U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-KSB
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _______________ to ________________
Commission File Number: 0-29780
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
(Name of Small Business Issuer in its Charter)
NEVADA 87-0384678
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification No.)
7309 EAST STETSON DRIVE, SUITE 102
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA 85251
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(480) 947-6366
(Issuer's Telephone Number)
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: NONE
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:
COMMON STOCK, $.01 PAR VALUE PER SHARE
(Title of Class)
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 [X] No [ ].
Check if there is no disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item
405 of Regulation S-B 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. [ ]
Registrant's revenues for its most recent fiscal year were $82,192.
The aggregate market value of the Common Stock held by non-affiliates
computed based on the closing price of such stock on March 31, 1999 was
approximately $17,808,126.
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's classes of Common
Stock, as of March 31, 1999 was 23,456,560.
Documents incorporated by reference: None
Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format (check one): Yes [ ] No [X].
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PART I
Except for historical information contained herein, this Form 10-KSB
contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "SECURITIES ACT") and Section 21E of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "EXCHANGE ACT") and Solpower
Corporation (the "COMPANY") intends that such forward-looking statements be
subject to the safe harbors created thereby. Wherever possible, the Company has
identified these forward-looking statements by words such as "ANTICIPATES,"
"BELIEVES," "ESTIMATES," "EXPECTS," "INTENDS" and similar expressions. Such
forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and include, but are
not limited to, statements regarding future events and the Company's plans and
expectations. The Company's actual results may differ materially from such
statements. Factors that may cause or contribute to such differences include,
but are not limited to, those discussed in "ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS -
FACTORS AFFECTING FUTURE PERFORMANCE" and "ITEM 6. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS," as well as those
discussed elsewhere herein and in the exhibits hereto and incorporated by
reference. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying the
forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could
prove inaccurate and, therefore, there can be no assurance that the results
contemplated in such forward-looking statements will be realized. In addition,
as disclosed under "ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS - FACTORS AFFECTING FUTURE
PERFORMANCE," the business and operations of the Company are subject to
substantial risks which increase the uncertainties inherent in the
forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-KSB. The inclusion of such
forward-looking information should not be regarded as a representation by the
Company or any other person that the future events, plans or expectations
contemplated by the Company will be achieved.
ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
GENERAL
The Company has licensed the rights to distribute and market SOLTRON, an
enzyme based fuel enhancing product, and SP34E, an ozone safe refrigerant gas,
throughout North America. The Company manufactures and distributes SOLTRON
through traditional channels including fuel wholesalers, oil distributors for
bulk treatment, automotive aftermarket stores, mass merchandising chains and
directly to licensees. The Company commenced manufacturing SP34E in Canada in
May, 1999 and distribution is expected to be through wholesale distributors of
refrigeration products. The Company has also the right to acquire other
international Solpower operations and marketing territories.
The Company was incorporated in Utah on June 7, 1982 as Dynafuel
Corporation. The Company originally conducted limited research and development
of an experimental fuel using alcohol and other chemicals in a proprietary
combination to produce a gasoline like motor fuel. The Company ceased these
operations in 1988 and remained dormant until 1995. In November 1995, the
Company acquired the marketing rights to a virtual reality motion based
simulator and, in December 1995, changed its name to Virtual Technologies, Inc.
In July 1996, the Company merged into a newly-formed subsidiary incorporated in
Nevada to change its domicile to the State of Nevada. During the fiscal year
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ended March 31, 1997, the Company sold the motion based simulator contract and
related assets.
In November 1996, the Company entered into a licensing agreement with
Dominion Capital Pty Ltd. ("DOMINION CAPITAL") to acquire the exclusive
manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sales rights for the product SOLTRON
in the United States, Canada and Mexico. As a result of entering into the
licensing agreement, Dominion Capital and its affiliates gained control of the
Company. A new Board of Directors was then elected and new management installed.
A corporate philosophy of acquiring and commercializing environmentally friendly
products was initiated. In June 1998, the Company entered into a second
licensing agreement with Dominion Capital and acquired the exclusive
manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sales rights for the product SP34E in
the United States, Canada and Mexico. In June 1999, the Company executed letter
of intent setting forth its intent to acquire Solpower Australia Pty Ltd.
("SOLPOWER AUSTRALIA"), an Australian affiliate of Dominion Capital that
manufactures and distributes SOLTRON and SP34E in Australia and New Zealand. The
Company expects to acquire the assets and liabilities of Solpower Australia in
exchange for 3,000,000 to 4,000,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company. The
actual terms of acquisition will be set forth in a definitive agreement which is
subject to approval of the Company's Board of Directors.
PRODUCTS
SOLTRON. SOLTRON is an enzyme based liquid fuel enhancing product that was
developed over a period of 18 years by a group of scientists at the Japanese
Institute of Bio-Energy. When added to fossil fuels SOLTRON reduces particulate
exhaust emissions, improves fuel economy, dispenses fuel sludge and other
impurities and ultimately lowers engine maintenance costs. When mixed with
liquid fuels, SOLTRON changes the fuel's molecular structure and improves its
oxygen absorption and combustion efficiency. These enzymes "FEED" on the
contaminants that cause fuel degradation. SOLTRON can be added to all liquid
fossil fuels including gasoline, diesel and light and heavy oils either at the
fuel pump or in bulk fuel tanks. SOLTRON has been sold commercially in Japan
since 1993 and in Australia since 1996. SOLTRON was awarded the 1997 Best New
Aftermarket Product Award (Chemical) by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket
Association. SOLTRON will be marketed by the Company in North America as a
natural enzyme product that will reduce emissions, improve fuel economy and
reduce engine maintenance.
Use data and testing have demonstrated that use of SOLTRON caused increased
fuel economy, reduction of emissions and reduction of black smoke and
particulate matter while controlling sludge and algae in diesel. The Company
continues to conduct field and objective laboratory testing of SOLTRON and is
developing a database of independent tests and data regarding the effects of use
of SOLTRON as a fossil fuel additive.
SP34E. SP34E is a refrigerant gas developed in Japan by the Kinoh-Kinzohu
Company as a replacement gas for ozone-depleting fluorinated refrigerants. SP34E
is currently sold in Japan, Canada, Australia and other Asian rim countries. Its
applications include utilization in automotive, domestic, commercial and
transport refrigeration and air-conditioning systems as an alternative to
FREON(R) (R-12) and other fluorinated refrigerants. SP34E generally does not
require replacement of mechanical components, removal of mineral and synthetic
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oils that are found in older refrigeration systems and has a lower discharge
pressure and a much shorter atmospheric life span than other commonly used
refrigerant gases.
SP34E is used by various companies in Australia, New Zealand, Japan,
Thailand and Taiwan. Significant use data has been developed, the results of
which consistently show that SP34E is an acceptable direct drop-in replacement
gas for R-12 and R-134a with improved operating characteristics over other
refrigerant replacement gases. In March of 1999, the Company entered into a
joint venture agreement with Protocol Resource Management Inc., a Canadian
company, to manufacture and distribute SP34E in Canada and elsewhere in the
Company's licensed territory. The joint venture is operated as a Canadian
corporation equally owned by the Company and Protocol Resource Management Inc.
SUPPLIERS
SOLTRON. SOLTRON consists of natural organic enzymes mixed with low odor
base solvent. SOLTRON enzyme concentrate is supplied exclusively to the Company
by Neway Japan K.K. of Tokyo, Japan. Neway Japan K.K. has informed the Company
that it currently has sufficient inventory of enzyme concentrate on hand to
supply the Company's anticipated needs through 1999 and 2000. Low odor base
solvent is readily available through local suppliers. The Company has produced
its own proprietary bottle design for retail packaging and has selected a
manufacturer that can produce in both the eastern and western United States in
quantities to meet the Company's and its licensees' anticipated needs.
SP34E. The components of SP34E are readily available through a variety of
local and national suppliers.
MARKETING STRATEGIES
SOLTRON. The fuel market may be divided into distinct groups such as
diesel, gasoline, bunker and aviation fuel users. These groups can be further
sub-divided into distinct user segments: commercial transport fleets, government
fleets, marine transport fleets, retail distribution and industrial. The EPA
recently quadrupled the number of "NON-ATTAINMENT ZONES" in areas with severe
emission problems resulting in certain fleet operators being forced to test or
to start using alternative fuels such as propane or natural gas. New regulations
such as restricted hours of service are also being considered. The Company
believes that this increased regulation creates opportunities for consumer
acceptance of its SOLTRON product and is focusing on all North American markets.
The Company's objective is to penetrate the fuel treatment market and increase
fuel treatment usage of SOLTRON over a five year period while establishing
consumer recognition of the SOLTRON brand name.
The Company intends to exploit its SOLTRON manufacturing, marketing, sales
and distribution rights in the United States, Canada and Mexico initially
through direct operation of its Southeast, Southwest and Great Lakes Territories
and to expand into four additional territories. The territories are as follows:
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SOLPOWER NORTHEAST MAINE, VERMONT, MASSACHUSETTS, CONNECTICUT,
RHODE ISLAND, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW YORK, NEW
JERSEY AND PENNSYLVANIA
SOLPOWER MID-ATLANTIC DELAWARE, WASHINGTON DC,
MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, VIRGINIA, NORTH
CAROLINA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE AND
KENTUCKY.
SOLPOWER CENTRAL MINNESOTA, IOWA, MISSOURI, NORTH DAKOTA,
SOUTH DAKOTA, NEBRASKA, KANSAS, WYOMING AND
COLORADO.
SOLPOWER SOUTHEAST ALABAMA, ARKANSAS, FLORIDA, GEORGIA,
LOUISIANA AND MISSISSIPPI.
SOLPOWER SOUTH OKLAHOMA, NEW MEXICO AND TEXAS.
SOLPOWER GREAT LAKES OHIO, INDIANA, MICHIGAN, ILLINOIS AND
WISCONSIN.
SOLPOWER NORTHWEST ALASKA, CANADA, IDAHO, OREGON, MONTANA AND
WASHINGTON.
SOLPOWER SOUTHWEST ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA, HAWAII, NEVADA AND UTAH.
SOLPOWER MEXICO MEXICO.
The Company has entered into a license agreement with Houston
Mercantile Exchange, Inc. ("HOUSTON MERCANTILE") for the South and Mexico
Territories. Houston Mercantile has also entered into an Exclusive Distribution
Agreement with Productos Quimicos Mardupol ("MARDUPOL") of Mexico City to
distribute SOLTRON throughout Mexico. The Company was a party to licensing
agreements with Masters Marketing Group, Inc. for the Great Lakes Territory and
with Solpower Southeast Corporation for the Southeast Territory but in May and
September of 1999, respectively, the Company terminated these relationships and
took back those territories, which it currently operates as corporate
territories. The Company is currently marketing SOLTRON using traditional
marketing channels to develop sales and product awareness before continuing with
the license marketing program. The Company will retain the marketing and
distribution rights of the non-licensed territories until such time as it enters
into a licensing agreement covering such territories.
The license agreements define the territory in which the licensees can
manufacture, distribute, market and sell SOLTRON for a period of five years and
require the licensees to purchase minimum annual amounts of SOLTRON enzyme
concentrate from the Company. The agreements may be extended once by either
party for an additional five year period. Currently, the license fee for each
territory varies from $600,000 to $1,800,000. A 10% down payment on the license
fee is generally required on entering into the agreement and the balance, which
is evidenced by a promissory note payable over a two year period, is payable by
charging a premium to the licensees on the SOLTRON enzyme concentrate price. The
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licensees are required to contribute to a national and territorial marketing
fund that is administered by the Company to ensure that adequate marketing funds
are dedicated to promotion of the product. Annual sales targets are set to
encourage licensees to maximize sales efforts. Licensees have the right to
appoint independent operators in their territory or utilize a direct sales force
similar to that used by the Company.
Distribution of SOLTRON in the Company's Southwest territory commenced in
June 1998. Within this territory, the Company deploys sales personnel to sell
and create a demand for SOLTRON in all market segments. The Company currently
utilizes oil marketers, independent sales representatives and a direct sales
force to provide a focused marketing effort, which it believes will expose
SOLTRON directly to prospective customers. The Company also anticipates
utilizing other traditional distribution channels including an Internet Web
site, resale distribution through small retail chains, resale distribution
through large retail chains, mass merchandising, multi-level free-enterprise
systems, home network sales, catalogue and direct mailing, and telemarketing to
develop a national marketing effort. The Company's overall goal is to
successfully penetrate and create a substantial demand for SOLTRON in each user
market segment before completing its license marketing program.
The Company employs Area Sales Managers ("ASM") for the southern California
region of the Company's Southwest Territory and for the Great Lakes Territory
whose sales orders are serviced from the Company's Phoenix, Arizona production
facility. The Southeast Territory is being developed under a similar marketing
plan. The Company is developing product awareness at the national level through
advertising in trade journals and participation in transportation and other
industry related trade shows. Other activities to promote the Company's products
include the identification and development of operations, marketing, accounting
and administrative systems to achieve efficiency for the Company and its
licensees, the establishment of a corporate communications system supported by
an in-house desktop publishing department, as well as redesign and upgrading of
the corporate image with new logos, web site, product brochures, trade show
materials, product labeling and packaging and all related marketing materials.
SP34E. SP34E is a direct drop-in refrigerant gas that replaces R-12 and
R-134a refrigerant gases in existing air-conditioning and refrigeration units.
Refrigerant gas is widely used in air-conditioning and refrigeration units in
the residential, automotive, commercial and transportation sectors.
Historically, chlorofluorocarbons ("CFCS"), hydrochlorofluorocarbons ("HCFCS")
and hydrofluorocarbons ("HFCS") have been utilized as refrigerant gasses. CFCs
used as refrigerant gases include R-12, HCFCs include R-406A, and HFCs include
R-134a. Emissions of these gases have been proven to cause depletion of the
ozone layer resulting in global warming. The EPA has banned production or
importation of CFCs, and production of HCFCs is scheduled to be phased out in
the United States by 2029. HFCs have not been banned or scheduled for phase-out,
but contain gases that have global warming potential and are generally less
effective as a refrigerant gas than CFCs or HCFCs. The Company intends to market
SP34E as an environmentally safe replacement for R-12 refrigerants with greater
efficiency and less environmental impact than R-134a.
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The Company has entered into a joint venture agreement with Protocol
Resource Management Inc. ("Protocol") of Aurora, Ontario Canada, for the
manufacture and distribution of SP34E in Canada and elsewhere in the Company's
licensed territory. Protocol was founded in 1993 and provides a full range of
refrigerant management services. It has expanded to become the largest R-134a
repackaging operation in Canada and has established a number of innovative
refrigerant programs for some of the largest original equipment manufacturers in
the Canadian and U.S. refrigerant industry. The Company anticipates that it will
develop a marketing strategy for certain market segments and also market this
product directly, similar to the strategy developed by the Company's affiliate
Solpower Australia.
PRODUCT RIGHTS ACQUISITION AGREEMENTS
SOLTRON. The Company acquired the exclusive rights to produce, market and
distribute SOLTRON in North America through an agreement with Dominion Capital
in consideration for 5,000,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock and the
grant of certain options and payment of cash consideration upon meeting certain
sales levels. The agreement is for a period of five years and is renewable for
an additional five year term.
SP34E. The Company acquired the exclusive North American manufacturing,
distribution, marketing and sales rights to SP34E from Dominion Capital in
consideration of the issuance of 6,000,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock
and the payment to Dominion Capital of a royalty of $2.25 per kilogram of SP34E
sold by the Company. The initial term of the agreement is for five years from
the date that the Company first achieves sales of SP34E sufficient to establish
a predictable growth rate (but not later than July 1, 2000), and the Company has
an option to renew the agreement for an additional five year term.
The Company also has a right of first refusal to commercialize SOLTRON and
other products controlled by Dominion Capital on a global basis and has
announced its intention to acquire Solpower Australia. Solpower Australia
manufactures and markets SOLTRON and SP34E throughout Australia and New Zealand.
PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
The Company relies on a combination of trade secret and copyright laws,
license, confidentiality and non-compete agreements to establish and protect its
proprietary rights in its products. There can be no assurance that any license,
confidentiality or non-compete agreement between the Company and its employees,
consultants and licensees will provide meaningful protection for the Company's
proprietary information in the event of any unauthorized use or disclosure of
such proprietary information.
The Company has applied with the United States Patent and Trademark
Office ("USPTO") for a trademark registration for SOLTRON and a service mark
registration for the mark SOLPOWER. Registration of the SOLTRON product has also
been made with the EPA. Dominion Capital has applied with the USPTO for
tradename registration for SP34E. Solpower Australia has registered SOLTRON and
SP34E with the Australian Patents and Trademarks Office.
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COMPETITION
The Company competes with numerous well-established fuel additive and
chemical products companies that possess substantially greater experience,
financial, marketing, personnel and other resources than the Company. Many of
the Company's competitors have achieved significant national, retail and local
brand name and product recognition and engage in extensive advertising and
promotional programs, both generally and in response to efforts by additional
competitors to enter new markets and to introduce new products.
The Company's ability to compete successfully will depend on the Company's
success at penetrating each targeted market segment with its product, the
consumer acceptance of its product and the Company's ability to license and
develop new and improved products. There can be no assurance that the Company
will be able to compete successfully, that its products will meet with consumer
approval, that competitors will not develop and market products that are similar
or superior to the Company's products or that the Company will be able to
successfully enhance its products or develop new products meeting with consumer
approval. The Company intends to focus on the environmentally friendly
characteristics of its products in comparison to its competitors' products.
