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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-KSB
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 1998
Commission File Number: 001-13965
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
(Name of Small Business Issuer in its Charter)
Delaware 23-2807063
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(State or Other Jurisdiction of (IRS Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
3600 Marshall Lane
Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 800-523-4675
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act of 1934:
Name of each exchange on which
Title of Class registered:
Common Stock, $.01 par value Chicago Stock Exchange
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
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(Title of Class)
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 by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulations S-B is not contained in this form, and no disclosure will be
contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in a definitive proxy or
information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-KSB
or any amendment to this Form 10-KSB. |_|
The Registrant's revenues for its most recent fiscal year were $24,570,000
State the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of
the registrant. (The aggregate market value shall be computed by reference to
the price at which the stock was sold, or the average bid and asked prices of
such stock as of a specified date within 60 days prior to the date of filing.)
$8,400,000 as of June 2, 1998
Number of shares of common stock outstanding as of June 15, 1998: 4,700,000
Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format: Yes |_| No |X|
PORTIONS OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE INTO
THIS ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-KSB: Portions of the Proxy Statement for the
Registrant's 1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed prior to July
29, 1998 are incorporated by reference in Part III
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PART I
Item 1. Description of Business
Introduction
Ambassador Eyewear Group, Inc. (the "Company") designs, sources, markets
and distributes high quality prescription eyeglass frames and non-prescription
sunglasses to department and specialty stores, optical chains and eyewear
boutiques throughout the United States and the world. The Company also provides
integrated marketing, merchandising materials and consulting support to its
distributors and sales force in the sale of the Company's eyewear products. The
Company distributes its eyewear products to a broad customer base including
Wal-Mart, K-Mart, National Vision Associates and U.S. Vision as well as many
regional chain stores and local outlets. The Company has established
relationships with various fashion designers, fashion celebrities and marketing
organizations including Oscar de la Renta, Kathy Ireland, Halston, Harve
Bernard, Sarah Coventry, and the John Lennon Estate, and highly recognizable
consumer products brands such as Playskool, Nintendo and international jewelry
designer Kenneth Jay Lane. The Company intends to continue to identify and
license trade names and trademarks from various high profile brand sources in an
effort to target and capture additional segments of the eyewear markets. As used
herein, the term "sources" means that the Company retains third parties to
manufacture products to the Company's specifications.
The Company utilizes a diverse team of experienced fashion eyewear
designers to work with fashion houses, celebrities, manufacturers and
experienced members of the optical industry to design eyewear styles that convey
fashion, elegance and sophistication. The Company's eyeglass frames and
sunglasses are manufactured at a variety of independent factories throughout the
world. The Company distributes products through Company employed and independent
sales representatives situated in the United States and internationally and
intends to increase the size of its dedicated sales force, expand its sales and
marketing capabilities and develop additional alliances with fashion designers
and licensors.
The Company was incorporated in Delaware in May 1995 as Diplomat
Ambassador Inc. when it acquired the business of Chanuk, Inc., a Pennsylvania
corporation ("Chanuk"). On July 10, 1997, the Company changed its name to
Ambassador Eyewear Group, Inc.
On May 10, 1995, the Company acquired from Chanuk, the predecessor to the
Company, substantially all of the assets of Chanuk valued at approximately $6
million and assumed an aggregate of approximately $5.7 million of liabilities of
the business of Chanuk. The Company acquired Chanuk for approximately $700,000,
which amount was determined by negotiation between the shareholders of Chanuk
and the Company based primarily on the perceived net asset value of Chanuk at
the time. The assumed liabilities included indebtedness of Chanuk to Rudy
Slucker, the current Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company, of
approximately $508,000.
In June 1996, the Company acquired (the "Windsor Acquisition")
substantially all of the assets of Windsor Optical, Inc. ("Windsor"). In
connection with the Windsor Acquisition, the Company acquired trademark licenses
with Kenneth Jay Lane and John Lennon, among others. The aggregate
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consideration for the Windsor Acquisition was $550,000, including $100,000 in
cash and two promissory notes, payable to Windsor, in the aggregate principal
amount of $450,000.
In February 1997, the Company acquired from Summit Bank (the "Bank"),
pursuant to a Collateral Sale Agreement (the "Renaissance Acquisition"),
substantially all of the assets of Renaissance Eyewear Group ("Renaissance").
The Bank had acquired the assets of Renaissance in a foreclosure proceeding
instituted by the Bank. The aggregate consideration paid to the Bank for
Renaissance was $3,446,000.
The Company completed an initial public offering (the "Offering") of its
Common Stock in March 1998.
Strategy
The Company's business strategy for growth focuses on maintaining and
expanding its competitive position in the markets it currently serves and
establishing competitive market positions in other geographic areas, primarily
within the United States and, to a lesser extent, globally. The principal
elements of the Company's strategy include:
o Target Mid-Range Price Consumers. The Company has specifically
targeted and developed the market segment for high-quality designer
eyewear sold at retail price points below those of "designer"
eyewear of comparable quality. The Company identified in the early
1990's the potential that mass market discount stores such as
Wal-Mart and Price Club-CostCo had for marketing eyewear and
established its important supply relationships when such retailers
were only first entering the eyewear market. The Company distributes
eyewear and related products that it believes are comparable in
fashion and quality to other products in the market and yet
generally lower in cost.
o Target Additional Distributors, Coordinate and Manage Distribution.
The Company is pursuing additional relationships with distributors
throughout the world and globally. Currently, the Company
distributes its products through a coordinated network of Company
employed and independent sales representatives. The Company
maintains strict control over its sales network by employing a
substantial percentage of its sales representatives on a full-time
basis, and by monitoring pricing policy and participating in
advertising and promotional activities.
o Pursue Acquisitions to Increase Penetration in Existing and New
Markets. The Company seeks to increase its penetration in new and
existing markets by acquiring businesses and product lines that are
complementary to that of the Company. The Company expects to pursue
selective acquisitions of customer bases or businesses, companies
that complement the Company's current
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operations or expand its services or network capabilities. The
Company believes that such acquisitions, investments and strategic
alliances are an important means of increasing sales volume. Through
the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Windsor in
1996, the Company acquired eight new lines of eyewear including
licenses for Kenneth Jay Lane and John Lennon. Through the
acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Renaissance, the
Company significantly enhanced its sunglass product lines as well as
its channels of distribution for sunglass products. In addition,
following the acquisition, the Company negotiated licenses to use
additional trade names, including Oscar de la Renta and Nintendo.
Renaissance had sales of approximately $14 million for the year
ended October 31, 1996 and distributed five different lines of
eyeglass frames and sunglasses. The Company intends to continue to
expand its sales of sunglasses by increasing its sales efforts and
identifying and acquiring additional sunglass product lines.
Products
The Company offers hundreds of models of prescription eyeglass frames and
sunglasses in a wide range of styles under the Oscar de la Renta, Kathy Ireland,
Halston, Playskool, John Lennon, Kenneth Jay Lane, Harve Bernard, Sarah
Coventry, Nintendo trademarks and trade names, among others, and under the
Company's Phoenix, Da Vinci, Tarelli, Details, Landolfi trademarks and/or trade
names. The Company has not applied for trademark protection of its product
lines. The Company's prescription eyeglass frames and sunglasses, are often
intricately detailed, are affordable, and are priced less than "designer"
eyewear of comparable quality sold by other manufacturers. The Company's
products generally are sold at retail price points between $80 and $150, while
the Company believes that eyewear of comparable quality sold by other
distributors is generally sold at retail price points between $130 and $300. The
following describes certain of the Company's licensing and distribution
arrangements:
Kathy Ireland. The Company, in association with Kathy Ireland, has
designed a line of eyeglass frames and sunglasses for men and women. Kathy
Ireland, actress, model, and executive in the combined industries of fitness and
fashion, continues to run her businesses with the same integrity and success
that first launched her Signature collections. She directs every aspect of her
products including design, self testing and production. The styles, sold
exclusively by the Company, are designed to be stylish, contemporary and casual.
The eyeglasses are designed using a variety of materials, including the latest
metal alloys and plastic colorations. All are available in either ophthalmic or
sun styles. Shapes include cat-eye, rectangles, ovals and "preppie-designs." The
Company has entered into a four year exclusive (with respect to sunglasses,
eyeglasses, readers and ophthalmic frames and accessories) and non-exclusive
agreement (with respect to other items) with Kathy Ireland, Inc. under which the
Company has been granted a worldwide license to use certain licensed products
(the "Ireland Agreement"). In addition, Ms. Ireland has agreed to endorse the
Company's line of eyeglasses and provide limited marketing assistance including
attending various marketing events. The Ireland Agreement expires on January 30,
2000. The Ireland Agreement provides for guaranteed minimum royalties to Kathy
Ireland for
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the term of the Ireland Agreement. The Company is required to pay a royalty fee
based on net sales.
Halston. Halston is a world renowned designer of sophisticated and elegant
fashion. Halston eyewear is designed for men and women and is intended to serve
the moderate to upper price market. Each frame is treated with a quality coating
to provide a stylish long-lasting finish. The Company entered into a Supply
Agreement (the "Halston Agreement") with Styl-Rite Optical Mfg. Co.
("Styl-Rite") under which the Company has been granted a right to purchase from
Styl-Rite certain ophthalmic frames bearing the Halston trademark for resale to
retail outlets and specialty shops. The Halston Agreement expires on December
31, 2001.
Playskool. The Company has developed a children's line of eyewear that is
marketed under the Playskool brand name. Playskool is one of the most recognized
names in children's products. The Playskool styles are designed in consultation
with pediatric specialists to insure proper fit for a child's face and comfort
for a child's unique requirements. The frames are designed with bright colors
and light designs, include spring hinges and silicon nosepads to maintain fit
and which contain hypo-allergenic coatings. Frames carry an unconditional
guarantee. The Company has entered into a non-exclusive license agreement with
Playskool under which the Company has been granted a license to use certain
licensed products in the United States (the "Playskool Agreement"). The
Playskool Agreement expires on December 31, 1998 pursuant to the second renewal
term. Additional renewal of the Playskool Agreement is at the discretion of the
licensor. The Playskool Agreement provides for guaranteed minimum royalties to
the licensor for the term of the Playskool Agreement. The Company is required to
pay a royalty fee based on net sales.
