three and six months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998.
5. Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
2
<PAGE>
ITEM 1 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FISHER COMPANIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six months ended Three months ended
June 30 June 30
1999 1998 1999 1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(In thousands except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
Sales and other revenue:
Broadcasting $ 61,027 $ 60,798 $32,905 $33,044
Milling 53,546 53,281 26,547 26,814
Real estate 16,221 6,143 13,042 3,117
Corporate and other, primarily dividends and interest income 2,285 1,918 1,187 928
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
133,079 122,140 73,681 63,903
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of products and services sold 78,724 76,395 39,004 38,422
Selling expenses 10,502 9,468 5,538 4,950
General, administrative and other expenses 22,270 18,676 11,398 9,197
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
111,496 104,539 55,940 52,569
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from operations
Broadcasting 12,671 14,867 8,881 10,058
Milling (1,576) 465 (986) 129
Real estate 11,698 2,058 10,665 1,076
Corporate and other (1,210) 211 (819) 71
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21,583 17,601 17,741 11,334
Interest expense 2,256 2,474 1,207 1,197
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before provision for income taxes 19,327 15,127 16,534 10,137
Provision for federal and state income taxes 6,497 5,195 5,694 3,580
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income $ 12,830 $ 9,932 $10,840 $ 6,557
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income per share $1.50 $1.16 $1.27 $ .77
Net income per share assuming dilution $1.50 $1.16 $1.26 $ .76
Weighted average number of shares outstanding 8,546 8,539 8,550 8,542
Weighted average number of shares outstanding assuming dilution 8,574 8,592 8,576 8,602
Dividends declared per share $.52 $.50 $.26 $ .25
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
</TABLE>
3
<PAGE>
FISHER COMPANIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
June 30 December 31
1999 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands except share amounts) (Unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and short-term cash investments $224,208 $ 3,968
Receivables 42,767 44,481
Inventories 14,444 11,009
Prepaid expenses 6,169 6,993
Television and radio broadcast rights 3,489 8,190
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current assets 291,077 74,641
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marketable Securities, at market value 137,034 132,281
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Assets:
Cash value of life insurance and retirement deposits 11,186 10,900
Television and radio broadcast rights 49 49
Intangible assets, net of amortization 47,992 48,650
Investments in equity investees 15,500 15,126
Other 12,378 3,285
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87,105 78,010
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Property, Plant and Equipment, net 164,922 154,590
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$680,138 $439,522
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LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Notes payable $ 20,046 $ 13,479
Trade accounts payable 13,960 8,454
Accrued payroll and related benefits 3,913 5,071
Television and radio broadcast rights payable 1,856 7,675
Income taxes payable 262 457
Dividends payable 2,223 2,221
Other current liabilities 2,822 3,030
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Total current liabilities 45,082 40,387
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Long-term Debt, net of current maturities 281,719 63,257
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Liabilities:
Accrued retirement benefits 13,020 13,298
Deferred income taxes 60,534 55,048
Deposits and retainage payable 1,148 951
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
74,702 69,297
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minority Interests 33 33
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock, shares authorized 12,000,000, $1.25 par value;
issued 8,550,690 in 1999 and 8,542,384 in 1998 10,688 10,678
Capital in excess of par 2,439 1,792
Deferred compensation (753) (733)
Accumulated other comprehensive income - unrealized gain
on marketable securities, net of deferred
income taxes of $47,560 in 1999 and $45,897 in 1998 88,326 85,236
Retained earnings 177,902 169,575
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
278,602 266,548
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$680,138 $439,522
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
4
<PAGE>
FISHER COMPANIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six months ended
June 30
1999 1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
(In thousands) (Unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 12,830 $ 9,932
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 6,877 6,592
Increase (decrease) in noncurrent deferred income taxes 3,823 (136)
Issuance of stock pursuant to vested stock rights
and related tax benefit 402 293
Amortization of deferred compensation 201
Loss in equity investee 783
(Gain) loss on sale of property, plant and equipment (9,827) 259
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables 1,714 3,498
Inventories (3,435) 1,338
Prepaid expenses 824 3,042
Cash value of life insurance and retirement deposits (286) (2,582)
Income taxes payable (195) 1,463
Trade accounts payable, accrued payroll and related
benefits and other current liabilities 4,140 (2,964)
Other assets (9,093) 400
Accrued retirement benefits (278) 390
Deposits and retainage payable 197 34
Amortization of television and radio broadcast rights 6,235 5,274
Payments for television and radio broadcast rights (7,353) (6,687)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities 7,559 20,146
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 13,100 601
Investments in equity investees (1,157) (4,214)
Purchase assets of radio stations (427)
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (19,824) (7,373)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities (7,881) (11,413)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net borrowings under notes payable 3,702 (3,008)
Borrowings under borrowing agreements 222,000
Payments on borrowing agreements and mortgage loans (673) (3,603)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options 34 41
Cash dividends paid (4,501) (4,326)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 220,562 (10,896)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and short-term cash investments 220,240 (2,163)
Cash and short-term cash investments, beginning of period 3,968 6,337
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and short-term cash investments, end of period $224,208 $ 4,174
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
FISHER COMPANIES INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six months ended Three months ended
June 30 June 30
1999 1998 1999 1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(In thousands) (Unaudited)
Net income $12,830 $ 9,932 $10,840 $ 6,557
Other comprehensive income unrealized gain on marketable
securities, net of deferred income taxes 3,090 (6,711) 7,767 (18,557)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income $15,920 $ 3,221 $18,607 $(12,000)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
5
<PAGE>
FISHER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. The unaudited financial information furnished herein, in the opinion of
management, reflects all adjustments which are necessary to state fairly the
consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of
Fisher Companies Inc. (the "Company") as of and for the periods indicated.
