LIQUI BOX CORP
10-K, 1997-03-28
PLASTICS PRODUCTS, NEC
Previous: CENTRAL RESERVE LIFE CORP, 10-K, 1997-03-28
Next: TEXTRON INC, 8-K, 1997-03-28



<PAGE>   1
                                    FORM 10-K

                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

(MARK ONE)
[X]  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
     ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)

For the fiscal year (fifty-two weeks) ended December 28, 1996.

                                       OR

[ ]  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
     EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)

For the transition period from            N/A   to   N/A               .
                               -----------------------------------------

                          Commission File Number 0-8514
                                                 ------

                              LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION
                              ---------------------
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

                     OHIO                              31-0628033
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(State or other jurisdiction of             (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)

6950 Worthington-Galena Road, Worthington, Ohio              43085    
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices)                   (Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code    (614) 888-9280
                                                    ----------------------------
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:  NONE
                                                            -------

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

    Common Shares, No Par Value (5,814,398 outstanding at February 25, 1997)
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                (Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant: (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No
                                             ---  ---
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not 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-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. [ ]

Based upon the closing price reported on the NASDAQ National Market System on
February 25, 1996, the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by
non-affiliates of the Registrant was $119,336,000.

Documents Incorporated by Reference:

     (1) Portions of the Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for the
     fiscal year ended December 28, 1996 are incorporated by reference into
     Parts I and II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

     (2) Portions of the Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement for its Annual
     Meeting of Shareholders to be held on April 23, 1997 are incorporated by
     reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

                            Exhibit Index on Page
                                      
                                  Page 1 of
                                      
                                    PART I
<PAGE>   2
Item 1. Business:

GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF BUSINESS - Liqui-Box Corporation and its subsidiaries
("Liqui-Box" or the "Company") is one of the largest companies in the world
specializing in the research, development and manufacture of bag-in-box flexible
liquid packaging systems. The Company was incorporated in January, 1962 in the
state of Ohio. Its principal offices are located at 6950 Worthington-Galena
Road, Worthington, Ohio.

Liqui-Box is a major producer of bag-in-box flexible packaging and related
filling equipment systems for the beverage, processed foods, dairy, detergent,
wine and other specialty products industries. The Company is also the leading
supplier of containers and dispensing systems to the bottled water industry.

The Company and its subsidiaries operate 11 manufacturing plants in the United
States and Europe. Through licensees, agents and direct exporters, Liqui-Box
serves markets in many countries worldwide.

DESCRIPTION OF PRINCIPAL PRODUCTS - The principal product of the Company is
plastic packaging. Such packaging includes specialty plastic bags and plastic
blow molded containers; injection molded plastic products used in liquid
packaging and a variety of industrial and commercial plastic packaging films. In
addition, the Company manufactures equipment for filling such packaging products
(less than 2% of total net sales). These products are marketed nationwide
primarily to the edible products industries principally through a direct sales
force. These products are also marketed internationally through a direct sales
force, licensees, agents and the Company's own export operations.

In 1996, the Company maintained its position in its principal markets of
beverage, processed foods and specialty industrial products. In addition, the
two premium drinking water products under the Alaskan Falls label, introduced in
1991, showed improvement in sales and continue to be introduced onto retail
shelves in selected Midwestern states

COMPETITION - The plastic packaging market is large and highly fragmented. There
are numerous competitors and the major markets in which the Company sells its
products are very competitive. These products are in competition with similar
products produced by other manufacturers, and in some instances, with products
produced by other industries from other raw materials.

The plastic packaging industry is, therefore, highly price competitive. A
substantial number of manufacturers compete in the national and international
markets. None are considered to be dominant. According to information in the
public domain, Liqui-Box supplies less than one percent of the total plastic
packaging market in the United States.

While Liqui-Box's product and customer mix is generally diverse, The Perrier
Group of America constitutes a buying group of customers that is a material part
of the Company's business to the extent that loss of this buying group, with
which the Company has a good relationship, would have a material effect on the
Company's business. The risk associated with such a potential loss is mitigated
by an exclusive 10 year supply agreement between the Company and The Perrier
Group of America. Sales to this customer constituted 18%, 17% and 15% of total
sales in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT - Liqui-Box emphasizes applied research and development
as a vital aspect of meeting the needs of its customers for plastic packaging.
Thus, the Company's research activities focus on the development of new plastic
packaging products and packaging systems to increase quality, improve production
efficiency and/or reduce costs to its customers and to the ultimate consumer.
The Company also devotes significant efforts to the research, development and
improvement of plastic packaging machinery and equipment for use by its
customers and in its own production operations.

                                        2


<PAGE>   3


R & D expenditures in 1996, 1995 and 1994 were $1,856,000, $1,265,000 and
$2,151,000, respectively. All such activities were entirely Company-funded from
operations. It should also be noted that the funding levels only represent costs
directly charged to research and development. The amounts do not represent the
commitment and work of all employees of Liqui-Box to improving existing products
and processes and to developing new products and processes. Many employees who
are not part of the research and development organization of the Company spend
part of their efforts on developing new products and processes.

Information on research and development can also be found on Pages    and
[Management's Discussion and Analysis] and on Page   [Note 1, Accounting 
Policies, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements] of the 1996 
Annual Report and is incorporated herein by reference.

PATENTS AND LICENSES - Liqui-Box holds and maintains patents for packaging
design, fitments and packaging equipment which are used by the Company in its
production and which are also licensed to other manufacturers. Revenues from
royalties from these patents and licenses are not material to the total revenues
of the Company.

ENVIRONMENT - Consumer recognition of environmental friendliness of liquid
plastic packaging systems is growing. Compared to a conventional 5-gallon
plastic pail, the 5-gallon plastic bag-in-box reduces total plastic use by 90
percent. An empty, collapsed 5-gallon bag requires a small fraction of the
disposal space of a comparable number of No. 10 cans, five wide-mouth one gallon
jars or one 5-gallon pail occupy. The corrugated box used to transport and store
packaged liquids is completely recyclable. Liqui-Box utilizes proper recycling
codes on all of its products for quick identification in community recycling
programs.

The bag-in-box design is increasingly seen as a major part of the solution to
the problem of environmental waste, storage and disposal. In addition, Liqui-Box
is asking its suppliers to experiment in the use of reprocessed material in the
products furnished to the Company and several promising applications are being
actively explored. The Company has also committed to zero scrap in the waste
stream of its plant operations through sorting and recycling for use in shipping
bags and other non food applications. This commitment represents the elimination
of more than one million pounds of waste annually.

As a major player in the solution of societal environmental problems, the
Company supports such conscientiousness and is not aware of any federal, state
or local statutory or regulatory provisions concerning environmental protection
or the discharge of materials into the environment that will have any material
effect on the capital expenditures, sales, earnings or competitive position of
the Company in the future.

RAW MATERIALS - The primary raw material essential to the Company's business is
plastic resin. There are a number of suppliers for this material and the market
is highly competitive. The Company is confident that its sources of supply of
resin are adequate for its needs in the foreseeable future.

SEASONALITY OF BUSINESS - The demand for some applications of certain plastic
packaging products is seasonal in nature. A mild summer, for example, can reduce
the Company's sales to the beverage industry. However, experience over the years
has shown that these variations generally offset each other and tend to level
the total demand for the Company's products throughout the year. As a result,
the Company usually experiences only minor variations in sales volume
attributable to seasonal demands.

BACKLOG OF ORDERS - Sales of the Company's packaging products generally are
closely coordinated with the product production of its customers. Typically,
orders are filled within 30 days. Therefore, the backlog of orders is not
significant.

EMPLOYEES - Liqui-Box employed 730 individuals in its operations throughout the
United States and in Europe on December 28, 1996. Approximately 2% of these
employees are members of collective bargaining units. The Company considers
itself an industry leader in participative management of its human resources,
placing a premium value on innovation, creativity and attentiveness to solving
customers' problems in packaging. Accordingly, the Company believes its
relations with its employee group to be an asset.