Some products that may compete directly with the Company's SOLTRON product
include STP Fuel Stabilizer and STP Diesel Fuel Treatment produced by First
Brands Corporation, Slick 50 produced by Slick 50 Products Corporation, Valvtect
VT-5000 produced by Valvtect Petroleum Products Corp. and Fuelen produced by
Fuelen International, Inc. The Company believes that it can successfully compete
with these products and penetrate the fuel additive market due to the unique
environmentally friendly characteristics and multi-function applications of its
SOLTRON product, such as reduction of exhaust emissions, improvement of fuel
efficiency and dispersion of diesel fuel sludge.
The Company will compete with numerous national and international companies
that produce refrigerant gas including DuPont, Elf Autochem, ICI and Allied
Signal. The Company believes that the ban and phase-out of other refrigerant
gases combined with the environmentally safe characteristics and product utility
of its SP34E product will allow it to compete successfully in the refrigerant
gas market.
PRODUCTION FACILITIES
The Company leases an approximately 12,000 square foot industrial facility
in Phoenix, Arizona that serves as its production, warehousing and distribution
plant for its SOLTRON product as well as its territorial sales office. The
facility has capacity to produce 1,000,000 gallons of SOLTRON product per year
and is being expanded to produce up to 3,000,000 gallons of SOLTRON per year
which is expected to meet the Company's anticipated needs for product for the
foreseeable future. The Company anticipates that the expanded production
facility will be fully operational in November 1999. See, "DESCRIPTION OF
PROPERTY" and "NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Note 8."
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The Company has closed the Elkhart, Indiana SOLTRON production facility,
formerly operated by the Great Lakes and Southeast licensees and is moving all
the equipment to its facility in Phoenix, Arizona in order to meet production
capacity expansion at that location. The lease on the Elkhart plant has been
terminated, effective September 1, 1999.
REGULATION
The use of certain chemicals and other substances is subject to extensive
and frequently changing federal, state, provincial and local laws and
substantial regulation under these laws by governmental agencies, including the
EPA, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, various state agencies
and county and local authorities acting in conjunction with federal and state
authorities. Among other things, these regulatory bodies impose requirements to
control air, soil and water pollution, to protect against occupational exposure
to chemicals, including health and safety risks, and to require notification or
reporting of the storage, use and release of certain hazardous chemicals and
substances. The Company has incurred costs of approximately $300,000 to cause
its Phoenix facility to meet state and local requirements for the utilization of
these products in the production of its SOLTRON product at this site. The
Company's products utilize chemicals that are classified under applicable laws
as combustible and hazardous chemicals or substances. The Company provides all
required label warnings and instructions for the handling of these substances.
The EPA has established the EPA Motor Vehicle Aftermarket Retrofit Device
Evaluation Program to evaluate the effects of fully developed aftermarket
devices on vehicle emissions and fuel economy. Participation in the program by a
manufacturer of devices is voluntary. EPA evaluations of engines, retrofit
devices, emission control devices and related products are conducted for the
purpose of keeping policy makers, technical personnel in government and
industry, and the general public abreast of developments in the field of
automotive fuel economy and pollutant emission control. Aftermarket fuel
additives are also included in the evaluation program and are required to be
registered with the EPA Fuels and Energy Division. The Company has registered
its SOLTRON product under this program both as an additive and for the bulk
treatment of fuels.
The Company will also be subject to regulation by the Federal Trade
Commission ("FTC") with respect to the marketing of its products. Although the
FTC has a long history of pursuing enforcement actions against fuel saving, fuel
additive and oil additive products, the Company believes that it has sufficient
research, independent testing, use data and scientific evidence to substantiate
the Company's advertising and promotional claims regarding its SOLTRON product.
The Company will be subject to making application to the EPA under the
Significant New Alternatives Policy ("SNAP"), the American Society of Heating
and Air Conditioning Engineers, Inc. ("ASHRAE") and Underwriters Laboratories,
Inc. ("UL(R)") in order to categorize the acceptable uses of itS SP34E product.
The Company intends to make all the necessary EPA-SNAP, ASHRAE and UL(R)
submissions prior to marketinG SP34E in the United States and estimates the cost
of obtaining these approvals will be approximately $100,000.
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The Company believes that it is in substantial compliance with all laws and
regulations governing its material business operations and has obtained all
required licenses and permits for the operation of its business. There can be no
assurance, in the future, that the Company will be able to comply with, or
continue to comply with, current or future government regulations in every
jurisdiction in which it will conduct its material business operations without
substantial cost or interruption of its operations, or that any present or
future federal, state, provincial or local environmental protection regulations
may not restrict the Company's present and possible future activities. In the
event that the Company is unable to comply with such requirements, the Company
could be subject to substantial sanctions, including restrictions on its
business operations, monetary liability and criminal sanctions, any of which
could have a material adverse effect upon the Company's business.
EMPLOYEES
At September 1, 1999, the Company employed nine full time personnel,
including three administrative, one production and five marketing employees. The
Company's employees are not covered by any collective bargaining agreements. The
Company considers its relationship with its employees to be good.
FACTORS AFFECTING FUTURE PERFORMANCE
LIMITED OPERATING HISTORY. The Company's current operations have only been
implemented since November 1996. Accordingly, the Company has a limited
operating history with respect to the distribution and marketing of fuel
additives and is in the process of developing its marketing strategies with
respect to its refrigerant gas product. The Company has had negative cash flow,
operating losses and insufficient liquidity with respect to current operations
and expects to continue to have operating losses until its sales revenues
increase substantially. The Company will require significant additional capital
to fully implement its business plan and expand its operations. There can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to achieve, or maintain, profitable
operations or positive cash flow at any time in the future.
NEED TO DEVELOP SALES AND PRODUCT AWARENESS. Establishment of a
distribution network sufficient to supply customer demand for the Company's
SOLTRON product will be critical to the success of the Company. The Company
anticipates developing this network primarily through traditional marketing
channels in the fuel, oil chemical and automotive aftermarket industries. The
Company has not yet implemented its strategies with respect to its SP34E
product. Numerous factors, including lack of sufficient inventory or capital, or
failure of the Company's products to generate sufficient demand and lack of
sufficient qualified, experienced personnel may contribute to the difficulties
the Company will face in establishing an efficient distribution network for its
products. While the Company intends to engage qualified personnel and believes
it is sufficiently capitalized, no assurance can be given that the Company's
products will be accepted by industrial or retail consumers, that a satisfactory
distribution network can be established or that the Company's proposed
operations will be profitable.
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UNCERTAINTY OF WIDESPREAD MARKET ACCEPTANCE OF PRODUCTS, LIMITED MARKETING
EXPERIENCE. The Company is still in the initial stages of marketing SOLTRON and
has not yet commenced marketing of its second product, SP34E. As is typical with
new products, demand and market acceptance for the Company's products is subject
to a high level of uncertainty. Achieving widespread market acceptance for its
products will require substantial marketing efforts and the expenditure of
sufficient funds to create brand recognition and customer demand and to cause
potential customers to consider the potential benefits of the Company's
products. The prospects for the Company's product line will be largely dependent
upon the Company's ability to achieve market penetration. Achieving market
penetration will require sufficient efforts by the Company to create awareness
of and demand for the Company's products. The Company's ability to build its
customer base will depend in part on the Company's ability to locate, hire and
retain sufficient qualified marketing personnel and to fund marketing efforts,
including advertising. There can be no assurance that the Company's products
will achieve widespread market acceptance or that the Company's marketing
efforts will result in profitable operations.
LICENSE FEE RECEIVABLES. The Company intends to primarily market SOLTRON in
its corporate and corporate managed territories, before developing sales through
its license program. The Company's license agreements require each licensee to
pay an initial license fee which is payable 10% by a cash down payment and the
balance by delivery of a promissory note secured by the licensee's rights in the
license agreement and generally all other assets of the licensee. The promissory
note is payable over a two year period and the Company charges a premium on the
SOLTRON enzyme concentrate price sold to the licensee and applies the premium to
the amounts due under the promissory note. If minimum sales volumes of a
licensee are not sufficient to make scheduled payments on the promissory note,
the licensee is responsible for the balance.
The Company records license fee receivables as an asset. As of March 31,
1999, the license fee receivable consisted of $2,400,000 (100%), due from
Houston Mercantile. Houston Mercantile is currently in default in that it has
failed to meet the minimum sales volume requirements or to otherwise satisfy the
scheduled payment requirements. However, Houston Mercantile has been successful
in finalizing a distribution agreement with Mardupol in Mexico. The risk to the
Company of failure of the licensee is enhanced due to the concentration of only
one licensee comprising the total obligor on the entire receivable amount.
While failure of performance or payment by any licensee could have a
substantial impact on the license fee receivable amount in the short-term,
cancellation of the license for a particular territory will allow the Company to
engage in sale of its SOLTRON product directly in such territory or to remarket
the territory. The Company has subsequently taken back the Great Lakes and
Southeast licenses and is operating these territories as corporate territories.
VARIABILITY OF OPERATING RESULTS AND VOLATILITY OF COMMON STOCK PRICES. The
Company's quarterly operating results have in the past and are anticipated in
the future to be highly volatile. While the Company anticipates increased sales
of its products will continue to generate revenue, the operating results of any
quarterly period as compared to the previous quarter or the same quarter for the
prior period will, in all likelihood, vary significantly. Default by a licensee
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resulting in a write-off of the associated license fee receivable could
dramatically and adversely affect the Company's total net assets for the period
in which such event occurred. Significant variances in operating results from
period to period could result in high volatility of the market price for the
Company's Common Stock.
LIMITED PRODUCT LINE. The Company currently holds the marketing and
distribution rights to two products, SOLTRON and SP34E. The Company's
profitability will be dependent upon the market acceptance of these products and
the Company's ability to improve these products and develop additional products
to meet consumer approval.
SUPPLY, CAPACITY AND DISTRIBUTION CONSTRAINTS. In order for the Company to
successfully market its products, the Company must be able to fill orders
promptly for its sales distributions as well as supplying its licensees with the
SOLTRON concentrate. Additionally, licensees will have to meet their order
demands promptly. The ability of the Company and its licensees to meet their
supply requirements promptly will depend on numerous factors including their
ability to establish successfully an effective distribution network and to
maintain adequate inventories and the ability of the Company's sole supplier to
adequately produce the SOLTRON product in volumes sufficient to meet demand.
Failure of the Company and its licensees to adequately supply product to
retailers or of the Company's supplier to adequately produce product to meet
demand could materially adversely impact the operations of the Company.
DEPENDENCE UPON RAW MATERIALS AND SUPPLIERS. The SOLTRON concentrate will
be subject to price fluctuations based upon supply and demand of such product.
In addition, because the product is produced in Japan, fluctuations of the
relative value of the yen and dollar could adversely affect the cost of the
product to the Company. The Company's sole supplier of its SOLTRON product is
Neway Japan K.K. Interruption of the Company's product supply could result from
several factors, such as disruption of supply of raw product, work stoppages,
strikes or other labor difficulties, changes in governmental or international
regulations or natural or man caused disasters occurring with respect to its
supplier. Any increase of costs of the Company's raw products or disruption of
its supplier could severely affect the Company's business operations.
RELIANCE ON MANAGEMENT; LIMITED PERSONNEL. The Company is highly dependent
on the services of its executive officers, James H. Hirst and R.L. (Beau) Van
Deren. Mr. Hirst and Mr. Van Deren are not subject to employment agreements and
the Company does not maintain any key man life insurance on Mr. Hirst or Mr. Van
Deren. The loss of the services of Mr. Hirst or Mr. Van Deren or the inability
to attract or retain alternative or additional qualified personnel will have a
materially adverse affect on the Company. Attracting and retaining qualified
personnel is critical to the Company's business plan. No assurances can be given
that the Company will be able to retain or attract such qualified personnel or
agents, or to successfully implement its business plan.
CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS. The Company anticipates that additional funding will
be required to meet management's growth objectives and fully implement its
business plan. The Company may seek additional debt or equity financing through
banks, other financial institutions, companies or individuals. No assurance can
be given that the Company will be able to obtain any such additional equity or
11
<PAGE>
debt financing on satisfactory terms or at all. No assurance can be given that
any such financing, if obtained, will be adequate to meet the Company's needs
for the foreseeable future. If the Company is not able to successfully obtain
sufficient capital, the Company's ability to continue as a viable business
enterprise will be substantially impaired.
MANAGEMENT OF GROWTH. The Company anticipates rapid growth in the future if
its marketing efforts are successful. In such event it will require effective
management and resources. This growth, if achieved, will place significant
strains on the Company's financial, managerial and other resources. Failure to
effectively manage growth could have a materially adverse effect on the
Company's business and profitability.
SEASONAL FLUCTUATIONS. The Company's limited experience suggests that a
greater demand for its SP34E product will occur in summer months, which is
anticipated to result in more revenues in the Company's first and second fiscal
quarters ending June 30 and September 30, respectively. Fluctuations in
quarterly operating results may impact the market for the Company's Common Stock
and result in high volatility the price of the Company's Common Stock. This will
be somewhat offset if the Company completes its acquisition of Solpower
Australia Pty Ltd., whose refrigerant gas sales occur in its summer months of
October through March.
COMPETITION. The markets for fuel additives and refrigerant gases are
highly competitive. The Company believes that its products can compete and that
its management's qualifications will enable it to compete effectively. There is
no assurance that the Company's business plan can be successfully implemented.
The Company will compete with established manufacturers and distributors that
have developed brand recognition, many of which will have significantly greater
operating history, name recognition and resources than the Company. Other
companies and vendors may also enter into competition with the Company as a
result of the Company's increased marketing efforts. The lack of financial
strength of the Company may be a negative factor for the Company's ability to
penetrate its product markets even if the Company's products are superior.
LIMITED PATENT AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION PROTECTION. The Company believes
that the proprietary processes used in production of its products does not
infringe on the proprietary rights of others. In the event that the Company's
products infringe the patent or proprietary rights of others, the Company may be
required to modify its process or obtain a license. There can be no assurance
that the Company would be able to do so in a timely manner, upon acceptable
terms and conditions or at all. The failure to do so would have a material
adverse effect on the Company. In addition, there can be no assurance that the
Company will have the financial or other resources necessary to prosecute or
defend a patent infringement or proprietary rights action. Moreover, if any of
the Company's products infringe patents or proprietary rights of others, the
Company could, under certain circumstances, become liable for damages, which
could have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Company also relies on
proprietary know-how and confidential information and employs various methods to
protect the processes, concepts, ideas and documentation associated with its
proprietary rights. However, such methods may not afford complete protection and
there can be no assurance that others will not independently develop such
processes, concepts, ideas and documentation. Although the Company requires all
12
<PAGE>
of its employees to sign non-disclosure, non-competition and inventions
agreements, there can be no assurance that such agreements will be enforceable
or will provide meaningful protection to the Company. There can be no assurance
that the Company will be able to adequately protect its trade secrets or that
other companies will not acquire information that the Company considers
proprietary. Moreover, there can be no assurance that other companies will not
independently develop know-how comparable to or superior to that of the Company.
PRODUCT ACQUISITION AGREEMENT. The Company's rights to a substantial
portion of its product lines are dependent upon its rights under the product
acquisition agreements with Dominion Capital with respect to its SOLTRON and
SP34E products and the process, formulae and other proprietary rights related to
such products. Any termination or impairment of the rights of Dominion Capital
to such proprietary rights or to the rights of the Company under the agreements
would materially adversely affect the Company. Additionally, the Company's
rights to the products under the agreements are limited to a term of five years,
each of which are extendable for an additional five years.
NEED FOR ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF CERTAIN PRODUCTS. The Company believes
that development work on its SOLTRON and SP34E products is substantially
complete. However, testing of these products in the United States has been
limited. The Company anticipates that its future research and development
activities combined with experience gained from commercial production and use of
the SOLTRON and SP34E products could result in the need for further refinement
and development. There can be no assurance that unforeseen circumstances will
not require expensive additional development of the Company's products and their
applications. In addition, the Company may in the future need to make
improvements in its product line in order for such products to remain
competitive.
ADEQUACY OF PRODUCT LIABILITY INSURANCE. The use of the Company's products
entails inherent risks of adverse effects that could expose the Company to
product liability claims. Product liability claims could have a material adverse
effect on the business and financial condition of the Company. While the Company
has obtained product liability insurance, there can be no assurance that the
Company will be able to maintain such product liability insurance on acceptable
terms or if maintained that such insurance will provide adequate coverage
against all potential claims.
CONTROL BY EXISTING SHAREHOLDERS/FOREIGN SHAREHOLDERS. The Company's
principal shareholder, Dominion Capital, and its affiliates own or control a
substantial voting block of the Company's outstanding Common Stock. As a result,
these shareholders, when acting together, would be able to effectively control
matters requiring approval by the shareholders of the Company, including the
election of the Company's Board of Directors.
Dominion Capital is domiciled in Australia and one other shareholder
holding more than five percent of the Company's outstanding stock is domiciled
in the Channel Islands of Guernsey. If the Company or a shareholder were to
bring legal action against any of these shareholders, the domicile of these
shareholders in foreign jurisdictions may result in the Company or a shareholder
being unable to cause the foreign shareholders to be subject to the jurisdiction
of a court in the United States. While a shareholder may be able to proceed
13
<PAGE>
against a foreign shareholder in the jurisdiction of that shareholder's
domicile, such suits may be prohibitively expensive and such jurisdictions may
not recognize claims or provide remedies similar to United States courts.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE. The Company also anticipates engaging in sales in both
Canada and Mexico and will import SOLTRON concentrate from Japan. The Company
also anticipates commencement of operations in Australia through Solpower
Australia. Currency fluctuation and other normal risks of conducting business
internationally, including regulatory changes and requirements, fluctuating
exchange rates, tariffs and other barriers, management difficulties, potentially
adverse tax consequences and potentially difficult legal enforcement and
collection problems could have a materially adverse impact on the financial
condition of the Company.
SECURITIES LAW COMPLIANCE. The Company has been involved in complex
transactions and in offerings of securities which may have associated compliance
defects by the Company or one or more of its shareholders. Current management
has been involved with the Company since November 1996. While management is not
aware that the Company has failed to comply with applicable rules and
regulations, because management lacks full knowledge of all terms and conditions
of securities offerings by the Company prior to November 1996, no assurances can
be made that all such prior transactions were in complete compliance with
applicable federal and state securities laws or that a claim with respect to
non-compliance will not be made. Costs may be incurred by the Company to defend
any claim of non-compliance and the Company may be required to offer rescission
rights with respect to sales of its securities which would severely affect the
operations and financial condition of the Company.
ITEM 2. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY
The Company leases approximately 1,400 square feet of office space utilized
as its corporate offices at 7309 East Stetson Drive, Suite 102, Scottsdale,
Arizona 85251. The lease is for a term through June 30, 2001, with current
monthly rental payments of approximately $1,960 per month.
The Company also leases approximately 12,000 square feet of space at 4247
West Adams, Suite 2, Phoenix, Arizona 85009 that is utilized as its corporate
manufacturing, warehousing and distribution plant and as a corporate territory
sales office. Monthly lease payments are approximately $4,900 and the lease
expires on September 14, 2002.
The Company has closed the Elkhart, Indiana SOLTRON production facility and
is moving all the equipment to its facility in Phoenix, Arizona in order to meet
production capacity expansion at that location. The lease on the Elkhart plant
has been terminated, effective September 1, 1999.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is not currently a party to any pending litigation.
14
<PAGE>
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The Company's Common Stock is traded on the OTC Bulletin Board under the
symbol "SLPW." The following table sets forth the quarterly high and low bid
prices per share for the Common Stock, as reported by the OTC Bulletin Board for
the fiscal years indicated. On March 31, 1999, there were approximately 350
beneficial holders of the Common Stock.
FISCAL YEAR QUARTER ENDED HIGH LOW
----------- ------------- ---- ---
1997...........June 30, 1996(1)...............$5.75............$4.00
September 30, 1996.............$5.109...........$1.25
December 31, 1996..............$1.25............$0.25
March 31, 1997.................$1.75............$1.125
1998...........June 30, 1997..................$1.50............$1.50
September 30, 1997.............$0.4062..........$0.4062
December 31, 1997..............$0.625...........$0.625
March 31, 1998.................$2.75............$2.625
1999...........June 30, 1998..................$3.50............$2.25
September 30, 1998.............$2.687...........$1.375
December 31, 1998..............$2.50............$1.187
March 31, 1999.................$2.625...........$1.281
(1) First Report is May 30, 1996.
The Company has not paid, and the Company does not currently intend to pay
cash dividends on its Common Stock in the foreseeable future. The current policy
of the Company's Board of Directors is to retain all earnings, if any, to
provide funds for operation and expansion of the Company's business.
The declaration of dividends, if any, will be subject to the discretion of
the Board of Directors, which may consider such factors as the Company's results
of operations, financial condition, capital needs and acquisition strategies,
among others.
ITEM 6. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OR PLAN OF OPERATION
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company's
financial statements and related notes included herein. Certain statements
contained herein are not based on historical facts, but are forward-looking
statements that are based upon assumptions about future conditions that could
15
<PAGE>
prove to be inaccurate. Actual events, transactions and results may materially
differ from the anticipated events, transactions or results described in such
statements.
The Company's ability to consummate such transactions and achieve such
events or results is subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Such risks and
uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the existence of demand for and
acceptance of the Company's products and services, regulatory approvals and
developments, economic conditions, the impact of competition and pricing, and
other factors affecting the Company's business that are beyond the Company's
control.
The Company undertakes no obligation and does not intend to update, revise
or otherwise publicly release the result of any revisions to these
forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect future events or
circumstances.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Management anticipates a material rise in revenue during the next fiscal
year as a result of the Company's direct marketing activities. During the past
year, sales were entirely related to the sale of the Company's products, and
costs were related to organization of the corporate offices and the business
plan; locating, leasing, permitting and equipping the Phoenix production
facility; financing and investor relations activities; technology transfer and
requisite trademark, service mark and product registrations; and achieving full
reporting status under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1999 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
Revenues for the year ended March 31, 1999 were $82,192 as compared to
$240,000 for 1998, a 65% decrease. All revenues for 1999 resulted from product
sales while all of the revenues for 1998 resulted from deposits received from
sales of territorial licenses. General and administrative costs for the year
ended March 31, 1999 were $2,077,692 as compared to $1,065,379 for the same
period ending March 31, 1998. The 95% increase resulted primarily from increased
marketing efforts and the addition of sales and administrative support staff at
the Company's corporate offices in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Cash flow of $1,367,494 was provided from shareholder advances and receipts
for stock subscriptions during the year ended March 31, 1999, as compared to
$574,374 for the year ended March 31, 1998, which was also provided from
shareholder advances and placement of the Company's Common Stock.
As of March 31, 1999, the Company had no material commitments for capital
expenditures. For the year ended March 31, 1999, the Company incurred a net
operating loss of $2,239,646 compared to a net operating loss of $823,158 for
the year ended March 31, 1998, which contributed to net cash used in operating
activities of $1,223,452 and $290,332 for the years ended March 31, 1999 and
1998, respectively.
16
<PAGE>
SEASONALITY. Sales of the Company's SP34E product may be subject to higher
volumes in the summer months resulting in higher revenues in the Company's first
and second fiscal quarters. However, no pattern of sales volumes has yet been
established.
IMPACT OF INFLATION. The Company does not believe that inflation will have
any material impact on its commercial activities for the ensuing year as its
products do not fall under categories that are traditionally affected.
YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE. Management has utilized the latest versions of
recognized computer software and therefore believes it will not encounter any of
the computer software problems contemplated or predicted to occur at the
entrance into the year 2000.
OUTLOOK. The year ended March 31, 1999 was a year of organization and
planning for the Company as it devoted its focus to defining and implementing
its corporate plan; finalizing a comprehensive and workable Master License
Agreement; identifying, negotiation and execution of Master License Agreements
with qualified licensees; negotiation and finalization of financing; negotiation
and finalization of the SP34E product rights acquisition; technology transfer
and requisite trademark, service mark and product registrations; and achieving
full reporting status under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Management foresees that implementation of the marketing plan at the
corporate level and by its licensee will result, by the end of the 2000 fiscal
year, in increased revenues and product acceptance. An important milestone will
be acceptance of the product by any one of the tier one participants (100
million gallons of fuel consumed per annum) in the North American transport
industry. Development of the corporate Marine Division is also anticipated to
enhance revenues and corporate development. The introduction of SP34E and other
environmentally friendly products are expected to increase revenues and
diversify its product line. Consolidated revenues from the operations of
Solpower Australia are also anticipated to enhance revenues.
17
<PAGE>
ITEM 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INDEX
Independent Auditors' Report........................................... 19
Independent Auditors' Report on Prior Year............................. 20
Balance Sheet at March 31, 1999 and 1998 .............................. 21
Statement of Operations for the Years Ended
March 31, 1999 and 1998 ............................................... 23
Statement of Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended
March 31, 1999 and 1998................................................ 24
Statement of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
March 31, 1999 and 1998................................................ 25
Notes to the March 31, 1999 and 1998
Financial Statements................................................... 27
All schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or the required
information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.
18
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
Board of Directors
Solpower Corporation
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Solpower Corporation (the
Company), as of March 31, 1999 and the related statements of operations,
stockholders' equity and cash flows for the year then ended. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards.
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audit of the financial statements provides a reasonable
basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of the Company at March 31, 1999 and the
results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, in
conform
ity with generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Semple & Cooper
Semple & Cooper, LLP
Phoenix, Arizona
July 30, 1999
19
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
Board of Directors
Solpower Corporation
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Solpower Corporation (the
Company), as of March 31, 1998 and the related statement of operations,
stockholders' equity and cash flows for the year ended March 31, 1998. These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards.
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audit of the financial statements provides a reasonable
basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of the Company at March 31, 1998 and the
results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended March 31, 1998,
in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Clancy & Co.
Clancy & Company, PLLC
Phoenix, Arizona
July 22, 1998
20
<PAGE>
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
BALANCE SHEETS
MARCH 31, 1999 AND 1998
ASSETS
1999 1998
---------- ----------
Current Assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents (Note 2) $ 2,228 $ 183,842
Accounts Receivable (Note 2) 50,145 0
Prepaid Expense 0 2,917
Inventory (Notes 2 and 3) 92,178 101,906
License Fee Receivable (Note 4) 0 2,160,000
Stock Subscription Receivable 0 600,000
---------- ----------
Total Current Assets 144,551 3,048,665
---------- ----------
Property & Equipment, net (Notes 2 and 5) 399,262 131,942
---------- ----------
Other Assets
Marketing Rights (Note 6) 2,658,333 358,333
Security Deposits 13,922 14,422
License Fee Receivable (Note 4) 2,400,000 0
---------- ----------
Total Other Assets 5,072,255 372,755
---------- ----------
$5,616,068 $3,553,362
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
21
<PAGE>
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
MARCH 31, 1999 AND 1998
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Current Liabilities
Lease Payable - Current (Notes 5 and 7) $ 4,060 $ 4,575
Loans Payable - Related Parties - Current (Note 9) 13,500 0
Accounts Payable (Note 9) 429,409 2,432
Accrued Expenses (Note 4) 213,792 0
----------- -----------
Total Current Liabilities 660,761 7,007
----------- -----------
Long Term Liabilities
Lease Payable - Noncurrent 0 5,167
Loans Payable - Related Parties - Noncurrent
(Note 9) 407,219 39,725
Accrued Expense - Noncurrent (Note 4) 70,000 0
Deferred Revenue (Note 4) 2,400,000 2,160,000
----------- -----------
Total Long Term Liabilities 2,877,219 2,204,892
Total Liabilities 3,537,980 2,211,899
----------- -----------
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 7) -- --
Stockholders' Equity (Note 10)
Preferred Stock; $0.001 Par Value, 5,000,000 Shares
Authorized; Issued and Outstanding, None -- --
Common Stock; $0.01 Par Value, 30,000,000 Shares
Authorized; Issued and Outstanding 23,456,560 and
17,391,560 at March 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively 234,566 173,916
Additional Paid in Capital 6,736,525 4,220,904
Accumulated Deficit (4,893,003) (2,653,357)
----------- -----------
2,078,088 1,741,463
Less: Stock Subscription Receivable 0 (400,000)
----------- -----------
Total Stockholders' Equity 2,078,088 1,341,463
----------- -----------
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $ 5,616,068 $ 3,553,362
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
22
<PAGE>
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1999 AND 1998
1999 1998
------------ ------------
Revenues (Note 4)
Sales - Product $ 82,192 $ --
License Fees -- 240,000
------------ ------------
Total Revenues 82,192 240,000
Cost of Sales 244,874 --
------------ ------------
Gross Profit (Loss) (162,682) 240,000
Expenses
General and Administrative 2,077,692 1,065,379
------------ ------------
Operating Loss (2,240,374) (825,379)
------------ ------------
Other Income (Expense)
Interest Income 2,249 3,405
Interest Expense (1,521) (1,184)
------------ ------------
Total Other Income (Expense) 728 2,221
------------ ------------
Net Loss Before Provision (2,239,646) (823,158)
for Income Taxes
Provision for Income Taxes (Note 8) -- --
------------ ------------
Net Loss $ (2,239,646) $ (823,158)
============ ============
Basic (Loss) Per Share $ (0.10) $ (0.06)
============ ============
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding 22,146,765 14,279,231
============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
23
<PAGE>
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1999 AND 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Additional Stock
Common Stock Paid In Subscription Accumulated
Shares Amount Capital Receivable Deficit Total
------ ------ ------- ---------- ------- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance, March 31, 1997 9,231,560 $ 92,316 $1,782,504 $ $ (1,830,199) $ 44,621
Issuance of Common Stock Under Reg D
Private Offering at $.125 per share in
Exchange for Cancellation of Advances
Made to April 1, 1997 4,160,000 41,600 478,400 520,000
Issuance of Common Stock Under Reg S
Placement at $.50 per share,
January 9, 1998 4,000,000 40,000 1,960,000 (400,000) 1,600,000
Net Loss, Year Ended March 31, 1998 (823,158) (823,158)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, March 31, 1998 17,391,560 173,916 4,220,904 (400,000) (2,653,357) 1,341,463
Issuance of Common Shares at $0.40 per
share for SP34E Marketing Rights 6,000,000 60,000 2,340,000 2,400,000
Issuance of Common Stock for Stock
Services Agreement 50,000 500 149,500 150,000
Receipt of Stock Subscription
Receivable funds 400,000 400,000
Issuance of Common Stock for Marketing
Services 15,000 150 26,121 26,271
Net Loss, Year Ended March 31, 1999 (2,239,646) (2,239,646)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, March 31, 1999 23,456,560 $234,566 $6,736,525 $ -- $(4,893,003) $2,078,088
===================================================================================
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
24
<PAGE>
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1999, AND 1998
1999 1998
---------- ----------
Cash Flows From Operating Activities
Net Loss (2,239,646) (823,158)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
used by operating activities
Depreciation and amortization 166,154 127,477
Non-cash items 176,271 520,000
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable (50,145) 0
License fee receivable (240,000) (2,160,000)
Prepaid expenses 2,917 (2,917)
Inventory 9,728 (101,906)
Security deposits 500 (12,260)
Accounts payable 426,977 2,432
Accrued expenses 283,792 0
Deferred revenue 240,000 2,160,000
Net cash used by operating activities (1,223,452) (290,332)
---------- ----------
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Purchase of property and equipment (333,474) (110,369)
---------- ----------
Net cash used by investing activities (333,474) (110,369)
---------- ----------
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
and repayment of stock subscriptions 1,000,000 1,000,000
Proceeds from short-term loan 13,500 0
Proceeds (payments) on lease payable (5,682) 9,742
Advances from related parties 367,494 (425,636)
---------- ----------
Net cash provided by financing activities 1,375,312 584,106
---------- ----------
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
25
<PAGE>
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1999 AND 1998
1999 1998
----------- ----------
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents $ (181,614) $ 183,405
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Year 183,842 437
----------- ----------
Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Year 2,228 183,842
=========== ==========
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Cash Paid for:
Interest 1,521 1,184
Income Taxes 0 0
Noncash Investing and Financing
Issuance of 3,529,000 Shares of Common Stock in
Exchange for a Promissory Note, November 4, 1996 0 $1,000,000
Issuance of Common Stock in Exchange for
Cancellation of a Portion of Advances Payable 0 $ 520,000
Issuance of 6,000,000 Shares of Common Stock for
Marketing Rights $ 2,400,000 0
Issuance of 50,000 Shares of Common Stock for
Service Agreement $ 150,000 0
Issuance of 15,000 Shares of Common Stock for
Marketing Expense $ 26,271 0
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
26
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1 - ORGANIZATION
Solpower Corporation (the Company), formerly known as Virtual Technologies, Inc.
and Dynafuel Corporation, was incorporated under the laws of the State of Utah
on June 7, 1982.
The Company was originally incorporated with an authorized capital of 30,000,000
shares of common stock with a par value of one cent ($0.01) per share. On
December 12, 1995, the Company amended its articles of incorporation, changing
its name to Virtual Technologies, Inc. authorizing preferred stock of 5,000,000
shares at $.25 par value. On July 22, 1996, the Company changed its legal
domicile to the State of Nevada. On November 22, 1997, the Company restated the
articles of incorporation, changing its name to Solpower Corporation and
changing its preferred stock par value to one-tenth of one cent ($.001) per
share.
The Company was in the development stage through March 31, 1997. The principal
business purpose of the Company is the sales and distribution of SOLTRON and
other environmentally friendly products throughout the world.
The Company has the exclusive sales, distribution, marketing and manufacturing
rights for the United States, Mexico and Canada to the Solpower product,
SOLTRON, a fuel enhancing product and SP34E, a universal drop-in replacement
refrigerant gas.
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND USE OF ESTIMATES
A. Method of Accounting
The Company's financial statements are prepared using the accrual method of
accounting.
B. Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of
three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents.
C. Accounts Receivable
The Company's accounts receivable consist entirely of amounts due for their
products from dealers and licensees.
The Company follows the allowance method of recognizing uncollectible accounts
receivable. The allowance method recognizes bad debt expense as a percentage of
accounts receivable based on a review of the individual accounts outstanding,
and the Company's prior history of uncollectible accounts receivable. At March
31, 1999, no allowance has been provided for uncollectible accounts receivable
as, in the opinion of management, all accounts receivable outstanding at March
31, 1999 are considered fully collectible.
D. Inventory
Inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out
(fifo) method. The Company periodically reviews its inventory and makes
provisions for damaged or obsolete inventory, if necessary. No provision for
damaged or obsolete inventory has been included in the accompanying financial
statements.
E. Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, stated at cost, is depreciated over their estimated
useful lives as follows:
Computer and Office Equipment 5 years
Furniture 7 years
Vehicles 5 years
Plant Equipment 7 years
Leasehold Improvements 5 years or lease term
Depreciation is computed under the straight-line method for financial statement
purposes and under accelerated methods for income tax purposes.
Repairs and maintenance expenses are charged to operations as incurred.
Betterments or renewals are capitalized as incurred.
The Company is the lessee of a vehicle under a capital lease agreement expiring
in September, 1997. The asset and liability under the capital lease agreement is
recorded at the lower of the present value of the minimum lease payments or the
fair value of the asset. The asset is depreciated over its estimated useful
life. Depreciation of the asset under the capital lease agreement is included in
depreciation expense, as noted above.
