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UNITED STATES 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
Report For Period January 1, 1998 to December 31, 1998
CHINA PEREGRINE FOOD CORPORATION
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(Name of Small Business Issuer in its Amended Charter)
Commission File Number 0-20549
Delaware 62-1681831
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(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
11300 US Highway 1, Suite 202, North Palm Beach, Florida 33408 USA
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Telephone number: (561) 625-1411
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Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
None
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act
Common Stock, $.001 par value
(Title of class)
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Check whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be filed by
Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the past 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 [ ] No [ X ]
Check if disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of
Regulation S-B is not contained in this form, and no disclosure will be
contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in 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 issuer's revenues for its most recent fiscal year were $. [This item
has been omitted pursuant to Rule 12b-25 and will be filed by amendment.]
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of
the issuer on March 1, 1999, based upon the $2.3125 per share average bid
and asked prices of such stock on that date, was $10,981,452. The number
of issuer's shares of Common Stock outstanding as of March 1, 1999 was
7,795,462.
Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format (check one): Yes [ ] No [ X ]
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
PART III Items 13 Exhibits
ITEMS OMITTED
Items 6 (Year Ending December 31, 1998) and 7 and the Financial Data
Schedule have been omitted pursuant to Rule 12b-25 and will be filed by
amendment.
ITEM 1 - DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
BUSINESS AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY
China Peregrine Food Corporation is a Delaware corporation formed on April
26, 1996. Presently, the Company owns the controlling interest in a Sino-
American joint venture in China known as Green Food Peregrine Children's
Food Co. Ltd. ("Green Food Peregrine"). Green Food Peregrine is in the
business of processing and distributing dairy and non dairy food products
in the People's Republic of China and, at present, owns and operates a
dairy processing plant in Shanghai. Green Food Peregrine is an equity joint
venture with registered capital of US $5,000,000 and established under the
law of the People's Republic of China on July 3, 1993. The equity interest
of Green Food Peregrine presently is divided among the Company (70%) and
its Chinese partner, China National Green Food Corporation ("China National
Green Food") (30%). Consistent with the national scope of the Green Food
Peregrine joint venture, China National Green Food is wholly owned by the
Ministry of Agriculture of the People's Republic of China.
The business focus of Green Food Peregrine is providing milk and non-
carbonated beverages in China through the development and utilization of
advanced food technology and western-style marketing expertise. Currently,
Green Food Peregrine is manufacturing and distributing dairy products in
Shanghai and is in the process of developing a number of new and non-
carbonated beverages for infants and school age children. Green Food
Peregrine intends to establish processing facilities and operate in cities
with a population of more than two million throughout China.
From April of 1993, through March 5, 1997, the majority equity interest in
Green Food Peregrine was owned by China Peregrine Enterprises, Limited
("China Peregrine Enterprises"), a Texas limited partnership created for
the sole purpose of controlling the operation of the Green Food Peregrine
joint venture business. The Green Food Peregrine joint venture company was
formed pursuant to a Joint Venture Contract and Articles of Association,
dated April 13, 1993, by and among China National Green Food, China
Peregrine Enterprises, and Amer-China Partners Ltd. ("Amer-China").
Pursuant to the Joint Venture Contract and the Articles of Association for
Green Food Peregrine, China Peregrine Enterprises was required to invest US
$3,000,000 as its share of the joint venture's registered capital, with an
initial investment of US $720,000. Subsequent to the initial investments
by the respective parties, the Articles of Association were amended to
reflect an additional capital contribution by China Peregrine Enterprises,
so that it ultimately obtained a 70% interest in Green Food Peregrine.
From its inception in 1993 through the end of 1996, Green Food Peregrine
sought to complete the construction of its processing plant for efficient
production and to develop a foothold in the Shanghai retail milk market.
The Shanghai operations were not profitable and China Peregrine Enterprises
was in need of additional financing to fund those operations and to meet
its capital contribution obligations under the Joint Venture Contract and
the Articles of Association. As a result, management of China Peregrine
Enterprises embarked on fund raising efforts outside of the limited
partnership participants, in an attempt to satisfy these financial needs.
The efforts to obtain outside financing continued through the close of
1996, when China Peregrine Enterprises sought to provide for its final
required capital contribution installment of approximately US $1,200,000.
At that time, negotiations began with representatives of the Company, which
was then a non-operating corporate entity, to utilize the Company as an
appropriate vehicle to manage the asset represented by the Joint Venture
Contract, and to raise the required funds to go forward. Those
negotiations resulted in the March 5, 1997, purchase of the assets of China
Peregrine Enterprises by the Company in exchange for common stock of the
Company. The assets purchased by the Company consisted of China Peregrine
Enterprises' equity interest in Green Food Peregrine and its contractual
rights under the Green Food Peregrine Joint Venture Contract. After the
acquisition of the China Peregrine Enterprises assets by the Company, the
partners of that limited partnership held 45% of the Company's common
stock.
The Company, which was formed on April 26, 1996, under the laws of the
state of Delaware, was formerly known as Shakespeare Holding, Inc.
("Shakespeare"). In February, 1997, Shakespeare merged with Manor Products
Corp., a Delaware company established on January 26, 1996, and changed its
name to China Peregrine Food Corporation. Manor was a shell company with
331 shareholders and no operating history. Similarly, China Peregrine Food
Corporation was a company without substantial assets or operating activity
until it purchased the assets of China Peregrine Enterprises in March,
1997.
Prior to the negotiations leading up to the acquisition of the assets of
China Peregrine Enterprises by the Company, the two entities had no
affiliation, other than a social acquaintance between Mr. Paul Downes, an
individual who controlled Shakespeare, as it was then known, and Mr. Dale
Reese, the major investor in the China Peregrine Enterprises limited
partnership. The negotiations for the purchase of the China Peregrine
Enterprises assets were conducted by and among (1) Mr. Downes, (2) Mr.
Reese, (3) Mr. Charles Beech, who was responsible for negotiating and
obtaining the Joint Venture Contract in 1993 and who controlled the
General Partner of China Peregrine Enterprises, and (4) Mr. Roy Warren, a
financial consultant who had worked with China Peregrine Enterprises in its
attempts to raise additional capital for the Joint Venture project. These
negotiations were an extension of the then ongoing attempts of China
Peregrine Enterprises to raise additional capital. By agreement of these
parties, a plan to reorganize the business of the limited partnership was
developed, which included the utilization of an entity which (1) was more
suited to raising the needed additional capital, (2) preserved and
protected the financial and control positions of those who held the major
interests in the limited partnership, and (3) provided the requisite
incentive for new participants to become involved directly on a long term
basis. To achieve the first goal, the already existing Shakespeare entity
was utilized and, to achieve the second and third goals, the four parties
responsible for the "reorganization" plan were issued common and preferred
stock at par value as "founders" of the recast Company.
After the equity structure of the newly reorganized Shakespeare entity was
determined and effected, the parties set about the task of making the
Company (now called China Peregrine Food Corporation) the operating entity
and raising new monies to support the Company. Several significant steps
were taken to achieve those goals, including (1) the retirement of China
Peregrine Enterprise's bank debt in the amount of $1,260,0000, by Mr.
Reese's assumption of same, (2) the transfer of the limited partnership's
assets (the Joint Venture Contract) to the Company in exchange for stock,
and (3) Mr. Reese's payment of approximately US$1,200,000 to satisfy
capital contribution requirements of the Chinese Joint Venture, the
repayment of which by the Company was financed, in part, through a limited
public offering, commencing in March of 1997. In consideration of Mr.
Reese's assumption of the bank debt of China Peregrine Enterprises, he was
issued 1,260,000 shares of the Company's Series A Preferred Stock, having
an agreed upon value of $1.00 per share. Similarly, the Company issued
1,040,000 shares of its common stock, at $1.00 per share, to China
Peregrine Enterprises in connection with the Company's asset purchase, and
the Company raised $975,000 to meet the Joint Venture Contract capital
requirements, through the issuance of 975,000 shares of its common stock in
connection with the March, 1997 limited public offering.
The March 5, 1997 purchase of the assets of China Peregrine Enterprises by
the Company resulted in the Company becoming an operating entity. In
consideration for this purchase, the Company issued 45% of its outstanding
common stock to the limited partnership. As a result, owing to the
Company's non-operating status prior to the above-described acquisition,
this transaction has been accounted for as a "reverse" acquisition for
financial reporting purposes. Although China Peregrine Enterprises is
deemed to be the acquiring company for financial accounting and reporting
purposes, the legal status of the Company as the surviving and operating
corporation remains intact.
With the Company's acquisition of 100% of the assets of China Peregrine
Enterprises, the Company was poised to become the controlling partner of
Green Food Peregrine. Since, however, Green Food Peregrine is a national
Chinese joint venture, the Company's replacement of China Peregrine
Enterprises as the controlling partner was subject to (1) the approval by
the Board of Directors of Green Food Peregrine and (2) the approval by the
Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation (MOFTEC), which is the
Chinese governmental authority that initially approved the Green Food
Peregrine joint venture in 1993. In typical fashion, that approval process
took the form of proposed amendments to the Green Food Peregrine Articles
of Association, calling for the replacement of China Peregrine Enterprises
with the Company. In addition, the Joint Venture Contract was modified to
reflect the change. During the interim period between the March 5, 1997
acquisition transaction and final governmental approval, the Company
operated Green Food Peregrine pursuant to an agency agreement executed by
China Peregrine Enterprises and the Company. Final governmental approval
for the amended Articles of Association was obtained on July 31, 1998.
The Joint Venture Contract by and among China Peregrine Enterprises
Limited, China National Green Food Corporation and Amer-China Partners was
executed on April 13, 1993. Subsequent to the execution of the contract,
the Company purchased the rights of China Peregrine Enterprises Limited and
Amer-China Partners to this contract. Pursuant to its terms, the execution
of the contract and of all material changes to the Joint Venture Contract
must be approved by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation.
In accordance with the Joint Venture Contract, a limited liability company,
known as Green Food Peregrine Children's Food Company Limited, was formed
in July of 1993. As a limited liability company, the liability of each
equity owner is limited to its respective contributions of registered
capital. As such, no party is liable to the other for the liabilities of
Green Food Peregrine.
The total registered capital for the Joint Venture Company is US
$5,000,000, with China Peregrine Enterprises initially contributing 60% of
that amount. The contribution of capital, which is now completed under the
express terms of the Joint Venture Contract, was paid into Green Food
Peregrine in stages, the last payment of which occurred in March of 1997,
in the amount of US $1,200,000.
The stated purpose of the Joint Venture Contract is to strengthen economic
cooperation and exchange of technology to develop and improve the quality
of products which are competitive in the domestic and international markets
and to improve economic efficiency and ensure satisfactory economic
profits. The scope of the business of Green Food Peregrine is stated as
the manufacture, distribution and marketing of children's fresh milk and
other children's food products, including baby foods and supplements. The
geographic scope of the joint venture was initially set in Shanghai and
Beijing, with expansion to other cities with a population exceeding 2
million upon approval by the Board of Directors.
No party to the Joint Venture Contract may assign or sell any or part of
its ownership interests without a written consent from all other parties to
the Joint Venture Contract. Similarly, any changes in the registered
capital of the Joint Venture Company must receive the unanimous approval of
the Board of Directors and be approved by the examination and approval
authority. The respective responsibilities of the parties under the Joint
Venture Contract include China National Green Food Corporation's assistance
and compliance with all local legal, governmental and other requirements
for the operation of the business. The other parties, including the
Company, have the responsibility for providing equipment and materials to
operate the business and to initiate and maintain qualified management, who
have the responsibility of operating the business of the Joint Venture
Company.
The Board of directors of the Joint Venture Company shall consist of five
members, with China National Green Food Corporation having the right to
appoint two members, the Company having the right to appoint three members,
plus the appointment of one advisory director, who has no right to vote.
The term of board members is four years unless extended by the appointing
party. The Chairman of the Board is elected from the members appointed by
China National Green Food Corporation. While the Chairman is designated as
the Legal representative of the Joint Venture, the Chairman acts at all
times subject to the direction of the Board of Directors. The Joint
Venture Contract provides that the Board of Directors is the "highest organ
of power" of the joint venture, and the Board has the sole power to revise
the Articles of Association for the Joint Venture Company, increase or
assign the registered capital and make determinations concerning the
termination, dissolution or liquidation of the joint venture.
The management of the business of the Joint Venture Company is the
responsibility of the General Manager, who is nominated by the Company and
approved by the Board of Directors. The General Manager is responsible for
implementing all resolutions of the Board of Directors and for organizing
and exercising management of the daily administrative and production
functions of the Joint Venture Company. The General Manager also is
responsible for the preparation of the annual business plan and budget,
which is submitted to the Board of Directors for review. The General
Manager's responsibility for the annual business plan and budget includes
the procurement of equipment and other property, raising and expenditure of
capital, plans for production and marketing, maintenance and repair of
property and equipment, budgetary estimates of the Joint Venture Company
based on production plans and budgets, the formulation of training plans
for joint venture personnel, the provision for raw material, fuel, water,
electricity and other public facilities needed by the Joint Venture
Company.
In addition, the General Manager is responsible for the control of all
labor-management affairs, the procurement of materials and equipment to be
utilized by the Joint Venture Company in its business, and the preparation
of financial statements of account for the Joint Venture Company.
The term of the Joint Venture Contract is fifty years, and can be extended
by the Board of Directors upon the approval and examination of the approval
authority. The Joint Venture Contract, however, may be terminated by
written notice prior to the expiration of the stated term upon certain
events including a violation of the Joint Venture Contract by any party,
without resolution; accumulated losses in excess of the total registered
capital, without resolution; assignment of equity ownership by one party
without approval; and the violation of Chinese laws in the operation of the
joint venture. Upon a written notice of termination, the parties to the
Joint Venture Contract are charged with making attempts to negotiate a
resolution of the circumstances which led to the notice of termination
within sixty days after the issuance of the termination notice. If the
parties cannot reach an agreement to settle the matter, the Board of
Directors is directed to submit an application to the examination and
approval authority for dissolution.