                                        3
<PAGE>   4

FOREIGN OPERATIONS AND SALES - The Company's European operations constituted 12%
of consolidated net sales, less than 10% of consolidated income before taxes and
22% of consolidated identifiable assets as of and for the year ended December
28, 1996. European operations constituted 13% of net sales, less than 10% of
consolidated income before taxes and 24% of identifiable assets as of and for
the year ended December 30, 1995. Further information can be found on page 
[Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements] of the 1996 Annual 
Report and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 2. Properties:

At December 28, 1996, the Company owned or leased property at eighteen (18)
locations for manufacturing, warehousing, and offices with a total of
approximately 659,000 square feet of floor space. The following table summarizes
the properties owned or leased.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                             Approximate              Owned              Expiration
                                             Floor Space               or                  Date of
Use and Location:                             (Sq. Ft.)              Leased                 Lease
- - -----------------                            -----------             ------              ----------
<S>                                            <C>                   <C>                 <C>
 Executive offices, research and 
        manufacturing:
        Worthington, Ohio                      63,000                 Owned                 N/A
 Manufacturing:
        Ashland, Ohio                          26,000                Leased          Less than 1 year
        Ashland, Ohio                          22,000                 Owned                 N/A
        Houston, Texas                         33,000                Leased                1999
        Elk Grove, California                  36,000                Leased                1997
        Elkton, Maryland                       40,000                Leased                2015
        Auburn, Massachusetts                  30,000                Leased                1998
        New Albany, Indiana                    61,000                 Owned                 N/A
        Ontario, California                    61,000                Leased                2003
        Upper Sandusky, Ohio                   40,000                Leased                2001
        Lake Wales, Florida                     8,000                 Owned                 N/A
        Lake Wales, Florida                     4,000                 Owned                 N/A
        Sacramento, California                 74,000                Leased                2002
        Sacramento, California                 24,000                Leased          Less than 1 year
        Allentown, Pennsylvania                40,000                Leased                2006
        Romiley, England                       53,000                Leased                2006
        Romiley, England                       12,000                Leased                2006

 Warehouse and other:
        Columbus, Ohio (storage)               32,000                 Owned                 N/A
</TABLE>

The Company believes that its properties, plant, and equipment are all in good
operating condition and are adequate for its expected needs. Certain of the
leases contain renewal options which the Company expects to exercise to maintain
its operations at the facilities.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings:

See page     [Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements] of the
1996 Annual Report and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders:

                  Not applicable

                                        4


<PAGE>   5

Executive Officers of the Registrant:
- - -------------------------------------

The names, ages, and positions of all of the executive officers of Liqui-Box, as
of February 25, 1997, are listed below along with their business experience
during the past five years. Executive officers are appointed annually by the
Board of Directors at the annual meeting of directors immediately following the
annual meeting of shareholders. There are no arrangements or understandings
between any executive officer and any other person pursuant to which the
executive officer was selected.

       Name                        Age                    Title
       --------------------------------------------------------

       Samuel B. Davis (1)         55           Chairman of the Board, Chief
                                                Executive Officer, President,
                                                Treasurer and Director

       Robert S. Hamilton (2)      68           Vice Chairman of the Board and 
                                                Director

       Peter J. Linn (3)           55           Secretary and Director

       C. William McBee (4)        54           Vice President, Manufacturing 
                                                and Director

       Samuel N. Davis (5)         32           Vice President, Development

       Joseph F. Pranckus (6)      36           Vice President, Sales

(1)  Samuel B. Davis has been Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and
     Treasurer since August, 1982. Mr. Davis became President in September, 1991
     upon the retirement of Robert S. Hamilton.

(2)  Robert S. Hamilton has been Vice Chairman of the Board since July, 1989.
     Mr. Hamilton was President and Chief Operating Officer from April, 1984 to
     September, 1991 with a period of retirement from January, 1990 to May, 1990
     and another period of retirement from September, 1991 until May, 1995.

(3)  Peter J. Linn has been Secretary since April 1990. Mr. Linn was Senior Vice
     President from February, 1994 until April 1995. From January, 1983 to
     February, 1994, he held the position of Executive Vice President.

(4)  C. William McBee became a director in April, 1995. Mr. McBee became Vice
     President, Manufacturing in October, 1994. From February, 1994 to October,
     1995, Mr. McBee was Vice President of Administration. Prior to February,
     1994, Mr. McBee was a General Manager for Stone Container Corporation,
     Columbus, Indiana, a manufacturer of corrugated cardboard containers.

(5)  Samuel N. Davis became Vice President, Development and an executive officer
     in April, 1996. From September, 1995 until April, 1996 Mr. Davis held the
     position of Special Projects Coordinator. From January, 1993 through
     August, 1995, Mr. Davis was a manager of Zacchaeus Clothiers, Columbus,
     Ohio, a clothing retailer. Prior to January, 1993, Mr. Davis held various
     offices with Liqui-Box.

(6)  Joseph F. Pranckus became Vice President, Sales and an executive officer in
     October, 1996. Mr. Pranckus held the position of National Sales Manager
     from March, 1996 until October, 1996. Prior to March, 1996, Mr. Pranckus
     held various sales management positions with Liqui-Box.

                                        5
<PAGE>   6

                                     PART II

                                                                      Pages
                                                                      -----
The following items are incorporated
herein by reference from the indicated
pages of the 1996 Annual Report:

Item 5.   Market for Registrant's Common Equity
          and Related Stockholder Matters                              3

Item 6.   Selected Financial Data                                      3

Item 7.   Management's Discussion and Analysis
          of Financial Condition and Results of Operation            14-15

Item 8.   Financial Statements and Supplementary Data                16-30

Item 9.   Changes in and Disagreements with
          Accountants on Accounting and Financial
          Disclosure                                       No response required

                                    PART III

The following items are incorporated herein by
reference from the indicated pages of the
Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for its
1997 Annual Meeting filed pursuant to Regulation
14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.



Item 10.  Directors and Executive Officers of                        3 - 4
          the Registrant 
          In addition, certain information 
          concerning the executive officers of 
          the Registrant called for in this Item 10 
          is set forth in the portion of Part I of 
          this Annual Report on Form 10-K, entitled 
          "Executive Officers of the Registrant".

                   

Item 11.  Executive Compensation                                     7 - 11
          Neither the Report of the Board of 
          Directors and Stock Option Committee 
          on executive compensation, nor the 
          performance graph included in the 
          Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement 
          for its 1997 Annual Meeting, are 
          incorporated herein by reference. 

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain                            2 - 3
          Beneficial Owners and Management

                    

Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions         4 and 11



                                        6


<PAGE>   7


                                     PART IV

Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K:

(a)(1)   The following consolidated financial statements of Liqui-Box
         Corporation and Subsidiaries, included in the Registrant's 1996 Annual
         Report, are incorporated by reference in Item 8 and filed as Exhibit 13
         to this report. The page numbers indicate the location of the
         consolidated financial statements in the Registrant's 1996 Annual
         Report.

              Consolidated Balance Sheets
              --December 28, 1996 and December 30, 1995           16-17


              Consolidated Statements of Income
              --Fifty-two weeks ended December 28, 1996,
                Fifty-two weeks ended December 30, 1995 and
                Fifty-two weeks ended December 31, 1994             18

              Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
              --Fifty-two weeks ended December 28, 1996,
                Fifty-two weeks ended December 30, 1995 and
                Fifty-two weeks ended December 31, 1994             19

              Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
              --Fifty-two weeks ended December 28, 1996,
                Fifty-two weeks ended December 30, 1995 and
                Fifty-two weeks ended December 31, 1994            20-21

              Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements           22-29

              Report of Independent Auditors                        30

         Report of Independent Auditors.  The page number 
         indicates the location in this Form 10-K             52

(a)(2)    The following consolidated financial statement schedules of Liqui-Box
          Corporation and Subsidiaries are included in Item 14(d). The page
          number indicates the location in this Form 10-K.

              II -  Valuation and Qualifying Accounts               9


Schedules other than those listed above are omitted because they are not
required or are not applicable.

                                        7


<PAGE>   8

Item 14. (continued)

(a)(3)   Listing of Exhibits - The following exhibits are included in Item
         14(c). The page number indicates the location of the exhibit in this
         Form 10-K.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit No.                         Description                                                        Pages
- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   10A-B                            EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION PLANS AND ARRANGEMENTS
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   <S>            <C>                                                                                             <C>           
   10A            1990 Liqui-Box Stock Option Plan is incorporated by reference to the Registrant's
                  Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter ended June 30, 1990 filed with the Securities
                  and Exchange Commission ( Exhibit 19(a)) (File number 0-8514).                                   N/A

   10B            Summary of Profit Participation Program is incorporated by reference to the
                  Registrant's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 1993 filed with the
                  Securities and Exchange Commission (Exhibit 10E) (File number 0-8514).                           N/A

   11             Computation of Per Share Earnings                                                       54

   13             Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended December 28, 1996                        11-51

   21             Subsidiaries of the Registrant                                                                   70

   23A            Independent Auditors Consent and Report on Schedule (Deloitte & Touche LLP)                      71

   23B            Consent of Independent Auditors (Ernst & Young LLP)                                              72

   24             Powers of Attorney                                                                               73-79

   27             Financial Data Schedule                                                                          80


(b)      No report on Form 8-K was filed during the fourteen weeks ended December 28, 1996.                        N/A

(c)      Exhibits filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K are attached hereto.
         See Index to Exhibits at page 53.