Nintendo. The Nintendo Eyewear collection is intended to be a functional
children to teen line of eyeglass frames and to be fashionable with quality
features such as dual action spring hinges and double lacquer coatings to add
strength and durability. Nintendo is one of the largest video game companies in
the world and its products are in millions of households in the United States.
The Nintendo Eyewear collection is targeted to the six to fourteen year old age
group, mirroring Nintendo's most heavily penetrated video game market. The
Company entered into a merchandise license agreement with Nintendo of America,
Inc. under which the Company has been granted a non-exclusive license to
manufacture and sell prescription eyewear, sunglasses and non-prescription
sunglasses in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Panama, and Guatemala (the
"Nintendo Agreement"). The Nintendo Agreement expires on December 31, 2000. The
Company has an option to renew the Nintendo Agreement for one additional three
year term. The Nintendo Agreement provides for guaranteed minimum royalties to
the licensor for the term of the agreement. The Company is also required to pay
a royalty fee based on net sales.
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John Lennon. John Lennon's round, wire framed glasses became an
unmistakable part of his image and a symbol for his time. John Lennon frames
vary from high-end to moderate-priced and include designs for men and women. The
Company is negotiating to renew its distribution agreement with Eagle Eyewear,
Inc. in order to be the exclusive distributor of optical frames and sunglasses
for Eagle Eyewear, Inc. in the United States and Canada. If the distribution
agreement is renewed, the Company would order and purchase John Lennon products
solely from Eagle Eyewear, Inc. Further, Eagle Eyewear, Inc. would retain final
approval of the use of John Lennon's name or likeness by the Company. The
Company would be subject to certain minimum purchase requirements.
Kenneth Jay Lane. Kenneth Jay Lane is a world-famous designer of costume
jewelry. The Company's Kenneth Jay Lane collection was designed to emulate his
elegant, luxurious designs. The collection features unique metal trims, temples,
bridges and colors with colored stones and pearls integrated into the frame
designs to achieve a high-fashion appearance. The sunwear collection includes
frames adorned with colored stones and gold and silver points intended to
emulate Kenneth Jay Lane's jewelry designs. The license to Kenneth Jay Lane was
acquired at the time of the Windsor acquisition under a license agreement
between Windsor and Kenneth Jay Lane (the "Lane Agreement") The license provides
the Company with an exclusive right to use the Kenneth Jay Lane name in the
United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, the Caribbean Islands, Central America and
Mexico. The Lane Agreement was renewed in September 1997 and expires September,
2000. The Lane Agreement provided for guaranteed minimum royalties to the
licensor and for the payment by the Company of a royalty fee based on net sales.
In addition, the Company was required to spend a certain percentage of net sales
for advertising and promotional purposes.
Harve Benard Ltd. Harve Benard is an upscale women's clothing designer
that has had a significant name brand recognition for many years. The Harve
Benard eyewear collection is designed to be sophisticated yet practical,
designed in a glamorous, wearable, daytime look. The frame styles feature
exceptional fashion in a finely crafted product. The license to Harve Benard was
acquired at the time of the Chanuk acquisition under a license agreement between
Chanuk and Harve Benard Ltd. The license gives the Company an exclusive right to
use the Harve Benard mark in connection with the manufacture, distribution and
sale of men's and women's sunglasses and ophthalmic spectacle frames in the
United States and Canada. The Agreement expires on December 31, 1998. The
Company has an option to renew this agreement after the expiration date. The
Agreement provides for guaranteed minimum royalties to the licensor for the term
of the Agreement. The Company is required to pay a royalty fee based on net
sales.
Sarah Coventry. The Company believes that the Sarah Coventry label
represents classic feminine styling with mass appeal. Sarah Coventry products
appear in national advertising in consumer magazines such as Redbook and
Glamour. Targeted to the value conscious customer, the Sarah Coventry eyewear
collection is intended to offer a quality image at an excellent value. The
Company has entered into two separate exclusive license agreements with
Lifestyle Brands, Ltd., owner of the Sarah Coventry trade name, under which the
Company has been granted a license to manufacture and sell sunglasses, sunglass
cases, accessories, ophthalmic
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frames, and cases under the Sarah Coventry trade name (the "Lifestyle
Agreements"). The Lifestyle Agreements expired on June 30, 1998. The Company is
currently negotiating renewal terms although no assurance can be given that the
Company will be successful in reaching an agreement. It should be expected that
any renewals would provide for guaranteed minimum royalties to the licensor for
the term of the Lifestyle Agreements.
Flex Spex. Flex Spex are flexible eyeglass frames with a mechanism at the
temple hinge that maintains constraint and strong pressure on the eyeglass
frame. In addition, the Flex-Spex frame has no screws at the hinge. The Company
has registered the Flex Spex name as a trademark.
Other Brands. The Company has also entered into license agreements with
other brand names that provide for the payment of guaranteed minimum royalties
to licensors and additional royalty fees. Additionally, the Company has arranged
for the manufacture of a variety of proprietary brands, including agreements
with Tarelli Eyewear and Landolfi, Phoenix and DaVinci, intended to provide
European styling at moderate prices to its consumers. The Company has not
applied for trademark protection for these brands.
Marketing and Advertising
The Company markets its eyewear products primarily to independent
retailers, mass merchandisers, chain stores, department stores and international
distributors. The Company's sales efforts include the direct channels of a
dedicated sales force and telephone sales. The Company advertises primarily
through print trade journals and the distribution of catalogs. The Company
intends to expand its print advertising to include consumer oriented media. In
addition, through promotions, the Company assists the retailers to enhance
distribution of the Company's products to consumers.
Chain Stores, Department Stores and Mass Merchandisers. Chain stores and
superstores have begun to be a factor in the market share of eyewear. A
substantial majority of the Company's sales during fiscal 1997 and fiscal 1998
included sales to customers in this category.
Independent Retailers. The Company employs direct sales efforts to
identify and market to independent retailers through a sales force, promoting
distinct product lines. Although this constitutes a large part of the eyeglass
market, this category accounted for a lesser part of the Company's sales during
fiscal 1998.
International Distributors. The Company believes that substantial sales
opportunities may be exploited outside of the United States. Although the
Company has limited sales abroad, it intends to expand its international
business to markets outside the United States. Sales during fiscal 1997 and
fiscal 1998 to customers in this category were not material, although the
Company has identified foreign sales as a source of possible expansion.
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The Company's sales to its five largest customers represented over 62% of
its sales in fiscal 1996 and 51% in fiscal 1997 (30% on a pro forma basis giving
effect to the acquisitions of the assets of Windsor and Renaissance) and
approximately 55% in fiscal 1998. Sales to the Company's top customer, Wal-Mart
accounted for approximately 51%, of the Company's sales in fiscal 1996, and
approximately 35%, of its sales in fiscal 1997 (20% on a pro forma basis giving
effect to the acquisitions of the assets of Windsor and Renaissance) and
approximately 39% in fiscal 1998. The Company anticipates that sales to its top
five customers will continue to account for a significant percentage of its
sales. The Company has no long term commitments or contracts with any of its
customers. The loss or decreased sales from one or more of these customers and
in particular, Wal-Mart, would have a material adverse effect on the Company's
financial condition. The inability of any of the Company's significant customers
to satisfy any of their bills at any time or on a timely basis for any reason
could have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the Company.
The Company makes use of a dedicated and independent sales force of an
aggregate of approximately 42 sales representatives. This direct sales force
targets small, medium, and large-sized retailers from high-end boutiques to
discount frame outlets. The sales force is equipped to provide sales training,
support, and management consulting to the retailer. In addition, sales
representatives are equipped to assist with retail window displays, designer
boutique creating, and eyewear promotions.
National trade shows and international conventions have become the
sounding boards for the global eyewear industry. New products are launched and
designers showcase their creations and themselves during these events. The
Company plans to exhibit its products to an increasing number of distributors,
retailers, and consumers worldwide. The four most popular shows occur annually
and include Silmo in Paris, Mido in Milan, the Vision Expo in New York and the
Vision Expo in California.
The Company develops point of purchase materials that feature the
Company's products and brands which are provided to individual retail accounts.
Original display materials are periodically constructed to help design boutique
atmospheres within the retail accounts and properly display the Company's
products in the account's showroom and window display. Some of these products
include actual record albums to display the John Lennon Collection, Playskool
figurines and toys to complement the children's line, designer scarves, hats and
accessories to cross-merchandise designer eyewear. The Company believes that
advertising a designer's eyewear adjacent to other products also created by the
designer is a valuable method for creating name recognition and demand for the
Company's product.
Sources of Supply
The Company arranges for the production of its products primarily with
foreign suppliers on a purchase order basis on standard commercial terms,
secured in each case by the Company's general credit. At the present time, the
Company secures its supplies in three ways. First, the Company enters into
arrangements with certain suppliers whereby the Company provides such suppliers
with, among other things, specifications, materials and designs pursuant to
which
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certain products requested by the Company are made. Second, the Company enters
into arrangements with certain suppliers whereby such specifications and designs
are provided to the Company which then has the option of having products made
pursuant to such specifications and designs. Finally, the Company enters into
arrangements whereby certain finished products are presented to the Company and
the Company then chooses from the selections presented.
The Company imports substantially all of its frames from international
suppliers located in Taiwan, Korea, Italy and Japan, and, therefore, its prices
for and supply of those frames may be adversely affected by changing economic
conditions in foreign countries and fluctuations in currency exchange rates. The
Company may also be subject to other risks associated with international
operations, including tariff regulations and requirements for export licenses,
unexpected changes in regulatory requirements, receivable requirements,
difficulties in managing international operations, potentially adverse tax
consequences, economic and political instability, restrictions on repatriation
of earnings and the burdens of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws. In
addition, the laws of certain countries may not protect the Company's products
and intellectual property rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United
States.
Competition
The eyewear industry is highly competitive and fragmented. The Company
competes with different companies in different markets. The prescription and
non-prescription eyewear markets are highly competitive. The Company competes
with a number of established companies, including Luxottica, Safilo, Marchon and
Bausch & Lomb, which together control a substantial portion of the premium
market. In the sunglass market, the Company competes with a variety of
competitors with substantially greater financial and other resources than the
Company including Bausch & Lomb, the manufacturer of Ray-Ban and Oakley
sunglasses. All of the aforementioned companies have substantially greater
resources and better name recognition than the Company and sell their products
through broader and more diverse distribution channels. In addition, several of
these competitors have their own manufacturing facilities. The Company could
also face competition from new market entrants, including established branded
consumer products companies, such as Nike, Inc., that also have greater
financial and other resources than the Company. In addition, as the Company
expands internationally, it will face substantial competition from companies
that have already established their products in international markets and
consequently have significantly more experience in those markets than the
Company. The Company also faces competition from the use of contact lenses and
expanding laser surgery to correct vision. The major competitive factors in the
eyewear market include fashion trends, brand recognition, method of distribution
and the number and range of products offered. In addition, to retain and
increase its market share, the Company must continue to be competitive in the
areas of price, quality and performance, technology, intellectual property
protection and customer service.