The Joint Venture Contract provides for the continuation of the operation
of the Joint Venture Company subsequent to the expiration of the 50 year
term, either by unanimous agreement or upon the satisfaction of certain
terms and conditions by less than all of the parties to the Joint Venture
Contract. If the Joint Venture Company is not continued under any
circumstances beyond the term of the Joint Venture Contract, provisions are
made for the orderly liquidation of the assets of the company and any
remaining capital after payment of debts shall be divided according to the
parties' respective registered capital contributions.
If any party fails to fulfill its liabilities under the Joint Venture
Contract, the breaching party shall have thirty days to resolve such breach
after receiving written notice of the breach from the other party. If the
breaching party fails to correct the breach, that party shall compensate
the other parties for all the direct and foreseeable loss arising from the
breach of contract. Under no circumstances, however, shall the breaching
party's liability exceed its registered capital contribution.
If any dispute is not resolved in accordance with the terms of the contract
in the time periods provided, the dispute shall be submitted to the
American Institute of the Stockholm chamber of commerce in Stockholm,
Sweden, for the final decision in accordance with the arbitration rules of
the Institute.
As part of the March 5, 1997 transaction between the Company and China
Peregrine Enterprises, the Company (through a loan from Mr. Reese)
contributed approximately US $1,200,000 to the registered capital of Green
Food Peregrine, satisfying the requirements of both the Green Food
Peregrine Joint Venture Contract and the Articles of Association, for the
payment of the final installment of the registered capital. The monies
extended by Mr. Reese were paid back, in part, by a limited public offering
of the Company's common stock.
On October 1, 1997, the Company and Amer-China executed an agreement for
the transfer of Amer-China's contract rights and equity interest in Green
Food Peregrine to the Company. The consideration for this transfer was
120,000 shares of the Company's common stock. With the approval of this
transfer by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation, the
Company's equity interest in Green Food Peregrine increased from 67.6% to
70%.
On May 2, 1998, the Company approved and ratified an agreement between the
Company and China National Green Food for the increase of the Company's
equity interest in Green Food Peregrine from 70% to 76.92%. This change in
the ownership ratio will take place upon the payment of an additional US
$1,500,000 in registered capital by the Company over the next eighteen
months. Since Chinese government regulations require approval of this
change of the investment ratio by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and
Economic Cooperation, the Company has agreed to an interim loan of US
$500,000 to Green Food Peregrine, with the conversion of that loan to
registered capital upon obtaining the required governmental approval.
On September 3, 1997 and June 28, 1998, respectively, the Company executed
agreements to acquire a 52% interest in Hangzhou Meilijian Dairy Products
Co., Ltd., ("Hangzhou Meilijian") from American Flavors China, Inc.
("American Flavors China"), a Delaware corporation. American Flavors China
is controlled by Noam and Florence Sender. Prior to this transaction, the
Senders had no affiliation with the Company. The remaining 48% of Hangzhou
Meilijian is owned by Hangzhou Dairy Co., a controlled entity of the
regional Chinese government. On July 31, 1998, the Board of Directors of
Hangzhou Meilijian approved the acquisition. The acquisition transaction
is subject to formal approval by the regional government agency. That
governmental approval process presently is pending. In the interim period,
the operational control of Hangzhou Meilijian has been transferred to the
Company pursuant to a principal/agent agreement with American Flavors
China, effective July 31, 1998. The Company, with the cooperation of its
Chinese partner and American Flavors China, has installed a new management
team to run the day to day operation of that dairy facility.
The Joint Venture Contract between Hangzhou Dairy Complex and American
Flavors China, Inc. was executed on July 25, 1993. Pursuant to its terms,
the execution of the contract and of all material changes to the Joint
Venture Contract must be approved by the examination and approval
authority. As a limited liability company, the liability of each equity
owner is limited to its respective contributions of registered capital. As
such, no party is liable to the other for the liabilities of the Joint
Venture entity.
The total registered capital for the Joint Venture Company is US
$5,000,000, with American Flavors China initially contributing 52% of that
amount. The contribution of capital, which is now completed under the
express terms of the Joint Venture Contract, was paid into the Joint
Venture entity in cash and equipment.
The stated purpose of the Joint Venture Contract is to strengthen economic
cooperation and exchange of technology to develop and improve the quality
of products which are competitive in the domestic and international markets
and to improve economic efficiency and ensure satisfactory economic
profits. The scope of the business of the Joint Venture is stated as the
manufacture, distribution and marketing of children's fresh milk and other
children's food products, including baby foods and supplements
No party to the Joint Venture Contract may assign or sell any or part of
its ownership interests without a written consent from all other parties to
the Joint Venture Contract. Similarly, any changes in the registered
capital of the Joint Venture Company must receive the unanimous approval of
the Board of Directors and be approved by the examination and approval
authority.
The Board of directors of the Joint Venture Company consists of six
members, with three members being appointed by each party. The term of
board members is four years unless extended by the appointing party. The
Chairman of the Board is elected from the members appointed by American
Flavors China and is designated as the legal representative of the Joint
Venture. The Board has the sole power to revise the Articles of
Association for the Joint Venture Company, increase or assign the
registered capital and make determinations concerning the merger,
termination, dissolution or liquidation of the joint venture. The
management of the business of the Joint Venture Company is the
responsibility of the Board of Directors, with limited powers delegated to
the General Manager
The term of the Joint Venture Contract is twenty years, and can be extended
by the Board of Directors upon the approval and examination of the approval
authority. The Joint Venture Contract, however, may be terminated prior to
the expiration of the stated term upon certain events including a violation
of the Joint Venture Contract by any party, without resolution; accumulated
losses resulting in the inability of the Joint Venture to continue; and
conditions of impossibility of performance.
The Joint Venture Contract provides for the continuation of the operation
of the Joint Venture Company subsequent to the expiration of the twenty
year term, by unanimous agreement of the parties. If the Joint Venture
Company is not continued beyond the term of the Joint Venture Contract,
provisions are made for the orderly liquidation of the assets of the
company and any remaining capital after payment of debts shall be divided
according to the parties' respective registered capital contributions.
If any dispute is not resolved in accordance with the terms of the
contract, the dispute shall be submitted to the American Institute of the
Stockholm chamber of commerce in Stockholm, Sweden, for the final decision
in accordance with the arbitration rules of the Institute.
BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY
GENERAL
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The Company is headquartered in North Palm Beach, Florida. The Company
directs the operations of its subsidiary, Green Food Peregrine, and the
Hangzhou Meilijian joint venture, from that location and through frequent
trips to China by either the Company's President or Chairman. In addition,
we have selected key personnel to run the day to day operation of the Green
Food Peregrine dairy processing plant located in Shanghai, the People's
Republic of China. As such, we utilize monthly reports from our on site
management, together with visits by stateside personnel to monitor and
manage the Green Food Peregrine and Hangzhou Meilijian operations.
The mission of the Company is to implement a comprehensive manufacturing,
distribution and marketing strategy that allows the Company to operate its
joint operations in Shanghai profitably and, subsequently, to expand the
joint venture business into new markets with dairy and non-dairy food
products. This strategy involves the creation of a nationwide network of
state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities that can process products and
deliver the highest quality fresh refrigerated pasteurized milk to the
local consumer. Such facilities will allow the Company to develop its
position as an effective competitor in the dairy business in major cities
in China and allow for the expansion of the Company's business into other
dairy and non-dairy food products. As such, the present business of the
Company is two-fold: first, the manufacturing, marketing and distribution
of dairy and, ultimately, a combination of dairy and non-dairy products to
consumers; and second, the expansion of these operations to major cities
throughout the People's Republic of China, either through acquisitions of
existing dairy processing facilities or the construction of new facilities.
With respect to the expansion of products to include non-dairy items, such
as fruit juices, new juice products currently are being formulated and
tested in laboratory and consumer preference conditions to develop products
which best appeal to local consumers. We expect that this testing and
formulation process will present sufficient data for a decision on the
release of new non-dairy products in the Shanghai market during the last
quarter of 1999. In Hangzhou, our joint venture currently produces and
sells a variety of juice products, which account for approximately 10% of
Hangzhou Meilijian's annual gross sales. While we are attempting to
increase overall sales in the Hangzhou market, no special efforts are
anticipated to increase non-dairy sales as a percentage of gross sales.
With respect to the Company's current acquisition activities, we anticipate
that negotiations, due diligence and appraisal processes pertaining to
existing dairies under consideration for possible acquisition will be
completed by the third quarter of 1999, at which time a decision will be
made. Funding of any such acquisitions will be provided through the sale
of the Company's equity. At present, we do not anticipate the expansion of
operations through the construction of new dairy facilities.
The Shanghai manufacturing plant has been in full operation since December
of 1994, and consists of a 15,000+ sq. ft. facility having a daily capacity
of 45 tons. The process involves the receipt of tested and accepted milk
from a farm tanker, which is transferred to a blanching process stage. In
the blanching process, the milk is heated and cooled to a very cold
temperature to stabilize quality. Also, a lactose enzyme is introduced at
this stage, which converts lactose to glucose and galatose during
subsequent cold storage. The raw, stabilized and lactose reduced milk is
then transferred to a blender, where pre-prepared and pre-weighed additives
are incorporated. The milk is placed in blend tanks, which perform an
averaging and accumulation function for the pasteurization and homogenizing
system, following which the product is transferred to cold finished product
tanks. As a final pre distribution step, the product is filled into gable
top cartons of an appropriate size, and packed into corrugated boxes.
PRINCIPAL PRODUCTS, MARKETS AND DISTRIBUTION METHODS
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The Products
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Historically and at present, the predominant milk product available to
consumers in major cities in the People's Republic of China has been non-
refrigerated "baggie milk," prepared for retail consumption on a daily
basis. Once opened, baggie milk must be consumed immediately, since the
shelf life of this product is non-existent. The processing of baggie milk
customarily has involved either a type of pasteurization that has not met
western bacteria count standards, or the utilization of an ultra high
temperature (UHT) process. As a result of the excessive temperatures to
which the milk is subjected, however, the UHT process can adversely affect
the nutrient value and the taste of the end product. The distribution of
milk in China has been through a methodology known as the "reserve system"
which was put in place more than a decade ago as a way to deliver state-
produced milk directly to milk stations and public housing units. Since
refrigeration is not part of this distribution system, the trend in recent
years has been to utilize UHT processed milk products in an attempt to meet
bacteria count standards.
Fresh, pasteurized and refrigerated milk of western quality and other fresh
dairy beverages generally have not been available at the retail level to
any significant degree. In recent years, several state owned facilities in
major cities, along with a few regional joint ventures between the Chinese
government and private groups, have developed more advanced methods of
processing, packaging, and delivering fresh, refrigerated milk products.
To date, however, these fresh refrigerated milk products represent less
than a fifteen percent market share in the major markets throughout the
People's Republic of China.
The Company's subsidiary, Green Food Peregrine, has constructed an initial
manufacturing facility in Shanghai that processes, packages and distributes
western quality fresh, pasteurized, refrigerated milk. Green Food Peregrine
has produced and distributed branded products of this type since the second
quarter of 1995. Initially, the Shanghai plant was set up as a test market
to develop the Company's operational plans, ranging from production,
operations, marketing and sales, prior to local expansion. Included in
this initial and continuing operation is our attempt to implement a strong
consumer acceptance for our Happy Family(TM) brand of dairy products. In
Shanghai, Green Food Peregrine is the only company that sells western
quality pasteurized, fresh, refrigerated milk in gable topped cartons.
"Gable topped" cartons are traditional Western style treated paper box like
containers with triangular "gable" tops. Five years ago, 100% of the milk
purchased by Shanghai consumers was the traditional non-refrigerated baggie
milk. In 1998, chain food stores in Shanghai significantly increased the
availability of refrigeration at retail. The Happy Family(TM) brand is the
only gable top milk sold in Shanghai, which is fresh, pasteurized and
refrigerated.
Suppliers
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Both the Shanghai and Hangzhou operations utilize cartons and boxes
supplied by International Paper Company. In Shanghai, Green Food Peregrine
purchases raw milk from a number of suppliers, with 60% of such purchases
from East Sea Dairy Company and Hangzian Dairy, on an equal basis (30%
each). The remaining 40% of purchases are spread among a group of
suppliers, with no significant percentage attributable to any one dairy.
In Hangzhou, the Hangzhou Meilijian joint venture buys 80% of its raw milk
from the Company's partner in that joint venture, Hangzhou Dairy Complex.
The remaining 20% of purchases are from a variety of other dairies.
Neither facility has experienced problems with suppliers and we anticipate
that the required raw goods supply will be stable and adequate in the
future.
Price Strategy
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Green Food Peregrine refrigerated milk is sold in Shanghai at a premium
compared to the price per ounce of the milk that is distributed in 240 ml
plastic baggie packages. Typically, baggie milk is sold at .8 renminbi
(RMB), or approximately US$0.09 (at the government set exchange rate of
8.3), as compared to 3 RMB, or approximately US$0.36, for the 240 ml Green
Food Peregrine milk. While more expensive, Green Food Peregrine market
research conducted in 1994, suggests that consumers would prefer the Happy
Family(TM) product to the "baggie milk" product and package. Green Food
Peregrine in-market experience through 1998 confirms this and supports our
strategy rationale that Chinese consumers are willing to pay a premium for
quality and value. Demographic statistics also confirm that urban
consumers have the financial capability to pay a premium price for premium
value at the consumer products level. Therefore, depending on the
competitive individual products, and the quality of those competitive
individual products, Green Food Peregrine expects to continue to price its
gable top milk higher than the per ounce price of baggie milk.
The 1994 market research referenced above and elsewhere in this discussion
was designed by Message Factors, Inc., a US marketing company controlled by
Mr. Charles Beech, with experience in marketing in the People's Republic of
China. The actual market research was performed by Modern International
Market Research, Inc., a recognized independent Chinese marketing research
company based in Shanghai.