The Company presumes that users of the interim financial information herein
have read or have access to the Company's audited consolidated financial
statements and that the adequacy of additional disclosure needed for a fair
presentation, except in regard to material contingencies or recent
subsequent events, may be determined in that context. Accordingly, footnote
and other disclosures which would substantially duplicate the disclosures
contained in Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998 filed on March
25, 1999 by the Company have been omitted. The financial information herein
is not necessarily representative of a full year's operations.
2. Inventories are summarized as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
June 30 December 31
1999 1998
------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Finished products $ 4,247 $ 3,906
Raw materials 10,067 6,983
Spare parts and supplies 130 120
------- -------
$14,444 $11,009
======= =======
</TABLE>
3. In June 1998, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133,
"Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" (FAS 133),
was issued. This pronouncement standardizes the accounting for derivative
instruments by requiring that an entity recognize those items as assets or
liabilities in the financial statements and measure them at fair value. FAS
133 is required to be adopted by the Company for the year ending December
31, 2001. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently reviewing
the requirements of FAS 133 and assessing its impact on the Company's
financial statements. The Company has not made a decision regarding the
period of adoption.
4. On July 1, 1999 the Company and its broadcasting subsidiary completed the
acquisition of eleven network-affiliated television stations in seven
markets located in California, the Pacific Northwest, and Georgia. Total
consideration for the stations was $216.7 million, which included $7.6
million of working capital. Funding for the transaction was from an eight-
year senior credit facility in the amount of $230 million.
Also on July 1, the Company and the milling subsidiary purchased from Koch
Agriculture Company its 50% interest in the limited liability company which
owns and operates flour milling facilities in Blackfoot, Idaho. The $19
million purchase price was funded from bank lines of credit.
6
<PAGE>
ITEM 2 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL POSITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
This discussion is intended to provide an analysis of significant trends and
material changes in the Company's financial position and operating results
during the three and six month periods ended June 30, 1999 compared with the
same periods in 1998.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Six months ended June 30, 1999 compared to six months ended June 30, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$133,079,000 9.0% $122,140,000
Sales and other revenue increased 0.4% and 0.5% for broadcasting and milling
operations, respectively, in the six months ended June 30, 1999. Revenue of the
real estate segment increased $10.1 million, largely the result of a $9.8
million gain from condemnation of real estate in June of 1999. Revenue of the
corporate segment increased 19.1%, largely the result of increases in dividends
from marketable securities.
Cost of products and services sold
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$78,724,000 3.0% $76,395,000
Percentage of revenue 59.2% 62.5%
The increase in cost of products and services sold in 1999 is attributable to
(i) increased costs to acquire, produce, and promote broadcast programming; (ii)
increased volume of distribution sales, partially offset by lower cost of wheat
used to produce flour at the milling segment; and (iii) increased operating
costs at the real estate segment. The decline in cost of products and services
sold as a percent of revenue is primarily due to inclusion of the gain from
condemnation of real estate in 1999 results. The gross margin percentage from
broadcasting operations declined as a result of increased programming costs and
relatively flat revenues. The gross margin percentage from milling operations
declined modestly. Margin from real estate operations is not comparable with
the prior period as the gain from condemnation of real estate is included in
1999 revenue.