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Licenses and Trademarks
The Company owns and has obtained licenses to various domestic and
international trademarks related to its products and business. These licenses
expire at various times through the year 2001. The trade names Halston, Kathy
Ireland, Playskool and others and certain trademarks are owned by various third
parties and licensed to the Company for limited purposes on a royalty basis. The
Company has not applied for trademark protection of its product lines.
Employees
At June 15, 1998, the Company had 113 full-time employees. Approximately
36 of such employees are engaged in administrative positions, 32 in sales, seven
in management and 38 provide warehouse and distribution support. The Company
considers its relations with its employees to be good. None of the Company's
employees are represented by labor unions.
Item 2. Description of Property
In August 1997, the Company moved to a new location in Bensalem,
Pennsylvania, for its management, inventory and distribution operations. The
facility has 64,000 square feet. The lease expires in August 2002 and provides
for rent of $26,000 per month. Barry Budilov and Rudy Slucker, the Company's
President and Chairman, respectively, have agreed to purchase the leased
property from the landlord for $2,465,540. In anticipation of such purchase,
Messrs. Slucker and Budilov have entered into an agreement with the Company
pursuant to which they have agreed to rent to the Company the property at
substantially the same terms and conditions as are set forth on the current
lease. The Company leased its former principal offices occupying 30,000 square
feet in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which were used to house all the Company's
management, inventory and distribution operations. In April 1998, the Company
entered into a settlement agreement with its former landlord which terminated
and discharged the Company's obligation to make rental payments under the lease
for such facility in consideration of $110,000 from the Company and an
additional $42,000 constituting rental payments for previous months.
Item 3. Legal Matters
On July 2, 1998, the Company was served with a Complaint and Demand for
Jury Trial by Marchon Eyewear Group, Inc. ("Marchon") and Rothanburg, Inc.
("Rothanburg") in the Eastern District of New York. In the Complaint, the
plaintiffs assert claims that the Company has been and now is infringing one or
more claims of two U.S. Patents that were allegedly assigned to Marchon and
licensed exclusively by Marchon to Rothanburg. Plaintiff alleges in the
Complaint, among other things, that one patent relates to eyeglass frames
fabricated from nickel-titanium based shape-memory alloy components having,
inter alia, greater than 3% elasticity over a usage temperature range of -20 C
to +40 C. Plaintiff further alleges that the other patent relates to eyeglass
frames having, inter alia, deformed receiving sleeve connections to secure
eyeglass frame components, such as temple and bridge pieces, to the lens frame.
The Complaint relates to the Company's flexible eyeglass frame line of products
that the Company began marketing in March 1998. Plaintiffs request relief from
the Company including lost profits, pre judgement interest and treble damages,
attorneys' fees and costs and expenses. Since March, the Company has sold a
significant amount of flexible eyeglass frames. The Company believes that its
flexible eyeglass frames do not infringe any claims of valid patents and intends
to vigorously defend the lawsuit. Nevertheless, if the dispute is resolved
against the Company, in addition to incurring potential damages and costs
relating to the defense of the claim, which could be signficant, the Company may
be required to modify certain of its flexible eyeglass products or be unable to
sell such products in the future.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.
None.
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PART II
Item 5. Market for Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters.
Market Information: Since the effective date of the Company's registration
statement on March 18, 1998, the Company's Common Stock has been traded on the
Chicago Stock Exchange under the symbol "AEY." The following table shows the
closing bid price for the quarter that the Company's securities has been
publicly traded. This amount, which has been rounded to the nearest cent,
represents the quotation between dealers and does not include retail mark-ups,
mark-downs or commissions, and may not represent actual transactions.
Common Stock High Low
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March 18, 1998- $6.50 $6.00
March 31, 1998
Holders: As of June 15, 1998, there were in excess of 400 beneficial
holders of its shares of Common Stock.
Dividends: The Company has never declared or paid dividends on its Common
Stock and does not intend to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. Management
intends to retain all available earnings to finance and expand its business.
Declaration of dividends in the future will be at the discretion of the Board of
Directors and will depend on the Company's future earnings, capital
requirements, financial position, contractual restrictions, and other factors
deemed relevant by the Company's Board of Directors. The Company's loan
agreement with CoreStates Bank contains restrictions on the payment of
dividends.
Item 6. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations.
Overview. The Company designs, markets, sources and distributes high
quality prescription eyeglass frames and non-prescription sunglasses to
department and specialty stores, optical chains and eyewear boutiques throughout
the United States and the world. On May 3, 1995 (inception), the Company was
organized and on May 10, 1995, the Company acquired substantially all of the
assets and assumed certain of the liabilities of Chanuk. Chanuk was engaged in
substantially the same business as the Company and a majority stockholder of
Chanuk is the mother-in-law of the President of the Company. The Company has
expanded through the acquisition of other companies in related and complementary
businesses and through the increase of its sales base. On June 26, 1996 the
Company acquired substantially all of the assets and assumed certain of the
liabilities of Windsor and on February 26, 1997, the Company acquired from a
bank substantially all of the assets of Renaissance. The bank had foreclosed on
Renaissance upon default of its loan agreement. In connection with the
acquisition, the Company paid the bank $3,446,000. The Company also entered into
a consulting agreement with the former owner of Renaissance which provided for
annual aggregate payments of $200,000 per year for five years. In addition,
under a consulting agreement, the Company
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granted the former owner of Renaissance options to purchase 180,833 shares of
Common Stock of the Company for $3.00 per share. Following the acquisition, the
Company paid an aggregate of approximately $400,000 to various creditors of
Renaissance deemed to be necessary to preserve the value of the acquired assets.
The operations of the Company for the year ended March 31, 1997 include
the results of operations of the Company during such period, including nine
months of operations attributable to the operations of Windsor as well as
approximately one month of operations of Renaissance. The results of operations
of the Company for the year ended March 31, 1998 include one full year of
operations of the combined operations of the Company, Windsor and Renaissance.
On March 18, 1998, the Company completed an initial public offering (the
"Offering") pursuant to which it sold 1,200,000 shares of Common Stock for $6.00
per share and received net proceeds of $5,524,000.
Prior to the Offering, the Company has, from time to time, experienced
cash flow shortfalls and has been required to borrow substantial amounts from
banks. The Company had total liabilities of approximately $19.0 million at March
31, 1998, approximately $ 17.4 million of which were current. Of such
liabilities, approximately $8.0 million is payable to CoreStates Bank (the
"Bank") pursuant to the Company's revolving line of credit. During the year
ended March 31, 1997, and the year ended March 31, 1998, the Company incurred
approximately $742,000 and $1.3 million, respectively, in net interest expenses.
The revolving line of credit is secured by substantially all of the assets of
the Company. The credit facility is represented by demand notes payable to the
Bank under which the Bank may demand repayment at any time. The Company reduced
outstanding borrowings from the Bank by approximately $5.5 million from the
proceeds of the Offering and from earnings during the fourth quarter. Even after
the proposed repayment of a portion of the Company's indebtedness from the
proceeds of the Offering, the Company's outstanding indebtedness and ongoing
interest expense continues to be significant. In addition, if the Bank were to
demand repayment of the entire outstanding borrowings under the facility, the
Company would be required to identify alternative financing to satisfy its
repayment obligation and to continue its operations. If it is unsuccessful in so
identifying such financing the Company may be required to cease operations. The
loan agreement with the Bank also contains provisions which restrict certain
activities of the Company, including the declaration of dividends and also
provides for various other restrictive covenants, including the continuing
participation of Rudy A. Slucker, the Chairman of the Board of Directors and
Barry Budilov, the President and Chief Executive Officer, in their current
management positions.
Year ended March 31, 1998 ("Fiscal 1998") Compared to Year ended March 31,
1997 ("Fiscal 1997"). Net sales for Fiscal 1998 were approximately $24.6 million
as compared to approximately $16.5 million for Fiscal 1997. The increase in
sales was attributable to the addition of the product lines and sales resulting
from the acquisition of Windsor in June 1996 and Renaissance in February 1997,
and a full year of such operations during Fiscal 1998, as well as to increases
in sales of existing product lines of the Company.
-12-
<PAGE>
Cost of sales for Fiscal 1998 were approximately $10.8 million
(approximately 43.9% of net sales) as compared to approximately $8.5 million for
Fiscal 1997 (approximately 51.8% of net sales). Cost of sales includes the
purchase price for eyeglass frames, in addition to the costs to the Company of
importing such frames. Cost of sales decreased in 1998 compared to 1997 as a
percentage of net sales because the Company was able to identify lower cost
sources of manufacturing as its sales volume increased.
Selling, general and administrative expenses, consisting principally of
advertising, marketing, accounting and salaries of officers, increased from
approximately $6.1 million (approximately 37.3% of net sales) for Fiscal 1997 to
approximately $10.8 million (approximately 44.1% of net sales) for Fiscal 1998.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased as a result of increased
sales and marketing costs and increased administrative costs relating to the
acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Windsor and Renaissance and
the increase in accounting and overhead expense relating to the introduction of
new product lines. Selling, general and administrative expenses during Fiscal
1998 includes approximately $766,000 relating to redundant costs of operating
Renaissance in a separate facility through July 1997, consisting primarily of
duplicate overhead and personnel expenses incurred prior to the consolidation of
the Company's operations into one location as well as actual costs related to
the relocation.
Income from operations increased from approximately $1.8 million
(approximately 11% of net sales) for Fiscal 1997 to approximately $2.9 million
(approximately 12% of net sales) during Fiscal 1998, reflecting the increased
sales by the Company from its pre-existing base of customers as well as the
addition of the Windsor and Renaissance operations and a decrease in cost of
sales partially offset by an increase in overhead costs.