(d)      Financial Statement Schedules -- See Item 14.(a)(2)


</TABLE>
                                        8


<PAGE>   9
                                      9

                 SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
                (amounts rounded to the nearest thousand dollars)

                     LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

            Column A                       Column B                  Column C                    Column D              Column E

                                                                    Additions
                                                       -----------------------------------
                                        Balance at       Charged to           Charged                                 Balance at
                                        Beginning         Costs and           to Other                                  End of
           Description                  of Period          Expenses           Accounts         Deductions (1)           Period
- - ----------------------------------   ----------------  ----------------   ----------------  -------------------    ---------------
<S>                                     <C>             <C>               <C>               <C>                       <C>       
Reserves deducted from assets:

Fifty-two weeks ended
December 28, 1996:
  Allowance for
      doubtful accounts                 $  679,000      $    747,000                        $   (684,000)             $  742,000
                                                                                                                                
Fifty-two weeks ended                                                                                                           
December 30, 1995:                                                                                                              
  Allowance for                                                                                                                 
      doubtful accounts                 $  594,000      $    723,000                        $   (638,000)             $  679,000
                                                                                                                                
Fifty-two weeks ended                                                                                                           
December 31, 1994:                                                                                                              
  Allowance for                                                                                                                 
      doubtful accounts                 $  635,000      $    580,000                        $   (621,000)             $  594,000

</TABLE>
                                                                              
(1) Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.                   
                                                                        

<PAGE>   10

                                   SIGNATURES

   Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                                 LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION

     Date:        3/21/97                      By:  *  Samuel B. Davis
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                       Samuel B. Davis
                                                 Chairman of the Board, Chief 
                                                 Executive Officer, President, 
                                                   Treasurer and Director

   Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

                                                                              
      Date:     3/21/96                     By:  *  Samuel B. Davis
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                       Samuel B. Davis
                                                 Chairman of the Board, Chief 
                                                 Executive Officer, President, 
                                                 Treasurer and Director
                                                (Principal Executive and 
                                                   Financial Officer)

                                                                                
      Date:     3/25/97                     By:  *  Jeanette A. Davis
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                  Jeanette A. Davis
                                                  Director

                                                                               
      Date:     3/19/97                     By:  *  Robert S. Hamilton
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                  Robert S. Hamilton
                                                  Vice Chairman and Director


      Date:     3/21/97                     By:  * Peter J. Linn
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                  Peter J. Linn
                                                  Secretary and Director

                                                                              
      Date:     3/20/97                     By:  * C. William McBee
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                  C. William McBee
                                                  Director

                                                                             
      Date:     3/21/97                     By:  *  Carl J. Aschinger, Jr.
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                 Carl J. Aschinger, Jr.
                                                 Director

                                                                               
      Date:     3/25/97                     By:  *  Russell M. Gertmenian
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                 Russell M. Gertmenian
                                                 Director

                                                                            
      Date:     3/19/97                     By:  *  James B. Holloway
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                 James B. Holloway
                                                 Controller

         -----------------------

                                                                      

Date:           3/27/97                    *By:  /S/ C. William McBee
           -----------------------               ---------------------------
                                                 C. William McBee
                                                 Attorney in Fact

                                       10


<PAGE>   11




                                Index to Exhibits

          Listing of Exhibits - The following exhibits are included in Item
          14(c). The page number indicates the location of the exhibit in this
          Form 10-K.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Exhibit No.                                    Description                                                       Pages
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>               <C>                                                                              
   10A            1990 Liqui-Box Stock Option Plan is incorporated by reference to the Registrant's
                  Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter ended June 30, 1990 filed with the Securities
                  and Exchange Commission ( Exhibit 19(a)) (File number 0-8514).                                   N/A

   10B            Summary of Profit Participation Program is incorporated by reference to the
                  Registrant's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 1993 filed with the
                  Securities and Exchange Commission (Exhibit 10E) (File number 0-8514).                           N/A

   11             Computation of Per Share Earnings                                                                54

   13             Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended December 28, 1996                        11-51

   21             Subsidiaries of the Registrant                                                                   70

   23A            Independent Auditors Consent and Report on Schedule (Deloitte & Touche LLP)                      71

   23B            Consent of Independent Auditors (Ernst & Young LLP)                                              72

   24             Powers of Attorney                                                                               73-79

   27             Financial Data Schedule                                                                          80



</TABLE>







<PAGE>   1
Exhibit (11)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                           COMPUTATION OF PER SHARE EARNINGS
                                             LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION

                                                   Fifty-two              Fifty-two             Fifty-two
                                                  Weeks Ended            Weeks Ended           Weeks Ended
                                               December 27, 1992      December 29, 1991     December 30, 1990
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                           <C>                    <C>                    <C>      
Primary:

Weighted average number of                       
  common shares outstanding                         5,959,962              6,223,395              6,327,969

Net effect of dilutive stock options--
  based on treasury stock method
  using average market price                          167,612                173,917                146,659
                                                  -----------            -----------            -----------


Weighted average common and
  common equivalent shares                          6,127,574              6,397,312              6,474,628
                                                  ===========            ===========            ===========


Net Income                                        $14,519,000            $12,085,000            $13,327,000

Earnings per common and
  common equivalent share                         $      2.37            $      1.89            $      2.06
                                                  ===========            ===========            ===========

Fully Diluted:

Weighted average number of
  common shares outstanding                         5,959,962              6,223,395              6,327,969

Net effect of dilutive stock options--
  based on treasury stock method
  using the year-end market price,
  if higher than average market price                 175,776                173,917                146,659
                                                  -----------            -----------            -----------


Fully diluted shares                                6,135,738              6,397,312              6,474,628
                                                  ===========            ===========            ===========


Net Income                                        $14,519,000            $12,085,000            $13,327,000

Earnings per common and
  common equivalent share                         $      2.37            $      1.89            $      2.06
                                                  ===========            ===========            ===========

</TABLE>



<PAGE>   1
         Exhibit (13) 1996 ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS

                             FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For the Five Fiscal Years Ended December 28, 1996 (In thousands of dollars, 
except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

SELECTED INCOME STATEMENT DATA                        1996            1995            1994           1993            1992
<S>                                               <C>             <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>     
Net Sales                                         $152,368        $156,373        $147,772       $130,081        $116,117
Income Before Taxes                                 24,109          20,038          22,246         21,594          18,848
Taxes on Income                                      9,590           7,953           8,919          8,657           7,598
Net Income                                          14,519          12,085          13,327         12,937          11,250
Earnings Per Share (1)
       Primary                                       $2.37           $1.89           $2.06          $2.00           $1.73
       Fully Diluted                                 $2.37           $1.89           $2.06          $1.99           $1.73

SELECTED BALANCE SHEET DATA
Current Assets                                     $51,725         $48,699         $47,848        $44,341         $36,771
Current Liabilities                                 14,257           9,775          14,672         19,452          10,384
Working Capital                                     37,468          38,924          33,176         24,889          26,387
Total Assets                                       100,016          90,796          89,185         86,072          68,657
Long-term Obligations                                    -               -               -             55             105
Shareholders' Equity                               $84,380         $79,655         $73,683        $65,210         $55,972
Cash Dividends Per Share                             $0.48           $0.42           $0.40          $0.39           $0.35
Book Value Per Share                                $14.47          $13.02          $11.76         $10.25           $8.77

     (1) See Note 1 to Consolidated Financial Statements: Per Share Data
</TABLE>




The reported low and high closing prices on the NASDAQ National Market as
reported by the National Quotation Bureau, Inc. and cash dividends per share
were as follows: (See Note 1 to Consolidated Financial Statements: Per Share
Data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              1996                                 1995                              1994
                                          Cash                             Cash                              Cash
                                          Dividends                        Dividends                         Dividends
                    Low        High       Per Share      Low        High       Per Share  Low         High       Per Share

<S>                <C>        <C>         <C>          <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>       
First Quarter       29 1/4     33 1/2      $0.11         31         33 1/2      $0.10      35 1/2     38 1/2      $0.10
Second Quarter      28 1/2     33 1/2      $0.11         31         36 1/4      $0.10      34         37          $0.10
Third Quarter       26 1/2     33          $0.13         28 1/2     33 7/8      $0.11      33 1/2     36 1/2      $0.10
Fourth Quarter      29 1/4     33          $0.13         27 1/4     30 3/4      $0.11      31 1/2     35 1/4      $0.10
</TABLE>
                             LIQUI-BOX WORLDWIDE


<PAGE>   2
                                                 
WORLD HEADQUARTERS             Worthington, Ohio

      Afghanistan       Cyprus          Israel            Saudi Arabia
      Argentina         Denmark         Italy             South Africa
      Australia         Ecuador         Japan             Spain
      Austria           Finland         Kenya             Sri Lanka
      Bahamas           France          Mexico            Sweden
      Bahrain           Germany         Nepal             Switzerland
      Bangladesh        Greece          New Zealand       Taiwan
      Belgium           Hong Kong       Norway            The Netherlands
      Bhutan            Hungary         Pakistan          Turkey
      Brazil            Iceland         Panama            U.A.E.
      Canada            India           Philippines       United Kingdom
      Chile             Indonesia       Poland
      China             Iran            Portugal



                                                    

MANUFACTURING FACILITIES    Allentown, Pennsylvania
                            Ashland, Ohio
                            Auburn, Massachusetts
                            Elkton, Maryland
                            Houston, Texas
                            Lake Wales, Florida
                            Ontario, California
                            Sacramento, California
                            Worthington, Ohio
                            Upper Sandusky, Ohio
                            Romiley, England


                             CORPORATE INFORMATION

AUDITORS          Deloitte & Touche LLP, Columbus, Ohio

TRANSFER AGENT    The Huntington National Bank, 
                  Columbus, Ohio

FORM 10-K         The Annual Report to the Securities and Exchange 
                  Commission on Form 10-K is available to 
                  Shareholders upon written request to the 
                  Chairman of the Corporation.