Selling expenses
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$10,502,000 10.9% $9,468,000
Percentage of revenue 7.9% 7.8%
Principal causes of increased selling expenses include additional compensation
and commissions with emphasis on increasing broadcasting revenue, and increased
delivery costs and provision for doubtful accounts at the milling segment.
7
<PAGE>
General and administrative expenses
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$22,270,000 19.2% $18,676,000
Percentage of revenue 16.7% 15.3%
General and administrative expenses increased in the broadcasting, milling and
corporate segments. The increase at the broadcasting segment is largely
attributable to higher personnel and employee benefit costs. In addition to
increased personnel costs, general and administrative expenses at the milling
segment include a loss from the 50%-owned Blackfoot milling facility during the
start-up phase of the new conventional flour mill, which began operations in
December 1998. The corporate segment incurred increased costs in connection
with a new corporate marque and brand identity program, and new strategic
initiatives.
Interest expense
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$2,256,000 -8.8% $2,474,000
Interest expense declined in 1999 compared with 1998 as interest relating to
borrowing for acquisition of property is capitalized. The average interest rate
was 6.58% in 1999 and 7.14% in 1998.
Provision for federal and state income taxes
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$6,497,000 25.1% $5,195,000
Effective tax rate 33.6% 34.3%
The provision for federal and state income taxes varies directly with pre-tax
income. The effective tax rate is less than the statutory rate for both periods
primarily due to a deduction for dividends received, offset by the impact of
state income taxes. The gain from condemnation of real estate resulted in a
lower effective tax rate in 1999 as income earned in Washington State is not
subject to state income tax.
Three months ended June 30, 1999 compared to three months ended June 30, 1998
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$73,681,000 15.3% $63,903,000
Sales and other revenue declined modestly for broadcasting and milling
operations in the three months ended June 30, 1998. The gain from condemnation
of real estate produced a significant increase in revenue for the real estate
segment. Revenue of the corporate segment also increased, primarily as a result
of increases in dividends from marketable securities.
8
<PAGE>
Cost of products and services sold
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$39,004,000 1.5% $38,422,000
Percentage of revenue 52.9% 60.1%
The increase in cost of products and services sold in second quarter 1999 is
attributable to (i) increased costs to acquire, produce, and promote broadcast
programming; (ii) increased volume of distribution sales, offset by lower cost
of wheat used to produce flour at the milling segment; and (iii) increased
operating costs at the real estate segment. The decline in cost of products and
services sold as a percent of revenue is primarily due to inclusion of the gain
from condemnation of real estate in 1999 results. The gross margin percentage
from broadcasting operations declined as a result of increased programming costs
and relatively flat revenues. The gross margin percentage from milling
operations declined modestly. Margin from real estate operations is not
comparable with the prior period as the gain from condemnation of real estate is
included in second quarter 1999 revenue.
Selling expenses
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$5,538,000 11.9% $4,950,000
Percentage of revenue 7.5% 7.7%
Selling expenses increased as a result of additional compensation and
commissions with emphasis on increasing broadcasting revenue, and increased
delivery costs and provision for doubtful accounts at the milling segment.
General and administrative expenses
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$11,398,000 23.9% $9,197,000
Percentage of revenue 15.5% 14.4%
General and administrative expenses increased in the broadcasting, milling and
corporate segments. The increase at the broadcasting segment is largely
attributable to higher personnel and employee benefit costs. In addition to
increased personnel costs, general and administrative expenses of the milling
segment include a loss from the 50%-owned Blackfoot milling facility during the
start-up phase of the new conventional flour mill, which began operations in
December 1998. The corporate segment incurred increased costs in connection
with a new corporate marque and brand identity program, and new strategic
initiatives.
Interest expense
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$1,207,000 0.8% $1,197,000
Interest expense increased modestly in second quarter 1999 compared with 1998
because of higher average borrowing outstanding during 1999. Average second
quarter interest rates were 6.53% in 1999 and 7.11% in 1998.
9
<PAGE>
Provision for federal and state income taxes
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$5,694,000 -59.1% $3,580,000
Effective tax rate 34.4% 35.3%
The provision for federal and state income taxes varies directly with pre-tax
income. The effective tax rate is less than the statutory rate for both periods
primarily due to a deduction for dividends received, offset by the impact of
state income taxes, net of the federal income tax benefit. The gain from
condemnation of real estate resulted in a lower effective tax rate in in second
quarter 1999 as income earned in Washington State is not subject to state income
tax.