Interest expense increased from approximately $742,000 for Fiscal 1997 to
approximately $1,293,000 during Fiscal 1998, reflecting the increased borrowing
by the Company both to finance the acquisition of Windsor and Renaissance, to
finance the growth of the Company's operations and to finance the increase in
the Company's inventory necessary to allow the Company to provide improved
delivery capabilities for its increase in customer base.
Liquidity and Capital Resources. At March 31, 1998, the Company had
working capital of approximately $7.5 million. The Company's total current
assets at March 31, 1998 of approximately $24.9 million includes accounts
receivable of approximately $12.8 million and inventories of approximately $11.2
million. The Company's accounts receivable reflects an allowance for doubtful
accounts of approximately $1.2 million. The Company's inventories consist
principally of eyeglass frames and sunglasses held at its warehouse for
distribution. The market for eyewear and accessories is subject to the risk of
changing consumer trends. In order to be able to promptly fill orders from
distributors, the Company maintains a significant level of inventory. In the
event that a significant number of particular models or accessories does not
achieve widespread consumer acceptance, the Company may be required to take
significant price
-13-
<PAGE>
markdowns, which could have a material adverse effect on the business results of
operations and financial condition of the Company.
The Company's current liabilities as of March 31, 1998 include
approximately $8.0 million relating to its revolving line of credit with
CoreStates Bank. The Company has used its line of credit to fund its continuing
operations. The revolving line of credit expires annually on June 1st and is
automatically renewed for one year periods and provides for a maximum borrowing
amount of $12 million. Indebtedness under the line accrues interest at the prime
rate (8.5% at March 31, 1998) and, is collateralized by substantially all of the
assets of the Company. Rudy A. Slucker, the Chairman of the Board of Directors
of the Company, and Barry Budilov, the President of the Company, have each
provided personal guarantees for the line of credit for up to $1.1 million of
such debt. Upon the completion of the Offering, the personal obligations of
Messrs. Slucker and Budilov have been reduced to $500,000 each. The Company
repaid approximately $5.5 million of this debt from the proceeds of the
Offering, including a transaction fee of $100,000 which relates to the
acquisition of Renaissance, which was paid to CoreStates Bank upon the closing
of the Offering. The revolving line of credit restricts the payment of dividends
to stockholders and provides for various restrictive covenants, including the
continuing participation of Rudy A. Slucker and Barry Budilov in their current
management positions. The Company also borrowed an aggregate of $576,000 from
Mr. Slucker from February 4, 1997 through February 1, 1998 to assist the Company
in financing its costs relating to the acquisition of substantially all of the
assets of Renaissance and the integration of the business of Renaissance into
that of the Company and for working capital. The loan earned interest at the
rate of 8% per annum. The Company repaid the debt upon the closing of the
Offering.
At March 31, 1998, the Company's current liabilities also included
approximately $5.9 million of accounts payable and $1.2 million in accrued
expenses, payable in the ordinary course of its business. The Company's
long-term debt includes approximately $216,000 (which does not include current
portion of $103,000) of indebtedness in connection with the acquisition of
Windsor.
The Company's indebtedness includes approximately $1.18 million payable to
Mr. Slucker and Mr. Budilov under the 8% Convertible Notes. The Convertible
Notes are repayable, subject to restrictions contained in the Company's loan
agreement with CoreStates Bank on March 31, 2000. Interest shall accrue and be
payable quarterly at the rate of 8% per annum. If the Company has earnings equal
to or in excess of $.60 per share for the year ending March 31, 1999, the
Convertible Notes may be prepaid at the option of the holder commencing on March
31, 1999. The Convertible Notes may be converted at any time into shares of
Common Stock at a rate equal to $6.00 per share.
-14-
<PAGE>
Sales of eyewear under license agreements represented approximately 35%,
30% and 39% of the sales of the Company and Renaissance for Fiscal 1996, 1997
(pro forma) and 1998, respectively. The Company's license agreements generally
require the Company to satisfy minimum purchase requirements or to make annual
royalty payments and advertising expenditures and maintain quality control and
retail distribution commensurate with the licensor's image. Accordingly, certain
licensors are entitled to receive payment from the Company whether or not
specified minimum levels of annual sales for licensed products are met. For the
year ending March 31, 1999, the annual aggregate guaranteed minimum obligations
of the Company under current license agreements will be no less than $1,095,000,
even if the Company were to generate no sales under the agreements.
As of March 31, 1998, the Company's obligations under employment
agreements and consulting agreements with members of management and its Board of
Directors aggregate approximately $480,000 during the year ending March 31,
1999. In addition, payments under notes, non-competition and other agreements
relating to the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Chanuk,
Windsor and Renaissance, will aggregate approximately an additional $375,000 for
the year ending March 31, 1999.
The Company currently leases office, warehouse and showroom facilities and
equipment under operating leases, which expire at various times through the year
2002. Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable leases at March 31,
1998 (exclusive of the Company's real property lease) aggregate approximately
$1.6 million through the year 2002. Under its real property lease for the
Company's facilty, the Company pays a base annual rent of approximately between
$300,000 and $400,000 per year. Under a settlement agreement with its former
landlord which terminated and discharged the Company's obligation to make rental
payments under the Company's old lease, the Company has paid to its old landlord
during the three months ended June 30, 1998, $152,000, which includes $42,000 of
past-due rent.
In connection with the acquisitions of substantially all of the assets of
Renaissance in 1997, the Company satisfied certain obligations of that business
to particular creditors, the cooperation of which was deemed to be necessary to
continue conducting business. In connection with the acquisition of
substantially all of the assets of Renaissance, no liabilities of Renaissance
were contractually assumed by the Company The Company has been provided with
estimates indicating that the net liabilities of Renaissance exceeded $3.0
million at the time the Company acquired the assets. A number of creditors of
Renaissance have instituted collection actions in court against Renaissance for
amounts due to them from Renaissance. The Company is not a party to any of these
actions, and accordingly has not determined with certainty the amounts involved
in such proceedings. To the extent that any creditors of Renaissance seek
recourse against the Company as the purchaser of substantially all of the assets
of Renaissance, the Company may incur substantial expenses in connection with
defending any such actions. Furthermore, to the extent
-15-
<PAGE>
that creditors are successful in asserting any claims against the Company as a
successor to Renaissance or challenge the acquisition from the secured creditor,
the Company could be responsible for substantial liabilities and its financial
position could be adversely affected.
Year 2000 Modifications
The Company recognizes the potential business impacts related to the Year
2000 computer system issue. The issue is one where computer systems may
recognize the designation "00" as 1900 when it means 2000, resulting in system
failure or miscalculations. The Company began to address the Year 2000 issue in
1998 and continues to implement measures to ensure its business operations are
not disrupted. The Company estimates that it will spend an additional $15,000
above normal operating costs in order to comply with Year 2000 issues.
Seasonality
The Company believes that its business is subject to seasonal trends,
resulting in lower sales of prescription eyewear during its third quarter (the
three months ended December 31) and higher sales of sunglass products during the
spring. Accordingly, sales and results of operations may fluctuate from month to
month throughout the year and quarterly results may not always be indicative of
the entire year.
Forward Looking Statements
When used in this and in future filings by the Company with the Securities
and Exchange Commission, in the Company's press releases and in oral statements
made with the approval of an authorized executive officer of the Company, the
words or phrases "will likely result," "expects," "plans," "will continue," "is
anticipated," "estimated", "project" or "outlook" or similar expressions
(including confirmations by an authorized executive officer of the Company of
any such expressions made by a third party with respect to the Company) are
intended to identify "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company wishes to caution
readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, each
of which speak only as of the date made. Such statements are subject to certain
risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially
from historical earnings and those presently anticipated or projected. Such
risks and other aspects of the Company's business and operations are described
in "Risk Factors." The Company has no obligation to publicly release the result
of any revisions which may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect
anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances occurring after the date of
such statements.
Item 7. Financial Statements.
The Financial Statements required by this item appear under the caption
"Index to Financial Statements" and are included elsewhere herein at page F-1.
-16-
<PAGE>
Item 8. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure and Control Persons; Compliance
There were no disagreements between the Company and its independent
accountants to report under this item.
-17-
<PAGE>
PART III
Item 9. Directors, Executive Officers, Promoters and Control Persons; Compliance
With Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act.
Incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for Annual
Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
within 120 days after the close of the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998.
Item 10. Executive Compensation.
Director Compensation
Incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for Annual
Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
within 120 days after the close of the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998.
Executive Compensation
Incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for Annual
Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
within 120 days after the close of the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998.
Item 11. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
Incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for Annual
Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
within 120 days after the close of the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998.
Item 12. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.
Incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for Annual
Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
within 120 days after the close of the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998.
Item 13. Exhibits, List and Reports on Form 8-K.
Exhibit No. Description
- ----------- -----------
(a) The Exhibit Index required by Item 601 of Regulation S-B as follows:
(3)(i) Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company's Registration Statement on
Form SB-2 (No. 333-31343) declared effective by the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 18, 1998 (the "Registration
Statement").
-18-
<PAGE>
(3)(i)(a) Amendment to Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1a of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(3)(ii) By-Laws. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(4)(i) Specimen Common Stock Certificate. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.3 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(1) Asset Sale Agreement dated June 26, 1996 by and among the Company,
Windsor Optical, Inc. and Jay Kitnick and Kenneth Kitnick.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(2) Possession Agreement dated February 26, 1997 by and between the
Company and Summit Bank. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2
of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(3) Collateral Sale Agreement dated February 26, 1997 by and between the
Company and Summit Bank. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3
of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(4) Form of Underwriter's Warrant to Purchase Common Stock of the
Company. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(5) Revised form of Employment Agreement between the Company and Barry
Budilov. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(6) Revised form of Consulting Agreement between the Company and Rudy A.
Slucker. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(7) Employment Agreement dated June 26, 1996 between the Company and
Kenneth Kitnick. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 of the
Company's Registration Statement.
-19-
<PAGE>
(10)(8) Employment Agreement dated February 27 1997 between the Company and
Edward Kauz. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 of the
Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(9) Supplemental Employment Agreement dated February 27, 1997 between
the Company and Edward Kauz. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.9 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(10) Consulting Agreement dated June 26, 1996 between the Company and Jay
Kitnick. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(11) Consulting Agreement dated May 9, 1995 between the Company and
Canuk, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 of the
Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(12) Promissory Note payable to Windsor Optical, Inc. dated June 26, 1996
in the principal amount of $150,000. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.12 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(13) Promissory Note payable to Windsor Optical, Inc. dated June 26, 1996
in the principal amount of $300,000. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.13 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(14) Loan Agreement dated June 7, 1996 by and between the Company and
CoreStates Bank, N.A. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 of
the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(15) First Amendment to Loan Agreement dated February 25, 1997.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(16) Second Rider to guaranty dated February 25, 1997 amending and
restating Rider to Guaranty dated June 7, 1996 executed by Barry
Budilov and Carole Budilov in favor of CoreStates Bank, N.A.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
-20-
<PAGE>
(10)(17) Second Rider to Guaranty dated February 25, 1997 amending and
restating Rider to guaranty dated June 7, 196 executed by Rudy A.