ANNUAL MEETING    The Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be at 
                  the Columbus Marriott North, 6500 Doubletree Ave., 
                  Columbus, Ohio on April 23, 1997 at 9:00 a.m.


                                  


<PAGE>   3


                      MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

                              RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

1996 COMPARED TO 1995
During 1996, Liqui-Box Corporation (the "Company") experienced a 4.4% increase
in unit sales and a 2.6% decrease in net sales dollars compared to 1995. The
decrease in net sales can be primarily attributed to decreased selling prices on
most products due to a decrease in 1996 in the cost of the Company's prime raw
material, plastic resin, partially offset by the increase in unit sales for the
year. The cost of most of the resins the Company uses in the manufacture of its
products began to rise dramatically in 1994 and the increases continued into
1995. The cost of many of these resins began to decline from their peaks in
Spring 1995; however, as of the end of 1996, they had not returned to the
beginning of 1994 levels.

Gross profit, as a percentage of net sales, was 31.2% in 1996 and 27.3% in 1995.
This increase is primarily the result of improvements in plant efficiencies and
the positive impact of previous plant consolidations. To a lesser extent,
decreased resin costs, partially offset by decreased selling prices, also
contributed to the increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales.

Selling, administrative and development expenses in 1996 were $23,447,000 as
compared to $22,712,000 in 1995, an increase of $735,000. This increase is
primarily due to a increase in compensation related costs in 1996 as a result of
the Company's compensation program, which bases a significant portion of
employees' total compensation on Company profitability, as well as, to a lesser
extent, an increase in the Company's research and development costs. The
increase in compensation, research and development costs were partially offset
by overall decreases in the Company's other selling, administrative and
development costs.

Research and development costs were $1,856,000 in 1996 and $1,265,000 in 1995,
an increase of $591,000. Significant costs were incurred in continued
development of the Company's new PET clear Handi-Tap, as well as improvements to
existing products. It should be noted that the above amounts only include direct
costs associated with research and development. Liqui-Box and all of its
employees share a commitment to continually improving existing products and
processes, as well as developing new products.

Net income increased by 20.1% to $14,519,000, compared to $12,085,000 in 1995.
This increase is a result of the increase in gross profit, partially offset by
the increase in selling, administrative and development costs and income taxes.
The provision for income taxes was 39.8% and 39.7% of before tax income in 1996
and 1995, respectively.

At the end of 1996 and 1995, Liqui-Box had no significant backlog of orders,
which is industry typical.


<PAGE>   4





1995 COMPARED TO 1994
During 1995, the Company experienced an increase in sales and a decline in net
income as compared to 1994. The increase in sales was primarily attributed to
increased selling prices on most products which partially offset the dramatic
increase experienced in 1995 in the cost of the Company's prime raw material,
plastic resin. The cost of most of the resins the Company uses in the
manufacture of its products began to rise dramatically in 1994 and the increases
continued into 1995. The cost of many of these resins began to decline from
their peaks in Spring 1995; however, as of the end of 1995, they had not
returned to the beginning of 1994 levels.

Gross profit, as a percentage of net sales, was 27.3% in 1995 and 31.0% in 1994.
This decrease was primarily the result of the higher resin costs. The Company
has the ability to raise prices charged to many of its customers as resin costs
increase; however, there is a time lag between when the Company incurs a cost
increase and the time this cost can be passed on to a customer. To a lesser
extent, higher manufacturing costs at some plants, including the costs of
certain plant consolidations negatively impacted the 1995 gross profit.

Selling, administrative and development expenses in 1995 were $22,712,000 as
compared to $23,413,000 in 1994, a decrease of $701,000. This decrease was
primarily due to a decrease in compensation related costs in 1995 as a result of
the Company's compensation program which bases a significant portion of
employees' total compensation on Company profitability.

Research and development costs were $1,265,000 in 1995 and $2,151,000 in 1994.
Several of the Company's major research and development projects previously
undertaken were completed in 1994. During 1995 the Company embarked upon a major
statistical quality improvement project which took the place of new research and
development projects. This project was intended to not only improve existing
products and processes but also train employees in methodology for developing
new products. The costs of this project were not included in the Company's
research and development costs. The costs directly associated to this project
approximated $785,000; however, there was also an extensive amount of time and
effort put into this project by numerous employees including all members of
executive management.

                         LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Total working capital at year-end was $37,468,000, $38,924,000 and $33,176,000
in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. The ratio of current assets to current
liabilities was 3.6 to 1 for 1996, 5.0 to 1 in 1995 and 3.3 to 1 in 1994. Net
cash provided from operations was $29,762,000 for 1996 compared to $21,159,000
in 1995 and $17,024,000 in 1994. The increase in cash provided was the result of
improved profitability of the Company, coupled with better asset and liability
management. Net cash used in investing activities was $13,659,000 for 1996
compared to $8,066,000 in 1995 and $6,165,000 in 1994. The increase in cash used
was primarily for purchases of new plant equipment and improvements to existing
property and plant equipment. Cash used in financing activities was $11,759,000
for 1996 compared to $8,111,000 in 1995 and $12,994,000 in 1994. The cash used
in financing activities was primarily for the acquisition of treasury stock and
payment of cash dividends.


<PAGE>   5



Liqui-Box's major commitments for capital expenditures as of December 28, 1996,
were, as they have been in the past, primarily for increasing capacity at
existing locations, building filling machines for lease and tooling for new
products. Funds required to fulfill these commitments will be provided by
operations.

There have been no significant changes in the Company's capitalization during
the past three years except for the repurchase of and the issuance of treasury
shares. The common shares were bought at prices considered fair by management
and there was cash available for the purchases. The Company felt the purchases
represented a good investment and would secure common shares for issuance under
the Company's employee benefit plans. In July 1996, the Company issued 112,000
common shares to certain officers and employees at an aggregated cash purchase
price of $3,170,000.

Financing arrangements with The Huntington National Bank ("Bank") which provide
various credit facilities with a total commitment of $20,000,000 had no amounts
outstanding as of December 28, 1996. These credit facilities expire on May 1,
1997; however, management has a commitment from the Bank to renew these
facilities with a $10,000,000 increase in the commitment on terms comparable to
the existing facility.

Longer-term cash requirements, other than normal operations, are needed for
financing anticipated growth; increasing capacity at existing plants;
development of new products and enhancement of existing products; dividend
payments; and possible continued repurchases of the Company's common shares. The
Company believes that its existing cash and equivalents, available credit
facilities, and anticipated cash generated from operations will be sufficient to
satisfy its currently anticipated cash requirements for the fiscal year 1997.

During 1996, 1995 and 1994, the Company experienced dramatic fluctuations in the
costs of plastic resin; however, the Company was able to obtain an adequate
supply for its needs. In 1997, it is uncertain what will happen to plastic resin
prices. The Company anticipates that during 1997 there will be an adequate
supply of the major types of plastic resin it purchases.

Management feels that inflation had a material effect on the Company during the
past three years due to the continued fluctuations in the cost of resin. The
Company has the ability to adjust prices as the cost of resin changes; however,
there is a time lag between when the Company incurs a change in resin cost and
when that change is passed on to a customer.
<PAGE>   6
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS,
DECEMBER 28, 1996 AND DECEMBER 30, 1995
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS                                                                 1996                1995
<S>                                                  <C>     
Current Assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents                                         $  15,248,000    $   9,424,000
  Accounts receivable:
    Trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $742,000
      and $679,000, respectively                                       16,265,000       16,788,000
    Other                                                               1,141,000        2,439,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
            Total receivables                                          17,406,000       19,227,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
  Inventories:
    Raw materials and supplies                                          8,869,000        9,003,000
    Work in process                                                     4,194,000        5,534,000
    Finished goods                                                      4,491,000        4,035,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
          Total inventories                                            17,554,000       18,572,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
  Other current assets                                                  1,517,000        1,476,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
            Total Current Assets                                       51,725,000       48,699,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
Property, Plant and Equipment -  At cost:
  Land, buildings and leasehold improvements                           10,530,000        9,711,000
  Equipment and vehicles                                               62,469,000       56,355,000
  Equipment leased to customers                                        18,940,000       17,548,000
  Construction in process                                               5,584,000        1,965,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
            Total                                                      97,523,000       85,579,000
  Less accumulated depreciation and amortization                      (62,494,000)     (57,140,000)
                                                                    -------------    -------------
            Property, plant and equipment - net                        35,029,000       28,439,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------

OTHER ASSETS:
  Goodwill, net of amortization                                         9,857,000       10,126,000
  Deferred charges and other assets, net                                3,405,000        3,532,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------
            Total other assets                                         13,262,000       13,658,000
                                                                    -------------    -------------

TOTAL ASSETS                                                        $ 100,016,000    $  90,796,000
                                                                    =============    =============
</TABLE>