27
<PAGE>
F. Revenue Recognition
Revenues from sales to distributors and resellers are recognized when related
products are shipped. Revenues from corporate license programs are recognized
based on the terms of the license agreement with a license fee receivable and
deferred revenue recorded at the inception of the agreement. Revenues from
consignment sales are recognized when payments are received.
G. Earnings or (Loss) Per Common Share
Earnings or (loss) per common share are computed based on weighted average
number of shares outstanding at the date of the financial statements. The number
of shares used in computing basic earnings (loss) per share was 22,146,765 and
14,279,231 for the years ended March 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively. Diluted
earnings (loss) per share have not been presented as they are antidilutive.
H. Income Taxes
The Company accounts for deferred income taxes on an accrual basis under the
liability method in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
("SFAS") No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." See Note 8.
I. Use of Estimates
Management uses estimates and assumptions in preparing financial statements in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Those estimates and
assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported revenues and
expenses. Actual results may vary from the estimates that were assumed in
preparing the financial statements.
J. New Accounting Announcements
During the year ended March 31, 1998, the Company adopted Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 128, "Earnings per Share" (SFAS No. 128). This
pronouncement provides a different method of calculating earnings per share than
was required by APB No. 15, Earnings per Share. The adoption of SFAS No. 128 did
not have a material effect on the Company's financial position.
During the year ended March 31, 1998, the Company adopted Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 129, "Disclosure of Information about Capital
Structure" (SFAS No. 129). The pronouncement reinstates various securities
disclosure requirements previously in effect under APB No. 15, Earnings per
Share, which was superseded by SFAS No. 128. The adoption of SFAS No. 129 did
not have a material effect on the Company's financial position or results of
operations.
K. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Accounts receivable, accounts and loans payable and accrued liabilities are
substantially current or bear reasonable interest rates. As a result, the
carrying values of these financial instruments approximate fair value.
Management believes that license fee receivable and deferred revenue approximate
market due to their short term nature.
L. Advertising
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense for the years
ended March 31, 1999 and 1998 were $14,689 and $57,410, respectively.
M. Stock-Based Compensation
The Company has elected to follow Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25,
Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees (APB 25) and the related
interpretations in accounting for its employee stock options. Under APB 25,
because the exercise price of employee stock options equals or exceeds the
market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant, no compensation
expense is recorded. The Company has adopted the disclosure-only provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation (Statement No. 123).
N. Reclassifications
Certain prior year amounts in the accompanying 1998 financial statements have
been reclassified to conform to the 1999 presentation.
NOTE 3 - INVENTORY
Inventory at March 31, 1999 of $92,178 consists, primarily, of the SOLTRON fuel
additive concentrate and a small amount of consignments. Inventory at March 31,
1998 of $101,906 consisted of a small quantity of twenty five 55 gallon drums of
SOLTRON fuel additive concentrate.
28
<PAGE>
NOTE 4 - LICENSE FEE RECEIVABLE
During the year ended March 31, 1999, the Company entered into two new licensing
agreements for the sole and exclusive use and distribution of its product,
SOLTRON, in the territories as defined below:
SOLPOWER TEXAS - Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma
SOLPOWER MEXICO - Country of Mexico
On June 30, 1998, the Company entered into an agreement with Houston Mercantile
Exchange (licensee) for the exclusive use and distribution of its product,
SOLTRON, in the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico. The license fee is
$600,000, with a down payment of $60,000 due upon signing the agreement. The
licensee signed a promissory note for the balance of $540,000 of the license fee
due. The note bears interest at one half percent (0.5%) on the unpaid principal
balance, with all unpaid principal and interest due on or before June 30, 2000.
As of the financial statement date, no payments have been received in relation
to this agreement, therefore the entire contract has been reflected as long
term.
On June 30, 1998, the Company entered into an agreement with Houston Mercantile
Exchange (licensee) for the exclusive use and distribution of its product,
SOLTRON, in Mexico. The license fee is $1,800,000, with a down payment of
$180,000 due upon signing the agreement. The licensee signed a promissory note
for the balance of $1,620,000 of the license fee due. The note bears interest at
one half percent (0.5%) on the unpaid principal balance, with all unpaid
principal and interest due on or before June 30, 2000. As of the financial
statement date, no payments have been received in relation to this agreement,
therefore the entire contract has been reflected as long term.
The licensee is required to pay the Company the greater of the amount payable
per the payment schedule in the agreement or the product of $5.50 times the
number of liters of concentrate shipped by the Company to the licensee during
the immediately preceding calendar month. As of the financial statement date, no
concentrate has been shipped.
At a minimum, future annual principal payments due the Company under the notes
are as follows for the years ending March 31:
2001 $2,130,000
2002 $ 270,000
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998, the Company sold licenses for the
Great Lakes Territory (Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin) to
Master Marketing Group and the Southeast Territory (Florida, Georgia, Alabama,
Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana) to Solpower Southeast Corporation for
$1,200,000 and $1,200,000, respectively. The Company reported down payments
totaling $240,000 and a License Fee Receivable of $2,160,000.
On May 14, 1999, the Company and Masters Marketing Group, Inc. (licensee)
mutually agreed to cancel the Master License Agreement, entered into during the
fiscal year ended March 31, 1998. Provisions of the settlement agreement
include:
* The balance of the license fee owed to the Company ($1,080,000) is
forgiven.
* The down payment of $120,000 made to the Company will be repaid to the
Licensee without interest in 24 equal monthly payments of $5,000.
* A portion of accounts payable ($10,395) owed to the Company is forgiven.
* Property and receivables were received by the Company in exchange for
15,000 shares of Solpower Corporation's Common Stock.
This transaction has been recorded as of March 31, 1999 and the repayment of
$120,000 included in accrued expenses.
On September 7, 1999, the Company and Solpower Southeast Corporation (licensee)
mutually agreed to cancel the Master License Agreement, entered into during the
fiscal year ended March 31, 1998. Provisions of the settlement agreement
include:
* The balance of the license fee owed to the Company ($1,080,000) is
forgiven.
* The down payment of $120,000 made to the Company will be repaid to the
Licensee without interest on or before October 30 , 1999 and the Company
will issue 20,000 shares of Common Stock to the licensee.
This transaction has been recorded as of March 31, 1999 and the repayment of
$120,000 included in accrued expenses.
29
<PAGE>
NOTE 5 - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consists of the following at March 31, 1999 and 1998:
1999 1998
-------- --------
Furniture and Fixtures $ 52,359 $ 47,436
Computer and Office Equipment 66,584 59,872
Vehicles 15,172 15,172
Plant Equipment 106,435 39,538
Leasehold Improvements 254,943 0
-------- --------
Subtotal 495,493 162,018
Less: Accumulated Depreciation 96,231 30,076
-------- --------
Net Book Value $399,262 $131,942
======== ========
Depreciation expense charged to operations for the years ended March 31, 1999
and 1998, was $66,515 and $27,477, respectively.
NOTE 6 - LONG-LIVED ASSETS
On November 4, 1996, the Company acquired the exclusive sales, distribution,
marketing and manufacturing rights to the Solpower product, SOLTRON, a fuel
enhancing product, encompassing the North American Market (United States, Mexico
and Canada), in exchange for 5,000,000 shares of common stock valued at
$500,000. The contract is for a period of five years. The Company is amortizing
the marketing rights over the period of the contract. Management will reassess
annually the estimated useful life and impairments, if any, will be recognized
when expected future operating cash flows from the marketing rights are less
than their carrying value. Amortization charged to operations for each of the
years ended March 31, 1999 and 1998 was $100,000.
On June 17, 1998, the Company acquired the exclusive sales, distribution,
marketing and manufacturing rights to the Solpower product, SP34E (a refrigerant
gas) encompassing the United States, in exchange for the issuance of 6,000,000
shares of common stock valued at $2,400,000. The contract is for a period of
five years, and pursuant to an Addendum to the agreement, the term of the
agreement shall commence on the Company achieving ratable sales of SP34E and in
no event later than July 1, 2000. The Company intends to amortize these
marketing rights over the period of the contract. As of the balance sheet date,
March 31, 1999, no sales have been recorded, therefore no amortization was
recorded in relation to this transaction. Management will reassess annually the
estimated useful life and impairments, if any, will be recognized when expected
future operating cash flows from the marketing rights are less than their
carrying value.
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS
OPERATING LEASES - The Company leases 1,364 square feet of office space for its
executive offices in Scottsdale, Arizona. The lease expires in June, 2000 and
has a minimum monthly rental obligation of approximately $1,900.
The Company leases approximately 12,000 square feet of warehouse space, for its
production facility located in Phoenix, Arizona. The term of the lease is five
years, expiring September, 2002. Base rent is approximately $3,900 per month,
plus property rental tax. The Company also had an option to purchase the real
property and improvements. The option to purchase the property was not completed
during the specified time periods and costs of $35,000 incurred for the purchase
effort were expensed during the year ended March 31, 1999.
The Company entered into a rental agreement for a copier/printing machine for a
term of 39 months, at $566 per month.
Future minimal rental commitments on the above leases are as follows for the
years ending March 31:
2000 $ 78,377
2001 $ 60,731
2002 $ 54,849
2003 $ 21,271
--------
$215,228
========
Lease expense charged to operations for the years ended March 31, 1999 and 1998,
was $112,790 and $106,932, respectively.
30
<PAGE>
CAPITAL LEASES - The Company leases a motor vehicle under a capital lease
agreement expiring September, 1999, at a monthly rate of approximately $500.
Total payments remaining under the lease are $4,413, with $354 representing
interest. The vehicle is included in property and equipment and is being
depreciated over the life of the lease.
Future minimum lease payments for the vehicle under capital lease at March 31,
1999 are as follows:
March 31,
---------
Year Ending March 31, 2000 $ 4,413
Less Amount Representing Interest (353)
-------
Present Value of Net Minimum Lease Payments 4,060
Less: Current Portion of Capital Lease Obligation (4,060)
-------
( 0)
=======
ACCRUED EXPENSES
The Company is making payments of $5,000 per month to Masters Marketing Group to
complete terms of a license fee agreement cancellation. The total of these
payments is $120,000 and will be completed in April 2001 and have been recorded
as general and administrative expenses for the year ended March 31, 1999.
The Company will be making payments totaling $120,000 to Solpower Southeast
Corporation to complete terms of a license fee arrangement cancellation. The
payments are expected to be completed in October, 1999 and have been recorded as
general and administrative expenses for the year ended March 31, 1999.
NOTE 8 - PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
Deferred income taxes will be determined using the liability method for the
temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and income tax basis
of the Company's assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes will be measured
based on the tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences
are included in the Company's consolidated tax return. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are recognized based on anticipated future tax consequences
attributable to differences between financial statement carrying amounts of
assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases.
At March 31, 1999, deferred tax assets consist of the following:
1999 1998
--------- ---------
Net operating loss carryforwards $ 734,000 $ 398,000
Less: valuation allowance $(734,000) $(398,000)
--------- ---------
$ 0 $ 0
========= =========
For the years ended March 31, 1999 and 1998, the Company established valuation
allowances equal to the full amount of the deferred tax asset due to the
uncertainty of the utilization of the operating losses in future periods.
At March 31, 1999 and 1998, the Company had federal and state net operating loss
carryforwards in the approximate amount of $4,900,000 and $2,600,000,
respectively, available to offset future taxable income through 2014.
NOTE 9 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
LOANS PAYABLE - RELATED PARTIES
On November 4, 1996, the Company entered into an agreement with the majority
stockholder of the Company, Dominion Capital Pty Ltd., (Dominion) for a period
of five years. Dominion agreed to provide up to $1,000,000 on an "as needed"
basis for operational costs and for the development and construction of
manufacturing facilities. Dominion was to be repaid for the advances with
convertible preferred shares of the Company. The note payable was originally
convertible into convertible preferred stock of the Company. On November 24,
1997, an addendum was signed by the Company deleting this from the agreement.
The addendum grants stock options and pay performance bonuses based solely on
gross sales figures of the Solpower product SOLTRON in the North American
market. See Note 10. Additionally, the Company has the option to extend the term
of this agreement for an additional period of five years, unless canceled by
notice in writing, by either party, with a thirty day notice of cancellation. As
of March 31, 1999 and 1998, the Company had a balance due to Dominion of
$407,219 and $39,725, respectively.
In July 1998, the Company entered into an investor relations agreement with
Dominion Capital Securities, Inc. (DCSI) for a six month period. DCSI agreed to
provide stock promotion in exchange for $125,000 in cash, 50,000 shares of stock
and the option to purchase 100,000 shares of stock at $3.00 per share (See Note
10). The stock and the options were issued during the year ending March 31, 1999
and a balance of $85,000 remains due to Dominion under the agreement and has
been included in accounts payable as of the balance sheet date.
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<PAGE>
NOTE 10 - EQUITY
STOCK
On April 1, 1997, the Company issued 4,160,000 shares of common stock under a
REG D private offering in exchange for cancellation of advances payable at $.125
per share, or $520,000.
On January 9, 1998, the Company issued 4,000,000 shares of common stock under a
REG S placement at $.50 per share, or $2,000,000.
On June 17, 1998, the Company issued 6,000,000 shares of common stock in
exchange for marketing rights for 5 years to SP34E, at $.40 per share or
$2,400,000.
On July 1, 1998, the Company issued 50,000 shares of common stock in exchange
for marketing services for six months, at $3.00 per share or $150,000.
On May 14, 1999, the Company issued 15,000 shares of common stock in exchange
for property and receivables, at $1.75 per share or $26,271.
STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS
On November 24, 1997, an addendum to the agreement with Dominion to provide
financing (Note 9) was signed by the Company which grants the following options
to Dominion based solely on the gross sales figures, for a five year period, of
the Solpower product SOLTRON in the North American Market as follows:
a. Gross sales for the product equaling $10,000,000, option to purchase 100,000
shares of common stock at $2.50 per share, plus a cash performance bonus of
$400,000.
b. Gross sales for the product equaling $20,000,000, option to purchase 150,000
shares of common stock at $3.50 per share, plus a cash performance bonus of
$400,000.
c. Gross sales for the product equaling $50,000,000, option to purchase 250,000
shares of common stock at $4.50 per share, plus a cash performance bonus of
$500,000.
d. Gross sales for the product equaling $100,000,000, option to purchase 250,000
shares of common stock at $5.00 per share, plus a cash performance bonus of
$1,000,000.
The contract has an anti-dilution provision, that in the event that the Company
shall at any time subdivide the outstanding shares of common stock, or shall
issue a stock dividend on its outstanding stock, the conversion price in effect
immediately prior to such subdivision or the issuance of such dividend shall be
proportionately decreased, and in the case the Company shall at any time combine
the outstanding shares of common stock, the conversion price in effect
immediately prior to such combination shall be proportionately increased,
effective at the close of business on the date of such subdivision, dividend or
combination, as the case may be.
The Company has adopted the 1997 Solpower Corporation Stock Option and Incentive
Plan. Pursuant to the plan, options to purchase shares of the Company's common
stock may be granted to employees and directors. The Plan provides that the
option price shall not be less than the fair market value of the shares on the
date of grant, and that the options expire ten years after grant. Options
generally vest ratably over 3 to 5 year periods. At March 31, 1999, there were
2,500,000 shares reserved for options to be granted under the Plan.
On January 30, 1998, the Company granted the option to purchase shares of the
Company's common stock to certain individuals at a purchase price equal to or
greater than 100% of the fair market value of such stock as determined under the
Solpower Corporation Stock Option and Incentive Plan (the Plan) as of this date.
Mr. James H. Hirst was granted 300,000, Mr. Trond Matteson was granted 150,000
and Mr. Joshua Ward was granted 150,000 shares. The terms of such options shall
commence as of January 30, 1998, and expire on January 30, 2003 or the
termination of employment of Mr. Hirst or the services of Mr. Matteson or Mr.
Ward.
32
<PAGE>
The options shall vest independently with respect to each grantee based upon two
factors: (a) the minimum market price and (b) the minimum reported gross
revenues being achieved as illustrated in the table below:
Percentage Exercise Minimum Minimum Reported
Amount Price Market Price Gross Revenues
------ ----- ------------ --------------
Hirst 33 1/3% $1.00 $2.00 $ 6 million
33 1/3% $1.75 $3.00 $ 9 million
33 1/3% $2.50 $4.00 $12 million
Matteson 33 1/3% $1.00 $2.00 $ 6 million
Ward 33 1/3% $2.00 $3.00 $ 9 million
33 1/3% $3.00 $4.00 $12 million
The Minimum Reported Gross Revenues shall have been achieved during a reporting
period which is the lesser of (i) the four quarterly reporting periods preceding
any date on which the Minimum Market Price exists, and (ii) that number of
quarterly reporting periods occurring subsequent to the date on which both
Vesting Requirements last were achieved and any date on which the next Minimum
Market Price requirement is achieved. Additionally, the options of Mr. Matteson
shall not vest before August 1, 1998.
On May 28, 1998, the Company granted the option to purchase shares of the
Company's common stock to certain directors at a purchase price for each share
that, with the exception of the nonqualifying options, is equal to or greater
than 100% of the fair market value of such stock as determined under the Plan as
of this date. Mr. Fraser Moffat III was granted 350,000, 100,000 of which are
nonqualifying, Mr. Naoya Yoshikawa was granted 100,000, Mr. Jerry Goddard was
granted 100,000 and Mr. James H. Hirst was granted 100,000. The options may be
exercised in whole or in part at any time after the vesting requirements with
respect to any option shares has been achieved. The terms of such options shall
commence as of May 28, 1998, and expire on May 28, 2003, or the termination as
directors of the Company.
The options shall vest independently with respect to each grantee, provided each
grantee is a director of the Company on such vesting date, based upon two
factors: (a) the minimum market price and (b) the minimum reported gross
revenues being achieved as illustrated in the table below:
Percentage Exercise Minimum Minimum Reported
Amount Price Market Price Gross Revenues
------ ----- ------------ --------------
Moffat -
(Incentive
Stock Options) 40% $3.00 $3.00 $ 6 million
40% $5.00 $5.00 $ 9 million
20% $7.00 $7.00 $12 million
(Nonqualifying
Options) 100% $2.00 $2.00 $ 4 million
Yoshikawa/ 50% $3.00 $3.00 $ 6 million
Goddard/ 50% $7.00 $7.00 $12 million
Hirst
Van Deren 25% $1.30 $2.00 $ 6 million
25% $1.60 $3.00 $ 9 million
25% $2.35 $4.00 $12 million
25% $5.00 $5.00 $15 million
With respect to Mr.'s Yoshikawa, Goddard, and Hirst, the Minimum Reported Gross
Revenues shall have been achieved during a reporting period which is the lesser
of (i) the four quarterly reporting periods preceding any date on which the
Minimum Market Price exists, and (ii) that number of quarterly reporting periods
occurring subsequent to the date on which both Vesting Requirements last were
achieved and any date on which the next Minimum Market Price requirement is
achieved.
On May 18, 1998, Mr. Joshua Ward was terminated as a service provider to the
Company and the 150,000 options granted to Mr. Ward on January 30, 1998,
terminated on May 18, 1998.
On January 4, 1999, R. L. (Beau) Van Deren, the corporate Secretary/Treasurer
and a member of the Board of Directors was granted 400,000 options to purchase
the common stock of the Company. The terms of such options commenced on January
9, 1999 and expire on January 9, 2004 or the termination of employment of Mr.
Van Deren.
33
<PAGE>
The Company's stock option and stock grant transactions for the years ended
March 31, 1999 and 1998, are summarized as follows:
Number of Option Options
Shares Price
----------- -----------
Options Outstanding and Exercisable 16,000,000 $0.20-$0.32
at March 31, 1997
Cancellation of Options per Amendment (16,000,000)
To Marketing Agreement
Options Granted Under Amended 100,000 $2.50
Marketing Agreement 150,000 $3.50
250,000 $4.50
250,000 $5.00
Options Granted Under Stock Option 200,000 $1.00
and Incentive Plan 100,000 $1.75
100,000 $2.00
100,000 $2.50
100,000 $3.00
----------- -----------
Options Outstanding at March 31, 1998 1,350,000 $1.00-$5.00
Options Terminated on May 18, 1998 (150,000) $1.00-$3.00
Options Granted Under Stock Option 100,000 $1.30
and Incentive Plan 100,000 $1.60
100,000 $2.35
290,000 $3.00
240,000 $5.00
220,000 $7.00
(Non-qualifying options) 100,000 $2.00
Options Granted under Marketing Agreement 100,000 $3.00
----------- -----------
Options Outstanding at March 31, 1999 2,450,000 $1.30-$7.00
===========
Options Exercisable at March 31, 1999 100,000 $3.00
All stock options issued to employees have an exercise price not less than the
fair market value of the Company's common stock on the date of grant. In
accordance with accounting for such options utilizing the intrinsic value
method, there is no related compensation expense recorded in the Company's
financial statements for the years ended March 31, 1999 and 1998. Had
compensation cost for stock-based compensation been determined on the fair value
of the options at the grant dates, consistent with the method of SFAS 123, the
Company's net income and earnings per share for the years ended March 31, 1999
and 1998 would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts presented below:
Years Ended March 31,
---------------------------
1999 1998
---- ----
NET LOSS:
As reported $(2,239,646) $(823,158)
Per common share equivalent $ (0.10) $ (0.06)
Pro forma $(2,375,646) $(823,158)
Per common share equivalent $ (0.11) $ (0.06)
According to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123 (Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation), the fair value of option grants is estimated as of the date of
grant utilizing the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following
weighted average assumptions for all grants, expected life of options of five
(5) years, risk-free interest rates of eight percent (8%), and a zero percent
(0%) dividend yield. The weighted average fair value at date of grant for
options granted during the year ended March 31, 1999 was $1.36.
34
<PAGE>
WARRANTS
The Company issued warrants in connection with a private placement offering in
1998. As of March 31, 1999, there were 4,000,000 warrants outstanding including
2,000,000 warrants at an exercise prices of $1.50 and 2,000,000 warrants at an
exercise price of $3.00 per share, expiring on January 7, 2000.
NOTE 11 - CONCENTRATIONS
Major suppliers for Solpower Corporation include the Japanese company that
produces the SOLTRON enzyme concentrate. Supply of the SOLTRON concentrate could
be interrupted due to work stoppages, strikes, and governmental or international
regulations. The solvent used as the suspension agent for SOLTRON, is currently
supplied by a major North American chemical company. If a supply interruption
should occur, other readily available solvents, can be substituted. The
specially designed, single measure bottles for retail sales of Soltron are
currently being produced in Australia. The molds for these unique bottles are
being shipped to the United States to insure a more locally available supply.
Other United States manufacturers have the capability to produce the molds and
bottles. All other materials for production of SOLTRON are available from a
variety of local providers.
NOTE 12 - YEAR 2000 ISSUE (UNAUDITED)
Like other companies, the Company could be adversely affected if the computer
systems it, its suppliers or its customers use do not properly process and
calculate date-related information and data from the period surrounding and
including January 1, 2000. This is commonly known as the "Year 2000" issue.
Additionally, this issue could impact non-computer systems and devices such as
production equipment, telephone systems, etc. At this time, because of
complexities involved in the issue, management cannot provide assurances that
the Year 2000 issue will not have an impact on the Company's operations.
NOTE 13 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On May 14, 1999, the Company terminated its Master License Agreement with
Masters Marketing Group, holder of the Great Lakes (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois,
Michigan, Wisconsin) license. The Company regains the right to operate the Great
Lakes territory as a corporate sales territory in exchange for cancellation of
the Promissory Note of $1,080,000, issuance of 15,000 shares of stock and
repayment of the license fee down payment of $120,000. The down payment is to be
repaid at $5,000 per month without interest. See Note 4. This transaction is
reflected in the financial statements as of March 31, 1999.
On June 7, 1999, the Company announced its intention to acquire Solpower
Australia Pty Ltd. for 3,000,000 to 4,000,000 shares of the Company's common
stock. The actual terms of acquisition will be set forth in a definitive
agreement which will be subject to approval by the Company's board of directors.
On September 1, 1999, the Company terminated its lease with D.I. South, Inc. of
Indiana for the Elkhart Plant site. The plant equipment was shipped to the
Phoenix, Arizona SOLTRON production facility to support the production capacity
expansion.
On September 7, 1999, the Company terminated its Master License Agreement with
Solpower Southeast Corporation. The Company regains the right to operate the
Southeast territory (Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi) as a
corporate sales territory in exchange for cancellation of the Promissory Note of
$1,080,000, repayment of the license fee down payment of $120,000 and the
issuance of 20,000 shares of stock. The down payment is expected to be refunded
by October 30, 1999. See Note 4. This transaction is reflected in the financial
statements as of March 31, 1999.
35
<PAGE>
ITEM 8. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
On March 19, 1999, the Company changed independent accountants from Clancy
& Co. P.L.L.C. to Semple & Cooper, LLP, a member of the BDO Seidman
international alliance. This change was made in order to better meet the
Company's future auditing and reporting requirements on an international basis.
The Company had no disagreements with the Clancy & Co., P.L.L.C., who issued
audit opinions for the Company's two previous annual financial statements.
Neither of these two financial statements contained an adverse or disclaimer of
opinion, nor were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or
accounting principles.
PART III
ITEM 9. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, PROMOTERS AND CONTROL PERSONS; COMPLIANCE
WITH SECTION 16(A) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT
(A) DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages and
positions held in the Company are as follows:
NAME AGE POSITIONS HELD(1)
---- --- -----------------
Fraser M. Moffat III 70 Director & Chairman
James H. Hirst 52 Director, President and CEO
R.L. (Beau) Van Deren 50 Director & Secretary/Treasurer
Jerry W. Goddard 59 Director
Naoya Yoshikawa 53 Director
(1) All current directors serve until the next annual shareholders meeting
or their earlier resignation or removal.
FRASER M. MOFFAT III joined the Company as a Director and Chairman of the
Board in May 1998. Since 1995, Mr. Moffat has primarily managed his personal
investments. From January 1985 through February 1995, Mr. Moffat was First Vice
President of Institutional Sales at Lehman Brothers, Inc. Hamburg, Germany
office. From October 1971 to December 1984, Mr. Moffat was a Vice President at
Merrill Lynch, Inc. Previously, Mr. Moffat served in the United States Navy from
1953 to 1956 where he attained the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Mr. Moffat
graduated from Williams College in 1951 with a BA degree.
JAMES H. HIRST has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company since
September 1997, and a Director and President since May 1998. As Chief Executive
Officer and President of the Company, Mr. Hirst is responsible for all Company
operations, licensing arrangements, product sales and marketing. Mr. Hirst has
served as President of Mesquite Management Ltd. from March 1986 to present where
he has provided consulting services to early stage companies in connection with
their operations, financial information systems and legal compliance. In
performing his consulting services, Mr. Hirst served as a director of Rock
Resources Inc. from November 1996 to October, 1998, as director and President of
Consolidated Bahn Foods Ltd. from April 1998 to present, as a vice president
from January 1991 to 1996 and President to October 1996 of Parisco Foods
Limited, as the Chief Executive Officer from January 1991 to 1997 and director
from November 1997 to October 1998 of Global Tree Technologies, Inc., as a
director of Consolidated Shoshoni Gold Inc. from August 1996 to August 1997, as
the president and director of Consolidated Newgate Resources Ltd. from October
36
<PAGE>
1990 to May 1992 and as the president and director of Yuma Gold Mines Ltd. from
October 1990 to August 1994. From 1966 to 1980, Mr. Hirst was a member of the
Royal Canadian Mounted Police - Commercial Crime Section. Mr. Hirst attended the
Canadian Police College, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada in 1980 and completed the
Computer Crime Investigation Course and Senior Investigators Course. He achieved
the rank of Sergeant after only 13 years of service and in 1981 resigned to
establish his private consulting business. In 1979, Mr. Hirst graduated with a
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Management Information Systems) from the
University of British Columbia.
R.L. (BEAU) VAN DEREN has served as Director as well as the Company's
Secretary and Treasurer since December 1, 1998. Mr. Van Deren has been the
Managing Director - Corporate Development for Dominion Capital Pty Ltd., an
affiliate of the Company, since November 8, 1998, and has undertaken his role
with the Company while also an employee of Dominion Capital. From 1992 until
December 1998, Mr. Van Deren was primarily involved in advising emerging
businesses and real estate operators and investors as a financial advisor along
with practicing law and accounting on a limited basis. From 1991 to 1992, Mr.
Van Deren was the Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel of MaxiCare, Inc.,
a seller of medical products and Medicare billing services to nursing homes.
Prior to 1992, Mr. Van Deren practiced tax and corporate law with the law firm
of Scult, Lazarus & French, P.C. in Phoenix, Arizona after practicing public
accounting with the Phoenix offices of Laventhal & Horvath and Touche, Ross &
Co. Mr. Van Deren received a Juris Doctorate in 1976 and a Bachelor of Science -
Business Administration in 1973 from the University of Arizona.
JERRY W. GODDARD has served as Director of the Company since November 1996.
Mr. Goddard has been the Managing Director of Prime Mortgage Group Limited
(Australia) from 1991 to present and is directly responsible for the
implementation of strategies including fund raising and marketing of the group's
products to the financial community. Mr. Goddard has served as director of
Golden Triangle Resources Ltd., an Australian mining company from 1994 through
present.
NAOYA YOSHIKAWA has served as Director of the Company since November 1996.
Mr. Yoshikawa served as President of Crest Japan Inc. from 1987 to present. Mr.
Yoshikawa has served as a director of several companies in the past decade,
including the Japan - America Friendship Association from 1989 to present, Japan
Environmental Protection Organization from 1991 to present. Mr. Yoshikawa also
served as Chief Executive Officer of Dominion Capital Japan Ltd. from 1996 to
present. In his capacity as General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of
Dominion Capital Japan Ltd., Mr. Yoshikawa represents Solpower Australia Pty
Ltd. and SOLTRON operations in Japan. Mr. Yoshikawa has a Masters Degree in
Economics and Business Administration and is Honorary Professor of the
University of Mindanao for Environment and Protection, as well as holding the
position of President of the Association of Clean Air Devices.
(B) COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 16(a) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999, Mr. Van Deren failed to timely
file a report on Form 3 upon becoming a director of the Company. The required
report was filed on September 20, 1999.
ITEM 10. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table reflects all forms of compensation for services to the
Company for the fiscal years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 for the Chief
Executive Officer of the Company. No officer of the Company received salary or
bonus in excess of $100,000 for any of these fiscal years.
37
<PAGE>
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
LONG TERM
ANNUAL COMPENSATION COMPENSATION
------------------------------ ------------
OTHER STOCK
FISCAL ANNUAL OPTIONS
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY COMPENSATION (SHARES)
- --------------------------- ---- ------ ------------ --------
James H. Hirst 1999 -- $100,000(1) 100,000(2)
Chief Executive Officer 1998 -- $58,333(1) 300,000(2)
1997 -- -- --
- ----------
(1) During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999, Mr. Hirst acted as a
consultant to the Company for the compensation stated.
(2) The options have not yet vested and have been allotted pursuant to an
Option Plan with requisite vesting requirements to be achieved.
OPTION GRANTS
The following table sets forth information regarding the grants of options
to the Company's executive officers for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPTION GRANTS IN FISCAL YEAR 1999
NUMBER OF SHARES OF PERCENT OF TOTAL EXERCISE ON
COMMON STOCK UNDERLYING OPTIONS GRANTED TO BASE PRICE
NAME OPTIONS GRANTED EMPLOYEES IN FISCAL YEAR ($/SHARE) EXPIRATION DATE
---- --------------- ------------------------ ----------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
James H. Hirst 100,000 20% (1) May 28, 2003
R.L. Van Deren 400,000 80% (2) Jan. 4, 2004
</TABLE>
- ----------
(1) 50% Exercisable at $3.00 Per share and 50% exercisable at $7.00 Per share.
(2) 25% Exercisable at $1.30 Per share; 25% exercisable at $1.60 Per share; 25%
exercisable at $2.35 Per share; and 25% exercisable at $5.00 Per share.
OPTION EXERCISES AND VALUES
The following table sets forth information regarding the exercise and
values of options held by the Company's executive officers as of March 31, 1999.
38
<PAGE>
AGGREGATE OPTION EXERCISES IN
LAST FISCAL YEAR AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
NUMBER OF VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
UNEXERCISED IN-THE-MONEY
OPTIONS AT OPTIONS AT
MARCH 31, 1999 MARCH 31, 1999
SHARES ACQUIRED VALUE EXERCISABLE/ EXERCISABLE/
NAME ON EXERCISE REALIZED UNEXERCISABLE UNEXERCISABLE
---- ----------- -------- ------------- -------------
James H. Hirst 0 0 0/400,000 $0/$0
R. L. Van Deren 0 0 0/400,000 $0/$0
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
The Company has no employment agreements with its executive officers.
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
All authorized out-of-pocket expenses incurred by a Director on behalf of
the Company are subject to reimbursement.
STOCK OPTION PLAN
In November 1997, the Board of Directors adopted a Stock Option and
Incentive Plan (the "PLAN"), which the shareholders approved on November 22,
1997. The purpose of the Plan is to provide a means through which the Company
may attract able persons to enter the employ of and provide services for the
Company and to provide a means whereby those persons upon whom the
responsibilities for the successful administration and management of the Company
rest, and whose present and potential contributions to the welfare of the
Company are of importance, can acquire and maintain an ownership interest,
thereby strengthening their commitment to the welfare of the Company and the
desire to remain in the employ or service of the Company. A further purpose of
the Plan is to provide such persons with additional incentive and reward
opportunities designed to enhance the profitable growth of the Company. So that
the appropriate incentive can be provided, the Plan provides for granting
options, incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock
awards, performance shares and dividend equivalents, or any combination of the
foregoing. As of March 31, 1999, 1,700,000 stock options had been granted under
the Plan at exercise prices ranging from $1.00 to $7.00 per share.
ITEM 11. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth, as of July 1, 1999, the ownership of each
person known by the Company to be the beneficial owner of five percent or more
of the Company's Common Stock, each officer and director individually, and all
officers and directors as a group. The Company has been advised that each person
has sole voting and investment power over the shares listed below unless
otherwise indicated.
39
<PAGE>
NAME AND ADDRESS AMOUNT AND NATURE PERCENT OF
OF BENEFICIAL OWNER OF OWNERSHIP CLASS(1)
------------------- ----------------- ----------
Fraser M. Moffat III 0 0%
18 Lake Avenue
Montrose, Pennsylvania
James H. Hirst(2) 100 (3)
7309 East Stetson Drive
Scottsdale, Arizona
R. L. (Beau) Van Deren(2) 100 (3)
3330 East Colter Street
Phoenix, Arizona
Jerry W. Goddard 135,000(4) 0.6%
7309 East Stetson Drive
Scottsdale, Arizona
Naoya Yoshikawa 100 (3)
2-16-42 Takanawa
Minato-Ku, Japan
Angelus, Inc.(5) 5,000,000(6) 21.3%
Suite IA Hirzel Court
Hirzel Street, St. Peter Port
Guernsey, Channel Islands GYI 2NN
Equitloan Limited(5) 2,000,000 8.5%
Box 8111
Gold Coast Mail Centre
Bundall, Queensland 9726
Australia
Peter Voss 8,544,950(7) 36.4%
Level 11, Dominion Building
533 Little Londale Street
Melbourne, Victoria 3000
Australia
Dominion Capital Pty Ltd. (7)(8) 7,114,650 30.3%
3 Hewitt Street
Cheltenham, Australia
All Directors and Officers 135,300 0.6%
as a Group (5 persons)
40
<PAGE>
- ----------
(1) Based upon 23,456,560 shares of Common Stock being issued and outstanding
on March 31, 1999.
(2) Messrs. Hirst and Van Deren have each been granted options to purchase up
to an additional 400,000 shares of Common Stock at prices ranging from
$1.00 to $7.00 per share upon the market price of Solpower's Common Stock
attaining certain levels. These options have not vested, are not
exercisable until vested and are not included in the total above.
(3) Less than 0.1%.
(4) Includes 100,000 shares held by an entity associated with Jerry W. Goddard
over which he has an exercisable control.
(5) The beneficial owners of this entity are unknown to the Company's
management and are not known to be affiliated with any other officers,
directors or principal shareholders of the Company.
(6) Includes 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding, 2,000,000
shares purchasable by exercise of an A Warrant on or before January 7, 1999
(extended to January 7, 2000) at $1.50 per share and 2,000,000 shares
purchasable by exercise of a B Warrant on or before January 7, 2000 at
$3.00 per share.
(7) Mr. Peter Voss holds 100 shares directly and controls Dominion Capital Pty
Ltd which holds 7,114,650 shares and A1 Financial Planners Pty Ltd. which
holds 980,200 shares. The total reflected includes 300,000 shares held by
Mr. Voss' wife and two adult children and in which Mr. Voss disclaims all
beneficial interest and 100,000 shares subject to purchase options at $3.00
per share held by Dominion Capital Securities, Inc., an entity controlled
by Mr. Voss plus 50,000 shares issued to Dominion Capital Securities, Inc.
(8) Dominion Capital has been granted an option to acquire 750,000 shares of
Common Stock at prices ranging from $2.50 to $5.00 per share upon Soltron
sales revenues attaining certain levels. These options have not vested, are
not exercisable until vested and are not included in the total above.
ITEM 12. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
On November 4, 1996, the Company entered into an Acquisition Agreement with
Dominion Capital for the acquisition of the exclusive manufacturing,
distribution, marketing and sales rights in North America to the product
SOLTRON. The original term of the original agreement was for five years and
provided that the Company issue 5,000,000 shares of its Common Stock, issue
preferred stock and grant certain options to Dominion Capital as consideration
for such rights. On November 22, 1997 the Company renegotiated the terms of the
Acquisition Agreement to extend its term for an additional five year period and
eliminate the option and preferred share issuance granting to Dominion Capital.
The amended agreement provided that options and performance bonuses would be
payable to Dominion Capital as follows: (i) upon gross sales for SOLTRON
equaling $10,000,000, Dominion Capital has the option to purchase 100,000 shares
at $2.50 per share, plus a cash performance bonus of $400,000; (ii) upon gross
sales for SOLTRON equaling $20,000,000, Dominion Capital has the option to
purchase 150,000 shares at $3.50 per share, plus cash performance bonus of
$400,000; (iii) upon gross sales for SOLTRON equaling $50,000,000 Dominion
Capital has the option to purchase 250,000 shares at $4.50 per share, plus cash
performance bonus of $500,000; and (iv) upon gross sales for SOLTRON equaling
$100,000,000, Dominion Capital has the option to purchase 250,000 shares at
$5.00 per share, plus a cash performance bonus of $1,000,000. Effective May 13,
1998 the Company and Dominion Capital agreed to an addendum to the Acquisition
Agreement of November 4, 1996 by allowing the Company, on a first right of
refusal basis, an interest in all other territories, except Japan, where SOLTRON
and other products and services area currently being commercialized by the
Dominion Capital, on terms and conditions to be negotiated on a product by
product and a territory by territory basis.
On November 4, 1996, the Company issued 3,520,000 shares of Common
Stock to Dominion Capital at a price of $0.125 per share. On April 1, 1997, the
Company issued 4,160,000 shares of Common Stock to Dominion Capital in exchange
for cancellation of advances payable to Dominion Capital in the amount of
$520,000.
41
<PAGE>
On June 17, 1998, the Company and Dominion Capital entered into a second
Acquisition Agreement for the acquisition of the exclusive manufacturing,
distribution, marketing and sales rights in North American to the product SP34E.
The Company agreed to issue 6,000,000 shares of its Common Stock and pay a
royalty of $2.25 for each kilogram of SP34E sold in the Company's territory. The
term of the Acquisition Agreement was for five years with an option renew for an
additional five years. On June 12, 1999, the Company and Dominion Capital
executed an addendum, effective January 1, 1999, delaying the commencement of
the Acquisition Agreement until the Company achieves certain sales volumes of
SP34E, but not later than July 1, 2000.
On July 1, 1998, the Company entered into a Client Service Agreement with
Dominion Capital Securities, Inc., ("DCSI") an Arizona corporation, for the
provision of all investor and corporate communications services required by the
Company. DCSI is wholly-owned by Peter Voss, who also controls Dominion Capital,
the principal shareholder of the Company. The term of the agreement is for six
months and is renewable for further six month periods. In consideration for DCSI
providing the services it will receive $275,000 of which $125,000 is payable in
cash and the balance in the form of 50,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock.
As further consideration DCSI has been granted an option to buy 100,000 shares
of the Company's Common Stock at the exercise price of $3.00 per shares for a
period of two years.
On March 29, 1999, the Company entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with
Protocol Resource Management Inc., a Canadian corporation ("PROTOCOL") to
manufacture and distribute SP34E in Canada and elsewhere in the Company's
licensed territory. The joint venture is a Canadian corporation equally owned by
the Company and Protocol. Protocol serves as the manager of the joint venture.
The Company is in the process of providing the necessary notifications to the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency prior to initiating its marketing strategy
for this product in the United States.
The Company's general policy for entering into transactions with directors,
officers and affiliates of the Company that have a financial interest in the
transaction is to adhere to Nevada corporate law regarding the approval of such
transactions. In general, a transaction between a Nevada corporation and a
director, officer or affiliate of the Corporation in which such person has a
financial interest is not void or voidable if the interest is disclosed and
approved by disinterested directors or shareholders or if the transaction is
otherwise fair to the corporation.
ITEM 13. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) EXHIBITS
2.1(1) Articles of Merger, merging Virtual Technologies Inc., a Utah
Corporation, into Virtual Technologies Inc., a Nevada Corporation,
dated July 26, 1996.
2.2(1) Plan of Merger of the Company, merging Virtual Technologies Inc., a
Utah Corporation into Virtual Technologies Inc., a Nevada Corporation,
dated July 19, 1996.
3.1(1) Restated Articles of Incorporation of Solpower Corporation dated
November 24, 1997.
3.2(1) Amended and Restated Bylaws of Solpower Corporation dated November 24,
1997.
10.1(1) Acquisition Agreement dated November 4, 1996 between Dominion Capital
Pty Ltd. and Virtual Technologies, Inc. for the Distribution &
Manufacturing Rights of SOLTRON Product.
42
<PAGE>
10.2(1) Acquisition Agreement amendment dated November 24, 1997 outlining
clarifications and extensions of original Acquisition Agreement dated
November 4, 1996.
10.3(1) Addendum to Acquisition Agreement dated May 13, 1998.
10.4(1) Acquisition Agreement dated June 17, 1998 between Dominion Capital Pty
Ltd. and Solpower Corporation for the Distribution and Manufacturing
Rights of SP34E Product.
10.5(1) Form of Master License Agreement.
10.6(1) Form of Security Agreement.
10.7(1) Property Lease Agreement between Arizona Industrial Capital Limited
Partnership and Virtual Technologies, Inc. dated August 25, 1997.
10.8(1) Property Lease Agreement and amendments between Scottsdale Stetson
Corporation and Virtual Technologies, Inc. dated March 12, 1997.
10.9(1) First Amendment to Property Lease Agreement between Scottsdale Stetson
Corporation and Virtual Technologies, Inc.
10.10(1) Second Amendment to Property Lease Agreement between Scottsdale
Stetson Corporation and Virtual Technologies, Inc.
10.11(1) Commercial Lease between D.I. South, Inc. and Solpower Corporation
dated June 1, 1998
10.12(1) Solpower Corporation Stock Option and Incentive Plan dated November
22, 1997.
10.13(1) Territory Licensee Finders Fee Agreement between Virtual Technologies,
Inc. and Charles C. Van Zee dated November 5, 1997.
10.14(1) Territory Licensee Finders Fee Agreement between Solpower Corporation
and Josh Ward dated February 1, 1998.
10.15(1) Territory Licensee Finders Fee Agreement between Solpower Corporation
and Trond Matteson dated February 1, 1998.
10.16(1) Client Services Agreement between Solpower Corporation and Dominion
Capital Securities, Inc. dated July 1, 1998.
10.17 Addendum to June 17, 1998 Acquisition Agreement effective January 1,
1999.
10.18 Joint Venture Agreement between Solpower Corporation and Protocol
Resource Management, Inc. dated March 29, 1999.
10.19 Heads of Agreement between Solpower Corporation and Solpower Australia
Pty Ltd. dated June 7, 1999.
11.1 Statement re Computation of Per Share Earnings.
43
<PAGE>
16.1(2) Letter on change in certifying accountant.
21.1 Subsidiaries
23.1 Auditor's Consent from Semple & Cooper, LLP
23.2 Auditor's Consent from Clancy & Company, PLLC
27.1 Financial Data Schedule.
99.1 Assignment, Settlement and Release between Solpower Corporation and
Masters Marketing Group, Inc. dated May 14, 1999.
99.2 Assignment, Settlement and Release between Solpower Corporation and D.
I. South, Inc. of Indiana dated September 1, 1999.
99.3 Assignment, Settlement and Release between Solpower Corporation and
Solpower Southeast Corporation dated September 7, 1999.
- ----------
(1) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Form 10-SB as filed on August
21, 1998.
(2) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Form 8-K/A as filed on March
24, 1999.
(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
On March 24, 1999, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K, which was
subsequently amended in a report filed on Form 8-K/A on March 25, 1999. In the
report, the Company announced its decision to terminate its relationship with
Clancy & Co., PLLC as the Company's independent public accountants and its
selection of Semple & Cooper LLP, a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance, as its
new independent public accountant.
44
<PAGE>
In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the registrant
caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized.
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
Dated: September 24, 1999 By /s/ James H. Hirst
---------------------------------------
James H. Hirst, Chief Executive Officer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Dated: September 24, 1999 /s/ Fraser M Moffat III
---------------------------------------
Fraser M. Moffat III, Chairman
Dated: September 24, 1999 /s/ James H. Hirst
---------------------------------------
James H. Hirst
Dated: September 24, 1999 /s/ R. L. Van Deren
---------------------------------------
R. L. Van Deren
Dated: September 24, 1999 /s/ Jerry W. Goddard
---------------------------------------
Jerry W. Goddard
Dated: September 24, 1999 /s/ Naoya Yoshikawa
---------------------------------------
Naoya Yoshikawa
45
EXHIBIT 10.17
SOLPOWER CORPORATION CORPORATE OFFICE
Manufacturers and Distributors of 7309 East Stetson Drive, Suite 102
Solpower Products and Technologies Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
Tel 602-947-6366
888-289-8866
Fax 602-947-6324
www.solpower.com
e-mail: [email protected]
June 12, 1999
Dominion Capital Pty. Ltd.
39 De Havilland Road
Modialloc 3195
Victoria, Austrialia
Attention: Mr. Peter Voss, President & Managing Director
Dear Sir:
Re: Addendum to Acquisition Agreement dated June 17, 1998
Pursuant to an Acquisition Agreement (the "Agreement") dated June 17, 1998,
between Solpower Corporation (the "Buyer") and Dominion Capital Pty. Ltd. (the
"Seller") the Buyer acquired the exclusive sales, distribution, marketing and
manufacturing rights for the Solpower product, SP34E (TM) for the United States,
Mexico and Canada.
The Buyer and the Seller effective 1st day of January, 1999, have agreed to an
addendum to the Agreement by adding the following to paragraph 4:
The term of this Agreement shall commence with Buyer achieving ratable
sales of SP34E and in no event later than July 1, 2000.
The Buyer and Seller have executed this Amendment Agreement as of the date first
set forth above.
SOLPOWER CORPORATION DOMINION CAPITAL PTY. LTD.
/s/ James H. Hirst /s/ Peter Voss
- ---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
By: James H. Hirst By: Peter Voss
President & CEO Chairman & Managing Director
EXHIBIT 10.18
JOINT VENTURE AGREEMENT
THIS JOINT VENTURE AGREEMENT is made on the 29 day of March, 1999, between
SOLPOWER CORPORATION ("SOLPOWER") a Nevada corporation with offices at 7309 East
Stetson Drive, #102, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, and PROTOCOL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT INC.
("PROTOCOL") an Ontario corporation with offices at 330 Industrial Parkway
South, Aurora, Ontario, Canada 4LG 3V7.
WHEREAS
A. SOLPOWER is entitled to manufacture, distribute, market and sell in respect
of a product, a description of which is contained in Appendix "A" attached
hereto ("the Product") which term shall be deemed to include any modifications,
alterations and improvements to the Product.
B. SOLPOWER is a corporation incorporated in the United States of America with
its registered office situated in Carson City, Nevada.
C. PROTOCOL is a company incorporated in Canada with its registered office
situated in Aurora, Ontario.
D. It is the intention of the parties that this Agreement be supplemental and,
if necessary, modified by further agreement as and when appropriate.
E. The purpose of this Agreement is to record the terms and conditions and
involvement of the parties hereto in the Joint Venture and related matters.
NOW THIS AGREEMENT WITNESSES as follows:
1. GENERAL
1.1 Definitions
In this Agreement unless there is something in the subject or context
inconsistent with the following expressions, then each shall have the following
meaning:
a) "This Agreement means this Joint Venture Agreement as the same may be amended
or supplemented from time to time and the schedules attached hereto:
b) "The Business" means the manufacture, marketing and distribution of the
Product and such other products are as agreed from time to time in North
America.
c) "Business Day" means a day (not being Saturday, Sunday of public holiday) on
which Banks are open for business in Aurora, Ontario, Canada;
d) "Date" means XXX 1999.
<PAGE>
e) "Dollars" or "$" means US Dollars unless otherwise expressly provided;
f) "Manager" shall mean the management team appointed to operate The Business;
g) "Shareholders" means Solpower and Protocol pursuant to the terms of this
Agreement:
h) "Shareholders Agreement" means an agreement which sets out the terms agreed
between the Shareholders for differential funding, differential ownership or any
other matters agreed between the Shareholders in relation to the Business
annexed as Appendix B.
i) "License Agreement" means the License Agreement in the form substantially
similar to the Agreement annexed as Appendix C;
j) "Prescribed Equity" means in relation to each Joint Venturer, the following
percentages:
SOLPOWER 50%
PROTOCOL 50%
k) "Product" shall mean SP34E refrigerant as described in the Product
Description annexed as Appendix A.
l) "Terms" means five years from the date of this Agreement or as extended
pursuant to this Agreement.
1.2 Interpretation
In this Agreement unless the contrary intention appears:
a) a reference to a person includes a reference to a company, corporation, firm,
association or other entity, and vice versa;
b) the singular includes the plural and vice versa;
c) A reference to any gender includes a reference to all other genders;
d) A reference to any legislation or to any provision of any legislation
includes a reference to any modification or re-enactment or any provision
substituted for such legislation or provisions;
e) An agreement, representation or warranty made by two or more persons is made
by them jointly and by each of them severally; and
2
<PAGE>
f) An agreement, representation or warranty made in favor of two or more persons
is made for the benefit of them jointly and for each of them severally.
1.3 Heading
Headings are inserted for convenience only and do not affect the interpretation
of this Agreement.
1.4 Weekends & Holidays
Where any act is required by this Agreement, to be done in a given day and that
day is not a Business Day, then the act is required to be done on the next
following Business Day.
2. PURPOSE
The parties hereby acknowledge and declare that they have entered into this
Agreement for the purpose of funding, developing and exploiting the Business and
the Product and/or other products as are agreed from time to time between the
parties on the terms and conditions contained in this Agreement.
3. INCORPORATION OF SOLPOWER CANADA INC.
The parties agree to incorporate a corporation (hereinafter referred to as "the
Corporation") under the laws of the province of Ontario to otherwise conduct the
business of manufacturing and marketing the Product in the manner described in
this Agreement substantially as a Joint Venture.
4. APPOINTMENT OF MANAGER
The Joint Venturers agree to appoint Protocol as Manager of the Corporation
under the terms and conditions of the Management Agreement annexed as Appendix
D. Pursuant to the Management Agreement, Protocol shall charge a management fee
to the Corporation for the providing of the services of Manager.
5. FUNDING OF THE CORPORATION
5.1 Initial Capitalization
The initial capitalization of the Corporation shall be provided by the Joint
Venturers in proportion to their equity ownership. The capitalization shall
consist of a combination of debt and equity on a 3:1 basis. The total amount of
the initial capitalization shall be determined from the budget requirements
prepared by the Manager in order to commence operations.
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5.2 Contribution of Assets by Protocol
SOLPOWER agrees that PROTOCOL may contribute assets required for production in
lieu of cash in the initial capitalization of the Business-see Appendix E.
5.3 Subsequent Funding
Upon reasonable written notice, the Joint Venturers agree that any further
funding required at any time by the Corporation shall be contributed in
accordance with the Shareholders' Agreement.
5.4 Expenditure Requirements
The Joint Venturers agree that at sixty days prior to the fiscal year end, the
Manager shall present their following year's capital expenditure requirements,
operating expenditure requirements and shareholder funding requirements to the
Shareholders for their consideration and approval.
6. MANAGER'S RESPONSIBILITIES
The Manager shall be in control and be empowered to manage the Business pursuant
to direction of the Corporation's Board as well as the Joint Venture Agreement
and the Management Agreement (the "Agreements"). However, unless otherwise
authorized in writing by the Board of the Corporation, the Manager has no
authority to operate outside the approved Budget and Business Plan.
Subject to the limitations provided herein, the resolutions from the Manager in
respect of matters arising from or in connection with this Agreement shall be
binding. Management tasks are those required to meet the expectations reflected
in the Business Plan approved by the Board.
The Joint Venturers shall appoint the Manager to act as their lawful attorney in
respect of any matters arising from or in connection with the Business.
At all times the Manager shall hold the assets to which the Corporation is
legally entitled on behalf of and on trust for the Joint Venturers.
The resolutions of the Corporation in respect of matters arising from or in
connection with this Agreement shall be binding upon all the parties hereto.
The Manager shall prepare and submit a proposed annual operating budget (the
"Budget") to the Board of Directors of the Corporation. Furthermore the Manager
shall prepare and submit a proposed business plan (the "Business Plan") to the
Board of Directors of the Corporation. The Budget and the Business Plan shall be
submitted to the Board of Directors of the Corporation on or before 1 November
of each fiscal year and shall apply to the twelve (12) months period beginning
on 1 January of the next fiscal year.
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The budget shall include without limitations projections on accrual basis of
receipts, required expenditures, cash flows, and project capital expenditures
for the period covered thereby.
The business plan shall include without limitations: - description of any
activity proposed to be undertaken - projected annual income statement -
projected income statement as of the end of the fiscal year - schedule of
projected Net Cash Flow and Net Operating Income for such fiscal year -
marketing plan - description of any capital expenditures - production schedule -
description of the proposed investments.
Notwithstanding the above, PROTOCOL, acknowledges and agrees that all matters
relating to manufacturing standards, protocols and know-how in relation to the
Product shall be determined by SOLPOWER pursuant to the License Agreement.
7. LICENSE
SOLPOWER shall grant to the Corporation a license to manufacture the refrigerant
SP34E pursuant to the Licensing Agreement. The Corporation agrees to pay and
amount equal to $2.50 per kg as consideration for receiving the license. Such
amounts to be paid in quarterly installments on the tenth business day following
the end of the prior quarter of the Corporation. The amount shall be computed on
the basis of the refrigerant sold and delivered to customers in the prior
quarter.
8. ROYALTY
8.1 Royalty Payments
Alternatively or in addition to, the Corporation shall pay a royalty to
SOLPOWER, pursuant to the Royalty Agreement, attached as Appendix F, for every
kilogram of gas manufactured and sold by the Corporation to wholesalers, OEMs,
and refrigerant gas distributors. The royalty is to be established annually on
the basis of market pricing for the refrigerant. The royalty is computed monthly
on the basis of the refrigerant sold and delivered to customers in the month.
The royalty is to be paid monthly, in arrears sixty days from the end of the
month in which the royalty is earned.
8.2 Withholding Taxes
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SOLPOWER agrees that the Corporation shall withhold and remit to Revenue Canada
any withholding taxes on the royalty as required under the Canadian Income tax
Act, on SOLPOWER'S behalf and remit the net royalty to SOLPOWER.
9. COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CORPORATION
The following provisions shall determine the composition from time to time of
the Board of Directors of the Corporation.
9.1 Composition of Board. Each Joint Venture shall be entitled to appoint two
Directors to the Board of the Corporation.
9.2 Quorum
a) The quorum necessary for the transaction of business by the Directors of the
Manager shall be two (2) Directors or more of the total number of directors,
being at least one (1) director representing each Joint Venturer present
throughout the meeting. If at the time appointed for any meeting a quorum is not
present, the meeting shall be dissolved and an adjourned meeting of directors
shall be held not less than seven (7) days after the day the time fixed for the
original meeting of the Directors provided that the appropriate written notice
for the time and place for such adjourned meeting of Directors shall be given to
every Director in the manner prescribed in sub-clause c) of this clause.
b) The Directors present at a meeting of Directors at least constituting one
representative of each Joint Venturer shall constitute the quorum.
c) Seven (7) days written notice of the time and place of every Meeting of
Directors of the Corporation shall be given to every Director for the time being
of the Corporation.
9.3 Voting
Questions arising at a meeting of Shareholders or a meeting of Directors shall
be determined by unanimous vote of the Shareholders or Directors present and
voting.
9.4 Appointment, Suspension & Renewal
a) By notice in writing to the other Joint Venturer, each Joint Venturer may
remove or suspend any of the persons appointed by it as a Director and appoint
another person in their place and may appoint another Director temporarily in
place of the person so removed or suspend or in place of a sick or absent
Director.
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b) The parties agree that they will take all such steps as necessary to create
the Articles of Incorporation of the Corporation to give effect to the matters
in sub-clauses 9.1 a), b) and c) hereof.
10. TRANSFER OF SHARES IN THE CORPORATION
If any Shareholder of the Corporation transfers its shareholding in the
Corporation in accordance with the Articles, the transferring Shareholder shall
procure that the transferee, if not an existing Shareholder of the Corporation,
shall undertake to be bound by this Agreement as if an original party herein.
11. ACCOUNTS OF THE CORPORATION
11.1 Monthly profit/loss reporting
Within twenty (20) Business Days of the end of each Month in cash Financial
Year, the Manager shall cause to be prepared and distributed to the Joint
Venturers a profit and loss account for the Joint Venture for that month
prepared in accordance with generally accepted International accounting
standards consistently applied. They shall be prepared on accrual basis with
statements of income, cash flows and balance sheets.
11.2 Annual reporting
a) The accounts of the Corporation shall be audited by the Auditor as at the end
of each Financial Year. The Auditor shall be appointed by the Shareholders of
the Corporation.
b) The audited financial statements of the Corporation shall be presented to the
Board of Directors within sixty days of the Corporation's fiscal year end.
c) The fiscal year end of the Corporation shall be January 31.
12. RIGHT TO DIVIDENDS Unless the Joint Venturers otherwise agree, within fifty
(50) Business Days after the end of each Financial Year, there shall be
distributed out of the Corporation an amount equal to 1/3 of the after tax
profits for such preceding Financial Year, distributed by way of a dividend
declared by the Directors of the Corporation.
13. INTEREST IN THE PRODUCT/LICENCE AGREEMENT
a) PROTOCOL acknowledges that save for its interest in the Corporation, it has
no interest in the Product and its Product rights are subject to the License
Agreement.
b) The Manager shall forthwith enter into the License Agreement. PROTOCOL
acknowledges that its rights in or arising out of such License Agreement arose
solely as a result of this Agreement and any rights in respect of such License
Agreement shall terminate contemporaneously with the termination of the Joint
Venture.
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14. RELATIONSHIP OF JOINT VENTURERES
14.1 Limit of Joint Venturer's Liabilities
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein contained, neither this
Agreement, nor any agreement referred to herein, nor the acts or omissions of
the Joint Venturers or any of them shall result nor are they intended to result
in the creation of a Partnership or other relationship whereby a Joint Venturer
shall be held responsible or liable for any act or omission of the other parties
or any of them either jointly or otherwise or shall authorize any Joint Venturer
to pledge the credit of the other Joint Venturer or shall impair the independent
status of any Joint Venturer or shall create any trust.
14.2 No Agency Created
No Joint Venturer shall act as or purport to act as the agent or make any
promise or representation on behalf of the other Joint Venturer without it's
express written approval.
14.3 Indemnity for Breach
The Joint Venturers' covenant and agree with each other to indemnify and keep
indemnified the other from and against any losses and damages which may arise in
respect of any breach of that Joint Venturer or any provisions of this
Agreement.
15. MUTUAL COVENANT
15.1 Each Party Fiduciary of the Other
Each party covenants and agrees with the other party that it is the fiduciary of
that other party in relation to the Joint Venture and to be just and faithful in
all its activities and dealings with such other party in relation to the Joint
Venture and otherwise to perform its obligations express or implied under the
terms of this Agreement. This obligation does not relate to any businesses other
than the businesses of the Joint Venture.
15.2 Parties to Keep Each Other Informed
The parties shall keep each other fully informed and aware of all their
respective activities in relation to this Agreement.
15.3 Parties to Assist Each Other
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The parties shall assist each other and generally do all acts, matters and
things to ensure achievement of the objects of the Joint Venture.
15.4 Receipt of Money
Each of the parties covenants and agrees with one another that forthwith upon
the receipt of any moneys belonging to the Joint Venture such party shall pay
such moneys into the Business bank account.
15.5 Joint Venturers Not to Give Credit
Each Joint Venturer undertakes that it shall not without the consent of the
other in respect of the Joint Venture:
a) give any credit and/or lend any money on behalf of the Joint Venture to any
person, firm, company or entity other than in the ordinary course of business of
the Joint Venture conducted in a normal and proper manner;
b) borrow or raise any money or incur any debt on account of the Joint Venture;
c) except as herein before provided draw, accept or endorse any negotiable
instructions on account of the Joint Venture;
d) compound, release or discharge any debt which shall be due or owing to the
Joint Venture without receiving the full amount thereof;
e) guarantee, become bail, surely or security on behalf of the Joint Venture for
any person, firm, company or entity or do or knowingly suffer to be done
anything whereby the property or assets of the Joint Venture may be attached or
taken in execution;
f) incur any liabilities on behalf of the Joint Venture and/or employ any of the
moneys and/or effects thereof other than in the ordinary course of business on
behalf of the Joint Venture conduct in a normal and proper manner.
16. CONFIDENTIALITY
Any information which shall have been communicated by a Joint Venturer to any
other party in confidence under this Agreement or which in the reasonable
opinion of SOLPOWER or PROTOCOL ought to be regarded as "confidential
information", shall be treated by the recipient as confidential unless and until
any of the following events or circumstances shall occur:
a. it is published by the communicating party for use by outside parties;
b. it is contained in a published patent of equivalent specification;
c. it can be shown to have fallen into the public domain or become generally
known in the relevant industry.
"Confidential information" means business practices, products, inventions,
technology or confidential commercial information of the Party and its
affiliates, Confidential commercial information include without limitation
formulae, production processes, production equipment, product information, price
9
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lists, customer lists, customer contact information, development and research
work marketing programs, plans, proposals, and other information about internal
systems, processes, concepts, practices, and procedures.
Assuming the recipient has reasonably protected the confidential information
from third parties, employees, subcontractors, agents, or advisors with their
execution of a Nondisclosure Agreement in substantially similar form as set out
in Appendix G, the following acts shall not be deemed to be a breach of the
above:
its disclosure occurs by its use in the product manufactured by the receiving
party;
its disclosure occurs in the ordinary course of the sale of such products by
inspection;
it has necessarily been disclosed by the receiving party to its customers or
users of the products or to their sub-contractors for repair, overhaul or other
necessary work, demonstration and service activities including supplying copies
of specifications in the ordinary course of business to purchasers and
PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS of the products or to sub-contractors or manufacturers of
component parts;
upon advance written approval by Solpower, it is disclosed by reproduction of
specifications as may be absolutely necessary in advertising literature,
instructions books and spare parts lists;
its disclosure in necessary to bona fide sub-contractors and bidders to enable
them to perform their contract or make bids to the receiving party;
it is disclosed in any other comparable circumstances.
PROVIDED HOWEVER that in all the above cases any disclosure has been made bona
fide and to no greater degree than was necessary in the circumstances and with a
view to promoting the actual sale or use of the Products.
Any information communicated to one party hereunder may be disclosed by that
party to any sub-contractor properly appointed in accordance with this Agreement
and approved by Solpower, provided that the disclosing party procures that such
disclosure is limited to such officers or employees of the sub-contractor as
cannot properly fulfill their duties to the subcontractor without such
disclosure and to undertake in writing to keep such information confidential by
executing a NonDisclosure Agreement in substantially similar form as set out in
Appendix G of to the License Agreement.
17. DISPUTE DETERMINATION
17.1 Chief Executives to Consult
In the event that the Joint Venturers are in dispute regarding any matter
relating to the Corporation, the Joint Venture or otherwise arising out of this
Agreement then any Joint Venturer may notice in writing to the other Joint
Venturer refer the dispute to the Chief Executive of each Joint Venturer who
shall consult with one another in good faith and use their best endeavors to
resolve such dispute to the mutual satisfaction of both Joint Venturers without
the resort to litigation or arbitration.
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17.2 Consultant
In the event that the Chief Executives cannot resolve the dispute within thirty
(30) days of referral, then any Joint Venture may give notice of particulars of
such dispute to the other Joint Venturer and require that such dispute be
resolved by a consultant acceptable to the Joint Venturers. The consultant who
has been agreed upon or appointed shall act as an expert and not as an
arbitrator and his decision (including any decision as to cost) shall be final
and binding upon the Parties.
17.3 Arbitration
If the Parties fail to reach an agreement on a consultant acceptable to both
Parties, the dispute between the Parties arising out of this Agreement shall be
submitted for arbitration.
18. REPRESENTATIONS & WARRANTIES
SOLPOWER represents and warrants to the other Joint Venturers that:
a. SOLPOWER is a duly incorporated corporation validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of Nevada, United States of America with all the
requisite power to enter into this Agreement and perform its obligations
hereunder;
this Agreement has been duly and validly authorized, executed and delivered by
SOLPOWER and constitutes SOLPOWER's legal, valid and binding obligation,
enforceable in accordance with its terms.
The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by SOLPOWER and the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby will not violate, breach,
conflict with of create adverse rights under any corporate charter, by-laws,
contract or agreement, or anything else to which SOLPOWER is a party or by which
SOLPOWER or its assets are subject.
PROTOCOL represents and warrants to the other Joint Venturers that:
PROTOCOL is a duly incorporated corporation validly existing and in good
standing under the laws Ontario, Canada with all the requisite power to enter
into this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder;
this Agreement has been duly and validly authorized, executed and delivered by
PROTOCOL and constitutes PROTOCOL's legal, valid and binding obligation,
enforceable in accordance with its terms;
the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by PROTOCOL the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby will not violate, breach,
conflict with or create adverse rights under any corporate charter, by-laws,
contract or agreement, or anything else to which PROTOCOL is a party or by which
PROTOCOL or its assets are subject.
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19. NOTICES
Unless and until the Joint Venturer provides a different address or facsimile
number by notice in writing to the other Joint Venturers to this Agreement, its
address will be known as:
If it is SOLPOWER:
Attention: Mr. James H. Hirst
Address: 7309 E. Stetson Drive, #102, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA 85251
Fax: 602-947-6324
If it is PROTOCOL:
Attention: Mr. James Flowers
Address: 330 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, Ontario, Canada L4G 3V7
Fax: 905-713-1790
Any notice given as provided by this clause shall be deemed received by the
Joint Venture to whom it is addressed when:
a. in the case of any notice delivered by hand, when so delivered;
b. if sent by pre-paid post on the third clear business day after the date of
posting;
c. in the case of any notice sent by facsimile such notice, upon the issue of
the sender of a transmission control or other like report from the dispatching
facsimile machine which shows the relevant number of pages comprised in the
notice to have been sent and the result of the transmission is "OK", PROVIDED
ALWAYS that in the case of a facsimile notice the notice shall for the purposes
of this Agreement be deemed to have been duly signed if the name of the person
or company giving the notice on behalf of the Joint Venturers is affixed by
mechanical means or device on the said notice.
20. GOVERNING LAW
This Agreement shall be construed in accordance and shall be governed by the
laws for the time being in force in Canada regardless of the laws that might
otherwise govern under the applicable principals of conflict law.
21. JURISDICTION
Each of the parties irrevocably submits to and accepts the exclusive
jurisdiction of any of the Courts of Canada.
Each of the parties irrevocably waives and agrees to waive:
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a. any immunity for the jurisdiction of any court for any legal process (whether
through service of notice, attachment prior to judgment, attachment in aid of
execution, execution or otherwise) which that Joint Venturer may have or in the
future acquire; and
any objection that the joint Venturer may now or in the future have to the
venue of any such legal process; and
the claim it may have now or in the future have that any such process has
been brought in an inconvenient forum.
22. MISCELLLANEOUS
22.1 Costs
Each of the parties hereto shall be responsible for its own costs and expenses
of and in connection with and incidental to the preparation and carrying into
effect of this Agreement and for the preparation of any document contemplated
hereunder provided that any stamp duty chargeable upon or in respect of this
Agreement or any document or instrument prepared pursuant to this Agreement or
contemplated hereunder shall be borne and paid by the Joint Venture.
22.2 Unavoidable Events
No failure or omission to carry out or observe any term of this Agreement will
give rise to a claim by any Joint Venturer against another or result in a breach
of this Agreement if such failure or omission arises by reason of delay or
inability to perform caused by war, whether declared or not, civil rebellion,
strike, fire, storm or other severe action of the elements, accident government
or statutory restriction or from similar causes which are unavoidable or beyond
reasonable control of the defaulting Joint Venturer.
22.3 Further Acts
Each of the parties will without further consideration sign, execute and deliver
any document and shall perform any other act which may be necessary or desirable
to give full effect to this Agreement.
22.4 Entire Understanding
Other than the Non-Disclosure Agreement previously executed and notwithstanding
this Agreement is still effective, this Agreement supersedes all prior
representations, arrangements, understandings and agreements between the parties
relating to the subject matter of this Agreement and sets forth the entire and
exclusive agreement and understanding between the parties relating to the
subject matter of this Agreement.
22.5 Successors & Assigns
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This Agreement shall ensure to the benefit of and be binding upon each of the
parties and their respective successors and authorized assigns.
22.6 No Waiver or Variation
A provision of or a right created under this Agreement may not be waived or
varied except in writing signed by the party or parties to be bound by the
waiver or variation.
22.7 Partial Exercise of Rights
No single or partial exercise by any party of any right, power or remedy under
this Agreement shall preclude any other or further exercise of that or any other
right, power or remedy.
22.8 No Exclusion of Rights
The rights, powers, or remedies provided in this Agreement are cumulative with
and not exclusive of any rights powers or remedies provided independently of
this Agreement.
22.9 Severance
If any provision of this Agreement is judged invalid or unenforceable for any
reason whatsoever by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or
unenforceability (unless deletion of such provision would materially adversely
affect one of the parties) will not affect the operation or interpretation of
any other provision of this Agreement to the intent that the invalid or
unenforceable provision will be treated as severed from this Agreement.
22. 10 Application of Legislation
Unless application is mandatory by law, no legislation, proclamation, order,
regulation or moratorium whether present or future shall apply to the Agreement
so as to extinguish, impair, delay or otherwise alter the right, powers or
remedies of any of the parties.
22.11 Counterparts
This Agreement may consist of a number of counterparts, each of which when
executed shall be an original and all counterparts together shall constitute one
and the same instrument.
22.12 Provisions Survive Completion
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Each provision of this Agreement is capable of having effect after completion
and each representation and warranty made in this Agreement shall survive the
execution, delivery and completion of this Agreement and the performance of all
obligations under this Agreement and shall not merge on completion.
22.13 Indemnity
Each indemnity under this Agreement is a continuing indemnity and shall
constitute a separate and independent obligation of the party giving the
indemnity from its other obligations under this Agreement and shall survive the
execution, delivery, completion and termination of this Agreement.
22.14 Powers of Attorney
In the event that this Agreement is executed under power of attorney, each of
the Attorneys executing this Agreement hereby warrant that he has at the time of
executing this Agreement no notice of revocation of the power of attorney under
the authority of which he executes this Agreement.
22.15 Recitals
The parties acknowledge that the recitals are true and correct and shall form
part of this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto or their duly authorized representative
have executed this Agreement the day and year first hereinbefore written.
THE COMMON SEAL of SOLPOWER CORPORATION was hereunto affixed in accordance with
its Articles of Association in the presence of:
Per: /s/ JAMES H. HIRST
---------------------------------
Its: President and CEO
THE COMMON SEAL of PROTOCOL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT INC, was hereunto affixed in
accordance with its Articles of Association in the presence of
Per: /s/ James W. Flowers
---------------------------------
Its: President and CEO
APPENDIX A
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
APPENDIX B
SHAREHOLDERS AGREEMENT
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APPENDIX C
LICENSE AGREEMENT
APPENDIX D
MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
APPENDIX E
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTED BY PROTOCOL
ITEM ASSIGNED VALUE
---- --------------
APPENDIX F
ROYALTY AGREEMENT
APPENDIX G
NONDISCLOSURE AGREEMENT
16
EXHIBIT 10.19
HEADS OF AGREEMENT
This 7th day of June, 1999, Solpower Corporation, a Nevada corporation
("Solpower"), has agreed to acquire the assets and liabilities of Solpower
Australia Pty Ltd., an Australian corporation ("AUS"), under the terms and
conditions stated in this Heads of Agreement (the "Agreement"). Until, if and
when the parties execute additional and/or superseding documents specifically
referencing this Agreement, the Parties herein shall proceed in good faith
according to the purpose and intent as stated herein:
1. Solpower and AUS shall agree upon an opening balance sheet and an interim
financial statement for AUS, which shall form the basis of the
representations by AUS and rationale for the acquisition of the assets and
liabilities of AUS by Solpower. The purchase specifically excludes the
acquisition or assumption by Solpower of any otherwise undisclosed AUS
liabilities.
2. AUS shall continue and operate as a separate division of Solpower.
3. The assets and liabilities of AUS shall be substantially be the same as
those contained in the interim financial statements of attached hereto as
Appendix A.
4. Solpower, or a designated agent, shall be entitled to conduct such due
diligence, and obtain a Fairness Opinion, as in its sole discretion deems
necessary to verify the accuracy and adequacy of all the financial
information and materials provided Solpower by AUS. In the event of an
audit of the financial statements is necessary, the costs shall be shared
equally by Solpower and AUS.
5. In consideration for the acquisition of AUS, Solpower shall issue to the
stockholders of AUS up to four million (4,000,000) common shares of
Solpower or such lesser amount of common shares of Solpower as agreed upon
between the Parties, but not less than three million (3,000,000) common
shares of Solpower.
6. Solpower will provide the necessary business and marketing development
funds upon a business plan and funding schedule approved in advance by
Solpower and AUS. The business plan shall include all estimated revenues,
expenses and capital expenditures as well as provide for timely submission
of future budgets and ongoing financial reporting to Solpower. In the event
that a lesser funding amount is required to achieve the estimated revenue,
then Solpower shall only be required to contribute a corresponding lesser
amount.
7. Incentive stock options shall be granted to key personnel and management of
AUS under the terms, conditions and vesting requirements as set by the
Compensation Committee of the Solpower Corporation Stock Option and
<PAGE>
Incentive Plan. Such amount of options, terms, conditions and vesting
requirements to encompass certain financial results and operational
expectations as detailed and agreed upon thereon.
8. The officers and employees of AUS shall execute appropriate agreements
regarding non-disclosure, non-competition, inventions and confidentiality
with respect to the products and other business of Solpower and its
affiliates, the terms and conditions of which shall be substantially
similar to those contained in Appendix B.
9. AUS shall each provide evidence satisfactory to Solpower that all requisite
shareholder, board and regulatory approvals have been obtained to enter
into this Agreement and all related agreements .
10. Closing shall occur on or before twenty-one (21) business days from the
submission by AUS of the information requested by Solpower necessary to
conduct its due diligence and Fairness Opinion as contemplated in Item 4
above. In the event of any reasonable delay, the parties agree to grant the
necessary extensions to accommodate an adequate opportunity for completion
of due diligence and Fairness Opinion by and for Solpower.
11. Any amounts are expressed in US dollars and any amounts calculated in
Australian dollars for AUS for purposes of this Agreement will be converted
at the foreign exchange rate prevailing at the time of closing.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto executed this Memorandum of
Understanding/Heads of Agreement on the day and date first stated and shall
abide by its terms and conditions in good faith.
The common seal of
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
was hereto affixed by authority
of the Board of Directors in the
presence of:
/s/ James H. Hirst C/S
- -----------------------------------
President & Chief Executive Officer
The common seal of SOLPOWER
AUSTRALIA PTY LTD was hereto
affixed by authority of the Board
of Directors in the presence of:
/s/ Peter Voss C/S
- -----------------------------------
Chairman & Managing Director
2
Exhibit 11.1
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
STATEMENT RE: COMPUTATION OF PER SHARE EARNINGS
YEAR ENDED YEAR ENDED
FULLY DILUTED MARCH 31, 1999 MARCH 31, 1998
------------- ----------- -----------
Common shares outstanding,
Beginning of year 17,391,560 9,231,560
Effect of weighting shares:
Stock Options 1,309,795 3,112,329
Issuance of Common Stock 6,065,000 8,160,000
Weighted average number of Common Shares and
Common Share equivalents outstanding 22,146,765 14,279,231
=========== ===========
Net Income (Loss) available for Common Stock ($2,239,646) ($823,158)
=========== ===========
Loss per Common and Common Equivalent Share ($0.10) ($.06)
=========== ===========
EXHIBIT 21.1
SOLPOWER CORPORATION
SUBSIDIARIES
NAME JURISDICTION OF INCORPORATION OWNERSHIP
---- ----------------------------- ---------
Solpower Canada, Inc. Ontario, Canada 50%
Exhibit 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
As independent certified public accountants, we hereby consent to the inclusion
of our report dated July 30, 1999, on the financial statements of Solpower
Corporation for the year ended March 31, 1999, in the Company's Form 10-KSB for
the year then ended.
/s/ Semple & Cooper LLP
Phoenix, Arizona
September 24, 1999
Exhibit 23.2
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
As independent auditors, we hereby consent to the inclusion in this Form 10-KSB,
and any amendments thereto, our reports relating to the consolidated financial
statements of Solpower Corporation, for the year ended March 31, 1998. We also
consent to the reference to this firm under the heading "Experts" in this
statement.
/s/ Clancy and Co. P.L.L.C.
----------------------------------------
CLANCY & CO., P.L.L.C.
Certified Public Accountants
September 24, 1999
EXHIBIT 99.1
ASSIGNMENT, SETTLEMENT AND RELEASE
THIS AGREEMENT, is effective as of May 14, 1999 by and between SOLPOWER
CORPORATION, a Nevada corporation ("Licensor"), and MASTERS MARKETING GROUP,
INC., an Ohio corporation ("Licensee").
RECITALS
A. WHEREAS Licensor granted to Licensee certain rights in and to the products of
Licensor pursuant to a Master License Agreement (the "License") effective as of
February 6, 1998, a copy of which is attached hereto as Appendix A.
B. WHEREAS Licensor is prepared to accept an assignment of the License from
Licensor, settle all outstanding accounts between Licensor and Licensee and
grant a Release to Licensee.
C. WHEREAS Licensee desires to assign the License to Licensor, settle all
outstanding accounts between Licensor and Licensee and grant a Release to
Licensor.
NOW THEREFORE THIS AGREEMENT WITNESSETH that in consideration of the mutual
covenants and agreements herein contained and other good and valuable
consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are h6reby acknowledged by
each of the parties hereto, the parties hereto covenant and agree each with the
other as f6l1ows:
1) Licensee herein assigns to Licensor all right title and interest in the
Master License Agreement, attached hereto as Appendix A.
2) Licensor agrees to repay Licensee the license fee deposit in the amount of
One Hundred and Twenty Thousand ($120,000) dollars. Payment to be made in
twenty-four (24) equal monthly payments of Five Thousand ($5,000) dollars,
commencing on June 1, 1999, and ending on May 1, 2001.
3) Licensor agrees to pay Licensee the sum of Twenty Six Thousand Two Hundred
and Seventy One ($26,271) dollars, in full settlement of all amounts owning
to Licensee by Licensor pursuant to the Soltron Launch Plan and for the
purchase of furniture and equipment. Payment to be made by Licensor in the
form of Fifteen Thousand (15,000) common shares of Licensor.
4) Licensor agrees to cancellation of the Promissory Note, attached hereto as
Appendix B, given by Licensee to Licensor and dated February 6, 1998, in
the amount of One Million and Eighty Thousand 1,080,000) dollars, including
the current amount due, as of May 20,1999, of Three Hundred and Seventy
Five Thousand ($375,000) dollars, and the balance of Seven Hundred and Five
Thousand ($705,000) dollars due on or before February 6, 2000.
<PAGE>
5) Licensor agrees to release and discharge Licensee and Licensee agrees to
release and discharge Licensor, their respective heirs, executors,
administrators, successors and assigns from any and all actions causes of
action, suits, charges and obligations, debts, dues, sums of money,
accounts, reckonings, bonds, bills, specialties, covenants, contracts,
controversies, agreements, promises, variances, trespasses, damages,
iudgements, extents, executions, claims and demands whatsoever, in law,
admiralty or equity, which against Licensee and Licensor their respective
heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns ever had, now have
or hereafter can, shall or may have for, upon or by reason of any matter,
cause or thing whatsoever from the beginning of time to the date of this
Release, and more specifically the Master License Agreement granted by
Licensor to Licensee effective as of February 6, 1998.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to be executed
effective the date and year first above written.
SOLPOWER CORPORATION, MASTERS MARKETING GROUP, INC.,
a Nevada corporation. an Ohio corporation.
By: /s/ James H. Hirst By: /s/ Roger Banaszak
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
Its: President and CEO Its: President and Treasurer
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
"Licensor" "Licensee"
2
EXHIBIT 99.2
ASSIGNMENT, SETTLEMENT AND RELEASE
THIS AGREEMENT is effective as of September 1, 1999, by and between SOLPOWER
CORPORATION, a Nevada corporation ("Lessee"), and D.I. SOUTH, INC., an Indiana
corporation ("Lessor").
RECITALS
A. WHERFAS Lessor granted to Lessee certain rights in and to the premises of
Lessee pursuant to a Commercial Lease (the "Lease") effective as of June 1,
1998, for the premises located at the premises located at 52853 C.R. 7, Elkhart,
Indiana, a copy of which is attached hereto as Appendix A.
B. WHEREAS Lessor is prepared to accept a cancellation of the Lease from and
settle all outstanding accounts between Lessor and Lessee and grant a Release to
Lessor.
NOW THEREFORE THIS AGREEMENT WITNESSETH that in consideration of the mutual
covenants and agreements herein contained and other good and valuable
consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by
each of the parties hereto, the parties hereto covenants and agree each with the
other as follows:
1) Lessee agrees to pay Lessor the sum of Thirty Thousand ($30,000) dollars,
in full settlement of all rents and amounts owning pursuant to the
commercial lease dated June 1, 1998, between Lessor by Lessee pursuant to
the Lease. Payment to be made by Lessee in the form of Twenty Thousand
(20,000) common shares of Lessee.
2) Lessee agrees to release and discharge Lessor and Lessor agrees to release
and discharge Lessee, their respective heirs, executors, administrators,
successors and assigns from any and all actions causes of action, suits,
charges and obligations, debts, dues, sums of money, accounts, reckonings,
bonds, bills, specialties, covenants, contracts, controversies, agreements,
promises, variances, trespasses, damages, judgements, extents, executions,
claims and demands whatsoever, in law, admiralty or equity, which against
Lessor and Lessee their respective heirs, executors, administrators,
successors and assigns ever had, now have or hereafter can, shall or may
have for, upon or by reason of any matter, cause or thing whatsoever from
the beginning of time to the date of this Release, and more specifically
the Lease.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to be executed
effective the date and year first above written.
SOLPOWER CORPORATION, D.I. SOUTH, INC.
a Nevada corporation. an Indiana corporation.
By: /s/ James H. Hirst By: /s/ Tony Iemma
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
Its: President and CEO Its: President
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
"Licensor" "Lessor"
EXHIBIT 99.3
ASSIGNMENT, SETTLEMENT AND RELEASE
THIS AGREEMENT, is effective as of September 7, 1999, by and between SOLPOWER
CORPORATION, a Nevada corporation ("Licensor"), and SOLPOWER SOUTHEAST
CORPORATION, a Nevada corporation ("Licensee").
RECITALS
A. WHEREAS Licensor granted to Licensee certain rights in and to the products of
Licensor pursuant to a Master License Agreement (the "License' effective as of
March 18, 1998, a copy of which is attached hereto as Appendix A.
B. WHEREAS Licensor is prepared to accept an assignment of the License from
Licensor, settle all outstanding accounts between Licensor and Licensee and
grant a Release to Licensee.
C. WHEREAS Licensee desires to assign the License to Licensor, settle all
outstanding accounts between Licensor and Licensee and grant a Release to
Licensor.
NOW THEREFORE THIS AGREEMENT WITNESSETH that in consideration of the mutual
covenants and agreements herein contained and other good and valuable
consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by
each of the parties hereto, the parties hereto covenant and agree each with the
other as follows:
1) Licensee -herein assigns to Licensor all right title and interest in the
Master License Agreement, attached hereto as Appendix A, in consideration
of Licensor issuing Twenty Thousand (20,000) shares in the capital stock of
Licensor.
2) Licensor agrees to repay Licensee the license fee deposit in the amount of
One Hundred and Twenty Thousand ($120,000) dollars. Payment to be made on
or before October 30, 1999.
3) Licensor agrees to cancellation of the Promissory Note, attached hereto as
Appendix B, given by Licensee to Licensor and dated March 18, 1998, in the
amount of One Million and Eighty Thousand ($1,080,000) dollars, including
the current amount due, as of July 28, 1999, of Four Hundred and Fifty
Thousand ($450,000) dollars, and the balance of Six Hundred and Thirty
Thousand ($630,000) dollars due on or before October 28, 2001.
4) Licensor agrees to release and discharge Licensee and Licensee agrees to
release and discharge Licensor, their respective heirs, executors,
administrators, successors and assigns from any and all actions causes of
action, suits, charges and obligations, debts, dues, sums of money,
accounts, reckonings, bonds, bills, specialties, covenants, contracts,
controversies, agreements, promises, variances, trespasses, damages,
<PAGE>
judgements, extents, executions, claims and demands whatsoever, in law,
admiralty or equity, which against Licensee and Licensor their respective
heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns ever had, now have
or hereafter can, shall or may have for, upon or by reason of any matter,
cause or thing whatsoever from the be inning of time to the date of this
Release, and more specifically the Master License Agreement granted by
Licensor to Licensee effective as of March 18,1998.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to be executed
effective the date and year first above written.
SOLPOWER CORPORATION, SOLPOWER SOUTHEAST CORPORATION
a Nevada corporation. an Indiana corporation.
By: /s/ James H. Hirst By: /s/ Victor Lobue
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
Its: President and CEO Its: Director
-------------------------------- --------------------------------
"Licensor" "Licensee"
2
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<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> MAR-31-1999 MAR-31-1998
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