Slucker and Linda Slucker in favor of CoreStates Bank, N.A.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(18) Second Rider to Subordination Agreement dated February 25, 1997.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(19) Demand Note payable to CoresStates Bank, N.A. dated February 25,
1997 in the principal amount of $12,000,000. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.19 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(20) Product License Agreement dated June 14, 1995 between the Company
and Lifestyle Brands, Ltd. (sunglasses, sunglass cases and
accessories). Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of the
Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(21) Product License Agreement dated June 14, 1995 between the Company
and Lifestyle Brands, Ltd. (ophthalmic frames and cases).
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(22) License Agreement dated January 1, 1992 between Diplomat Optical
Company and Playskool. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 of
the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(23) License Agreement dated January 1, 1992 between the Chanuk Inc.
d/b/a Diplomat Optical Company and Harve Bernard Lt. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.23 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(24) License Agreement dated April 10, 1989 between Renaissance Eyewear
Inc. and Nintendo of America Inc. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.24 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(27) License Agreement dated April 1, 1994 between Windsor Optical, Inc.
and Kenneth Jay Lane, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.27 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(28) License Agreement dated August 24, 1995 by and among Kathy Ireland,
Inc., the Sterling/Winters Co. and Diplomat Ambassador Eyewear
Group. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.28 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
-21-
<PAGE>
(10)(29) License Agreement dated January 1, 1993 between Jones Investment
Co., Inc. and Diplomat Ambassador Eyewear Group. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.29 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(30) Supply Agreement dated November 18, 1996 between StylRite Optical
Mfg. Co., Inc. and the Company. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.30 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(31) Merchandise License Agreement dated February 21, 1997 between
Nintendo of America, Inc. and the Company. Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.31 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(32) Amendment dated November 1995 to License Agreement dated January 1,
1992 between Diplomat Optical Company and Playskool. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.32 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(34) License Renewal Agreement, dated September 22, 1997, between the
Company and Kenneth Jay Lane, Inc. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.34 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(35) 1997 Stock Option Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.35
of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(36) Lease, dated July 10, 1997, between the Company and 3600 Meadow Lane
Partnership. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 of the
Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(37) Form of Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Barry
Budilov. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(38) Form of Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Rudy Slucker.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(39) Form of Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Kenneth
Butchin. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.39 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
-22-
<PAGE>
(10)(40) Form of Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Edward Kauz.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.40 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(41) Form of Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Kenneth
Kitnick. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.41 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(42) Financial Consulting Agreement. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.42 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(43) Mergers and Acquisitions Agreement. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.43 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(44) Form of Amended and Restated Convertible Demand Note between the
Company and Rudy A. Slucker. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.44 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(45) Form of Amended and Restated Convertible Demand Note between the
Company and Barry Budilov. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.45 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(46) Employee Stock Option Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.46 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(47) Agreement of Sale, dated July 10, 1997, between 3600 Meadow Lane
Partnership and Barry Budilov and Rudy Slucker. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.47 of the Company's Registration Statement.
(10)(48) Agreement to Rent between the Company, Barry Budilov and Rudy
Slucker. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.48 of the Company's
Registration Statement.
(10)(49) Settlement and Release Agreement, dated April 1, 1998 between the
Company and 1010 Arch Street Partners.
(21) Subsidiaries of the Registrant: None
(27) Financial Data Schedules.
The Financial Statements as set forth under Item 7 are filed as part of
this Report (see page F-1 et. seq.). All financial statements schedules are
omitted as they are either not applicable or the required information is
included in the financial statements or the notes thereto.
-23-
<PAGE>
The following reports on Form 8K were filed by the Company during the last
quarter of the period covered by this report: None.
-24-
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Contents
Independent Auditors' Report F-2
Balance Sheet as at March 31, 1998 F-3
Statements of Operations for the Years Ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997 F-4
Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
for the Years Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 F-5
Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997 F-6
Notes to Financial Statements F-7
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Ambassador Eyewear Group, Inc.
Bensalem, Pennsylvania
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Ambassador Eyewear Group, Inc.
as at March 31, 1998 and the related statements of operations, changes in
stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the two year period
ended March 31, 1998. These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement
presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements enumerated above present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of Ambassador Eyewear Group, Inc. at
March 31, 1998 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of
the years in the two year period ended March 31, 1998 in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.
New York, New York Richard A. Eisner & Company, LLP
May 26, 1998
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Balance Sheet
March 31, 1998
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash $ 47,000
Accounts receivable, less allowance for
returns and doubtful accounts of $1,160,000 12,849,000
Receivable from stockholder/officer 15,000
Inventories 11,181,000
Prepaid expenses 382,000
Deferred taxes 400,000
Other current assets 47,000
-----------
Total current assets 24,921,000
Fixed assets, net 733,000
Deferred financing cost, net 11,000
Other assets 38,000
-----------
$25,703,000
===========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Notes payable - banks $ 7,986,000
Notes payable - stockholder/officer 574,000
Advances from stockholders/officers 90,000
Current portion of long-term debt 103,000
Accounts payable 5,913,000
Accrued expenses 1,194,000
Income taxes payable 1,427,000
Current portion of capital leases payable 100,000
-----------
Total current liabilities 17,387,000
Consulting payable 72,000
Long-term debt, less current portion 216,000
Convertible note payable - stockholders/officer 1,181,000
Capital leases payable, less current portion 105,000
Deferred taxes 27,000
-----------
Total liabilities 18,988,000
-----------
Commitments, contingencies and other matters
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share;
authorized 1,000,000 shares; none issued
Common stock, par value $.01 per share;
authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and
outstanding 4,700,000 shares 47,000
Additional paid-in capital 5,699,000
Unearned portion of compensatory stock options (146,000)
Retained earnings 1,115,000
-----------
Total stockholders' equity 6,715,000
-----------
TOTAL $25,703,000
===========
See notes to financial statements F-2
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Statements of Operations
For the years ended March 31,
1998 1997
----------- -----------
Net sales $24,570,000 $16,455,000
Cost of sales 10,795,000 8,552,000
----------- -----------
Gross profit 13,775,000 7,903,000
Selling, general and
administrative expenses 10,835,000 6,145,000
----------- -----------
Income from operations 2,940,000 1,758,000
Other income 264,000 4,000
Interest expense (1,293,000) (742,000)
----------- -----------
Income before provision
for income taxes 1,911,000 1,020,000
Income tax provision 781,000 340,000
----------- -----------
NET INCOME $ 1,130,000 $ 680,000
=========== ===========
Net income per share - basic $ 0.32 $ 0.19
=========== ===========
Net income per share - diluted $ 0.28 $ 0.18
=========== ===========
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding - basic income per share 3,533,000 3,500,000
=========== ===========
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding - diluted income per share 4,124,000 3,836,000
=========== ===========
See notes to financial statements F-3
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Unearned
Common Stock Portion of
-------------------- Additional Compensatory Retained Total
Number of Paid-in Stock Earnings Stockholders'
Shares Amount Capital Options (Deficit) Equity
------ ------ ------- ------- --------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance - March 31, 1996 3,500,000 $35,000 $ (695,000) $ (660,000)
Fair value of options
granted $ 187,000 $(187,000)
Amortization of unearned portion of
compensatory stock options 3,000 3,000
Net income for the year 680,000 680,000
--------- ------- ---------- --------- ---------- ----------
Balance - March 31, 1997 3,500,000 35,000 187,000 (184,000) (15,000) 23,000
Amortization of
unearned portion of
compensatory stock
options 38,000 38,000
Issuance of stock for
cash, net of
offering costs 1,200,000 12,000 5,512,000 5,524,000
Net income for the year 1,130,000 1,130,000
--------- ------- ---------- --------- ---------- ----------
BALANCE - MARCH 31, 1998 4,700,000 $47,000 $5,699,000 $(146,000) $1,115,000 $6,715,000
========= ======= ========== ========= ========== ==========
</TABLE>
See notes to financial statements F-4
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended March 31,
1998 1997
----------- -----------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 1,130,000 $ 680,000
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
cash (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation 237,000 175,000
Amortization of deferred financing costs 108,000 71,000
Amortization of deferred credit (100,000) (8,000)
Deferred taxes 172,000 (173,000)
Compensatory stock option 38,000 3,000
Loss on disposal of assets 59,000
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable (5,446,000) (3,992,000)
Receivable from stockholder/officer (15,000)
Inventories (213,000) (1,364,000)
Prepaid expenses (207,000) 98,000
Other assets (39,000) 173,000
Accounts payable 1,671,000 252,000
Consulting payable 43,000 29,000
Accrued expenses 386,000 106,000
Income taxes payable 687,000 425,000
----------- -----------
Net cash (used in) operating activities (1,489,000) (3,525,000)
----------- -----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Fixed asset acquisitions (166,000) (136,000)
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets 15,000
Cash obtained through acquisitions 59,000
----------- -----------
Net cash (used in) investing activities (151,000) (77,000)
----------- -----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net borrowings from bank - line of credit (4,112,000) 3,575,000
Proceeds from sale of common stock, net 5,524,000
Payments of financing costs (90,000)
Proceeds from stockholders/officers 1,345,000 265,000
Payment of advances (881,000)
Payments of notes payable - stockholders/officer (80,000)
Payments of notes payable - Windsor (96,000) (35,000)
Payments on capital leases (88,000) (48,000)
----------- -----------
Net cash provided by financing activities 1,612,000 3,667,000
----------- -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash (28,000) 65,000
Cash - beginning of year 75,000 10,000
----------- -----------
Cash - end of year $ 47,000 $75,000
=========== ===========
Supplementary cash flow information:
Income taxes paid (net of refunds received) $ (78,000) $ 88,000
Interest paid 1,133,000 629,000
Supplementary schedule of non-cash investing and
financing activities:
Deferred financing fee 100,000
Equipment acquired under capital leases 134,000
See notes to financial statements F-5
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE A - THE COMPANY
Ambassador Eyewear Group, Inc. (the "Company", formerly Diplomat Ambassador,
Inc.), designs, markets and distributes prescription eyeglass frames and
nonprescription sunglasses to department and specialty stores, optical chains
and eyewear boutiques worldwide. The Company was organized on May 3, 1995 and on
May 10, 1995, acquired substantially all of the assets and assumed certain of
the liabilities of Chanuk Inc. ("Chanuk"), an eyewear distributor and
predecessor entity. On June 26, 1996 the Company acquired substantially all of
the assets and assumed certain of the liabilities of Windsor Optical, Inc.