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
<PAGE>   7

<TABLE>

LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS,
DECEMBER 28, 1996 AND DECEMBER 30, 1995
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<CAPTION>

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                             1996                       1995

<S>                                                         <C>                       <C>          
Current Liabilities:                                                                                 
  Accounts payable                                          $   6,640,000             $   4,888,000
  Dividends payable                                               758,000                   673,000                                
  Salaries, wages and related liabilities                       1,696,000                 1,295,000                                
  Federal, state and local taxes                                1,059,000                   329,000                                
  Other accrued liabilities                                     4,104,000                 2,590,000                                
                                                            -------------             -------------
            Total Current Liabilities                          14,257,000                 9,775,000
                                                            -------------             -------------
Deferred Income Taxes                                           1,379,000                 1,366,000   
                                                            -------------              ------------
Commitments and contingencies

Stockholders' Equity:
  Preferred stock, without par value, 2,000,000 shares
    authorized; none issued

  Common stock, $.1667 stated value, 20,000,000 shares
    authorized, 7,262,598 shares issued                         1,210,000                 1,210,000
  Additional paid-in capital                                    6,615,000                 5,178,000
  Cumulative translation adjustment                             1,986,000                   618,000
  Unrealized gain on marketable securities                        605,000                   460,000 
  Retained earnings                                           109,175,000                97,494,000                        
  Less treasury stock, at cost - 1,432,203 and                                                                             
    1,144,992 shares, respectively                            (35,211,000)              (25,305,000)
                                                            -------------             -------------
            Total Stockholders' Equity                         84,380,000                79,655,000
                                                            -------------             -------------
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity                  $ 100,016,000             $  90,796,000
                                                            =============             =============

</TABLE>

See notes to consolidated financial statements


<PAGE>   8


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 28, 1996, DECEMBER 30, 1995 AND DECEMBER 31, 1994
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                               1996                       1995                      1994

<S>                                         <C>                       <C>                       <C>          
Net Sales                                   $ 152,368,000             $ 156,373,000             $ 147,772,000
Cost of Sales                                 104,848,000               113,723,000               102,000,000
                                            -------------             -------------             -------------
        Gross Margin                           47,520,000                42,650,000                45,772,000

Selling, administrative and
  development expenses                         23,447,000                22,712,000                23,413,000
                                            -------------             -------------             -------------

        Operating Income                       24,073,000                19,938,000                22,359,000

Other Income (Expense):
  Interest income                                 541,000                   221,000                   160,000
  Interest expense                                 (5,000)                 (222,000)                 (186,000)
  Other, net                                     (500,000)                  101,000                   (87,000)
                                            -------------             -------------             -------------

Income Before Income Taxes                     24,109,000                20,038,000                22,246,000

Taxes on Income                                 9,590,000                 7,953,000                 8,919,000
                                            -------------             -------------             -------------

Net Income                                  $  14,519,000             $  12,085,000             $  13,327,000
                                            =============             =============             =============



                   
Earnings per Share:
  Primary                                   $        2.37             $        1.89             $        2.06
  Fully diluted                             $        2.37             $        1.89             $        2.06

Cash dividends per common share             $        0.48             $        0.42             $        0.40


Weighted average number of common
and common equivalent shares used
in computing earnings per share:
    Primary                                      6,127,574                 6,397,312                 6,474,628
    Fully diluted                                6,135,738                 6,397,312                 6,474,628

</TABLE>

See notes to consolidated financial statements


<PAGE>   9
LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 28, 1996, DECEMBER 30, 1995 AND DECEMBER 31, 1994
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                             UNREALIZED
                                                                    ADDITIONAL  CUMULATIVE   GAIN ON
                                            SHARES      COMMON       PAID-IN    TRANSLATION  MARKETABLE    TREASURY      RETAINED
                                         OUTSTANDING    STOCK        CAPITAL    ADJUSTMENT   SECURITIES     STOCK        EARNINGS
                                          ---------   ----------   ----------   ----------   --------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>                     <C>            <C>         
Balance at January 1, 1994                6,360,496   $1,210,000   $4,305,000   $ (262,000)             $(17,260,000)  $ 77,217,000

Net income                                                                                                               13,327,000
Cash dividends                                                                                                           (2,527,000)
Purchase of treasury shares                (109,121)                                                      (3,795,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options      16,291                    (4,000)                               304,000
Tax benefit of stock options exercised                                 91,000
Deferred compensation                                                  86,000
Translation gain                                                                   991,000
                                          ---------   ----------   ----------   ----------              ------------   ------------

Balance at December 31, 1994              6,267,666    1,210,000    4,478,000      729,000               (20,751,000)    88,017,000

Net income                                                                                                               12,085,000
Cash dividends                                                                                                           (2,608,000)
Purchase of treasury shares                (164,279)                                                      (4,837,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options      14,219                    49,000                                283,000
Tax benefit of stock options exercised                                 51,000
Deferred compensation                                                 600,000
Translation loss                                                                  (111,000)
Unrealized gain on marketable securities                                                      460,000
                                          ---------   ----------   ----------   ----------   --------   ------------   ------------

Balance at December 30, 1995              6,117,606    1,210,000    5,178,000      618,000    460,000    (25,305,000)    97,494,000

Net income                                                                                                               14,519,000
Cash dividends                                                                                                           (2,838,000)
Purchase of treasury shares                (407,137)                                                     (12,160,000)
Sale of treasury shares                     111,923                   949,000                              2,101,000
Proceeds from exercise of stock options       8,003                    11,000                                153,000
Tax benefit of stock options exercised                                 25,000
Deferred compensation                                                 452,000
Translation gain                                                                 1,368,000
Unrealized gain on marketable securities                                                      145,000
                                          ---------   ----------   ----------   ----------   --------   ------------   ------------

Balance at December 28, 1996              5,830,395   $1,210,000   $6,615,000   $1,986,000   $605,000   $(35,211,000)  $109,175,000
                                          =========   ==========   ==========   ==========   ========   ============   ============
</TABLE>



See notes to consolidated financial statements.



<PAGE>   10
LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 28, 1996, DECEMBER 30, 1995 AND  DECEMBER 31, 1994
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      1996            1995            1994
                                                                      ----            ----            ----
<S>                                                              <C>             <C>             <C>        
Operating Activities:
  Net income                                                      $14,519,000     $12,085,000     $13,327,000
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
   provided by operating activities:
     Depreciation and amortization                                  6,643,000       6,275,000       6,380,000
     Provision for loss on accounts receivable                        747,000         723,000         580,000
     Amortization of other noncurrent assets                        1,147,000       1,091,000       1,114,000
     Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment         (45,000)        619,000               -
     Deferred compensation                                            452,000         600,000          86,000
     Changes in deferred income tax accounts                          (76,000)        (32,000)       (475,000)
     Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of
      effects from acquisitions:
        Accounts receivable                                         1,063,000      (3,760,000)     (2,205,000)
        Inventories                                                   938,000       5,783,000      (4,264,000)
        Other current assets                                           19,000       1,593,000         365,000
        Accounts payable                                            1,688,000      (2,316,000)      2,051,000
        Salaries, wages and related liabilities                       401,000        (344,000)        200,000
        Other accrued liabilities                                   2,266,000      (1,158,000)       (135,000)
                                                                 ------------     -----------     -----------

Net cash provided by operating activities                          29,762,000      21,159,000      17,024,000
                                                                 ------------     -----------     -----------

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
  Purchase of Inpaco                                                        0               -        (200,000)
  Purchase of property, plant and equipment                       (15,116,000)     (9,646,000)     (6,023,000)
  Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment               2,055,000       1,467,000               -
  Other changes, net                                                 (598,000)        113,000          58,000
                                                                 ------------     -----------     -----------

Net cash (used in) investing activities:                          (13,659,000)     (8,066,000)     (6,165,000)
                                                                 ------------     -----------     -----------

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
  Acquisition of treasury shares                                  (12,160,000)     (4,837,000)     (3,795,000)
  Sale of treasury shares                                           3,050,000
  Exercise of stock options, including tax benefit                    189,000         383,000         300,000
  Cash dividends                                                   (2,838,000)     (2,608,000)     (2,527,000)
  Repayment of short and long-term borrowings                               -      (1,000,000)     (7,000,000)
  Principal payments on capital lease obligations                           -         (55,000)        (50,000)
  Other                                                                                 6,000          78,000
                                                                 ------------     -----------     -----------

Net cash (used in) financing activities                           (11,759,000)     (8,111,000)    (12,994,000)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash                             1,480,000         101,000         100,000

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents                    5,824,000       5,083,000      (2,035,000)

Cash and cash equivalents, Beginning of year                        9,424,000       4,341,000       6,376,000
                                                                 ------------     -----------     -----------

Cash and cash equivalents, End of year                           $ 15,248,000     $ 9,424,000     $ 4,341,000
                                                                 ============     ===========     ===========
</TABLE>


See notes to consolidated financial statements.