BROADCASTING OPERATIONS
Six months ended June 30, 1999 compared to six months ended June 30, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$61,027,000 0.4% $60,798,000
Revenue from KOMO Television in Seattle declined approximately $1,100,000 during
the six months ended June 30, 1999 and revenue from KATU Television in Portland
declined approximately $600,000. Declines in all advertising categories were
partially offset by revenue from paid programming. Revenue from radio
operations increased approximately $1,550,000, including $1,200,000 from the
Company's Seattle radio stations (KOMO AM, KVI AM and KPLZ-FM) and $350,000 from
the twenty small market stations in Montana and Eastern Washington. Revenue
from Portland radio operations (KWJJ-FM and KOTK) declined modestly from 1998.
Revenue from corporate sources increased modestly.
Income from operations
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$12,671,000 -14.8% $14,867,000
Percentage of revenue 20.8% 24.4%
Declines in operating income from Seattle and Portland television operations
were only partially offset by increased income from radio operations. Operating
expenses at the broadcasting segment increased 7.4% in 1999 largely due to
increased costs to acquire, produce and promote broadcast programming, and
increases in personnel and related costs. 1998 results were impacted by
provision, recorded in the first quarter, for anticipated losses incurred from
(i) the sale of former Portland radio studios, as part of obtaining new
facilities for KWJJ-FM and KOTK, and (ii) an interest in Affiliate Enterprises,
Inc.
10
<PAGE>
Three months ended June 30, 1999 compared to three months ended June 30, 1998
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$32,905,000 -0.4% $33,044,000
Revenue from the Seattle and Portland television stations declined approximately
$400,000 and $700,000, respectively, during the second quarter of 1999. Declines
in all advertising categories were partially offset by revenue from paid
programming. Revenue from radio operations increased approximately $650,000,
including $575,000 from the Company's Seattle radio stations (KOMO AM, KVI AM
and KPLZ-FM) and $175,000 from the twenty small market stations in Montana and
Eastern Washington. Revenue from Portland radio operations (KWJJ-FM and KOTK)
declined approximately $100,000 compared with second quarter 1998. Revenue from
corporate sources increased modestly.
Income from operations
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$8,881,000 -11.7% $10,058,000
Percentage of revenue 27.0% 30.4%
Second quarter 1999 results were similar to results for the first half, as
declines in operating income from television operations and Portland radio
operations were only partially offset by increased income from Seattle and small
market radio operations. Second quarter 1999 operating expenses at the
broadcasting segment increased 7.0% largely due to increased costs to acquire,
produce and promote broadcast programming, and increases in personnel and
related costs.
MILLING OPERATIONS
Six months ended June 30, 1999 compared to six months ended June 30, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$53,546,000 0.5% $53,281,000
Sales and other revenue at the distribution division increased approximately
$2,700,000 compared with the first half of 1998. Each of the three distribution
facilities contributed to the increase. However the Rancho Cucamonga Food
Distribution Center which serves the Southern California market reported the
most improvement, at 23%. The flour milling division experienced a decline of
approximately $2,400,000. Volume of flour sold increased 5% while average flour
prices, which are largely dependent on the cost of wheat purchased to produce
flour, declined nearly 8%.
11
<PAGE>
Income from operations
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$(1,576,000) N/M $465,000
Percentage of revenue N/M 0.9%
Income from operations is determined by deducting operating expenses from gross
margin on sales. During the first half of 1999 the milling division experienced
low flour and millfeed margins, largely offset by improved gross margins at all
three distribution facilities. Operating expenses increased 20% compared with
1998, due to increased provision for bad debts and expenses related to
personnel, personnel recruitment, consulting, and information systems. In
addition, the milling subsidiary's share of the loss incurred by the new
conventional mill in Blackfoot, Idaho owned by Koch Fisher Mills LLC amounted to
$780,000 as the startup phase of that operation continued. Effective July 1,
1999 the Company and the milling subsidiary purchased the 50% interest in the
limited liability company owned by Koch Agriculture Company. Future operating
results of the LLC will be fully consolidated in the Company's financial
statements.
Three months ended June 30, 1999 compared to three months ended June 30, 1998
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$26,547,000 -1.0% $26,814,000
Sales and other revenue at the distribution division increased approximately
$1,300,000 compared with the second quarter of 1998, with each facility
reporting improvement. The flour milling division experienced a decline of
approximately $1,600,000. Volume of flour sold increased 1.5% while average
flour prices declined 6%.
Income from operations
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$(986,000) N/M $129,000
Percentage of revenue N/M 0.5%
As with the first half of 1999, second quarter income from operations was
impacted by low flour and millfeed margins at the milling division which were
partially offset by improved margins earned by the distribution division.