The referenced demographic statistics in this discussion are based upon
extrapolations from the Chinese State Statistical Bureau Reports for 1997
and China The Consumer Revolution, Conhua Li, Deloitte & Touche Consulting
Group, John Wiley & Sons, Publishers, 1998.
Distribution
- ------------
Currently, Green Food Peregrine product distribution is being held at a
limited store distribution level pending additional working capital
contributions by the Company. Presently, numerous state owned dairies and
beverage companies distribute throughout Shanghai. The direct competition
for milk in cartons, however, emanates from two state owned enterprises and
one Korean joint venture. Sales of carton milk represent approximately 40%
of the total milk sales in the Shanghai metropolitan area. Since the
commencement of the Shanghai plant operation, Green Food Peregrine has
sought to place its products in chain stores in an effort to maximize its
distribution efforts. In 1998, approximately 650 chain stores exist in
Shanghai, with Green Food Peregrine distributing its product to
approximately 70% of these stores. The remaining 30% of the chain stores
are in locations in the large Shanghai metropolitan area that are not
efficient for our present distribution efforts. We believe that, as time
moves forward, the vast majority of milk products will be sold through
these stores and new channels of distribution will need to be developed for
the smaller retail shops.
Distribution by Green Food Peregrine in Shanghai starts with the delivery
of product from the processing plant to a distribution center in a large
refrigerated truck operated by the joint venture. Green Food Peregrine van
type refrigerated trucks then pick up product at the distribution center
once each day for delivery throughout the Shanghai metropolitan area, with
typically 20 to 30 delivery stops per day. Presently, drivers are not
responsible for the collection of payment for product, which is
accomplished through a direct invoice system.
In Hangzhou, 90% of product distribution is accomplished utilizing the
traditional Chinese "reserve system" discussed below. Each delivery truck
is insulated and makes deliveries directly from the processing plant.
Typically, each delivery truck makes one plant pick up and follows the same
delivery route each day.
Distribution Opportunities
- --------------------------
Until the very recent past (in the last three years) most fresh dairy
products in China were delivered from a non-refrigerated vehicle to a non-
refrigerated point of purchase. Typically, this point of purchase was in
the housing units (similar to large apartment buildings) of consumers. As
a result, product was delivered within hours of production (in the very
early morning hours), purchased by the consumer immediately upon delivery
to their housing unit, and consumed within hours of purchase. Under this
"reserve system," milk is packaged in 240 ml soft baggie packets that are
purchased daily in the lobby of the respective housing units. This milk
historically has a high bacteria count and less than satisfactory taste by
western standards.
In Shanghai, as well as in most of the rest of China, delivery of fresh,
refrigerated products and merchandising of fresh, refrigerated products at
retail virtually had been non-existent. During the last two years, however,
the appearance of retail super stores and grocery chain stores has opened
the door for more "westernized" marketing of refrigerated products such as
milk. Today, Green Food Peregrine products are sold in 450 super stores and
chain stores. These 450 stores are the largest of this type in Shanghai
and represent approximately 85% of the milk business in area chain stores.
Given that the number of these supermarkets in Shanghai grew in 1997 by
40%, we expect Green Food Peregrine to be represented in over 800 such
stores by the year 2000, as the number of these stores grows.
The incremental product acceptance of premium fresh, refrigerated milk in
Shanghai is such that our distribution system must expand. We can produce
many times the volume of milk than we can distribute currently and we
intend to increase distribution to take advantage of our production
capabilities. Accordingly, the strategy developed for Shanghai for 1999
calls for employment of additional refrigerated trucks to facilitate our
expected expansion of distribution to the many retail outlets in Shanghai.
Sales Expansion / Working Capital
- ---------------------------------
In 1999, Green Food Peregrine intends aggressively to expand its sales and
distribution in Shanghai. We fully intend to increase our presence in all
super stores and supermarkets while continuing to serve a small percentage
of the local retail trade. The new consumer buying patterns in Shanghai
have attracted many new food retailers in this market as consumer
expenditures for food have increased by 60% in the past 5 years.
Servicing these stores and the introduction of new products such as juices
could expand our sales approximately three-fold in 1999, and will require
capital expenditures, including investment in equipment and working capital
to finance receivables. The 1999 plan calls for the investment of
approximately US $2,000,000 and, if successfully implemented, could bring
the Green Food Peregrine business to a break even point during the next
twelve months. In addition, Green Food Peregrine intends to develop,
market, and distribute new products in Shanghai and other cities. In the
next twelve months, we will focus on the expansion of Green Food
Peregrine's market share within the current market and with existing and
new products in Shanghai.
Marketing and Advertising
- -------------------------
In China, the viewing rate for television is over 80% for those who have
watched television as recently as the previous day. This figure rises to
86% for urban population. Nationwide, 54% of households own black and
white televisions and another 40% have color televisions. In Beijing and
Shanghai, 94% of households own color televisions.
At this time, there virtually is no advertising for milk or ready-to-feed
infant formula in Shanghai. There is TV and print advertising for other
carbonated and non-carbonated beverages, and multi-national company
branded, aseptic and powdered products. We believe that all beverage
advertising for branded quality products will increase overall awareness
and consumption for these categories. After Green Food Peregrine has
expanded its distribution, we intend to begin print and television
advertising.
Competition
- -----------
In Shanghai, Green Food Peregrine is subject to significant competition
from various dairy product producing sources that offer both traditional
baggie milk and gable top milk at reduced prices. In the first two months
of 1998, QJ Dairy, a privately (non-government) owned Korean enterprise,
entered the market as a new competitor and significantly lowered its prices
in order to achieve a greater market share. While the price reduction by
the competitor was dealt with effectively by the Company to protect its
market share, there can be no assurance that similar events will not take
place in the future, requiring more drastic measures by Green Food
Peregrine. Accordingly, as part of the Company's marketing strategy, we
intend to emphasize consumer awareness of the differences in quality and
taste between Green Food Peregrine's products and those of competitors. We
believe that this type of consumer awareness can mitigate the negative
effects of reduced prices by competitors.
Currently, there is competition for gable top milk in Shanghai. This
competition is represented by Shanghai Dairy Corporation, a subsidiary of a
Hong Kong conglomerate, which enjoys approximately 80% of the overall
retail milk market in the metropolitan area, two state dairies and the
Korean joint venture. The only pasteurized and fresh product, however, is
produced by the Company. As a result, Green Food Peregrine intends to
continue its focus on the quality of raw milk purchased, our processing,
and the efficiency of packaging and distribution to promote its brand
image.
For quite some time, there have been powdered and aseptic packaged products
available in China that could be considered as indirect competition to the
Happy Family(TM) product line. Green Food Peregrine market research, which
commenced in 1994 (discussed above) and continues through the present,
however, as well as Green Food Peregrine in-market consumer experience,
demonstrate a consumer preference for the Happy Family(TM) brand. Green
Food Peregrine strategy is to continue to build the Happy Family(TM) brand
and logo to create a real competitive point of difference through highest
quality products, packaging and effective marketing.
Heinz and Gerber have been importing their non-refrigerated baby food
products to China. Also, Nestle and other companies have been importing
powdered baby formula and powdered milk. There is a segment of the market
that will purchase these products, but market research and the in-market
experience of Green Food Peregrine, in combination with its refrigerated
distribution system, demonstrates that there is today an existing and
growing market for fresh refrigerated Happy Family(TM) products.
ACQUISITION ACTIVITIES AND STRATEGY
- -----------------------------------
General
- -------
We intend to continue to focus the Company's efforts on producing quality
products through technological innovation. In addition, we intend to
explore the opportunities presented by our joint venture business which are
the result of a shortage of technological facilities with respect to the
processing of dairy and other products, the emerging Chinese consumer
market, and the shift from a controlled economy to a free market system in
this industry. The government of the People's Republic of China has
prioritized the development of children's food, in particular milk
products, to better serve its people. The role of agriculture, in general,
in China is of paramount importance and is the largest segment of China's
economy in terms of capital demands, consumer expenditure and employment.
In addition, owing to the relatively low level of productivity in
agricultural sectors and the challenge of feeding 1.2 billion people, the
government of China continues to place a high priority on improving this
segment of its economy with new technologies and methodologies. As a
result, the Ministry of Agriculture, which wholly owns our partner in Green
Food Peregrine, plays an important role in economic and political decisions
that effect the food industry in China.
Recently, the Chinese government changed its laws with respect to the
future ownership of companies presently owned by state enterprises. These
laws now allow for the acquisition of state owned facilities by private
investors, including foreign-Chinese joint venture combinations. We intend
to pursue an acquisition strategy which involves the creation of new joint
ventures with our existing partner to acquire state owned dairies, to
retool the production facilities of those dairies, and to offer high
quality products to the Chinese consumer.
Hangzhou Meilijian Dairy Co.
- ----------------------------
The Hangzhou based joint venture has been in business for over 40 years and
has over 420 employees. Sales for this joint venture in 1997 were
approximately US $6,240,000. Hangzhou Meilijian has 60% of the total
market share in the Hangzhou urban area, which has a population of 5.8
million. Hangzhou Meilijian produces and distributes dairy and juice
products, including baggie milk, milk powder, aseptic packaged milk and
juice products, as well as bottled drinkable yogurt. Hangzhou is located
approximately 180 miles from Shanghai. The Company plans to utilize this
acquisition and its proximity to the Shanghai operation to cross-market
products in both cities.
With this recent approval of the American Flavors China acquisition
transaction by the Board of Directors of Hangzhou Meilijian, we intend to
complete the formulation of a comprehensive market analysis to determine
whether the 85% market share presently enjoyed by Hangzhou Meilijian can be
improved.
Potential Acquisition Activities
- ---------------------------------
In August of 1998, management of the Company met with representatives of
our partner in Green Food Peregrine to explore, among other things, the
potential acquisition of state owned dairies as part of the national
government's announced privatization program, either through the existing
joint venture or through the establishment of individual, separate joint
ventures for each potential acquisition site. A strategy was developed
with our partner to pursue this acquisition program.
As part of this strategy, the Chairman and President of the Company,
together with representatives of our partner in China, met with
representatives of four state-owned dairies and visited each dairy
facility. The Company has executed "letters of intent" with each of these
dairies and with our partner to continue the acquisition/negotiation
process.
In China, the acquisition of state-owned enterprises by foreign entities
usually involves the creation of a joint venture company by articles of
association contemporaneous with the execution of a joint venture
agreement. That agreement then governs the respective registered capital
requirements of the parties and the ongoing rights and obligations of such
parties in and to the joint venture business. The actual "price" of the
acquisition of hard assets is a non-negotiated figure, set prior to the
execution of these documents by an appraisal report generated by government
qualified and approved third-party business appraisers. Presently, we are
examining a proposed joint venture contract for potential use in this
process and we are arranging for appraisals of each dairy involved. While
these activities are ongoing, "letters of intent" in China have no legal
effect and we cannot assume that acquisitions are probable.
DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA
Investments in China involve several risks including internal and
international political risks, evolving national economic policies as well
as financial and accounting standards, expropriation and the potential for
a reversal in economic conditions.
Green Food Peregrine's revenues will be in Chinese renminbi (RMB). In
order to pay the Company fees and dividends, Green Food Peregrine will need
to convert RMB into US dollars. Under current Chinese law, the conversion
of RMB into foreign currency requires government consent. To date, Green
Food Peregrine has been able to convert currency without problem.
Government authorities, however, may impose restrictions, which could
impact this flexibility.
To complete the planned expansion into additional facilities, we will need
various levels of central and local government approval. These approvals
may include site permits, building permits, and approval for transfer of
assets. While we believe that, because of the importance attached to
nutrition issues for children by the central government, the encouragement
for the Company to expand either through the Green Food Peregrine joint
venture or separate new joint ventures will continue, there can be no
assurance of continuation of the government support which Green Food
Peregrine has enjoyed since its inception.
With respect to the conditions and activities of Chinese companies with
which the Company is involved pursuant to its joint venture contracts, the
operations of these joint venture companies must be viewed in the context
of the Chinese business environment existing in the People's Republic of
China. There can be no assurance that the sources from which information is
provided concerning the day to day activities of such joint ventures,
including their respective relationships to local governmental and
regulatory authorities, are wholly reliable. Official statistics also may
be produced on a basis different to that used in western countries. Any of
the statements as to operations contained in this document must be subject
to some degree of uncertainty due to doubts about the reliability of
available information from and with regard to the respective joint
ventures.
Moreover, while the government of the People's Republic of China has
pursued a policy which has prioritized the development of children's food,
in particular milk products, to better serve its people resulting in a
focus on the role of agriculture, in general, in China, there can be no
assurance that this policy will continue in the long term. Similarly, the
recent changes in the laws of China pertaining to the future ownership of
commercial facilities presently owned by the state, which has resulted in a
perceived policy shift from a controlled economy to a free market system in
the dairy industry, may not be accurate in concept or in execution. As
such, the risk is present that the acquisition strategy set forth in this
document may not be successful owing to a change in government approach, or
that the very existence of the joint venture businesses in which the
Company has controlling interests may be affected adversely.
EMPLOYEES
As of February 28, 1999, the Company had four full time employees located
at its North Palm Beach corporate offices. For the same time period, Green
Food Peregrine had 75 employees servicing its Shanghai facility,
functionally categorized as follows: management, 4; administrative, 10;
manufacturing 41; and distribution, 20.
PART I
ITEM 2 - DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY
Neither China Peregrine Food Corporation nor its subsidiary, Green Food
Peregrine, currently owns any real property. As of February 1, 1999, the
Company's corporate offices are located at 11300 US Highway 1, Suite 202,
North, Palm Beach, Florida, pursuant to a lease with HCF Realty, Inc.,
having a term of five years. The Company's current aggregate monthly rent
amounts to approximately $4,900, which will increase (assuming an estimated
annual increase of 2%) to approximately $6,100 per month by the fifth
year.
The following properties are currently leased by Green Food Peregrine:
1. Office facilities located in Shanghai presently are rented on a month
to month basis following the expiration of a lease term ending November
28, 1998, at the rate of RMB16,520 per month (approximately US $1,990).
A new lease term will be negotiated for this space during the later
part of March, 1999.
2. A ground lease for the land on which the dairy processing facility is
located for a term ending June 30, 2043, at the rate of RMB25,000.00
per month (approximately US $3,012).
3. Distribution center located in Shanghai, for a monthly tenancy, at the
rate of RMB 8,500 per month (approximately US $1,025).
While Green Food Peregrine does not own any real estate, it does own the
buildings located on the land, which is subject to the above described
ground lease. As of December 31, 1997, the plant and buildings comprising
the Shanghai facility are carried on the books of Green Food Peregrine at a
net book value of US $495,661.
Currently, the Company does not have a policy to acquire property for
possible capital gains or income generation. In addition, the Company does
not invest in securities of real estate entities or developed or
underdeveloped properties.
PART I
ITEM 3 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
There currently are no claims or lawsuits against the Company or its
subsidiaries. The Company, however, may become involved in litigation and
claims arising in the ordinary course of its business.
PART I
ITEM 4 - SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The annual (special) meeting of the shareholders of the Company was
held at The Ritz-Carlton, Fairlane Plaza, 300 Town Center Drive, Dearborn,
Michigan, on September 24, 1998, at 1:00 p.m. The following matters were
submitted to the shareholders at the Annual Meeting.
The first Proposal to be submitted at the Annual Meeting was the
election of four (4) directors of the Company for respective terms to
expire at the second subsequent annual meeting of shareholders of the
Company, to be held in the year 2000. The Board of Directors accepted
nominations for the following persons as directors of the Company, all of
whom presently serve as directors of the Company:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Mr. Charles Beech (Chairman, Chief Operating Officer and a Director)
Mr. Paul Downes (Director)
Mr. John McCormack (Director)
Mr. Roy Warren (President and a Director)
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Total Share Votes Recorded for Directors 5,782,832
Total Share Votes 7,553,219
Quorum Percentage 76.56%
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For Against Abstain
--- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Votes for Mr. Beech 5,585,631 197,201 (1)
Votes Mr. Downes 5,385,631 397,201 (2)
Votes for Mr. McCormack 5,585,631 197,201 (1)
Votes for Mr. Warren 5,585,631 197,201 (1)
<F1> (1) Abstain: All Broker, Dealers
<F2> (2) Abstain: 197,201 Broker, Dealers
</TABLE>
Directors whose term of office as a director expires in 1999:
Mr. John Cummings
Mr. Philip Pearce
Mr. Michael Lucci
Mr. George Holdsworth
The second Proposal submitted at the Annual Meeting was the
ratification or rejection of the selection by the Board of Directors of BDO
Seidman, LLP as independent public accountants for the Company for the
current fiscal year and for the past fiscal year. BDO Seidman, LLP has
examined the financial matters of the Company and of its Chinese subsidiary
as well as its predecessor operating entity and has issued a report on its
audit of said matters for the years ending December 31, 1996 through 1998.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Total Share Votes Recorded for Accountant 5,602,832
Total Share Votes 7,553,219
Quorum Percentage 74.17%
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
For Against Abstain
--- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Votes for Ratification 5,585,530 200 (1) 14,102 (1)
<F1> (1) All Broker, Dealers
</TABLE>
PART II
ITEM 5 - MARKET FOR COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Market Price
- ------------
Of the 7,795,462 shares of the Company's Common Stock issued and
outstanding as of March 1, 1999, approximately 1,000,000 shares are and
have been subject to over-the-counter trading on the NASD OTC Electronic
Bulletin Board, since October 24, 1997. The following quarterly quotations
for Common Stock transactions on the OTC Bulletin Board reflect inter-
dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commissions and may not
represent actual transactions.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTER HIGH BID PRICE LOW BID PRICE
------- -------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1997 Q4 (10/1 - 12/31) $6.87 $3.00
1998 Q1 (1/3 - 3/31) $4.10 $2.10
Q2 (4/1 - 6/30) $2.60 $0.60
Q3 (7/1 - 9/30) $2.50 $0.33
Q4 (10/1 - 12/31) $2.25 $1.00
</TABLE>
Non-Market Equity Subject to Options, Warrants and Conversion
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Stock Warrants and Options
The Company issued warrants for 975,000 shares of common stock as part of
the units sold in the Rule 504, Regulation D limited public offering.
These warrants may be exercised at any time after May 31, 1998, and from
time to time thereafter through and including March 31, 1999, at $5.00 per
share of common stock purchased. The common stock underlying these
Warrants are not part of or covered by the 1997 504 limited public
offering.
During 1997, the Company signed a total of four stock options agreements
with certain shareholders and non-employee directors. These four stock
option agreements are summarized as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Granting Options Exercise Vesting Expiration
Date Granted Price Period Date
------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Agreement One 4/29/97 1,005,533 $1.00 None 4/28/2002
Agreement Two 4/30/97 2,000,000 $1.00 None 4/29/2002
Agreement Three 10/1/97 25,000 $1.00 None 9/30/2002
Agreement Four 10/1/97 15,000 $1.00 None 9/30/2002
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total options granted in 1997 3,045,533
=========
</TABLE>
On May 2, 1998, the Company issued 557,000 units (each unit composed of one
share of common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of common
stock) at a price of $2.50 per unit, pursuant to a private offering in
accordance with the exemption provided in Regulation D, Rule 506. The
holders of such warrants are entitled to purchase, from time to time, up to
557,000 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $1.00 per share, at
any time after June 30, 1998 and through and including June 30, 2003.
On November 23, 1998, the Company issued 83,334 shares of its Series C
Convertible Preferred Stock, and 50,000 shares of such stock on January 4,
1999, pursuant to a Rule 504, Regulation D. limited public offering.
Associated with this 504 offering was the grant of 533,335 Warrants for the
Company's Common Stock. at an exercise price of $1.00 per share. Of the
Warrants granted, 83,334 expire May 10, 1999, and 450,000 Warrants will
expire April 30, 1999.
Convertible Preferred
Series A: In February, 1997, the Company reorganized its members of the
founding group. As a result, the total founders increased from one entity
to three individuals and two entities. Consequently, 788,000 shares of
common stock and 500,000 shares of preferred stock at par value of $0.001
per share were issued to the newly joined founders, pursuant to the
exemption from Section 5 registration provided by Section 4(2) of the
Securities Act of 1933 (the Act).
Each share of Series A preferred stock entitles its holder to receive
dividends at the same rate paid to common shareholders. Each share of
Series A preferred stock is convertible into one share of common stock, as
adjusted, for such things as stock split, stock dividends and other similar
dilutive occurrences. At any time subsequent to December 31, 1997, the
holder of each share of Series A preferred stock is allowed to convert all
or part of the Series A preferred shares into corresponding shares of
common stock on a one for one basis.
Series B: On March 15, 1997, the Company issued 1,260,000 shares of
Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Act,
at stated value of $1.00 per share to three shareholders in consideration
of their assumption of the obligation to pay off approximately $1,260,000
of an outstanding line of credit owed by CPEL to a Tennessee-based
financial institute.
Each share of Series B preferred stock is convertible into one share of
common stock, as adjusted, for such things as stock split, stock dividends
and other similar dilutive occurrences. At any time subsequent to December
31, 1998 the holder of each share of Series B preferred stock, is allowed
to convert all of part of the Series B preferred shares into corresponding
shares of common stock. Each share of Series B preferred stock entitles
its holder to accumulate dividends at 9% per annum, even if the dividends
are payable only upon dissolution and liquidation of the Company and
redemption called by the Company. However, each share of Series B
preferred stock entitles its holder to receive dividends at the same rate
paid to common shareholders if the Company declares or pays dividends to
common shareholders. The shares of Series B preferred stock are redeemable
at $1.00 per share totaling $1,260,000 called by the Company any time after
December 31, 1998.
Series C: On November 23, 1998 and January 4, 1999, respectively, the
Company issued 133,334 shares of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock,
pursuant to a Rule 504, Regulation D limited public offering, at a stated
value of $3.00 per share to two corporate investors. The proceeds of this
504 offering were used by the Company to fund an increase of its equity
share of the registered capital in the Green Food Peregrine joint venture.
Series C Convertible Preferred Stock shall pay or accrue dividends at the
rate of 8% per annum, as a percentage of the Stated Value, payable in cash
or Common Stock quarterly, at the option of the Company. Accrued dividends
shall be payable upon conversion or redemption Upon any liquidation,
dissolution or winding-up of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary,
but subject to the Liquidation rights of the holders of Series A and Series
B Convertible Preferred Stock, the holders of Series C Convertible
Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive out of the assets of the
Company, whether such assets are capital or surplus, for each share of
Series C Convertible Preferred Stock an amount equal to the Stated Value
plus all accrued but unpaid dividends per share, whether declared or not,
before any distribution or payment shall be made to the holders of any
Junior Securities, and if the assets of the Company shall be insufficient
to pay in full such amounts, then the entire assets to be distributed to
the holders of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock shall be distributed
among the holders of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock ratably in
accordance with the respective amounts that would be payable on such shares
if all amounts payable thereon were paid in full. The Company shall have
the right, at the Company's option, to redeem all or a portion of the
Series C Convertible Preferred Stock at a price per share equal to the sum
of (a) the Stated Value and (b) a sum equal to ten percent (10%) of the
Stated Value, computed on a simple interest, non-compounded, and non-
annualized basis.
Rule 144 Stock
- --------------
Of the 7,795,462 shares of Common Stock presently issued and outstanding,
1,388,456 shares have been held by non-affiliates of the Company for in
excess of one year; an additional 2,695,544 shares of Common Stock have
been held by affiliates for in excess of one year. These shares may be sold
pursuant to Rule 144, subject to the volume and other limitations set forth
under Rule 144. In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, a person
(or persons whose shares are aggregated) who has beneficially owned
restricted shares of the Company for at least one year is entitled to sell,
within any three-month period and in accordance with an approved manner of
sale, an amount of shares that does not exceed the greater of (i) the
average weekly trading volume in the Company's common stock during the four
calendar weeks preceding such sale, or (ii) 1% of the shares then
outstanding. A person who is not deemed to be an "affiliate" of the Company
and who has held restricted shares for at least two years would be entitled
to sell such shares without regard to the resale limitations of Rule 144.
Holders at March 1, 1999
- -------------------------
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Common Stock 7,795,462 shares 442 holders
Preferred Stock (Series A) 500,000 shares 1 holder
Preferred Stock (Series B) 1,260,000 shares 3 holders
Preferred Stock (Series C) 58,715 shares 1 holder
</TABLE>
Dividends
- ---------
The Company has not paid dividends on its Common Stock and does not
anticipate paying dividends. The Company intends to retain future earnings,
if any, to finance working capital, to expand its operations, and to pursue
its acquisition strategy.
The holders of Common Stock are entitled to receive, pro rata, such
dividends and other distributions as and when declared by the Company's
Board of Directors out of the assets and funds legally available therefor.
The availability of funds to the Company is dependent upon dividends or
distribution of profits from its subsidiaries, and may be subject to
regulatory control and approval by the appropriate government authorities
on either a regional or national level in the People's Republic of China.
The Company has accrued dividends for its Series B Convertible Preferred
Stock in the amount of $85,050.00, as of December 31, 1997 and $170,110 as
of September 30, 1998. In addition, the Company will book a dividend
charge in 1998 and 1999 resulting from the less than market conversion
price for Company's common stock pursuant to the terms of the Series C
Convertible Preferred Stock.
RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES
FISCAL YEAR 1997
1997 Recapitalization
- ---------------------
Prior to February 1997, the Company (then known as Shakespeare Holding,
Inc.) was owned by Tamarind Management, Ltd., which held 472,000 shares of
Shakespeare's common stock as the original "founder." Shakespeare did no
business and was not an operating entity. In February 1997, however, the
Company underwent a "reorganization" by increasing the members of its
founding group to include two of the major participants in the China
Peregrine Enterprises, Limited (CPEL), the corporate General Partner of the
CPEL limited partnership, and a financial consultant. As a result, the
total founders increased from one entity to three individuals and two
entities. Consequently, 788,000 shares of common stock and 500,000 shares
of preferred stock at par value of $0.001 per share were issued to the
newly joined founders, pursuant to the exemption from Section 5
registration provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 (the
Act). This "reorganization" resulted from and was part of an overall plan
of the new "founders" to utilize the Company to purchase the assets of
CPEL, and operating entity with business interests in the People's Republic
of China.
Merger with Shell
- -----------------
On February 28, 1997, the Company issued 25,000 shares of common stock in
exchange for 100% of equity interest in Manor Products Corp. (Manor),
pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Regulation D, Rule 504. Manor
was a Delaware company established on January 10, 1996 without any
operating activities or substantial assets. In early 1996, 80% of equity
interest of Manor was bought by Mr. Paul Downes, a principal of Tamarind
Management, Ltd., the initial founding entity of the Company. Manor had
331 shareholders and 20,000,000 shares of common stock authorized. As of
February 9, 1997, Manor had 4,090,448 shares outstanding. Pursuant to a
merger agreement, each one thousand shares of Manor were exchanged for one
share of common stock of the Company, with fractional share rounded up to
the nearest full share. The remaining shares of the 25,000 shares of
common stock issued by the Company at that time were issued to this
principal individually.
Purchase of China Peregrine Enterprises, Limited Assets
- -------------------------------------------------------
On March 5, 1997, the Company issued 1,040,000 shares of common stock in
exchange for the assets of China Peregrine Enterprises, Limited (CPEL),
pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Act. CPEL was a Texas limited partnership,
set up to manage its interest in China operation conducted by a Chinese
joint venture known as Green Food Peregrine Children's Food Co. Ltd. (GFP).
By this transaction, the Company assumed all of the rights and obligations
of CPEL in and to the GFP Chinese Joint Venture. With the completion of
the transaction, the Company became an operating entity.
Issuance of Preferred Stock in 1997 in Consideration for Assumption of Debt
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
As a condition to the Company's purchase of CPEL's assets, the Company
required that all non joint venture obligations of CPEL be removed from
CPEL's books. Accordingly, three shareholders of the Company agreed to
assume such non joint venture debt, which consisted of a line of credit
obligation existing at the First Tennessee Bank. On March 15, 1997, the
Company issued 1,260,000 shares of Series B preferred stock, pursuant to
Section 4(2) of the Act, at stated value of $1.00 per share to three
shareholders in consideration of their assumption of the obligation to pay
off approximately $1,260,000 of an outstanding line of credit owed by CPEL
to the Tennessee-based financial institution. The outstanding line of
credit was incurred by CPEL during 1995 and 1996 and paid off in 1997. Two
of the three shareholders to whom the Series B shares were issued were part
of the reorganized "founders" group, and the third was a limited partner in
CPEL
Satisfaction of registered Capital Requirements of Joint Venture
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
In the Spring of 1997, the payment of the last installment to satisfy the
capital contribution requirements of the GFP joint venture contract and
Articles of Association for that joint venture company became due. Payment
of this last installment was necessary to secure the continued involvement
of the Company in the GFP joint venture. Accordingly, by late March, 1997,
certain shareholders of the Company loaned sufficient funds to pay the
capital contribution installment then due. On May 1,1997, the Company
closed a Rule 504, Regulation D, limited public offering of 975,000 units,
each unit consisting of one share of common stock and a warrant for one
share of common stock, at $1.00 per unit to raise money to repay these
loans, the proceeds of which had been utilized to pay the required capital
contribution. The net proceeds of this offering amounted to $975,000. All
of the proceeds of this limited public offering were earmarked for and
utilized to repay the shareholders loans. This 504 offering was combined
with the issuance of 25,000 shares by the Company in the above discussed
merger transaction with Manor Corp. for reporting and integration purposes.
The common stock underlying the warrants were not part of this 504
offering, having an exercise date deferred for one year. This offering
closed May 1, 1997.
Working Capital Funding
- -----------------------
Subsequent to Rule 504, Regulation D offering, the Company conducted a
separate private placement to issue 1,520,000 shares of its common stock at
$1.00 per share, commencing May 2, 1997, to raise funds for general working
capital. The total proceeds from this Section 4(2) private placement, which
closed May 31, 1997, amounted to $1,520,000. All subscribers were required
to execute subscription agreements and a questionnaire, which qualified
them as "accredited" investors. These purchasers were existing
shareholders, having participated in the 504 offering, or were associates
of such 504 investors.
Issuance of Common Stock for Services
- -------------------------------------
During 1997, the Company incurred consulting, legal and accounting expenses
relating to these fund raising activities, and other directors' fees and
travel expenses. The Company issued a total of 469,000 shares of common
stock at $1.00 per share for these expenses, pursuant to Section 4(2).
Each recipient of these shares had worked closely with management of the
Company and had access to detailed corporate information.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Description Date Shares Identity
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Assumption of CPEL's accrued legal fees 03/15/97 200,000 Peregrine Enterprises, Inc.
Issuance of stock for legal fees Roy D. Toulan, Jr.
relating to fund raising 03/30/97 15,000
Issuance of stock for stock promotion service 04/15/97 100,000 Continental Capital & Equity Corporation
Issuance of stock for promotion services 05/01/97 35,000 Robert Mazzei (10,000); Settondown Capital Int'l
(10,000); John Bannon (10,000); Carol Bowes (5,000)
Issuance of stock for financial
consultation services 06/01/97 10,000 Manchester Asset Management, Ltd.
Issuance of stock for consulting 12, service 07/01/97 24,000 Susan Lurvey (12,000); Dennison Chapman (12,000)
Issuance of stock for accounting service 10/01/97 15,000 Seymour Borislow (10,000)
Jeffrey Factor (5,000)
Issuance of stock for consulting service 10/15/97 25,000 David Dreyer
Issuance of stock for a directors' fee 11/01/97 25,000 Philip Pearce
Issuance of stock for travel expense 11/17/97 20,000 Tamarind Management Ltd.(15,000)
Dale Reese (5,000)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Grant of Options
- ----------------
During 1997, the Company signed a total of four stock options agreements
with certain shareholders and non-employee directors for restricted shares
pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Act. These four stock option agreements
are summarized as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Granting Options Exercise Vesting Expiration
Date Granted Price Period Date
---------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Agreement One 4/29/97 1,005,533 $1.00 None 4/28/2002
Agreement Two 4/30/97 2,000,000 $1.00 None 4/29/2002
Agreement Three 10/1/97 25,000 $1.00 None 9/30/2002
Agreement Four 10/1/97 15,000 $1.00 None 9/30/2002
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total options granted in 1997 3,045,533 -none exercised
=========
</TABLE>
FISCAL YEAR 1998
Issuance of Stock for Services Rendered
- ---------------------------------------
On January 15, 1998, the Company issued 50,000 shares of common stock at
$1.00 per share to Settondown International, Ltd. (Settondown) in exchange
for services by that capital service company, pursuant to Section 4(2) of
the Act. Settondown has consulted with the Company and its reorganization
"founders" from early 1997. Settondown's business involves consultation
and finder services for corporate financing on a private and limited basis.
On February 2, 1998, the Company issued 5,272 shares of common stock at
$2.25 per share to Kenneth G. Hanson in exchange for his services in
connection with the furnishing of the Company's corporate office, pursuant
to Section 4(2) of the Act. Mr. Hanson gained detailed knowledge of the
business and operations of the Company through his access to top level
management at the West Palm Beach corporate offices.
Purchase of Amer-China Partners, Limited Interest in Joint Venture
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
On February 19, 1998, the Company issued 120,000 shares of common stock at
a price of $1.00 per share to Amer-China Partners, Limited (ACPL) pursuant
to a signed agreement dated October 1, 1997, to acquire ACPL's entire
interest and right (2.4%) in and to the Green Food Peregrine Children's
Food Co. Ltd., pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Act.
Working Capital Funding
- -----------------------
On May 2, 1998, the Company issued 557,000 units (each unit composed of one
share of common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of common
stock) at a price of $2.50 per unit, pursuant to a private offering in
accordance with the exemption provided in Regulation D, Rule 506. The net
proceeds of this offering were $1,387,500. Among the 557,000 shares
issued, 2,000 shares were issued in exchange for accounting services. The
holders of such warrants are entitled to purchase, from time to time, up to
557,000 shares of common stock, per value $0.001 per share, at an exercise
price of $1.00 per share, at any time after June 30, 1998 and through and
including June 30, 2003. The 557,000 shares were sold to 33 purchasers
who, with one exception, all qualified as "accredited" investors.
Purchase of American Flavors China, Inc. Interest in
- ----------------------------------------------------
Hangzhou Meilijian Joint Venture
--------------------------------
On June 19, 1998, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with
American Flavors China, Inc., a U.S.-based entity, to acquire its 52%
equity interest in Hangzhou Meilijian Dairy Products Co. Ltd. (Hangzhou
Meilijian). The Boards of Directors of both companies and of the joint
venture have approved the acquisition. Hangzhou Dairy Co. Ltd., a state-
owned enterprise in Zhejian Province of China, controls the remaining 48%
of equity interest in Hangzhou Meilijian. The aforesaid acquisition is
subject to approval by the local government authorities, which presently is
pending. The terms of the acquisition agreement, in part, resulted in the
issue of 1,513,685 shares of the Company's common stock to American Flavors
China, Inc., pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Act. The negotiations for
this purchase covered a time period at approximately one year. During that
time, the principals at American Flavors China, Inc. were given appropriate
corporate information concerning the business and operations of the
Company.
Working Capital Funding
- -----------------------
Between December 17, 1998 and February 18, 1999, the Company issued 265,000
shares of its Common Stock to 15 holders of Warrants, issued May 1, 1997,
as a result of the exercise of those Warrants. All investors receiving
these shares were shareholders of the Company and are "accredited"
investors. The proceeds from this exercise aggregated $265,000.
Funding of Increase in Company's Equity Interest in
- ---------------------------------------------------
Green Food Peregrine Joint Venture
----------------------------------
On May 2, 1998, the Company approved and ratified an agreement between the
Company and China National Green Food for the increase of the Company's
equity interest in Green Food Peregrine from 70% (assuming the approval of
the Amer-China transfer) to 76.92%. This change in the ownership ratio
will take place upon the payment of an additional US $1,500,000 in
registered capital by the Company over an eighteen month period. Since
Chinese government regulations require approval of this change of the
investment ratio by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation,
the Company has agreed to an interim loan of US $500,000 to Green Food
Peregrine, with the conversion of that loan to registered capital upon
obtaining the required governmental approval. To fund this equity
increase, commencing on October 21, 1998, the Company initiated a limited
public offering of its Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, pursuant to
Rule 504 of Regulation D. On November 19, 1998, the Company issued 83,334
shares of its Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, plus a like number of
Warrants, at a price of $3.00 per share (including the Warrants) to Utah
Resources International, Inc., a sophisticated investor, resulting in
proceeds of $250,000. Subsequently, on January 2, 1999, this Rule 504
limited public offering was amended to offer and issue 50,000 shares of
like Series D Convertible Preferred Stock, plus nine Warrants per share, at
a price of $3.00 per share (including Warrants), to Explorer Fund
Management, Inc., a sophisticated investor, resulting in proceeds of
$150,000. The aggregate proceeds received from this Rule 504 limited
public offering, which closed January 4, 1999, amounted to $400,000. In
addition, the exercise of all Warrants at the exercise price would result
in an additional $533,334 in proceeds applied toward the Company's purchase
of additional registered capital in Green Food Peregrine.
PART II
ITEM 6 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND OPERATIONS
GENERAL
The following discussion and analysis of the Company's financial condition
and operations should be read in conjunction with the information which
follow, as well as the Report On Audited Consolidated Financial Statements
For The Years Ended December 31, 1996 and 1997, and December 31, 1998.
Since, for reporting purposes, a "reverse" acquisition occurred in March of
1997, between the Company and China Peregrine Enterprise, whereby the
Company became an operating entity, the discussion and analysis of the
periods prior to March of 1997 pertains to the financial condition and
operation of China Peregrine Enterprises. The following discussion contains
trend information and other forward looking statements that involve a
number of risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual future results
could differ materially from its historical results of operations and those
discussed in the forward looking statements.
Overview
- --------
The Company and its subsidiary, Green Food Peregrine, engage in the
business of the processing, marketing and distribution of dairy products in
the People's Republic of China. Presently, the Company's primary business
activities are in the Shanghai market. The business of the Company also
involves the acquisition or construction of other dairy processing plants
in cities located in the People's Republic of China having a population of
at least two million. While the Company has purchased a controlling equity
interest in an existing joint venture located in Hangzhou, which produces,
markets and distributes dairy products, the approval of the Board of
Directors of that joint venture just recently occurred on July 31, 1998.
In conjunction with its Chinese partner in that joint venture and the
former majority equity holder, the Company has installed a new management
team in the Hangzhou facility. Accordingly, except with respect to the
potential future operations in Hangzhou, the following historical
discussion and analysis does not include the Hangzhou Meilijian operation.
In addition, in conjunction with its Chinese partner in the Green Food
Peregrine joint venture, the Company is exploring and negotiating the
potential acquisition of four additional dairy processing facilities, which
presently are state owned. Owing to the fact that insufficient information
is available on a current basis with respect to the historical operation of
these state owned dairies, the potential impact of such acquisitions is not
included in the following discussion, except as may be set forth in the
"trends" section below.
Trends
- ------
In addition to the matters discussed above, the following are important
factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from
those contained in any forward looking statement made by the Company.
Operating Strategy
- ------------------
The Company's ability to increase revenues of its existing operation and
other facilities which may be acquired will be affected by various factors,
including customer demand, and our ability to market our products
effectively. The Company's marketing plan requires a continued emphasis on
the qualitative differences of our products and competitive products, and
the development of other marketing programs necessary to attract new
customers in existing markets. There can be no assurance that our
operating strategies will be successful or that the Company will be able to
generate cash flow adequate to support its operations and internal growth.
In addition, management of the Company's China operation has embarked on
several cost cutting and efficiency directed programs in an effort to
reduce the costs of sales and general and administrative expenses. While
the Company believes those cost efficient methods of production and
distribution, such as more stringent operating controls, can be
implemented, there is no guaranty that these measures will result in
profitability.
Availability of Acquisition Financing
- -------------------------------------
The ability of the Company to acquire additional dairy processing
facilities at affordable prices, to integrate new operations into our
overall strategy, and to grow such operations in a profitable fashion will
depend upon the availability of additional capital. The consideration for
potential acquisitions will be cash, which the Company will be required to
raise through the sale of its equity interests. If we are not successful
in raising additional capital, the Company may be limited in its ability to
continue its acquisition strategy.
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1997
FINANCIAL CONDITION
General
- -------
For the years ending December 31, 1996 and 1997, the Company had
accumulated deficits of US $2,206,628 and US $4,370,266, respectively. As
of December 31, 1997, the Company had cash on hand of US $435,630 and
reported total shareholders' equity of US $807,976.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
On March 5, 1997, the Company purchased the assets of China Peregrine
Enterprises Limited. For financial reporting purposes, China Peregrine
Enterprises Limited is considered the predecessor to the Company and its
operations have been integrated in the financial reporting of the Company
for the fiscal year 1996 and the first two months of 1997 as this
transaction was accounted for in a way similar to a pooling of interest.
Year Ended December 31, 1996
- ----------------------------
For the fiscal year ending December 31, 1996, the Company had net sales of
$485,682 and a gross loss of $113,830. In addition to the $599,512 cost of
sales, the Company had selling expenses of $230,842, and general and
administrative expenses of $1,068,839. After interest expenses of $448,272
and other net income of $53,785, the Company had a net loss before income
taxes of $1,807,998. Since the Company does not own 100% of the equity
interest in Green Food Peregrine, its share of the loss before income taxes
amounted to $1,331,763, resulting in a basic loss per share of $1.28.
General and administrative expenses have been and are projected to be a
significant percentage of revenue at this stage of the Company's existence.
The loss from operations for the 1996 year was due primarily to the high
level of general and administrative expense as a percentage of revenue
combined with the continuing attempts, as a Company in only its first full
year of operation, to penetrate an emerging market with a product whose
qualitative virtues were largely unknown to the ultimate consumer.
Year Ended December 31, 1997
- ----------------------------
For the fiscal year ending December 31, 1997, the Company had net sales of
$730,195 and had a gross loss of $122,082. In addition to the $852,277
cost of sales, the Company had selling expenses of $380,836, and general
and administrative expenses of $1,873,360. After interest expenses of
$234,517 and other net income of $58,200, the Company had a net loss before
income tax of $2,552,595. Since the Company does not own 100% of the equity
interest in Green Food Peregrine, its share of the loss before income taxes
amounted to $2,078,588, resulting in a basic loss per share of $0.59.
As noted above, general and administrative expenses have been and are
projected to be a significant percentage of revenue at this stage of the
Company's existence. We anticipate that as revenue increases through
marketing efforts in Shanghai, and with the acquisition of the Hangzhou
Meilijian joint venture, and through other potential acquisitions, general
and administrative expenses will increase in total but decrease as a
percentage of revenue.
The loss from operations for 1997 continued to result from the high level
of expense associated with the continuing attempts to penetrate an emerging
market with a product whose qualitative virtues were largely unknown to the
ultimate consumer.
In addition, the Company experienced significant general and administrative
expenses in connection with the acquisition of the assets of China
Peregrine Enterprises (its majority equity interest in the Green Food
Peregrine joint venture) and two fund raising exercises in 1997. The
Company also spent certain resources to negotiate the acquisition of
certain of the assets of American Flavors China, Inc. (its majority
interest in the Hangzhou Meilijian joint venture).
Year Ended December 31, 1997 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues increased almost 50% to $730,195 in 1997 from $485,682 in 1996.
The increase was due to the continuing marketing efforts to penetrate the
sophisticated Shanghai market and the increase in sales volume of 1 Liter
milk.
Cost of goods sold increased approximately 42% to $852,277 in 1997 from
$599,512 in 1996. The increase was due mainly to a higher level of revenue
that required a corresponding increase in cost of goods sold. However,
cost of goods sold accounting for a percentage of revenue decreased to 117%
in 1997 from 123% in 1996. Consequently, the gross profit ratio was
increased to negative 17% in 1997 from negative 23% in 1996. The reason
for the loss was that the production volume was still under the necessary
volume that would bring the Company to a break-even level.
Selling expenses increased approximately 65% to 380,836 in 1997 from
230,842 in 1996. The increase was due mainly to the continuing efforts to
penetrate Shanghai market. As a percentage of revenues selling expense
increased to 52% in 1997 from 48% in 1996. We believe that the increase in
selling expense was justifiable as it increased the total revenue in 1997.
General and administrative expenses increased approximately 75% to
$1,873,360 in 1997 from $1,068,839 in 1996. This increase reflects the
almost $1.09 million of $1.87 million in expenses incurred in the U.S. that
were associated with reorganization of the ownership structure of the
business, the acquisition of the assets of China Peregrine Enterprises
Limited (its majority equity interest in Green Food Peregrine), two fund
raising exercises, and a part of the acquisition of some of the assets of
American Flavors China, Inc. (its majority equity interest in the Hangzhou
Meilijian joint venture). With respect to the general and administrative
expense in China operation, total general and administrative expenses
decreased approximately 16% to 782,503 in 1997 from 916,386 in 1996.
Overall, as a percentage of the total revenue, the general and
administrative expenses increased to 256% in 1997 from 220% in 1996.
Interest expense decreased approximately 48% to $234,517 in 1997 from
$448,272 in 1996. The reduction in interest expense was a result of the
reduction of the outstanding loans from US $2,489,182 in 1996 to US
$1,231,914 in 1997, even though the total interest expense in 1997 already
included the penalty interest imposed to Green Food Peregrine for the
outstanding loans payable to two Chinese commercial banks.
Consequently, the net loss applicable to the Company increased
approximately 62% to $2,163,638 in 1997 from $1,331,762 in 1996. The net
loss applicable to the Company as a percentage of revenue increased to 285%
in 1997 from 274% in 1996.
Based on the results of operations, the Company reported a loss per share
of $1.28 in 1996 and $0.59 in 1997. The decrease in the loss per share was
due to the new issuance of common shares. As of December 31, 1996, there
were 1,040,000 shares of common stock outstanding while as of December 31,
1997 there were 5,289,000 shares of common stock outstanding. Due to the
timing of issuance of new shares, however, the weighted average number of
shares of common stock outstanding in 1997 was 3,681,827. The loss per
share in 1997 decreased by approximately 54% compared with 1996.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As of December 31, 1996, the Company reported that net cash provided by
operating activities was $243,544, net cash used in investing activities
was $303,265, and net cash provided by financial activities was $133,080
with the effect of changes in exchange rates at a negative $39,073.
As of December 31, 1997, the Company reported that net cash used in
operating activities was $1,929,803, net cash used in investing activities
was $128,727, and net cash provided by financing activities was $2,430,506
with the effect of changes in exchange rates at $5,468.
Net cash used in operating activities increased 892% to $1,929,803 in 1997
from $243,544 of net cash provided by operating activities in 1996. The
increase in negative cash flow in operating activities reflects the
increase in net loss in 1997 that was attributed to the majority of general
and administrative expense incurred in U.S. side, the reduction in accounts
payable in China operation, and increase in prepaid assets and other
assets.
Net cash used in investing activities decreased approximately 57% to
$128,727 in 1997 from $303,265 in 1996. The decrease was due mainly to the
fact that there were no significant additions to fixed assets located in
China.
Net cash provided by financing activities increased 1726% to $2,430,506 in
1997 from $133,080 in 1996. The major reason for this increase was due to
two fund raising exercises conducted in 1997. A Rule 504, Regulation D
offering and a Rule 144 offering provided a total of $2,475,000 of cash
that allowed the Company to acquire the assets from China Peregrine
Enterprises Limited and the infusion of working capital in Green Food
Peregrine.
The Company's primary requirements for cash (other than for acquisition
activities) consist of (1) purchasing transportation equipment for
distribution of its products; (2) expenses related to product development,
marketing and advertising in Shanghai and, to a lesser extent, in Hangzhou;
and (3) repayment of loans to state-owned Chinese banks in the aggregate
amount of approximately US $1,507,888 by the end of 1999. The Company
estimates that net cash provided by current operating activities together
with cash on hand will enable the Company to meet the anticipated cash
requirements for the first two quarters of 1999. The Company believes that
it needs to have additional injection of equity or debt capital to meet the
Company's anticipated capital expenditures for the balance of 1999, and the
Company actively is seeking to raise such additional capital through equity
or debt financing.
Accordingly, through the implementation of distribution and marketing
strategies discussed in Item 1, the Company intends to pursue internal
growth potential as a move toward profitability and fund interim capital
needs through the possible public and private sale of debt and equity
securities.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998
This item has been omitted pursuant to Rule 12b-25 and will be filed by
amendment.
DEBT STRUCTURE
On December 27, 1993, Green Food Peregrine entered into a loan agreement
with a state owned commercial bank in China and obtained a loan of
approximately US $905,819 (RMB7,500,000). This loan matured on December 26,
1996 and bore an interest rate of 12.24% per annum. The loan, which was
guaranteed by China National Green Food, contained an increased interest
rate penalty if repayments were not made on a timely basis. On December
26, 1996, Green Food Peregrine failed to pay off the principal and interest
then due on the loan; the bank thereafter imposed a penalty interest rate
of 16.43% per annum on the unpaid accumulated interest due at December 31,
1997. As of that date, Green Food Peregrine had accrued interest payable
of approximately US $257,856 (RMB2,135,000), in addition to the principal
of the loan.
In June, 1998, we renegotiated this loan and obtained a new repayment
schedule, with approximately US $125,606 now becoming due on December 31,
1998, and an additional US $1,038,069 becoming due on December 31, 1999.
The bank further agreed that, as long as Green Food Peregrine completes
this repayment schedule in a timely fashion, the bank will waive the
penalty interest imposed upon the interest calculation. The Company met
its obligations under the renegotiated payment schedule with respect to the
December 31, 1998 payment.
On December 1, 1994, Green Food Peregrine entered into a second loan
agreement with another state owned commercial bank in China and obtained a
loan of approximately US $325,300 (RMB2,700,000). This loan will mature on
December 31, 2001, and bears an interest rate of 9.9% per annum. This
interest rate is variable and can change in accordance with an annual
notice from the China Central Bank. In December, 1997, Green Food
Peregrine failed to pay off the regular interest and principal then due.
As such, the bank imposed a penalty interest rate of 12.43% per annum on
the interest calculation. As of that date, Green Food Peregrine had
accrued interest payable of approximately US $122,346 (RMB1,013,000) and a
current portion of principal payable of approximately US $120,776
(RMB1,000,000).
In June, 1998, we renegotiated this loan and established a new repayment
schedule with the bank which called for payment of approximately US $90,582
(RMB750,000) by September 20, 1998, and additional payments of
approximately US $50,726 (RMB420,000) at three month intervals through
December 20, 1999. The balance remaining on this loan, if any, is payable
on December 31, 1999. The bank has agreed that, as long as Green Food
Peregrine completes this payment plan in a timely fashion, the bank will
release the penalty interest rate imposed on the interest calculation. The
Company is current with this renegotiated payment schedule.
During the organization period of Green Food Peregrine and in April of
1996, China National Green Food loaned the aggregate amount of RMB8,600,000
to Green Food Peregrine. These shareholder loans were converted to paid in
capital in 1997 to satisfy the registered capital requirements of China
National Green Food pursuant to the Green Food Peregrine Articles of
Association. In addition, interest payable of RMB882,721 likewise has been
converted to paid in capital.
In April and November, 1996, China National Green Food loaned an additional
RMB350,000 and RMB200,000, respectively, to Green Food Peregrine to finance
working capital. An interest rate of 12.4% per annum was applied to these
loans. Both of these loans were paid in full in September and October,
1997, respectively.
In January, 1997, the major limited partner of China Peregrine Enterprises
loaned US $200,000 to that limited partnership in order for China Peregrine
Enterprises to meet interim registered capital requirements of the Green
Food Peregrine Articles of Association and Joint Venture Contract. In
March, 1997, three shareholders of the Company together provided a loan of
US $1,315,000 to pay China Peregrine Enterprises' final registered capital
requirement to Green Food Peregrine. This last capital contribution was
set by the Board of Directors of Green Food Peregrine as a condition
precedent to the approval of the Company's acquisition of the interest of
China Peregrine Enterprises in and to the Green Food Peregrine joint
venture. These two loans were paid off during May and June, 1997,
utilizing the proceeds from a Rule 504 regulation D offering by the
Company.
In March, 1997, a holder of the majority of the partnership interests in
China Peregrine Enterprises (and a major stockholder in the Company),
together with two other investors in the Company, assumed a US $1,260,000
outstanding line of credit owed by the limited partnership to a Tennessee-
based financial institution. On March 15, 1997, the Company issued
1,260,000 shares of its Series B preferred stock to these shareholders in
consideration for this assumption. The line of credit was paid in full in
October, 1997.
While the above described related party loans have been paid in full, there
can be no assurance that the Company will have the ability to meet the
newly negotiated payment schedule to retire the obligations owing to the
two state owned banks in China, either by utilizing its capital resources
or from the generation of cash flows adequate to support the repayment
schedules.
EFFECTS OF INFLATION
The Company believes that inflation has not had material effect on its net
sales and results of operations.
EFFECT OF FLUCTUATION IN FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATES
The Company's operating subsidiary, Green Food Peregrine, is located in
China. It buys and sells products in China using Chinese renminbi as
functional currency. Based on Chinese government regulation, all foreign
currencies under the category of current account are allowed to freely
exchange with hard currencies. During the past two years of operation,
there were no significant changes in exchange rates. However, there is no
assurance that there will be no significant change in exchange rates in the
near future.
FUTURE OPERATIONS
Since the Company's acquisition of a majority interest in the Hangzhou
Meilijian joint venture has recently occurred, the results of operations
for Hangzhou Meilijian have not been incorporated herein. We anticipate,
however, that the inclusion of the Hangzhou Meilijian operation will have a
significant impact on the financial reporting of the Company in the future.
For example, as of December 31, 1997, Hangzhou Meilijian reported
approximately US $6,240,000 in revenues. Since an audit of the financial
statements of that joint venture under US GAAP and GAAS has not been
completed, however, there can be no assurances that the Hangzhou Meilijian
joint venture will be profitable.
In addition, if the Company is able to raise additional capital to finance
its acquisition of a majority interest in one or more of the state owned
dairies presently under consideration with the Ministry of Agriculture,
both the revenue reports and the profitability of the Company may be
affected materially.
Finally, there can be no assurances of the success of the strategic
marketing plan of the Company with respect to its Shanghai operations, or
the ability to fund that marketing strategy. The successful implementation
of the planned marketing strategy for the Shanghai market could result in a
profitable Shanghai operation within a twelve month period. The success of
the planned marketing strategy, in addition to the above stated factors,
involves the continued focus on consumer acceptance of the qualitative
differences between the products being offered by Green Food Peregrine and
its competitors.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOT ADOPTED YET
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income"
(SFAS No. 130), which establishes standards for reporting and display of
comprehensive income, its components and accumulated balances.
Comprehensive income is defined to include all changes in equity except
those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners.
Among other disclosures, SFAS No. 130 requires that all items that are
required to be recognized under current accounting standards as components
of comprehensive income be reported in a financial statements that is
displayed with the same prominence as other financial statements.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, "Disclosure about
Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information" (SFAS No. 131), which
supersedes SFAS No. 14, "Financial Reporting for Segments of a Business
Enterprise," establishes standards for the way that public enterprises
report information about operating segments in interim financial statements
issued to the public. It also establishes standards for disclosures
regarding products and services, geographic areas and major customers.
SFAS No. 131 defines operating segments as components of an enterprise
about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated
regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate
resources and in assessing performance.
Both of these new standards are effective for financial statements for
periods beginning after December 15, 1997 and require comparative
information for earlier years to be restated. Due to the recent issuance
of these standards, management has been unable to fully evaluate the
impact, if any, they may have on future financial statement disclosures.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 132, "Employer's
Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits" (SFAS No.
132) is effective for financial statements with fiscal years ending
beginning after December 15, 1997; earlier application is permitted. The
new standard revises employers' disclosures about pension and other
postretirement benefit plans but does not change the measurement or
recognition of those plans. SFAS No. 132 standardizes the disclosure
requirements for pensions and other postretirement benefits to the extent
practicable, requires additional information on changes in the benefit
obligations and fair values of plan assets that will facilitate financial
analysis, and eliminates certain disclosures previously required when no
longer useful. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 132 to
have a material effect, if any, on its financial position or results of
operations.
Statement of Financial Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" (SFAS No. 133) requires companies to
recognize all derivatives contracts as either assets or liabilities in the
balance sheet and to measure them at fair value. If certain conditions are
met, a derivative may be specifically designated as a hedge, the objective
of which is to match the timing of gain or loss recognition on the hedging
derivative with the recognition of (i) the changes in the fair value of the
hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk or (ii)
the earnings effect of the hedged forecasted transaction. For a derivative
not designated as a hedging instrument, the gain or loss is recognized in
income in the period of change. SFAS No. 133 is effective for all fiscal
quarters of fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999.
Historically, the Company has not entered into derivative contracts either
to hedge existing risks or for speculative purposes. Accordingly, the
Company does not expect adoption of the new standard on January 1, 2000 to
affect its financial statements.
The Accounting Standards Executive Committee issued Statement of Position
("SOP") 98-5 "Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up Activities" which will be
effective for financial statements for fiscal years after December 15, 1998
and requires that costs of start-up activities, including organization
costs, be expensed as incurred. In accordance with SOP 98-5, the Company
expects to write off start up costs in its subsidiary in 1999.
YEAR 2000 STATEMENT
We are currently in the process of identifying, evaluating and implementing
changes to computer systems in the United States and the Green Food
Peregrine facility in Shanghai, People's Republic of China, as necessary.
This issue affects computer systems that have date sensitive software
programs or chipsets that may not recognize the year 2000. Systems that do
not recognize such information properly could generate erroneous data or
cause a system to fail, resulting in an interruption of normal business
activities.
We have arranged with a third party vendor the performance of a
comprehensive analysis of the Company's in house computers with respect to
potential Year 2000 problems. Our internal analysis has revealed the
existence of one micro computer which , owing to its age, bears a high risk
of date sensitive operation. We anticipate the completion of the third
party analysis prior to the end of the 1999 second quarter, and immediate
remediation, if necessary, owing to the small number of micro computers
(less than 10) utilized by the Company and its subsidiaries. Given the
benefit to the Company of utilizing technology more advanced than exists in
its present computers, and the utilization of readily available "off the
shelf" hardware and software, the Company is prepared to upgrade or replace
all problem computers immediately, where appropriate.
We have been informed that the cost of the third party analysis and report
will be less than $2,000. Even assuming the need to replace all present
computers and software, we estimate the cost of such replacement to be less
than $30,000.
The Company utilizes computers in its United States operation in a fashion
that is non-essential to the day to day business of the Company. The
computers at the North Palm Beach, FL corporate offices function as word
processors for communication purposes and contain some database
information, which is duplicative of files kept by outside legal,
accounting and transfer agent affiliates. In the Shanghai and Hangzhou
facilities, basic record keeping is both manual and computer assisted. As
such, while downtime owing to date sensitive problems would present an
inconvenience to operations, it would not affect the ability of the
Company's subsidiaries to function appropriately on a day to day basis.
Neither the Company nor its subsidiaries rely upon third parties who are
computer dependent for their respective business functions. As such, we do
not believe that Year 200 problems that may be experienced by such third
parties will have any material effect on our operations in the United
States or in China.
Since we utilize readily available hardware and software in our business,
we believe the cost of modifying or replacing all systems to be Year 2000
compliant will be minimal, and the Company will modify or replace computers
experiencing such problems immediately, without an appreciable interruption
in its operations, financial condition or results of operations.
PART II
ITEM 7 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (audited)
FOR YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998
This item has been omitted pursuant to Rule 12b-25 and will be filed by
amendment.
PART II
ITEM 8 - CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Company has not had any changes in or disagreements with its
independent accountants.
PART III
ITEM 9 - DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, PROMOTERS AND CONTROL PERSONS.
The following table presents directors, executive officers, promoters and
control persons of the Company as of December 31, 1998; directors serve
two year terms.
Mr. Charles Beech, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Age 56.
Term expires 2000
Mr. Beech has a background of senior level management experience within a
variety of industries including: consumer products, emerging growth high
technology, merchant banking and sales and marketing consulting firms. Mr.
Beech has over 25 years of experience in executive level management, sales
and marketing, consumer product research and development. As former
President of Maybelline Sales Corporation, and following a 17-year career
in management with Procter & Gamble, Mr. Beech negotiated with the Chinese
government to establish the Green Food Peregrine Children's Food Company
joint venture alliance with the Ministry of Agriculture, one of the Chinese
joint venture businesses presently run by the Company. Mr. Beech also
serves as Chairman, CEO and President of Peregrine Enterprises, Inc., a
multi-national corporation which is parent to several consumer market
research firms in the United States and in China, including Message
Factors, Inc., an international consumer market research company which is
currently ranked (by revenues) in the top 2% of the U.S. market research
industry. Mr. Beech is one of the "founders" of the Company as it
presently exists.
Mr. Robert Cummings, Director, Age 56.
Term expires 1999
Mr. Cummings' work experience includes ten years in purchasing at Ford
Motor Company. In 1975, he founded and currently operates J & J Production
Service, Inc., a manufacturing representative business, which is currently
responsible for over $300 million in annual sales.
Mr. Michael L. Davis, Chief Financial Officer, Age 65.
Entering the securities industry over 35 years ago as a securities and
special situations analyst with ValueLine, Mr. Davis proceeded to serve as
a Tactical Planner, General Portfolio Manager and Short Sale Portfolio
Manager with a number of hedge funds. In 1972, he was a member of the
Investment Committee at Anchor Corp. which supervised its $2.5 billion
family of funds, as well as serving as Anchor's Chief Market Analyst. From
1978 through 1989, Mr. Davis was the Portfolio Manager of Merrill Lynch's
Special Value Fund. In addition to his position with China Peregrine, Mr.
Davis operates a private consulting firm, M.L. Davis Financial Services,
which advised clients on stock selection and general market timing
considerations, research and writing of special reports on selected small
and mid-cap growth companies and in the supervision of an investment
portfolio for a group of United Arab Emirates investors.
Mr. Paul Downes, Director, Age 37.
Term expires 2000
Mr. Downes currently is a director of the Company and, until his
resignation in April, 1998, served as Chairman of the Company. For the
past 10 years, Mr. Downes has managed a diverse portfolio of international
investments with concentration in the United Kingdom, Eastern Europe, North
Africa and Asia. In 1985, he founded a group of nursing homes for the
elderly in Great Britain that he sold in 1990. Prior to that time, Mr.
Downes spent several years organizing golf tournaments and international
golf matches in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia and
Hong Kong, spending two years living in Southeast Asia. Mr. Downes is one
of the "founders" of the Company as it presently exists
Mr. George Holdsworth, Director, Age 60.
Term expires 1999
Until May, 1998, Mr. Holdsworth was responsible for the operational aspects
of the Company's Chinese operations. Mr. Holdsworth is a graduate of the
University of London with a B.S. in Mathematics and an Associate of the
London College of Music. He started in business as a manufacturing manager
in his father's company, Earlsdon Components, Ltd., where he became
Director of Operations, then owner and Managing Director. In 1993, Mr.
Holdsworth became owner of Earlsdon Technology, Ltd., a JV Partner of
Shanghai Earlsdon Valve Company, Ltd., and has lived in Shanghai for the
last four years, until May, 1998. Mr. Holdsworth sold his interest in
Shanghai Earlsdon and commenced his duties for the Company in March, 1997.
Michael Lucci, Director, Age 58.
Term expires 1999
Mr. Lucci is a former All Pro linebacker who played for the Detroit Lions
of the National Football League from 1964 through his retirement from
professional football in 1973. Mr. Lucci became associated with Bally's
Total Fitness Corporation in 1971 and rose through the ranks to become that
corporation's Vice President of club operations in the mid-west, Senior
Vice-President, and President and Chief Operating Officer in 1993. Mr.
Lucci retired in 1996 and, since that time, has managed a diverse
investment portfolio for himself.
Mr. John McCormack, Director, Age 40.
Term expires 2000
Mr. McCormack filled the directorship vacated by Mr. Dale Reese in the
summer of 1997. For over 15 years, Mr. McCormack served as an executive
with Dean Foods Co., a processor and distributor of a full line of branded
and private label products, including fluid milk, cottage cheese and ice
cream. In 1996 and 1997, Mr. McCormack served as Vice President of Sales
and Marketing for Dean Food's McArthur Dairy in Miami, Florida. Currently,
as a Vice President of Dean Foods, he is in charge of Dean Food's mid-
western division out of Chicago, Illinois.
Mr. Phillip Pearce, Director, Age 69.
Term expires 1999
Mr. Pearce is a "retired" member of the securities industry. Mr. Pearce
served as Chairman of the NASD during which time he was instrumental in the
founding of NASDAQ. Additionally, Mr. Pearce was a former Director of E.F.
Hutton and has served as Governor of the New York Stock Exchange. Since
his retirement in 1988, Mr. Pearse has remained active in the securities
industry as a corporate financial consultant.
Mr. Roy G. Warren, President and Director, Age 43.
Term expires 2000
Mr. Warren has been in charge of the day to day US operations of the
Company since the summer of 1997. In addition to his day to day
operational duties, Mr. Warren continues to develop strategy for the
Company in growth and external financial matters. From 1981 through 1996,
Mr. Warren enjoyed an active career in the securities brokerage industry.
During 1995 and 1996, Mr. Warren was a Registered Representative of a
satellite office of Southeast Research Partners, Boca Raton, Florida. From
1992 to 1994, he was a Partner of Laffer Warren & Company, a small
independent broker dealer, registered with the NASD, located in North Palm
Beach, Florida. During the period from 1987 to 1992, Mr. Warren was a an
executive officer, principal, securities broker, and partner with
Gulfstream Financial Association, a subsidiary of Kemper Financial
Companies, and later as Vice President-Sales, of Alex Brown & Sons, West
Palm Beach, Florida.
As of September 31, 1998, there were no family relationships among the
directors and executive officers. Further, no director, executive officer,
promoter or control person has been involved in any legal proceedings
during the past five years that are material to an evaluation of the
ability or integrity of such director, person nominated to become a
director, executive officer, promoter or control person of the Company.
None of the individuals listed in this Item 9 has had a bankruptcy petition
filed by or against any business of which such person was a general partner
or executive officer either at the time of such bankruptcy, if any, or
within two years prior to that time. No director, executive officer,
promoter or control person was or has been convicted in a criminal
proceeding or is subject to a pending criminal proceeding or subject to any
order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or
vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily
enjoining, borrowing, or otherwise limiting his or her involvement in any
type of business, securities or banking activities. No director, executive
officer, promoter or control person has been found by a court of competent
jurisdiction in a civil action to have violated federal or state securities
or commodities law.
SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
As required under the securities laws of the United States, the Company's
directors, its executive (and certain other) officers, and any persons
holding ten percent or more of the Common Shares must report on their
ownership of the Common Shares and any changes in that ownership to the
Securities and Exchange Commission and to the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc. Automated Quotation System. Specific due dates for
these reports have been established. During the year ended December 31,
1998, the Company did not have a class of securities registered pursuant to
Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Accordingly, no
securities transaction reports were filed or received by the Company during
that period, or which relate to such period.
PART III
ITEM 10 - EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Summary Compensation Table
- --------------------------
The following table relates to executive compensation paid during 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Annual Compensation Long-Term Compensation
----------------------------- --------------------------
Stock
Awards
Name & Position Salary Bonus Total (Restricted) Options(1)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Roy G. Warren $120,000 $120,000 410,914
President
[8/15/97 to date]
George Holdsworth
President
[4/20/97 to 8/15/97]
Chief Operating Officer
[4/20/97 to 4/30/98]
Charles Beech 510,914
Chairman
[4/20/97 to 6/1/97
and 4/30/98 to date]
Chief Executive Officer
[4/20/97 to date]
Dale Reese 700,000
Chairman/Treasurer
[6/1/97 to 8/15/97]
Paul Downes (2) 1,383,705
Chairman
[8/15/97 to 4/30/98]
Philip Pearce
Director 25,000
[4/20/97 to date]
<F1> (1) The Options listed above were authorized by a Directors' resolution
on April 20, 1997. At that time, a market did not exist for the
Company's unrestricted shares, which had a par value of $0.001.
<F2> (2) These options were granted to Tamarind Management, Ltd., an
affiliate of Mr. Downes.
</TABLE>
Option Grant Table
- ------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Securities
Underlying Percentage Per Share Expiration
Name & Position Options(1) of Total Exercise $ Date
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Roy G. Warren 160,914 5.30% $1.00 4-28-02
President 250,000 8.25% $1.00 4-29-02
[8/15/97 to date]
Charles Beech 160,914 5.30% $1.00 4-28-02
Chairman 350,000 11.54% $1.00 4-29-02
[4/20/97 to 6/1/97
and 4/30/98 to date]
Chief Executive Officer
[4/20/97 to date]
Dale Reese 700,000 23.09% $1.00 4-20-02
Chairman/Treasurer
[6/1/97 to 8/15/97]
Paul Downes (2) 683,705 22.56% $1.00 4-22-02
Chairman 700,000 23.09% $1.00 4-29-02
[8/15/97 to 4/30/98]
<F1> (1) The Options listed above are exercisable for Common Stock, which
has a par value of $0.001.
<F2> (2) These options were granted to Tamarind Management, Ltd., an
affiliate of Mr. Downes.
</TABLE>
Aggregated 1998 Fiscal Year End Option Value Table
- --------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Securities Underlying Value of "In The Money"
Name & Position Unexercised Options(1) Unexercised Options(2)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Roy G. Warren 410,914 $-0-
President
[8/15/97 to date]
Charles Beech 510,914 $-0-
Chairman
[4/20/97 to 6/1/97
and 4/30/98 to date]
Chief Executive Officer
[4/20/97 to date]
Dale Reese 700,000 $-0-
Chairman/Treasurer
[6/1/97 to 8/15/97]
Paul Downes (3) 1,383,705 $-0-
Chairman
[8/15/97 to 4/30/98]
<F1> (1) The Options listed above were authorized by a Directors' resolution
on April 20, 1997. At that time, a market did not exist for the
Company's unrestricted shares, which had a par value of $0.001.
<F2> (2) On December 31, 1998, the Company's unrestricted common stock was
quoted on the NASD Over The Counter Electronic Bulletin Board at a
closing price of $1.00; the reported dollar values represent the
"in-the money" value of the options listed as of the 1998 year end.
<F3> (3) These options were granted to Tamarind Management, Ltd., an
affiliate of Mr. Downes.
</TABLE>
Employment Contracts
- --------------------
There are no written employment contracts for the individuals listed in
this item.
PART III
ITEM 11 - SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
(a) The following individuals hold 5 % or more of the outstanding voting
stock of the Company. No other individual or any group is known to the
Company to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of any class of the
Company's voting securities.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name & Address of Amount & Nature of Percent of
Title of Class (1) Beneficial owner (2) Beneficial Owner (3) Class(4)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Common Mr. Dale Reese 3,157,985 22.75%
125 Kingston Road
Media, PA 19063
Common American Flavors China, Inc. 1,531,685 11.03%
1007 Chestnut Street
Newton, MA 02164
Common Tamarind Management., Ltd. 2,202,327 15.87%
31 Broad Street
P.O. Box 23
St. Helier Channel Islands
Common Peregrine Enterprises, Inc. 1,070,914 7.71%
5350 Poplar Avenue
Memphis, TN 38119
<F1> (1) While listed as "common," the class of stock includes the shares of
common stock underlying warrants, options and convertible preferred
stock issued by the Company.
<F2> (2) Insofar as Mr. Paul Downes has investment power with respect to the
affairs of Tamarind Management, Ltd., the Company's securities held
by Mr. Downes and Tamarind are combined in this table. Similarly,
insofar as Mr. Charles Beech has investment power with respect to
the affairs of Peregrine Enterprises, Inc., the Company's
securities held by Mr. Beech and Peregrine Enterprises are combined
in this table.
<F3> (3) The following is a breakdown, by beneficial owner and title of
class, of the common stock issued and common stock underlying
warrants, options and convertible preferred stock which the
respective holders have the right to acquire within sixty
(60) days:
<CAPTION>
Number of Shares of
Common Stock (Issued
Holder Type of Security or Capable of Being Acquired)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Mr. Dale Reese Common 840,544
Warrants 100,000
Series A Convertible Pref. 500,000
Series B Convertible Pref. 1,017,441
Options 700,000
Tamarind Management, Ltd. Common 687,000
Series B Convertible Pref. 107,440
Options 1,383,705
Mr. Paul Downes Common 24,182
Peregrine Enterprises, Inc. Common 360,000
Mr. Charles Beech Common 200,000
Options 510,914
<F4> (4) Includes issued shares of common stock plus the shares of common
stock underlying warrants, options and convertible preferred stock
issued by the Company, which can be acquired within sixty (60)
days.
</TABLE>
(b)The following includes all who served as directors or executive officers
in 1998, who hold equity securities of the Company and the total held by
all directors and executive officers. This table includes issued shares of
common stock plus the shares of common stock underlying warrants, options
and convertible preferred stock issued, which can be acquired within sixty
(60) days, as above.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name & Address of Amount & Nature of Percent
Title of Class Beneficial Owner Beneficial Owner(1) Class
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Common Mr. Dale Reese 3,157,985 22.75%
125 Kingston Road
Media, PA 19063
Common Mr. Paul Downes 2,202,327 15.87%
(Director)
5646 Windrift Lane
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Common Mr. Charles Beech 1,070,914 7.71%
(Chairman/CEO/Director)
4339 Gwynne Road
Memphis, TN 38117
Common Roy G. Warren 598,914 4.31%
(President/Director)
1128 Country Club Road
N. Palm Beach, FL 33408
Common Robert Cummings 400,000 2.88%
(Director)
2829 N.E. 44th Street
Lighthouse Point, FL 33064
Common Michael G. Lucci 410,000 2.73%
(Director)
49 Spanish River Drive
Ocean Ridge, FL 33435
Common John McCormack 200,000 1.44%
(Director)
8750 South Grant
Burridge, IL 60521
Common Phillip Pearce 25,000 0.18%
(Director)
6624 Glenleaf Court
Charlotte, NC 28270
Common Michael L. Davis 25,000 0.18%
(CFO)
20 Harris Avenue
Hamptom Beach, NH 03843
Common Susan Lurvey 12,000 0.086%
(Treasurer/Secretary)
6340 Fox Run Circle
Jupiter, FL 33458
Common All directors and executive 4,914,155 35.40%
officers as a group
<F1> (1) The following is a breakdown, by beneficial owner and title of
class, of the common stock issued and common stock underlying
warrants, options and convertible preferred stock which the
respective holders have the right to acquire within sixty
(60) days:
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of Shares of
Common Stock (Issued
Holder Type of Security or Capable of Being Acquired)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Mr. Dale Reese Common 840,544
Warrants 100,000
Series A Convertible Pref. 500,000
Series B Convertible Pref. 1,017,441
Options 700,000
Tamarind Management, Ltd. Common 687,000
(c/o Mr. Paul Downes) Series B Convertible Pref. 107,440
Mr. Paul Downes Options 1,383,705
(Individually) Common 24,182
Peregrine Enterprises, Inc. Common 360,000
(c/o Mr. C. Beech)
Mr. Charles Beech Common 200,000
(Individually) Options 510,914
Roy G. Warren Common 188,000
Options 410,914
Robert Cummings Common 200,000
Warrants 200,000
Michael G. Lucci Common 410,000
Warrants 200,000
John McCormack Common 100,000
Warrants 100,000
Phillip Pearce Common 25,000
Michael L. Davis Options 25,000
Susan Lurvey Common 12,000
</TABLE>
(c) There currently are no arrangements that may result in a change of
ownership or control of the Company.
PART III
ITEM 12 - CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Loans/Fees
- ----------
During the organization period of Green Food Peregrine, China National
Green Food Corporation, one of the three partners of Green Food Peregrine,
wired RMB6,600,000 in the form of shareholder's loan to Green Food
Peregrine to finance its activities. In April, 1996, China National Green
Food Corporation wired another RMB2,000,000 in the form of shareholder's
loan to GFP. All these shareholder's loans have been converted to paid-in
capital to satisfy the registered capital requirements contained in the
Article of Association of Green Food Peregrine. To date, a total of
interest payable of RMB882,721 has been converted to paid-in capital as the
registered capital of China National Green Food Corporation.
In April and November, 1996, China National Green Food loaned an additional
RMB350,000 and RMB200,000, respectively, to Green Food Peregrine to finance
working capital. An interest rate of 12.4% per annum was applied to these
loans. Both of these loans were paid in full in September and October,
1997, respectively.
In 1996, Amer-China, one of three partners of Green Food Peregrine,
provided Green Food Peregrine with consulting services, such as English
translation and negotiation supporting services in the U.S., and charged a
total of $36,000 to Green Food Peregrine. The charge was accounted for
consulting expense in Green Food Peregrine's books.
In February, 1997 the Company issued 25,000 shares of common stock in
exchange for 100% of equity interest of Manor Products Corp. (Manor).
Manor was a Delaware company established on January 10, 1996. In early
1996, 80% of equity interest of Manor was bought by the principal of the
initial founding entity of the Company. Accordingly, this acquisition was
regarded as a related party transaction.
In January, 1997, the major limited partner of China Peregrine Enterprises
loaned US $200,000 to that limited partnership in order for China Peregrine
Enterprises to meet interim registered capital requirements of the Green
Food Peregrine Articles of Association and Joint Venture Contract. In
March, 1997, three shareholders of the Company together provided a loan of
US $1,315,000 to pay China Peregrine Enterprises' final registered capital
requirement to Green Food Peregrine. This last capital contribution was
set by the Board of Directors of Green Food Peregrine as a condition
precedent to the approval of the Company's acquisition of the interest of
China Peregrine Enterprises in and to the Green Food Peregrine joint
venture. These two loans were paid off during May and June, 1997,
utilizing the proceeds from a Rule 504 regulation D offering by the
Company.
In March, 1997, a holder of the majority of the partnership interests in
China Peregrine Enterprises (and a major stockholder in the Company),
together with two other investors in the Company, assumed a US $1,260,000
outstanding line of credit owed by the limited partnership to a Tennessee-
based financial institution. On March 15, 1997, the Company issued
1,260,000 shares of its Series B preferred stock to these shareholders in
consideration for this assumption. The line of credit was paid in full in
October, 1997.
Relationships
- -------------
Mr. Paul Downes has investment power with respect to the affairs of
Tamarind Management, Ltd. Accordingly, the Company's securities held by
Mr. Downes and Tamarind have been combined in this document for reporting
purposes. The Downes/Tamarind ownership of issued and underlying shares of
common stock, Series B Preferred Stock and Options represents 15.87% of all
issued and outstanding common stock and shares of common stock underlying
the Series A and B Preferred plus unexercised options and warrants.
Similarly, insofar as Mr. Charles Beech has investment power with respect
to the affairs of Peregrine Enterprises, Inc. The Company's securities held
by Mr. Beech and Peregrine Enterprises likewise have been combined in this
document for reporting purposes. The Beech/Peregrine Enterprises ownership
of issued and underlying shares of common stock and Options represents
7.71% of all issued and outstanding common stock and shares of common stock
underlying the Series A and B Preferred plus unexercised options and
warrants.
The Company purchased the assets of China Peregrine Enterprises, Limited
(China Peregrine Enterprises) in March of 1997, in exchange for 1,040,000
shares of the common stock of the Company. At the time of this asset
purchase, Mr. Dale Reese was the major equity holder in the China Peregrine
Enterprises limited partnership and Mr. Charles Beech "controlled" the
activities of China Peregrine Enterprises by virtue of his control of China
Peregrine International, Inc., the General Partner of China Peregrine
Enterprises. At the time of the asset purchase, Messrs. Reese and Beech
were two of the three directors of the Company. As noted above, through
the assumption of a loan in excess of one million dollars owed by China
Peregrine Enterprises to a Tennessee bank, and by virtue of his position as
a founder of the Company, and through stock purchases, Mr. Reese presently
holds a 22.75% interest in the equity of the Company. Similarly, Mr.
Beech, directly and through Peregrine Enterprises, Inc., presently holds
7.71% of such equity.
PART III
ITEM 13 - EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
Except as noted, copies of the following documents are incorporated by
reference to exhibits bearing the same exhibit numbers filed with the
Company's Form 10K-SB, First Amendment, pursuant to item 601 of Regulation
S-B.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEC
Exhibit Reference
No. No. Title of Document
- -----------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
1a 2 Asset Purchase Agreement
China Peregrine Enterprises, Limited
1b 2 Interim Agreement to Operate
China Peregrine Project
2a 3(i) Articles of Incorporation
2b 3(i) Amended Articles (name change)
3 3(ii) Restated Bylaws
China Peregrine Food Corporation
4a 4 Rights of Equity Holders
Common - Articles of Incorporation
4b 4 Preferred, Series A and B Designation
4c 4 Preferred, Series C Designation
5 10 Material Contracts
Green Food Joint Venture Contract
6 10 Material Contracts
Hangzhou Meilijian Joint
Venture Contract
7a 10 Material Contracts
Asset Purchase Agreement
American Flavors China, Inc.
7b 10 First Amendment (1-28-98)
7c 10 Second Amendment (6-19-98)
8 21 Subsidiaries
Articles of Association
Green Food Peregrine
9 21 Subsidiaries
Articles of Association
Hangzhou Meilijian
10 27 * Financial Data Schedule, 12-31-98
11 99 Hangzhou Meilijian Audited Financial
Statements, Years Ending
December 31,1996, 1997 & July 30, 1998
<F*> * This item has been omitted pursuant to Rule 12b-25 and will be filed
by amendment.
</TABLE>
In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, China Peregrine Food Corporation has caused this report to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunder duly authorized.
CHINA PEREGRINE FOOD CORPORATION
By: /S/ Roy G. Warren, President
In accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, China Peregrine
Food Corporation has caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned in the capacities and on the dates stated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signature Title Date
- --------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
/S/ Charles Beech Chairman, Director March 31, 1999
/S/ Roy G. Warren President, Director March 31, 1999
/S/ Susan Lurvey Secretary, Treasurer March 31, 1999
</TABLE>