<PAGE>   11
LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 28, 1996, DECEMBER 30,1995 AND DECEMBER 31, 1994
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NOTE 1   ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Liqui-Box Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") is a manufacturer of
dispensing systems, flexible packaging, and related filling equipment systems
for the beverage, processed foods, dairy, detergent, wine and other specialty
products industries. The Company operates eleven manufacturing plants in the
United States and Europe in primarily the plastic packaging industry.
Significant accounting policies of the Company are as follows:

CONSOLIDATION - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
Liqui-Box Corporation and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned. The
Company eliminates all significant intercompany balances and transactions in the
consolidated financial statements.

BASIS OF ACCOUNTING - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

CASH EQUIVALENTS - The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a
maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. Cash and
cash equivalents are on deposit primarily with two financial institutions.

CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK AND MAJOR CUSTOMER - The Company's exposure to
credit risk is impacted by the economic climate affecting its diverse customer
base and wide geographic dispersion. The Company manages this risk by performing
ongoing credit evaluations of its customers. Reserves for credit losses are
maintained by the Company and losses have been within Company expectations.

Approximately 18%, 17%, and 15% of the Company's revenues in 1996, 1995, and
1994, respectively, were derived from sales to one major customer. Trade
receivables due from this customer were $1,677,000 and $3,095,000 at December
28, 1996 and December 30, 1995, respectively.

INVENTORY VALUATION - Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market.
Substantially all of the Company's domestic product inventories are valued on
the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method. If current cost had been used, inventories
would have increased approximately $2,535,000 and $2,320,000 at December 28,
1996 and December 30, 1995, respectively. The impact of partial inventory
liquidations in certain LIFO pools reduced the LIFO provision by approximately
$956,000 in 1995. The Company's inventory of machine parts and inventories of
certain subsidiaries are valued on the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. These
inventories approximated $8,077,000 and $9,535,000 at December 28, 1996 and
December 30, 1995, respectively.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost.
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method (accelerated methods are
generally used for tax purposes) in amounts adequate to amortize the cost over
the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows: buildings and improvements
- - - 5 to 30 years; and equipment - 3 to 7 years.

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES - Goodwill represents the excess purchase price
over net assets acquired and is being amortized using the straight-line method
over 20 to 25 years. Other intangibles resulting from business acquisitions,
comprised mainly of costs related to sales agreements, patents and non-compete
agreements, are being amortized using the straight-line method over 3 to 17
years. Accumulated amortization of goodwill and other intangibles as of December
28, 1996 and December 30, 1995 approximated $5,625,000 and $4,696,000,
respectively. At each balance sheet date, a determination is made by the Company
as to whether any intangible assets have been impaired based on several
criteria, including, but not limited to, sales trends, operating factors and
undiscounted cash flows.

MARKETABLE SECURITIES - Marketable securities consist primarily of common stocks
and are included in other noncurrent assets. The Company classifies its
securities as available for sale and, accordingly, carries such at fair market
value with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of
stockholders' equity. The fair market value, cost and unrealized gains, net of
tax, were $1,067,000, $59,000 and $605,000, respectively, at December 28, 1996
and $819,000, $59,000 and $460,000,



<PAGE>   12
respectively, at December 30, 1995. The unrealized gain, net of tax, is a
supplemental non-cash transaction for the statements of cash flows.

REVENUE RECOGNITION - Revenue from product sales is recognized at the time
products are shipped. Revenue from contracts to manufacture filling machine
systems is recognized on a completed contract basis.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT - All research and development costs are expensed as
incurred. Such costs amounted to $1,856,000, $1,265,000 and $2,151,000 in 1996,
1995 and 1994, respectively.

ADVERTISING COSTS - Advertising costs primarily relate to trade shows, product
catalogues and product literature. Such costs are expensed as incurred. Total
advertising expenses were $456,000, $328,000 and $551,000 in 1996, 1995 and
1994, respectively.

EARNINGS PER SHARE - Earnings per common and common equivalent share are based
upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and equivalent
common shares derived from dilutive stock options.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION - All assets and liabilities of wholly-owned
foreign subsidiaries have been translated using the current exchange rate in
effect at the balance sheet dates. Revenue and expense accounts of such
subsidiaries have been translated using the average exchange rate prevailing
during the year and capital accounts have been translated using historic rates.
Gains and losses resulting from the elimination of long-term intercompany
receivable balances and the translation of the foreign financial statements into
U.S. dollars are reflected as translation adjustments in stockholders' equity.

Foreign currency exchange gains (losses) arise primarily from transactions
denominated in foreign currencies and from forward exchange contracts and are
included in other income (expense) in the amount of approximately $(4,000),
$(200,000) and $90,000 in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. The Company enters
into forward exchange contracts to hedge against foreign currency fluctuations
on certain transactions. Transactions hedged with forward exchange contracts
will come due at the approximate time that forward exchange contracts held
expire. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on these contracts are included
in net income. At December 28, 1996, the Company had contracts of approximately
$1,372,000 maturing from January 10, 1997 through May 30, 1997 to exchange
various currencies to pounds sterling.

DISCLOSURES CONCERNING FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - The carrying value
of cash and cash equivalents; trade and other receivables; accounts payable; and
other current liabilities are estimated to approximate fair value because of the
short-term maturity of these items.

RECLASSIFICATION - Certain reclassifications have been made to the 1995
financial statements to conform to the 1996 presentation.


<PAGE>   13
NOTE 2   TAXES ON INCOME

Deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the
carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income
tax purposes by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years
to the basis differences. The effect on deferred income taxes of a change in tax
rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

Significant components of the Company's deferred tax liabilities and assets are
as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    DECEMBER 28,    DECEMBER 30,
                                                        1996            1995
                                                                               
<S>                                                <C>             <C>        
Current deferred tax assets:
  Accounts receivable                               $   382,000     $   230,000
  Reserves and accruals                                 607,000         403,000
  Other                                                   8,000         275,000
                                                    -----------     -----------

Net current deferred tax assets                     $   997,000     $   908,000
                                                    ===========     ===========

Long-term deferred tax liabilities:
  Tax over book depreciation                        $ 1,164,000     $   987,000
  Other                                                 403,000         630,000
                                                    -----------     -----------
       Total long-term deferred tax liabilities       1,567,000       1,617,000
                                                    -----------     -----------

                                                    -----------     -----------
Long-term deferred tax assets - Intangibles         $   188,000     $   251,000
                                                    -----------     -----------

Net long-term deferred tax liabilities              $ 1,379,000     $ 1,366,000
                                                    ===========     ===========
</TABLE>



Significant components of the provision for income taxes are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      1996             1995             1994
                                                                               
<S>                              <C>              <C>              <C>        
Current:
  Federal                         $ 7,783,000      $ 6,553,000      $ 7,414,000
  Foreign                             145,000
  State                             1,841,000        1,432,000        1,980,000
                                  -----------      -----------      -----------

      Total current taxes           9,769,000        7,985,000        9,394,000

Deferred - Federal and state         (179,000)         (32,000)        (475,000)
                                  -----------      -----------      -----------

      Total taxes                 $ 9,590,000      $ 7,953,000      $ 8,919,000
                                  ===========      ===========      ===========
</TABLE>


<PAGE>   14
The following table summarizes the difference between income taxes computed at
the expected Federal statutory rate and actual amounts:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     1996            1995            1994
                                                                                            
<S>                                             <C>             <C>             <C>        
Expense at Federal statutory rates               $ 8,438,000     $ 7,013,000     $ 7,665,000
Foreign income taxes                                 145,000                               0
State income taxes, net of Federal tax benefit     1,175,000         911,000       1,170,000
Other - net                                         (168,000)         29,000          84,000
                                                 -----------     -----------     -----------
     Total                                       $ 9,590,000     $ 7,953,000     $ 8,919,000
                                                 ===========     ===========     ===========
</TABLE>


The Company made income tax payments, net of refunds, of approximately
$8,699,000, $9,972,000 and $6,975,000 in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

NOTE 3   EQUIPMENT LEASED TO CUSTOMERS

The Company leases various types of filling machinery and equipment to its
customers to support its packaging products. The leases are classified as
operating leases and are generally cancelable at the option of the Company.
Assets available for lease and assets under current lease contracts are included
in the balance sheets as equipment leased to customers. Accumulated depreciation
on these assets at December 28, 1996 and December 30, 1995 approximated
$13,632,000 and $13,389,000, respectively. The future minimum rentals on
non-cancelable operating leases for the five fiscal years subsequent to December
28, 1996 are: $588,000, $313,000, $226,000, $138,000 and $24,000.

NOTE 4   EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The Company has a deferred profit sharing plan covering the majority of its
employees not covered by a collective bargaining agreement. The Company's
contributions to this plan, which are at the discretion of the Board of
Directors. Expenses related to the plan were $106,000, $229,000, and $208,000 
in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

The Company also has an Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") for the majority
of employees who are not covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Eligible
employees may elect to contribute not less than 2% nor more than 6% of their
annual compensation to the ESOP. For each participating employee, the Company
contributes an amount equal to 50% of the employee's contribution. In addition,
all shares of common stock of the Company held by the ESOP are treated as
outstanding shares in the determination of earnings per share. Dividends paid on
all shares held by the ESOP are charged to retained earnings. Total ESOP
expenses were $28,000, $17,000 and $33,000 in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

The Company contributes to various retirement plans. Contributions and expenses
related to these plans were $37,000, $91,000 and $105,000 in 1996, 1995 and
1994, respectively.