("Windsor"). On February 26, 1997 the Company acquired from a bank substantially
all of the assets and assumed the bank debt of Renaissance Eyewear Inc.
("Renaissance") and incurred certain other obligations.
The Company imports substantially all of its frames and nonprescription
sunglasses from a limited number of international suppliers, principally in the
Far East.
NOTE B - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
[1] Use of estimates:
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the
financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses
during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those
estimates.
[2] Inventories:
Inventories, consisting principally of eyeglass frames and sunglasses, are
stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the first-in,
first-out method.
[3] Fixed assets:
Fixed assets, including assets held under capital leases, are stated at
cost and depreciation is computed by the straight line method over the
estimated useful lives of 5 to 7 years. Leasehold improvements are stated
at cost and are amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the
estimated useful lives of the related assets.
[4] Amortization of intangible assets:
Deferred financing costs are being amortized on a straight line basis over
the remaining term of the revolving credit facility (see Note E[1]).
Amortization for the year ended March 31, 1998 was $108,000.
[5] Deferred credit:
The deferred credit represents the excess of the fair value of current
assets of Renaissance acquired over the purchase price, which is being
amortized over a period of five years (see Note C). Amortization for the
year ended March 31, 1998 amounted to $100,000.
[6] Income taxes:
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes"
which requires the use of the liability method of accounting for income
taxes. The Company reports on a calendar year end for income tax purposes.
F-6
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE B - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
[7] Revenue recognition:
Revenue is recognized when merchandise is shipped to customers. The
Company accrues a sales return allowance in accordance with its return
policy for estimated returns of inventory subsequent to the balance sheet
date that relate to sales prior to the balance sheet date. At March 31,
1998, the allowance for returns was $225,000.
[8] Earnings per share:
The company calculates its income per share under the provisions of SFAS
No. 128, "Earnings Per Share". SFAS No. 128 requires a dual presentation
of "basic" and "diluted" income per share. Basic income per share is
computed by dividing the net income by the weighted average number of
shares of common stock outstanding during each period. Diluted income per
share includes the effect, if any, from the potential exercise or
conversion of securities, such as stock options, warrants and convertible
notes, which would result in the issuance of incremental shares of common
stock.
Year Ended March 31,
-------------------------
1998 1997
---------- ----------
Income available to common stockholders $1,130,000 $ 680,000
Effect of dilutive securities:
Interest on convertible notes, net of tax 39,000
---------- ----------
Income available to common stockholders
plus assumed conversions $1,169,000 $ 680,000
---------- ----------
Shares outstanding at beginning of year 3,500,000 3,500,000
Weighted average number of shares issued during
the year 33,000
---------- ----------
Average shares outstanding - basic 3,533,000 3,500,000
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options 591,000 336,000
Convertible notes and interest 214,000
---------- ----------
Average shares outstanding - assuming dilution 4,124,000 3,836,000
---------- ----------
[9] Concentration of credit risk:
Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to significant
concentrations of credit risk consist principally of accounts receivable.
The Company extends credit to a substantial number of its customers and
performs ongoing credit evaluations of the customers' financial condition
while requiring no collateral.
[10] Fair values of financial instruments:
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 107, "Disclosures about
Fair Value of Financial Instruments," requires the Company to disclose
estimated fair values for its financial instruments. The carrying amounts
reported in the balance sheet for cash, accounts receivable, accounts
payable and accrued expenses approximate fair value because of the short
maturity period of those instruments. In addition the carrying amounts
reported for notes payable approximate fair value based on recent market
rates of interest for similar instruments.
F-7
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE B - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
[11] Stock-based compensation:
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS No. 123") allows companies to either
expense the estimated fair value of stock options or other awards granted
to employees or to continue to follow the intrinsic value method set forth
in Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock
Issued to Employees" ("APB 25") but disclose the pro forma effects on net
income (loss) had the fair value of the options been expensed. The Company
has elected to continue to apply APB No.25 to its stock-based compensation
awards to employees and disclose pro forma net income and per share data
in accordance with SFAS No. 123. Accordingly, the Company accounts for the
difference between the exercise price of compensatory stock options and
the fair value of the stock at the date of grant, as "Unearned
Compensatory Stock Options," which the Company charges to operations over
the vesting period.
[12] Foreign currency transactions:
Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are recognized in operations
as incurred. For the years ended March 31,1998 and 1997, such gains/losses
were not material.
[13] Advertising:
The costs of advertising are expensed when incurred. Advertising expense
for the years ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 was approximately $211,000 and
$277,000, respectively.
[14] Recent accounting pronouncements:
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statements
of Financial Accounting Standards No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive
Income", and No. 131, "Disclosure about Segments of an Enterprise and
Related Information". The Company believes that the above pronouncements
will not have a significant effect on the information presented in the
financial statements.
NOTE C - ASSET ACQUISITIONS
In June 1996, the Company acquired substantially all the assets of Windsor, an
eyewear distributor, in exchange for the assumption of certain liabilities
aggregating $2,005,000, the payment of $100,000 in cash and the issuance of two
notes payable aggregating $450,000. The acquisition was treated for accounting
purposes as a purchase. The Company entered into a three year employment
agreement with one of the principal stockholders of Windsor, who is currently an
officer of the Company (see Note L[2]). The Company also granted an option to
purchase 151,667 shares of common stock at $1.50 per share to this officer. In
addition, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with another principal
stockholder of Windsor (see Note L[3]).
In February 1997, the Company purchased substantially all of the assets of
Renaissance, an eyewear distributor, from Summit Bank (the "Bank") after the
Bank had passively foreclosed on Renaissance upon default of its loan agreement.
In exchange for the assets, the Company assumed a note payable to the Bank in
the amount of $3,446,000 and also satisfied certain obligations aggregating
$400,000. The excess of the estimated fair value of the assets acquired over the
purchase price was first applied as a reduction of non-current assets and the
remaining balance of $844,000 was accounted for as a deferred credit. In
addition, the Company entered into a non-compete agreement and consulting
agreement with the former owner of Renaissance which provide for annual
aggregate payments of $200,000 per year for five years. The Company also granted
the former owner of Renaissance options to purchase 180,833 shares of common
stock at $3.00 per share. The Company valued the options at $187,000,
representing the fair value at date of grant which is being charged to
operations over five years. During the year ended March 31, 1998, the Company
determined that the estimated value allocated to inventory on the date of
acquisition was overstated by approximately $540,000 and the Company reduced the
carrying value of the inventory by such amount with a related reduction to the
deferred credit. In addition, the deferred credit was further reduced by a
deferred tax liability existing at the date of acquisition.
F-8
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE C - ASSET ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)
The Company's financial statements include the operations of the acquired
entities from the respective dates of such acquisitions.
The following pro forma summary of results of operations has been prepared as if
each of the acquisitions had occurred on April 1, 1996 after giving effect to
all purchase price adjustments and the elimination of nonrecurring items:
Year Ended
Pro forma March 31, 1997
--------- --------------
Net revenue $29,129,000
Net income $ 136,000
Basic income per share $ 0.04
Diluted income per share $ 0.04
NOTE D - FIXED ASSETS
Fixed assets are summarized as follows:
March 31,
1998
-----------
Furniture, fixtures and displays $ 262,000
Equipment 817,000
Leasehold improvements 148,000
-----------
Total 1,227,000
Accumulated depreciation 494,000
-----------
Balance $ 733,000
===========
Equipment includes $386,000 applicable to capitalized leases with related
accumulated depreciation of $121,000.
NOTE E - BANK LOANS AND LONG TERM DEBT
[1] Bank loans:
The Company has entered into a revolving line of credit agreement with a
bank which expires annually on June 1, is automatically renewed for one
year and provides for borrowings of up to a maximum of $12,000,000 based
on specified percentages of eligible accounts receivable and inventories.
Borrowings under the agreement bear interest at the prime rate (8.5% at
March 31, 1998). The credit facility is collateralized by substantially
all of the assets of the Company and contains certain restrictive
covenants including the prohibition of the payment of dividends. The
credit facility is represented by demand notes payable to the bank under
which the bank may demand repayment at any time. One million under the
revolving line of credit is guaranteed by the principal
stockholders/officers of the Company. At March 31, 1998, $7,986,000 was
outstanding under the credit facility.
F-9
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE E - BANK LOANS AND LONG TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)
[2] Long-term debt:
Long-term debt consists of the following:
March 31,
1998
--------
Notes payable - Windsor (a) $319,000
Less amounts due within one year 103,000
--------
Amounts due after one year $216,000
========
(a) In connection with the acquisition of Windsor in June 1996, the
Company issued two notes aggregating $450,000 to Windsor which bear
interest at the rate of 7% per annum. The notes are payable in
aggregate monthly installments of principal and interest of
approximately $10,000 through January 2000 and approximately $5,000
thereafter through July 2003.
Long-term debt is payable as follows:
Year Ending
March 31,
-----------
1999 $103,000
2000 58,000
2001 45,000
2002 48,000
2003 52,000
Thereafter 13,000
--------
Total $319,000
========
NOTE F - NOTES PAYABLE AND ADVANCES FROM STOCKHOLDERS/ OFFICERS
In connection with the acquisition of Chanuk in May 1995 the Company assumed a
note payable to a stockholder/officer of the Company in the amount of $508,000.
The note provided for interest at the rate of 8% per annum and was payable on
demand. The balance due on the note was $495,000. In addition, two
stockholders/officers personally satisfied a portion of the purchase price and
the Company issued notes payable of $343,000 to each of the officers for such
amounts. The notes provided for interest at a rate of 8% per annum and were due
on demand but no later than January 1, 2000 and were subordinate to the bank
debt. The balance on these notes aggregated $686,000. During the year ended
March 31, 1998, the Company issued $1,181,000 principal amount of convertible
notes in exchange for the cancellation of these notes. The notes are
convertible, at the holder's option, into common shares at $6.00 per share.
During the years ended March 31, 1997 and 1998, a stockholder/officer loaned the
Company $280,000 and $374,000 respectively. The loans are payable on demand and
bears interest at 8%. During the year ended March 31, 1998, the Company repaid
$80,000 of these loans.
During the year ended March 31, 1998, certain key employees advanced the Company
various amounts, of which $90,000 was outstanding at March 31, 1998. Subsequent
to year end, $53,000 additional was repaid.
F-10
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE G - CAPITAL LEASES PAYABLE
The Company leases equipment under various agreements with terms of 32 to 60
months and accounts for these leases as capital leases. Equipment purchases
under these leases for the year ended March 31, 1998 was $134,000.
Future lease payments as of March 31, 1998 are as follows:
Year Ending
March 31,
-----------
1999 $125,000
2000 85,000
2001 33,000
--------
Total 243,000
Less amounts representing interest 38,000
--------
Present value of future lease payments 205,000
Less amount due within one year 100,000
--------
Amounts due after one year $105,000
========
NOTE H - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
[1] Common stock:
In June 1997 the Company amended its certificate of incorporation to
increase the authorized capital stock to 11,000,000 of which 10,000,000
are common shares and 1,000,000 are preferred shares. The accompanying
financial statements reflect this increase retroactively.
In June 1997 the Company effected a 1,166.67 for 1 stock split. The
financial statements give retroactive effect to this transaction.
In March 1998, the Company issued 1,200,000 shares of common stock at
$6.00 per share in an initial public offering (the "Offering"). Net
proceeds (after underwriters' discount and expenses, and other costs
associated with the Offering) totaled approximately $5,524,000. In
addition, the underwriters received warrants to purchase up to 120,000
shares of common stock at $9.00 per share, exercisable between March 1999
and March 2003.
[2] Stock options:
The Company applies APB 25 in accounting for stock-based compensation to
employees and, accordingly, recognizes compensation expense for the
difference, if any, between the fair value of the underlying common stock
and the exercise price of the option at the date of grant. The effect of
applying SFAS No. 123 on fiscal 1997 and 1998 pro forma net income is not
necessarily representative of the effects on reported operating results
for future years due to, among other things, (1) the vesting period of the
stock options and (2) the fair value of additional stock options that may
be granted in future years. Had compensation cost for the Company's stock
options granted to employees been determined based upon the fair value at
the grant date consistent with the methodology prescribed under SFAS No.
123, the Company's net income, net income per share - basic and net income
per share - diluted would have been approximately (i) $1,015,000, $0.29,
and $0.25, respectively, for the year ended March 31, 1998, and (ii)
$661,000, $0.19,and $0.17, respectively, for the year ended March 31,
1997. The weighted average fair value of the options granted during fiscal
1997 was estimated at $0.80, on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes
option-pricing model with the following assumptions: dividend yield of 0%,
volatility of 30%, risk-free interest rate of 6.74% and expected life of
four years.
F-11
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE H - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)
The following table summarized information about stock options outstanding
at March 31, 1998 (all exercisable):
Weighted
Weighted Average Average
Number Remaining Contractual Exercise
Outstanding Life (in years) Price
----------- --------------- -----
166,833 2 $ .25
151,667 4 1.50
180,833 4 3.00
------- -----
499,333 $1.62
======= =====
During the year ended March 31, 1988, the Company adopted a stock option plan
(the "Plan") pursuant to which options to purchase up to 150,000 shares of the
Company's common stock may be granted to employees (including employees who are
also directors and officers), consultants and independent contractors. The Plan
is currently administered by the Board of Directors. At March 31, 1998, no
options have been granted under the Plan.
During the year ended March 31, 1998, one of the Company's two principal
stockholders/officers granted the other principal stockholder/officer an option
to purchase up to 500,000 of his shares of the Company's common stock at $6.00
per share. None of the proceeds upon the exercise of the option will be received
by the Company. The option was granted in consideration for services rendered to
the Company. The fair value of the option was estimated at $2.21 per share on
the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the
following assumptions: dividend yield 0%, volatility 30%, risk free interest
rate 5.4% and an option term of five years. The Company will account for this
transaction as an employee stock option and accordingly, no expense will be
recognized.
NOTE I - INCOME TAXES
The provision (benefit) for federal and state income taxes for the years ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997 is comprised of the following:
Year ended
March 31,
1998 1997
-------- ---------
Current:
Federal $446,000 $ 325,000
State 162,000 188,000
-------- ---------
608,000 513,000
-------- ---------
Deferred:
Federal 138,000 (111,000)
State 35,000 (62,000)
-------- ---------
173,000 (173,000)
-------- ---------
Total $781,000 $ 340,000
======== =========
F-12
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE I - INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
The deferred tax asset and liability at March 31, 1998 represent the anticipated
future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the basis
of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting purposes and consists
of the following components:
Current Noncurrent
-------- ----------
Accounts receivable $ 87,000
Inventory valuation 251,000
Depreciation $(27,000)
Accounts payable 30,000
Other 32,000
-------- --------
Total $400,000 $(27,000)
======== ========
Expected tax expense based on the statutory rate is reconciled with actual tax
expense as follows:
Year ended March 31,
1998 1997
---- ----
Federal statutory rate 34.0% 34.0%
State income tax, net of federal benefit 6.8% 8.1%
Difference in amount assigned to a
particular liability for book and tax
purposes (2.5)% (8.6)%
Other 2.6% (.2)%
---- ----
Effective tax rate 40.9% 33.3%
==== ====
NOTE J - COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND OTHER MATTERS
[1] Operating leases:
The Company currently leases office, warehouse, showroom facilities and
equipment under operating leases, which expire at various times through
2002.
Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable leases at March 31, 1998
are as follows:
Year Ending
March 31,
-----------
1999 $ 350,000
2000 351,000
2001 352,000
2002 259,000
2003 12,000
Thereafter 5,000
----------
Total $1,329,000
==========
During the year ended March 31, 1998 the Company entered into a lease and
moved to a new facility. The lease agreement provides for aggregate
minimum rental payments of approximately $1.6 million through December
2002. In connection therewith the Company wrote off certain assets which
will no longer be utilized, resulting in a charge to operations of
$59,000 during the year ended March 31, 1998.
Rent expense for the year ended March 31, 1998 was approximately $458,000.
F-13
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE J - COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND OTHER MATTERS (CONTINUED)
[2] Employment agreements:
The Company had an employment agreement with the President/Chief Executive
Officer which provided for an annual salary of $175,000. In March 1998, A
new employment agreement was extended into which provides for an annual
salary of $200,000 and is for a period of three years and includes
provisions for the renewal of the agreement and the payment of bonuses.
The Company has an employment agreement with one of the former principal
stockholders of Windsor. The employment agreement provides for annual
salaries ranging from $105,000 to $120,000 through the year 2000 and a
minimum bonus of 5% of the bonuses granted to the principal stockholders
of the Company.
[3] Consulting and noncompete agreements:
The Company had an agreement with an affiliate of one of the
officers/stockholders to provide consulting, advisory and other supportive
services for an annual fee of $208,000. In March 1997 the agreement was
orally amended to increase payments to $5,000 per week. In March 1998, a
new consulting agreement entered into which provided for an annual
consulting fee of the fee was $100,000. The agreement is for a period of
three years and contains provisions for the renewal of the agreement and
the adjustment of fees.
In May 1995, the Company entered into a ten year consulting agreement with
Chanuk to provide consulting, advisory and support services to the Company
for $500 per week. In November 1997, Chanuk assigned its rights and
obligations to a former affiliate of a stockholder. In addition, effective
May 1995 the Company had entered into a ten year agreement with the above
former affiliate of a stockholder to provide consulting, advisory and
support services to the Company for $500 per week.
In connection with the acquisition of Renaissance, the Company entered
into a noncompete agreement and consulting agreement with the former
stockholder of Renaissance which provide for annual aggregate payments of
$200,000 per year through February 2002.
In addition the Company has a three year consulting agreement from June
1996 with a former principal stockholder of Windsor which provides for 36
monthly payments of $6,944 commencing June 2004. The Company has present
valued the payments and has recorded an expense of approximately $29,000
in each of the years ended March 31, 1998 and 1997.
[4] Major customer:
One major customer accounted for approximately 39% and 35% of net sales
for the years ended March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
[5] Royalty and licensing agreements:
The Company has entered into various license agreements which provide for
the payment of royalties ranging from 6% to 8% of net selling price of
licensed products sold, as defined.
The Company is obligated under these agreements to make future minimum
payments as follows:
Year Ending
March 31,
-----------
1999 $1,095,000
2000 929,000
2001 817,000
2002 339,000
----------
Total $3,180,000
==========
F-14
<PAGE>
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE J - COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND OTHER MATTERS (CONTINUED)
[6] Letters of credit:
At March 31, 1998 the Company had outstanding irrevocable letters of
credit in the amount of $613,500.
[7] Successor liabilities:
In connection with the acquisition of all of the assets of Renaissance in
February 1997 a substantial amount of liabilities was not assumed by the
Company. To the extent that any creditors of Renaissance seek recourse
against the Company as the purchaser of the business of Renaissance, the
Company may incur substantial expenses in connection with defending any
such actions. Additionally, to the extent that any creditors are
successful in asserting any claims against the Company as successor to
Renaissance, the Company's financial position would be adversely affected.
[8] Legal Proceeding:
A former employee of the Company has initiated a lawsuit claiming
approximately $85,000 in commissions owed. The Company denies it owes the
plaintiff the amount claimed and intends to vigorously defend itself in
this matter.
NOTE K - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTION
During the year ended March 31, 1998, the Company's two principal stockholders/
officers entered into an agreement with the Company's landlord to purchase the
Company's facility. The stockholders/officers have also entered into an
agreement to rent the facility to the Company at substantially the same terms
and conditions set forth in the Company's current lease. Rent expense of
$227,128 for the year ended March 31, 1998 relates to this facility.
Interest expense includes $132,730 and $94,480 for the years ended March 31,
1998 and 1997, respectively, applicable to the notes payable to the
stockholders/officers.
F-15
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the registrant has caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
AMBASSADOR EYEWEAR GROUP, INC.
/s/ Barry Budilov
Dated: June 26, 1998 -------------------------------------
Barry Budilov
President and Chief Executive Officer
In accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has
been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in
the capacities and on the dates indicated.
/s/ Rudy A. Slucker
Dated: June 26, 1998 -------------------------------------
Rudy A. Slucker
Director
/s/ Raymond Green
Dated: June 26, 1998 -------------------------------------
Raymond Green
Treasurer and Principal Financial
Accounting Officer
/s/ Jay Rice
Dated: June 26, 1998 -------------------------------------
Jay Rice
Director
/s/ Jeffrey Seiken
Dated: June 26, 1998 -------------------------------------
Jeffrey Seiken
Director
-25-
SETTLEMENT AND RELEASE AGREEMENT
This Settlement and Release Agreement is made as of this 1st day of April,
1998, by and between Diplomat Ambassador, Inc. ("Diplomat") and 1010 Arch Street
Partners ("Partners").
WHEREAS, Diplomat and Partners are, respectively, lessee and lessor under
a certain Lease Agreement, dated August 1, 1995, as amended on July 30, 1996,
for the premises constituting 5,300 square feet of the first floor and all of
the second and third floors of the building known as 1010 Arch Street,
Philadelphia, (the "Lease"); and
WHEREAS, Diplomat has vacated the premises; and
WHEREAS, Partners seeks to lease the premises to another entity as tenant;
and
WHEREAS, the parties hereto seek to agree to a mutual termination of the
Lease under the terms set forth herein,
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the terms and conditions set forth
herein, and the payment to Partners, in the manner described below, of the sum
of One Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($110,000.00) plus the amount specified in
(paragraph) 2 below (hereinafter referred to as the "Payment Amount") and other
good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency and receipt of which are hereby
acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereby agree
as follows:
1. Diplomat and Partners hereby remise, release and forever discharge each
other and each other's officers, directors, employees, partners, successors and
assigns, as well as any and all guarantors of the Lease, including without
limitation Sheldon Somerman, from any and all manner of actions, causes of
action, suits, debts, liens, costs, expenses, accounts, understandings,
contracts, covenants, agreements, arrangements, obligations, controversies,
judgments, damages, claims, orders, liabilities and demands of any kind or
nature in law, equity or otherwise, which the parties hereto, or either of them,
ever had, now have or hereafter can, shall or may have, whether now known or
unknown, whether suspected or unsuspected, and whether involving in whole or in
part, the active, passive, concurrent or sole negligence or intentional conduct
or absolute liability or statutory liability of either party, which may now
exist or may heretofore have existed or hereafter exist against the other party
hereto arising in connection with the Lease and by reason of any act,
transaction, agreement, contract, understanding, arrangement, conduct, matter,
cause or thing whatsoever, prior to or on the date hereof, including but not
limited to any action, cause of action, suit, debt, lien, cost, expense,
account, understanding, contract, covenant, agreement, arrangement, obligation,
controversy, judgment, damage, claim, order, liability or demand of any kind or
nature whatsoever, arising out of, relating to or based upon:
(a) The Lease;
<PAGE>
(b) Any act, omission, transaction, agreement, contract,
understanding, arrangement, conduct, matter, cause or thing arising or occurring
prior to the date hereof, which is actionable, or claimed to be actionable,
under any statute, regulation or common law of the United States or any state
thereof; and/or
(c) Any effect or consequence which existed or occurred or which
presently exists or occurs or which may in the future exist or occur as a result
of any act, omission, transaction, agreement, contract, understanding,
arrangement, conduct, matter, cause or thing occurring prior to the date
hereof.
2. Diplomat agrees that it is responsible to Partners for the payment of
the rents due for the months of August 1997 through and including November, 1997
in the mount of $42,246.78.
3. Each of the parties covenants and agrees not to commence or prosecute
any action, suit, litigation or proceeding against the other party arising out
of, relating to or based upon any subject matter covered by this Release
Agreement, and agrees not to assert against the other party in any action, suit,
litigation or proceeding any subject matter covered by this Agreement.
4. NOTWITHSTANDING THE FOREGOING, NOTHING IN THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE
CONSTRUED TO RELIEVE EITHER PARTY FROM ANY OBLIGATIONS ARISING UNDER THE LEASE
OR OTHERWISE IN CONNECTION WITH THIRD PARTY CLAIMS WHETHER INSURED OR UNINSURED
OR OF THE DUTY ASSUMED BY EITHER PARTY UNDER THE LEASE OR OTHERWISE TO INDEMNIFY
AND HOLD SUCH OTHER PARTY HARMLESS WITH RESPECT TO THIRD PARTY CLAIMS.
The parties hereto agree that the Payment Amount shall be payable by
Diplomat to Partners in installments as follows:
(a) Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) shall be paid on April 1,
1998, upon execution of this Agreement;
(b) Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) shall be paid on May 1,
1998; and
(c) The balance of Fifty-Two Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Six Dollars
and 78 Hundredths ($52,246.78) shall be paid on June 1, 1998.
5. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement,
Partners shall not exercise any right or remedy provided for in this Agreement
or under applicable law because of any default of Diplomat unless Partners shall
have first given Diplomat written notice of the default specifying the nature
and extent of it, and Diplomat shall have failed to cure the default within a
period of ten (10) calender days after the date that the notice of default from
Partners is received.
6. In the event of a default in payment hereunder by Diplomat, the sole
remedy for Partners shall be the enforcement of the terms of payment hereunder,
in the Court of
2
<PAGE>
Common Pleas of Pennsylvania.
7. THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPH SETS FORTH A WARRANT OF AUTHORITY FOR AN
ATTORNEY TO CONFESS JUDGMENT AGAINST DIPLOMAT. IN GRANTING THIS WARRANT OF
ATTORNEY TO CONFESS JUDGMENT AGAINST DIPLOMAT, DIPLOMAT HEREBY KNOWINGLY,
INTENTIONALLY AND VOLUNTARILY, AND, ON THE ADVISE OF THE COUNSEL OF DIPLOMAT,
UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY AND ALL RIGHTS DIPLOMAT HAS OR MAY HAVE TO PRIOR
NOTICE AND AN OPPORTUNITY FOR HEARING UNDER THE RESPECTIVE CONSTITUTIONS AND
LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA.
DIPLOMAT HEREBY EMPOWERS THE PROTHONOTARY OR ANY ATTORNEY OF ANY COURT OF
RECORD WITHIN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA TO APPEAR FOR DIPLOMAT AND, UPON
THE OCCURRENCE OF AN EVENT OF DEFAULT AND WITH OR WITHOUT ONE OR MORE
DECLARATIONS FILED, CONFESS JUDGMENT OR JUDGMENTS AGAINST DIPLOMAT IN FAVOR OF
PARTNERS IN ANY SUCH COURT, AS OF ANY TERM, FOR THE ENTIRE UNPAID PRINCIPAL OWED
HEREUNDER, TOGETHER WITH COURT COSTS FOR THE FILING OF SUIT. AND WITH INTEREST
ON ANY JUDGMENT OBTAINED AT THE STATUTORY RATE OF INTEREST FROM THE DATE OF
JUDGMENT UNTIL ACTUAL PAYMENT IS MADE TO PARTNERS OF THE FULL AMOUNT DUE. IF A
COPY OF THIS AGREEMENT, VERIFIED BY AFFIDAVIT BY OR ON BEHALF OF PARTNERS, SHALL
HAVE BEEN FILED IN SUCH ACTION. IT SHALL NOT BE NECESSARY TO FILE THE ORIGINAL
AGREEMENT AS A WARRANT OF ATTORNEY. THE AUTHORITY AND POWER TO APPEAR FOR AND
CONFESS JUDGMENT AGAINST DIPLOMAT SHALL NOT BE EXHAUSTED BY THE INITIAL EXERCISE
THEREOF, AND THE SAME MAY BE EXERCISED, FROM TIME TO TIME, AS OFTEN AS PARTNERS
SHALL FIND IT NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE, AND THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE A SUFFICIENT
WARRANT THEREFORE. IN THE EVENT ANY JUDGMENT ENTERED AGAINST DIPLOMAT HEREUNDER
IS STRICKEN AND/OR OPENED UPON APPLICATION BY OR ON DIPLOMAT'S BEHALF THEN, AND
IN THAT EVENT. PARTNERS IS AGAIN AUTHORIZED AND EMPOWERED TO APPEAR FOR AND
CONFESS JUDGMENT AGAINST THE UNDERSIGNED; SUBJECT HOWEVER, TO THE LIMITATION
THAT SUCH SUBSEQUENT CONFESSIONS OF JUDGMENT BY PARTNERS FOLLOWING ANY
PROCEEDING TO OPEN OR STRIKE MAY ONLY BE DONE TO CURE ANY ERRORS OR DEFECTS IN
SUCH PRIOR PROCEEDINGS, AND THEN ONLY TO THE EXTENT THAT SUCH ERRORS OR DEFECTS
MAY BE CURED BY AGAIN CONFESSING JUDGMENT.
8. This Agreement shall be binding upon each of the parties and each of
their respective heirs, executors, successors and assigns and shall inure to the
benefit of the parties and their respective successors and assigns.
3
<PAGE>
9. This Agreement shall be governed by and interpreted and enforced in
accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have duly executed this Agreement on the
day and year first above written.
ATTEST: DIPLOMAT AMBASSADOR, INC.
BY: /s/ Barry Budilov
----------------------------------
Barry Budilov, President
1010 ARCH STREET
BY: /s/ Alice Chang
----------------------------------
Alice Chang, General Partner
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> MAR-31-1998
<PERIOD-START> APR-01-1997
<PERIOD-END> MAR-31-1998
<CASH> 47,000
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 14,009,000
<ALLOWANCES> 1,160,000
<INVENTORY> 11,181,000
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 24,921,000
<PP&E> 1,227,000
<DEPRECIATION> 494,000
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 25,703,000
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 17,387,000
<BONDS> 1,601,000
0
0
<COMMON> 47,000
<OTHER-SE> 6,668,000
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 25,703,000
<SALES> 24,570,000
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 24,570,000
<CGS> 10,795,000
<TOTAL-COSTS> 10,523,000
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
<LOSS-PROVISION> 48,000
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 1,293,000
<INCOME-PRETAX> 1,911,000
<INCOME-TAX> 781,000
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 1,130,000
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 1,130,000
<EPS-PRIMARY> .32
<EPS-DILUTED> .28
</TABLE>