Operating expenses increased 25% in the quarter, due to increased provision for
bad debts and expenses related to personnel, personnel recruitment, consulting,
and information systems. The milling subsidiary's share of the loss incurred by
Koch Fisher Mills LLC amounted to $270,000 as the new conventional mill was
operating at 45% of rated capacity by quarter end.
12
<PAGE>
REAL ESTATE OPERATIONS
- ----------------------
Six months ended June 30, 1999 compared to six months ended June 30, 1998
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$16,221,000 164.1% $6,143,000
1999 real estate revenue included gain from condemnation of real estate in the
amount of $9,827,000. Excluding that gain, revenue increased 4%. Average
occupancy during the six months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998 was 97.2% and
98.7%, respectively.
Income from operations
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$11,698,000 468.4% $2,058,000
Percentage of revenue 72.1% 33.5%
The improvement in operating income is primarily attributable to the gain from
condemnation referenced above. Operating expenses include certain operating
charges resulting from the condemnation and increased approximately 21%
($400,000) compared with 1998.
Three months ended June 30, 1999 compared to three months ended June 30, 1998
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales and other revenue
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$13,042,000 318.5% $3,117,000
The increase in second quarter 1999 real estate revenue is primarily due to the
gain from condemnation of real estate realized in June. Excluding that gain,
second quarter revenue increased 3%.
Income from operations
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months ended June 30 1999 % Change 1998
$10,665,000 890.7% $1,076,000
Percentage of revenue 81.8% 34.6%
The improvement in operating income is primarily attributable to the
condemnation gain. Second quarter 1999 operating expenses include certain
operating charges resulting from the condemnation and increased approximately
29% ($280,000) compared with 1998.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As of June 30, 1999, the Company had working capital of $245,995,000 and cash
and short-term cash investments totaling $224,208,000. The preceding amounts
include $220,000,000 borrowed on June 30 under the eight-year senior facilities
described below, which were invested in short-term cash investments pending
funding, on July 1, of the acquisition described in Note 4 to the consolidated
financial statements. The Company intends to finance working capital, debt
service, capital expenditures, and dividend requirements primarily through
operating activities.
13
<PAGE>
However, the Company will consider using available lines of credit to fund
acquisitions and significant real estate development projects. In this regard,
the Company has a five-year unsecured revolving line of credit with two banks in
a maximum amount of $100,000,000 to finance construction of a new digital
broadcasting facility for KOMO Television (to be called Fisher Plaza), and for
general corporate purposes. The revolving line of credit is governed by a credit
agreement which provides that borrowings under the line will bear interest at a
variable rate not to exceed the bank's publicly announced reference rate. The
agreement also places limitations on the disposition or encumbrance of certain
assets and requires the Company to maintain certain financial ratios. At June
30, 1999, $14,000,000 was outstanding under the line. In June 1999 the Company
entered into eight-year senior secured credit facilities with a group of banks
in the amount of $230,000,000 to finance the Retlaw acquisition and for general
corporate purposes. See Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for
information concerning the Retlaw acquisition. The senior credit facilities are
secured by a first priority perfected security interest in the voting capital
stock of the broadcasting subsidiary. The facilities also place limitations on
the disposition or encumbrance of certain assets and require the Company to
maintain certain financial ratios. In addition to an amortization schedule which
requires repayment of all borrowings under the facilities by June 2007, the
amount available under the facilities reduces each year beginning in 2002.
Amounts borrowed under the facilities bear interest at variable rates based on
the Company's ratio of funded debt to operating cash flow, but will not exceed
the bank's prime rate plus 75 basis points. At June 30, 1999, $220,000,000 was
outstanding under the facilities.
Net cash provided by operating activities during the six months ended June 30,
1999 was $7,559,000. Net cash provided by operating activities consists of the
Company's net income, increased by non-cash expenses such as depreciation and
amortization, and adjusted by changes in operating assets and liabilities. Net
cash used in investing activities during the period was $7,881,000, principally
$19,824,000 for purchase of property, plant and equipment used in operations
(including the Fisher Plaza project) reduced by proceeds received from
condemnation of real estate in the amount of $13,100,000. Net cash provided by
financing activities was $220,562,000, including borrowings under borrowing
agreements and notes payable totaling $225,702,000, payment of $673,000 due on
borrowing agreements and mortgage loans, and cash dividends paid to stockholders
totaling $4,501,000 or $.52 per share.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISKS
The market risk in the Company's financial instruments represents the potential
loss arising from adverse changes in financial and commodity market prices and
rates. The Company is exposed to market risk in the areas of interest rates,
securities prices and grain prices. These exposures are directly related to its
normal funding and investing activities and to its use of agricultural
commodities in its operations.
Interest Rate Exposure
The Company's strategy in managing exposure to interest rate changes is to
maintain a balance of fixed- and variable-rate instruments. See Note 5 to the
Company's 1998 consolidated financial statements for information regarding the
contractual interest rates of the Company's debt. The Company will also
consider entering into interest rate swap agreements at such times as it deems
appropriate. At June 30, 1999, the fair value of the Company's debt is
estimated to approximate
14
<PAGE>
the carrying amount. Market risk is estimated as the potential change in fair
value resulting from a hypothetical 10 percent change in interest rates, and on
the Company's fixed rate debt, amounts to $2,013,000 at June 30, 1999.
The Company also has $249,823,000 in variable-rate debt outstanding at June 30,
1999. A hypothetical 10 percent change in interest rates underlying these
borrowings would result in a $1,782,000 annual change in the Company's pre-tax
earnings and cash flows. In August 1999 the Company entered into a swap
contract thereby fixing the interest rate on $90 million floating rate debt.
Marketable Securities Exposure
The fair value of the Company's investments in marketable securities at June 30,
1999 is $137,034,000. Marketable securities consist of equity securities traded
on a national securities exchange or reported on the NASDAQ securities market.
A significant portion of the marketable securities consists of 3,002,376 shares
of SAFECO Corporation. As of June 30, 1999, these shares represented 2.2% of
the outstanding common stock of SAFECO Corporation. While the Company has no
intention to dispose of its investments in marketable securities, it has
classified its investments as available-for-sale under applicable accounting
standards. Mr. William W. Krippaehne, Jr., President, CEO, and a Director of
the Company, is a Director of SAFECO Corporation. A hypothetical 10 percent
change in market prices underlying these securities would result in a
$13,703,000 change in the fair value of the marketable securities portfolio.
Although changes in securities prices would affect the fair value of the
marketable securities portfolio and cause unrealized gains or losses, such gains
or losses would not be realized unless the investments are sold.
Commodity Price Exposure
The Company has exposure to adverse price fluctuations associated with its grain
and flour inventories, product gross margins, and certain anticipated
transactions in its milling operations. Commodities such as wheat are purchased
at market prices that are subject to volatility. As an element of its strategy
to manage the risk of market price fluctuations, the Company enters into various
exchange-traded futures contracts. The Company closely monitors and manages its
exposure to market risk on a daily basis in accordance with formal policies
established for this activity. These policies limit the level of exposure to be
hedged. All transactions involving derivative financial instruments are
required to have a direct relationship to the price risk associated with
existing inventories or future purchase and sales of its products.
The Company enters into both forward purchase and sales commitments for wheat
and flour. At the same time, the Company enters into generally matched
transactions using offsetting forward commitments and/or exchange-traded futures
contracts to hedge against price fluctuations in the market price of wheat.
The Company determines the fair value of its exchange-traded contracts based on
the settlement prices for open contracts, which are established by the exchange
on which the instruments are traded. The margin accounts for open commodity
futures contracts, which reflect daily settlements as market values change,
represent the Company's basis in those contracts. As of June 30, 1999,
15
<PAGE>
the carrying value of the Company's investment in commodities futures contracts
and the total net deferred gains and losses on open contracts were immaterial.
At June 30, 1999, the actual open positions of these instruments and the
potential near-term losses in earnings, fair value, and/or cash flows from
changes in market rates or prices were not material.
YEAR 2000
The Year 2000 or Y2K problem is somewhat predictable in its timing, but
unpredictable in its effects. In order to conserve limited computer memory,
many computer systems, software programs, and other microprocessor dependent
devices were created using only two digit dates, such that 1998 was represented
as 98. These systems may not recognize certain 1999 dates, and the year 2000
and beyond, with the result that processors and programs may fail to complete
the processing of information or revert back to the year 1900. As we approach
the year 2000, we expect computer systems and software used by many companies in
a wide variety of applications to experience operating difficulties unless they
are modified or upgraded to process information involving, related to, or
dependent upon the century change. Failures could incapacitate systems
essential to the functioning of commerce, building systems, consumer products,
utilities, and government services locally as well as worldwide. Significant
uncertainty exists concerning the scope and magnitude of problems associated
with Y2K.
State of Readiness
The Company recognized the need to reduce the risks of Year 2000 related
failures, and in August 1998 established a Y2K Task Force to address these
risks. The Y2K Task Force, comprised of senior management from each of the
Company's business segments and third party consultants, is leading the Year
2000 risk management efforts. The Y2K Task Force has coordinated the
identification and testing of computer hardware and software applications, with
a goal to ensure availability and integrity of the information systems and the
reliability of the operational systems and manufacturing processes utilized by
the Company and its subsidiaries.
The Company has adopted a five-step process toward Year 2000 readiness:
Internal Systems Inventory
Systems Testing and Repairs
External Risk Assessment
Contingency Planning
Financial Risk Transfer
The Company has approached the first two items in its five-step process
(Internal Systems Inventory and Systems Testing and Repair) as a single task,
and has divided this task into four major categories:
. Building Systems
. Information Systems
. Broadcast Equipment
. Milling Equipment
The Company has conducted a comprehensive evaluation of a majority of its
building systems, related computer equipment and components that could be
potentially impacted. Building computer system testing was undertaken. To
date, problems discovered in our building systems are minor and usually relate
to building security systems. These problems are being addressed.
16
<PAGE>
Information systems have been tested with a licensed software program; a
diagnostic tool designed for personal computers and servers that will identify
Y2K issues related to computer hardware, software and data. To date, this
testing appears to have been successful and has yielded no significant problems.
With the constant introduction of new computer equipment and software,
information systems testing and re-testing will continue throughout the year.
The Company arranged with a systems integration company to provide a
comprehensive Y2K assessment program for television and radio broadcast
equipment. The systems integration company has considerable experience in the
design and integration of conventional and digital communications, computer and
broadcast facilities, as well as in large system integration. The systems
integration company also has extensive experience working with major television
networks and broadcasting companies in systems assessment. This assessment was
conducted during the second quarter of 1999, and resulted in the identification
of only minor problems, which are being addressed.
The Company has completed a comprehensive inventory of potential Y2K affected
equipment at each of the milling locations. Compliance letters have been
received from key vendors and testing of equipment is underway, and will
continue throughout the year as we increase our knowledge base.
Risks
The Company also faces risk to the extent suppliers of products, services, and
systems relied upon by the Company and others with whom the Company or its
subsidiaries transact business do not comply with Year 2000 requirements. In
the event such third parties cannot provide the Company or its subsidiaries with
products, services, or systems that meet the Year 2000 requirements on a timely
basis, or in the event Year 2000 issues prevent such third parties from timely
delivery of products or services required by the Company or its subsidiaries,
the Company's results of operations could be materially adversely affected. To
the extent Year 2000 issues cause significant delays in, or cancellation of,
decisions to purchase the Company's products or services, the Company's
business, results of operations, and financial position would be materially
adversely affected. The Company is assessing these risks and in some cases has
initiated formal communications with significant suppliers and customers to
determine the extent , if any, to which the Company is vulnerable to these third
parties' possible failure to remediate their own Year 2000 issues. There can be
no assurance the Company will identify and remediate all significant Year 2000
risks, or that such risks will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, results of operations, or financial position. Accordingly,
the Company will continue to develop contingency plans in anticipation of
unexpected Year 2000 events. Based on its assessment of year 2000 risks to
date, the Company does not believe any material exposure to significant business
interruption exists as a result of Year 2000 compliance issues. The Company
will continue to assess external risk factors into the Year 2000.
Contingency Plans
Since the Year 2000 problem is pervasive, few, if any, companies can make
absolute assurances that they will identify and remediate all Y2K risks.
Accordingly, the Company expects risk assessment and contingency planning to
remain an ongoing process leading up to and beyond the year 2000. In addition,
the potential Year 2000 problem is being addressed as part of the Company's
overall emergency preparedness program that includes contingency planning for
other potential major catastrophes like earthquakes, fires and floods.
17
<PAGE>
The Company's approach to Financial Risk Transfer has two main areas of focus.
. Secure the broadest insurance coverage available at a reasonable cost
and avoid exclusions or restrictions of coverage.
. Explore other Financial Risk Transfer products and/or Y2K specific
insurance coverage to the extent that it becomes available at economically
feasible levels.
Estimated Costs
The Company is continuing to assess the potential impact of the century change
on its business, results of operations, and financial position. The total cost
of these Year 2000 compliance activities is not anticipated to be material to
the Company's financial position or its results of operations. The cost of
internal resources dedicated to the Year 2000 has not been estimated at this
time. The Company currently estimates that the cost of assessment and testing
of broadcast equipment will not exceed $300,000.
PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
The discussion above under "Year 2000" includes certain "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act
of 1995 (the "PSLRA"). This statement is included for the express purpose of
availing the Company of the protections of the safe harbor provisions of the
PSLRA. Management's ability to predict results or the effect of future plans is
inherently uncertain, and is subject to factors that may cause actual results to
differ materially from those projected. Factors that could affect the actual
results include the possibility that remediation programs will not operate as
intended, the Company's failure to timely or completely identify all software or
hardware applications requiring remediation, unexpected costs, and the
uncertainty associated with the impact of year 2000 issues on the Company's
customers, vendors and others with whom it does business.
18
<PAGE>
PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
The annual Meeting of Shareholders was held April 29, 1999. The four nominees
elected to the Board of Directors for three year terms expiring in 2002 are
listed below. There were no broker non-votes with respect to any of the
nominees.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Votes Votes
For Withheld
--------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Jean F. McTavish 7,153,390 176,138
Jacklyn F. Meurk 7,154,390 175,138
George F. Warren, Jr. 7,156,690 172,838
William W. Warren, Jr. 7,153,790 175,738
</TABLE>
In addition, the shareholders ratified the action of the Board of Directors in
appointing PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as independent accountants for 1999 with
7,181,845 shares voted in favor, 5,861 shares voted against, and 178,710 shares
abstaining. There were no broker non-votes with respect to the proposal.
The total number of shares of Common Stock $1.25 par value, outstanding as of
March 12, 1999, the record date for the annual meeting, was 8,542,384.
Item 5. Other Information
None
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Exhibits: Exhibit 11, Statement re Computation of Per Share Earnings
Exhibit 27, Financial Data Schedule
(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
A report on Form 8-K was filed with the Commission on April 14, 1999 stating
that a common stock recapitalization proposal (and the related adoption of a new
employee incentive plan) was being withdrawn from consideration and shareholder
vote at the Company's annual shareholders meeting scheduled for April 29, 1999.
A report on Form 8-K was filed with the Commission on June 2, 1999 announcing an
agreement under which the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary Fisher Mills
Inc. would acquire the 50% interest of Koch Agriculture Company in the
Blackfoot, Idaho flour milling facility that Fisher Mills owned jointly with
Koch Agriculture Company.
19
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
FISHER COMPANIES INC.
(Registrant)
Dated August 10, 1999 /s/ William W. Krippaehne, Jr.
------------------- --------------------------------------
William W. Krippaehne, Jr.
President and Chief Executive Officer
Dated August 10, 1999 /s/ David D. Hillard
------------------- --------------------------------------
David D. Hillard
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer
20
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 11
FISHER COMPANIES INC.
Computation of Per Share Earnings
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended Three Months Ended
June 30 June 30
1999 1998 1999 1998
----------- ---------- ----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Weighted average common shares
outstanding during the period: 8,546,168 8,539,028 8,549,952 8,541,699
Dilutive effect of:
Restricted stock rights 14,506 24,674 13,088 24,358
Stock options 13,652 27,991 12,886 35,741
----------- ---------- ----------- ----------
Weighted average shares
outstanding assuming dilution 8,574,326 8,591,693 8,575,926 8,601,798
=========== ========== =========== ==========
Net income $12,830,000 $9,932,000 $10,840,000 $6,557,000
=========== ========== =========== ==========
Net income per common share $ 1.50 $ 1.16 $ 1.27 $ .77
=========== ========== =========== ==========
Net income per common share
assuming dilution $ 1.50 $ 1.16 $ 1.26 $ .76
=========== ========== =========== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 6-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1999
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-1999
<PERIOD-END> JUN-30-1999
<CASH> 224,208
<SECURITIES> 137,034
<RECEIVABLES> 44,324
<ALLOWANCES> 1,557
<INVENTORY> 14,444
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 291,077
<PP&E> 273,969
<DEPRECIATION> 109,047
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 680,138
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 45,082
<BONDS> 0
0
0
<COMMON> 10,688
<OTHER-SE> 267,914
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 680,138
<SALES> 130,794
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 133,079
<CGS> 78,724
<TOTAL-COSTS> 78,724
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 32,248
<LOSS-PROVISION> 524
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 2,256
<INCOME-PRETAX> 19,327
<INCOME-TAX> 6,497
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 12,830
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 12,830
<EPS-BASIC> 1.50
<EPS-DILUTED> 1.50
</TABLE>