NOTE 5   COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

The Company leases property and equipment pursuant to various non-cancelable
lease agreements. Certain leases contain renewal options and generally provide
that the Company shall pay for insurance, taxes and maintenance. Future minimum
payments on non-cancelable operating leases with initial or remaining terms in
excess of one year for the five fiscal years subsequent to December 28, 1996
are: $1,317,000, $1,179,000, $942,000, $909,000 and $860,000. Lease payments
under non-cancelable operating leases subsequent to the year 2001 aggregate
$3,712,000.

Total lease rent expense including other cancelable and short-term leases was
$2,354,000, $2,312,000 and $2,309,000 in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

Subsequent to December 28, 1996, a jury in a United States District Court in
Texas returned a verdict against the Company in a lawsuit over an allegedly
defective product. The verdict was in the amount of approximately $800,000 in
actual damages and $1,360,000 in punitive damages. Legal counsel has advised the
Company that it has various defenses and remedies available and


<PAGE>   15
the Company intends to pursue all available avenues in the post-trial and
appellate review processes. The ultimate liability related to this matter is
presently not determinable. No amount has been accrued for this matter in the
accompanying financial statements. Because of the risks associated with any
litigation, the ultimate outcome may differ.

The Company is also involved in various other litigation arising in the ordinary
course of business. The Company and its legal counsel believe the resolution of
such litigation will not have a material effect on the Company's financial
statements. However, because of the risks associated with any litigation, the
ultimate outcome may differ.

The Company has guaranteed debt obligations of certain officers and employees
totaling $3,050,000 as of December 28, 1996.

NOTE 6   STOCK OPTIONS

At December 28, 1996, the Company has stock-based compensation programs which
are described below. The Company applies APB Opinion 25 and related
Interpretations in accounting for its plans. Accordingly, the only compensation
expense charged against income is related to deferred compensation for options
issued at a discount from market value at the measurement date of the grant.
Compensation expense recorded in 1996, 1995 and 1994 was $452,000, $600,000 and
$86,000, respectively. Had the compensation costs for the Company's stock-based
compensation plans been determined using the fair value at the grant dates for
awards under those plans consistent with the method of FASB Statement 123, the
Company's net income and earnings per share would have been as indicated in the
pro forma amounts below:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          1996         1995
                                                          ----         ----
<S>                                 <C>               <C>          <C>     
Net income                           As Reported       $ 14,519     $ 12,085
                                     Pro forma         $ 14,359     $ 12,020

Primary earnings per share           As Reported       $   2.37     $   1.89
                                     Pro forma         $   2.34     $   1.88

Fully diluted earnings per share     As Reported       $   2.37     $   1.89
                                     Pro forma         $   2.34     $   1.88
</TABLE>


The pro forma amounts are not representative of the effects on reported net
income for future years.

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the
Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average
assumptions used for grants in the years ended December 28, 1996 and December
30, 1995: dividend yield of 1.5%; expected volatility 23%; risk-free interest
rates of 6.6%; and expected lives of 7 years.

Under the 1990 Liqui-Box Stock Option Plan ("the Plan"), the Company may grant
incentive, non-qualified and deferred compensation stock options, or other
stock-based awards, as authorized by the Board of Directors. The terms and
issuance prices of such awards are to be determined by the Board as limited by
Internal Revenue Service rules where applicable. The maximum number of common
shares that may be reserved for issuance under the Plan annually is limited to
3% of the outstanding common shares, but shares not awarded in one year may be
carried over to the next year. Options granted under the Plan are exercisable
according to the terms of each option, however, in the event of a change in
control as defined, the options shall become immediately exercisable, except
those awarded within the last six months. Options granted under the Plan include
the LBShares program, supplemental retirement options and other options.

Under its program entitled LBShares, the Company grants options annually to the
majority of non-executive employees based on the prior year's wages. Options are
granted at exercise prices that equal the fair market value at date of grant.
The options become exercisable in 25% increments on each anniversary of the
grant date and are forfeited upon termination of employment for reasons other
than death or disability. The options expire 10 years after the grant date. The
Company may also grant shares to Company executives under terms similar to the
LBShares Program discussed above.

The Company has granted supplemental retirement options to certain Company
executives. Options are granted at exercise prices equal to 50% of the fair
market value at date of grant. These options vest 50% after six months and 50%
upon termination


<PAGE>   16
of employment for other than cause, except they are subject to specified
reductions based on age and non-competition arrangements in the event employment
is terminated for any reason other than retirement, death or disability.

Other options outstanding under the plan include non-qualified grants and
incentive grants for the purchase of common shares. The exercise prices for the
incentive stock options were not less than the market value at date of grant and
for the non-qualified options were at or below market value at date of grant.
The incentive and certain of the non-qualified options become exercisable in 25%
increments on each anniversary of the grant date. The remaining non-qualified
options generally become exercisable in 10% increments on each anniversary of
the grant date.

A summary of the status of the Company's stock option plan as of December 28,
1996 and for the three years then ended is presented below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              1996                         1995                         1994
                                   -------------------------    -------------------------    -------------------------
                                   Shares   Weighted-Average    Shares   Weighted-Average    Shares   Weighted-Average
                                    (000)   Exercise Price      (000)    Exercise Price      (000)    Exercise Price
                                     ---    --------------       ---     --------------       ---     --------------
<S>                                 <C>         <C>             <C>          <C>             <C>          <C>
Outstanding at beginning of year     763         $24             391          $22             347          $21
  Granted                             48         $31             424          $27              84          $29
  Exercised                           (8)        $24             (14)         $23             (16)         $18
  Forfeited                          (45)        $29             (38)         $30             (24)         $27
                                     ---                         ---                          ---
Outstanding at end of year           758         $25             763          $24             391          $22
                                     ===                         ===                          ===

Options Exercisable at year-end      224         $26             109          $25             193          $18
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                1996                         1995
                                                ----                         ----
<S>                                             <C>                          <C>
Weighted-average fair value of 
 options granted during the year
 where market price at date of grant:
  - is below exercise price                                                   $10
  - is at exercise price                         $12                          $11
  - is above exercise price                                                   $16
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   17
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at
December 28, 1996:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      Options Outstanding                         Options Exercisable
                       -------------------------------------------------    ------------------------------
                         Number      Weighted-Average                         Number
      Range of         Outstanding      Remaining       Weighted-Average    Outstanding   Weighted-Average
  Exercise Prices        (000)      Contractual Life    Exercise Price        (000)       Exercise Price
  ---------------         ---       ----------------    --------------         ---        --------------
<S>                      <C>              <C>                <C>              <C>              <C>  
  $12.50 to $18.50        226              8.2                $14               35              $13
  $22.50 to $24.65         53              5.3                $24               53              $24
  $27.25 to $30.53        403              7.4                $28               89              $28
  $31.50 to $37.01         76              6.8                $35               47              $36
                          ---                                                  ---
                          758              7.7                $25              224              $26
                          ===                                                  ===
</TABLE>

The Company receives tax deductions for the difference between fair market value
and the exercise price of common shares at the time non-incentive options are
exercised. In addition, common shares obtained through the exercise of stock
options which are sold by the optionee within two years of grant or one year of
exercise result in a tax deduction for the Company equivalent to the taxable
gain recognized by the optionee. The tax benefit of this deduction is reflected
in additional paid-in capital and totaled $25,000, $51,000 and $91,000 in 1996,
1995 and 1994, respectively.

NOTE 7   CREDIT FACILITIES

The Company maintains credit facilities that aggregate $20,000,000 and include
$10,000,000 for a revolving term loan, the availability of which terminates on
April 30, 1997, when, at the option of the Company, outstanding amounts can be
converted to a term note under the terms of the agreement as defined. No amounts
were outstanding under this facility at December 28, 1996. The remaining portion
of the credit facilities of $10,000,000 is a line of credit that expires May 1,
1997. No amounts were outstanding under this facility at December 28, 1996. At
the Company's option, the credit facilities bear interest at either the prime
rate, the London Interbank Offered Rate plus a percentage ranging from .625% to
 .75%, or a negotiated rate, as defined. The facilities require the maintenance
of certain financial ratios and restrict future common stock dividends to 50% of
aggregated net income. Interest paid in 1996, 1995 and 1994 was $5,000,
$223,000, and $182,000, respectively.



<PAGE>   18
NOTE 8   SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

($ IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            EARNINGS PER SHARE
                                                            ------------------
                        NET          GROSS         NET                  FULLY
1996                   SALES        MARGIN       INCOME     PRIMARY    DILUTED
- - ----                 ---------     --------     --------     ------     ------
<S>                 <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>        <C>   
First quarter        $  34,183     $ 11,300     $  3,141     $ 0.50     $ 0.50
Second quarter          42,159       14,321        4,529       0.74       0.74
Third quareter          44,549       13,971        4,738       0.78       0.78
Fourth quarter          31,477        7,928        2,111       0.35       0.35
                     ---------     --------     --------     ------     ------

Total                $ 152,368     $ 47,520     $ 14,519     $ 2.37     $ 2.37
                     =========     ========     ========     ======     ======

1995

First quarter        $  33,646     $  9,040     $  2,356     $ 0.37     $ 0.37
Second quarter          42,984       11,469        3,525       0.55       0.55
Third quarter           48,230       13,231        4,223       0.66       0.66
Fourth quarter          31,513        8,910        1,981       0.31       0.31
                     ---------     --------     --------     ------     ------

Total                $ 156,373     $ 42,650     $ 12,085     $ 1.89     $ 1.89
                     =========     ========     ========     ======     ======
</TABLE>




<PAGE>   19
NOTE 9   GEOGRAPHIC SEGMENTS

Financial information by geographic area for each of the three years in the
period ended December 28, 1996, is summarized as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    UNITED                             GENERAL         INTER-AREA
1996                                STATES            EUROPE          CORPORATE       ELIMINATIONS         TOTAL
                                -------------      ------------     ------------        ---------      -------------
<S>                            <C>                <C>              <C>                 <C>            <C>        
Trade sales - net               $ 134,021,000      $ 18,347,000     $                                  $ 152,368,000
Inter-area sales                      242,000                                           $(242,000)
                                -------------      ------------     ------------        ---------      -------------
Net sales                       $ 134,263,000      $ 18,347,000     $                   $(242,000)     $ 152,368,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============
Operating income (loss)         $  31,235,000      $  1,191,000     $ (8,353,000)       $              $  24,073,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============
Identifiable assets             $  75,700,000      $ 21,957,000     $  2,359,000        $              $ 100,016,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============


1995

Trade sales - net               $ 135,654,000      $ 20,719,000     $                                  $ 156,373,000
Inter-area sales                      195,000                                           $(195,000)
                                -------------      ------------     ------------        ---------      -------------
Net sales                       $ 135,849,000      $ 20,719,000     $                   $(195,000)     $ 156,373,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============
Operating income (loss)         $  26,982,000      $    709,000     $ (7,753,000)       $              $  19,938,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============
Identifiable assets             $  67,044,000      $ 21,666,000     $  2,086,000        $              $  90,796,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============


1994

Trade sales - net               $ 129,878,000      $ 17,894,000     $                                  $ 147,772,000
Inter-area sales                      330,000                                           $(330,000)
                                -------------      ------------     ------------        ---------      -------------
Net sales                       $ 130,208,000      $ 17,894,000     $                   $(330,000)     $ 147,772,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============
Operating income (loss)         $  30,783,000      $   (650,000)    $ (7,774,000)       $              $  22,359,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============
Identifiable assets             $  71,470,000      $ 16,364,000     $  1,351,000        $              $  89,185,000
                                =============      ============     ============        =========      =============
</TABLE>



Inter-area transactions are accounted for on the same basis as sales to
unaffiliated parties. Identifiable assets are those assets associated with a
specific geographic area. General corporate assets consist primarily of the
corporate headquarters facility and various other investments and assets that
are not specific to a geographic area. Goodwill and related amortization have
been allocated by geographic area as applicable.



<PAGE>   20
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT


To the Shareholders and Directors of
  Liqui-Box Corporation:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Liqui-Box
Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 28, 1996 and December 30, 1995, and
the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash
flows for each of the years 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 audits. The consolidated
financial statements of Liqui-Box Corporation and subsidiaries for the year
ended December 31, 1994 were audited by other auditors whose report, dated March
2, 1995, expressed an unqualified opinion on those statements.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free 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 audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such 1996 and 1995 consolidated financial statements present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Liqui-Box
Corporation and subsidiaries at December 28, 1996 and December 30, 1995, and the
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years then
ended in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.


/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Columbus, Ohio
March 11, 1997

<PAGE>   21
                         REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


The Board of Directors
Liqui-Box Corporation
Worthington, Ohio

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of income,
stockholders' equity, and cash flows of Liqui-Box Corporation and subsidiaries
for the year in the period ended December 31, 1994. Our audit also included
the financial statement schedule listed in the index at item 14(a). These
financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements and schedule 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 from material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Liqui-Box
Corporation and subsidiaries at December 31, 1994, and the consolidated
results of operations and their cash flows subsidiaries for the year in the
period ended December 31, 1994, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement
schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken
as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth
therein.




/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Columbus, Ohio
March 2, 1995






                                       52



<PAGE>   1


                                                                   Exhibit (21)


                         SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT

                     LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
              FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 28, 1996


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Percentage of
                                                                 Voting
                                                              Securities
                                       Jurisdiction of          Owned by
     Subsidiaries                       Incorporation        The Registrant
- - -----------------------                 -------------        --------------
<S>                                       <C>                    <C> 
Commander Systems, Inc.                    Ohio                   100%

Corporate Design, Inc.                     Ohio                   100%

LB Acquisition Corp. (dba: B-Bar-B)        Ohio                   100%

LB Communications, Inc.                    Ohio                   100%

LB Development Corp.                       Ohio                   100%

LB Investments, Inc.                       Delaware               100%

LB Europe Limited                          England                100%

Inpaco Corporation                         Ohio                   100%

Liqui-Box International, Inc.              Ohio                   100%

Liqui-Box International, Corp.             Barbados               100%

Liqui-Box of Canada, Ltd.                  Canada                 100%
</TABLE>


<PAGE>   1


                                                                    Exhibit 23A


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT AND REPORT ON SCHEDULE


We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements No.
33-35815, No. 33-35816, No. 33-35817, and No. 33-42452 of Liqui-Box Corporation
on Form S-8 of our report dated March 11, 1997 incorporated by reference in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K of Liqui-Box Corporation for the year ended December
28, 1996.

Our audits of the financial statements referred to in our aforementioned report
also included the 1996 and 1995 financial statement schedules of Liqui-Box
Corporation, listed in Item 14(a). This financial statement schedules are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion based on our audits. In our opinion, such 1996 and 1995 financial
statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic 1996 financial
statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the
information set forth therein.




/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Columbus, Ohio
March 26, 1997












                                       71


<PAGE>   1


                                                                    Exhibit 23B


CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS'


We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No.
33-35815 on Form S-8 dated July 13, 1990, and in Registration Statement No.
33-35816, on Form S-8 dated July 13, 1990, and in Registration Statement No.
33-35817, and on Form S-8 dated July 13, 1990, and in Registration Statement No.
33-42452 on Form S-8 dated August 29, 1991, of our report dated March 2, 1995,
with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Liqui-Box
Corporation included or incorporated by reference in the Annual Report (Form
10-K) for the year ended December 28, 1996.




/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Columbus, Ohio
March 26, 1997












                                       72

<PAGE>   1
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 21st day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ Samuel B. Davis
                                         ----------------------------












                                       73


<PAGE>   2
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 25th day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ Jeanette A. Davis
                                         ----------------------------












                                       74


<PAGE>   3
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 19th day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ Robert S. Hamilton
                                         ----------------------------












                                       75


<PAGE>   4
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 21st day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ Peter J. Linn
                                         ----------------------------













                                       76


<PAGE>   5
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 20th day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ C. William  McBee
                                         ----------------------------












                                       77


<PAGE>   6
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 21st day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ Carl J. Aschinger, Jr.
                                         ----------------------------












                                       78


<PAGE>   7
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 25th day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ Russell M. Gertmenian
                                         ----------------------------












                                       79


<PAGE>   8
                                POWER OF ATTORNEY


     KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned officer and/or
director of LIQUI-BOX CORPORATION, and Ohio corporation, which is about to file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D. C., under the
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, an ANNUAL REPORT
ON FORM 10-K, hereby constitutes and appoints SAMUEL B. DAVIS, C. WILLIAM MCBEE,
and JAMES B. HOLLOWAY his/her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with
full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him/her and in his/her name,
place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign such Report and any or all
amendments or documents related thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and
substitute or substitutes, and each of them, full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and
about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes and he/she might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his/her substitute or
substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his/her hand and seal as of
this 19th day of March, 1997.




                                         /s/ James B. Holloway
                                         ----------------------------












                                       80

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the
Consolidated Balance Sheet and the Consolidated Statement of Income and is
qualified in its entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-28-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-28-1996
<CASH>                                          15,248
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   18,148
<ALLOWANCES>                                       742
<INVENTORY>                                     17,554
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                51,725
<PP&E>                                          97,523
<DEPRECIATION>                                  62,494
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 100,016
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           14,257
<BONDS>                                              0
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                         1,210
<OTHER-SE>                                      83,170
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   100,016
<SALES>                                        152,368
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               152,368
<CGS>                                          104,848
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  128,295
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                     0
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                   747
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                                   5
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 24,109
<INCOME-TAX>                                     9,590
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             14,519
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    14,519
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     2.37
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     2.37
        

</TABLE>


© 2022 IncJournal is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission