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SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
(Amendment No. )
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [_]
Check the appropriate box:
[_] Preliminary Proxy Statement [_] Confidential, for Use of the
Commission Only (as permitted by
Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[X] Definitive Proxy Statement
[_] Definitive Additional Materials
[_] Soliciting Material Pursuant to (S) 240.14a-11(c) or (S) 240.14a-12
ODETICS, INC.
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(Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
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(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
[X] No fee required.
[_] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
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(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
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(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which
the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
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(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
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(5) Total fee paid:
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[_] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[_] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange
Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee
was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement
number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount Previously Paid:
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(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
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(3) Filing Party:
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(4) Date Filed:
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ODETICS, INC.
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NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held September 30, 1999
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To the Stockholders of Odetics, Inc.:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of the stockholders of
Odetics, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will be held at the principal executive
offices of Odetics located at 1515 South Manchester Avenue, Anaheim,
California 92802, on Thursday, September 30, 1999 at 10:00 a.m., Pacific Time,
for the following purposes, as more fully described in the proxy statement
accompanying this notice:
1. To elect nine directors to serve on the Board of Directors of Odetics.
The nominees for election by the holders of Class A common stock are
Crandall Gudmundson, Jerry F. Muench and Thomas L. Thomas. The nominees
for election by the holders of the Class B common stock are Kevin C.
Daly, Ph.D., Gregory A. Miner, Ralph R. Mickelson, John W. Seazholtz,
Joel Slutzky and Paul E. Wright.
2. To approve an amendment to Odetics' 1997 Stock Incentive Plan to
increase the number of shares of Class A common stock authorized for
issuance by an additional 400,000 shares.
3. To ratify the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent
auditors of Odetics for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2000.
4. To transact any other business which may properly come before the
annual meeting or any adjournment(s) thereof.
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on August 2, 1999 as
the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of,
and to vote at, the annual meeting and at any continuation or adjournment
thereof. A list of stockholders entitled to vote at the annual meeting will be
available for inspection at the principal executive offices of Odetics.
You are cordially invited to attend the annual meeting in person. Whether or
not you plan to attend the annual meeting, please mark, sign, date and return
the enclosed proxy card as soon as possible in the envelope enclosed for your
convenience. Should you receive more than one proxy because your shares are
registered in different names and addresses, each proxy should be signed and
returned to assure that all of your shares will be voted. You may revoke your
proxy at any time prior to the annual meeting. If you attend the annual
meeting and vote by ballot, your proxy will be revoked automatically and only
your ballot vote at the annual meeting will be counted.
Please read the enclosed proxy material carefully. Your vote is important.
We appreciate your cooperation in considering and acting on the matters
presented.
By Order of the Board of Directors
/s/ Jerry F. Muench
Anaheim, California JERRY F. MUENCH
August 9, 1999 Secretary
YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES YOU OWN.
PLEASE READ THE ATTACHED PROXY STATEMENT CAREFULLY, COMPLETE, SIGN AND
DATE THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD AS PROMPTLY AS POSSIBLE AND RETURN IT IN THE
ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.
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ODETICS, INC.
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PROXY STATEMENT
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ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD SEPTEMBER 30, 1999
General
These proxy materials and the enclosed proxy card are being furnished in
connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors of
Odetics, Inc., a Delaware corporation, to be voted at the annual meeting of
stockholders of Odetics to be held on September 30, 1999 at 10:00 a.m.,
Pacific Time, or any adjournment or postponement of the annual meeting. These
proxy materials and the related form of proxy were first mailed to the
stockholders of Odetics on or about August 9, 1999.
The mailing address of the principal executive offices of Odetics is 1515
South Manchester Avenue, Anaheim, California 92802.
Purpose of Meeting
The specific proposals to be considered and acted upon at the annual meeting
are summarized in the accompanying notice of annual meeting of stockholders.
Each proposal is described in more detail in this proxy statement.
Voting Rights
The record date for determining those stockholders who are entitled to
notice of, and to vote at, the annual meeting has been fixed as August 2,
1999. At the close of business on the record date, Odetics had outstanding
8,001,991 shares of the Class A common stock and 1,060,041 shares of Class B
common stock. The Class A common stock and Class B common stock of Odetics are
collectively referred to as the "common stock."
Holders of the Class A common stock will be entitled to elect 25% of the
Board rounded up to the nearest whole number or three directors. The holders
of the Class B common stock will be entitled to elect the balance of the Board
(six directors). With respect to the election of directors, the stockholders
of each class of common stock will be entitled to one vote for each share then
held unless cumulative voting is in effect. Directors standing for election by
each class of common stock will be elected by a majority of the voting power
of each class of common stock present in person or represented by proxy at the
annual meeting, unless cumulative voting is in effect.
Pursuant to the bylaws of Odetics, no stockholder is entitled to cumulate
his or her votes (as described below) except for candidates whose names have
been placed in nomination prior to the commencement of voting and unless at
least one stockholder has given notice prior to commencement of the voting of
his or her intention to cumulate votes. If any stockholder has given such
notice, then each stockholder may cumulate votes by multiplying the number of
shares of each class of common stock the stockholder is entitled to vote by
the number of directors to be elected by such class. The number of cumulative
votes thus determined may be distributed among two or more candidates or cast
for one candidate. The candidates receiving the highest number of votes, up to
the number of directors to be elected by each class of common stock, will be
elected. If cumulative voting is in effect, the persons named in the
accompanying proxy will vote the shares of each class of the common stock
covered by proxies received by them (unless authority to vote for directors is
withheld) among the named candidates as they determine.
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Except as described above for the election of directors, holders of each
class of common stock will vote at the annual meeting as a single class on all
matters, with each holder of shares of Class A common stock entitled to one-
tenth of one vote per share held and each holder of shares of Class B common
stock entitled to one vote per share held. All matters submitted for
stockholder approval at the annual meeting other than the election of
directors will be decided by the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting
power of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the annual
meeting and entitled to vote on each matter.
The majority of the aggregate of the outstanding shares of Class A common
stock and Class B common stock of Odetics entitled to vote will constitute a
quorum for the transaction of business at the annual meeting. All votes will
be tabulated by the inspector of election appointed for the meeting, who will
separately tabulate affirmative and negative votes, abstentions and broker
non-votes. Broker non-votes occur when brokers who hold stock in "Street Name"
return proxy cards stating that they do not have authority to vote the stock
which they hold on behalf of beneficial owners. Abstentions and broker non-
votes are counted as present for purposes of determining the presence or
absence of a quorum for the transaction of business. Abstentions will be
counted towards the tabulations of votes cast on proposals presented to the
stockholders and will have the same effect as negative votes. Broker non-votes
will not be counted for purposes of determining whether a proposal has been
approved.
Properly executed proxies will be voted in the manner directed by the
stockholders. If the proxy does not specify how the shares represented thereby
are to be voted, the proxy will be voted FOR the election of the directors
proposed by the Board unless the authority to vote for the election of any
director is withheld and, if no contrary instructions are given, the proxy
will be voted FOR the approval of Proposals 2 and 3 as described in this proxy
statement and the accompanying notice.
At July 24, 1999, directors and executive officers of Odetics may be deemed
to be the beneficial owners of an aggregate of 1,259,960 shares of Class A
common stock and 415,470 shares of Class B common stock (including shares
issuable upon exercise of vested stock options), constituting approximately
29.0% of the total voting power of all of the outstanding securities of
Odetics which are entitled to vote at the annual meeting. Such directors and
executive officers have indicated to Odetics that each such person intends to
vote or direct the vote of all shares of each class of common stock held or
owned by such persons, or over which such person has voting control, in favor
of all of the proposals identified in this proxy statement. See "Principal
Stockholders and Common Stock Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and
Management."
Revocability of Proxies
You may revoke or change your proxy at any time before the annual meeting by
filing with the Secretary of Odetics, at the principal executive office of
Odetics at 1515 South Manchester Avenue, Anaheim, California 92802, a written
notice of revocation or a new duly executed proxy bearing a date later than
the date indicated on the previous proxy. You may also revoke your proxy by
attending the annual meeting and voting in person. Attendance at the annual
meeting will not, by itself, revoke a proxy.
Solicitation
The enclosed proxy is being solicited by the Board of Directors of Odetics.
Odetics will bear the entire cost of proxy solicitation, including costs of
preparing, assembling, printing and mailing this proxy statement, the proxy
card and any additional material furnished to the stockholders. Copies of the
solicitation materials will be furnished to brokerage houses, fiduciaries and
custodians holding shares in their names that are beneficially owned by others
so that they may forward this solicitation material to such beneficial owners.
In addition, Odetics may reimburse such persons for their costs in forwarding
the solicitation materials to the beneficial owners. The original solicitation
of proxies by mail may be supplemented by a solicitation by telephone,
facsimile, telegram or any other means by the directors, officers or employees
of Odetics. No additional compensation will be paid to these individuals for
any such services.
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In the discretion of management, Odetics reserves the right to retain a
professional firm of proxy solicitors to assist in solicitation of proxies.
Although Odetics does not currently expect to retain such a firm, it estimates
that the fees of such firm would range from $5,000 to $10,000 plus out-of-
pocket expenses, all of which would be paid by Odetics.
PROPOSAL NO. 1
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Nominees
The Board of Directors of Odetics is currently comprised of nine members.
Nine directors are to be elected at the annual meeting and hold office until
their successors are duly elected and qualified at the next annual meeting.
Holders of Class A common stock are entitled to elect three of the nine
directors to be elected at the annual meeting, and the holders of Class B
common stock are entitled to elect the other six directors. The three
candidates receiving the highest number of affirmative votes of shares of
Class A common stock present in person or represented by proxies and entitled
to vote at the annual meeting will be elected directors of Odetics, and the
six candidates receiving the highest number of affirmative votes of shares of
Class B common stock entitled to vote at the annual meeting will be elected
directors of Odetics. If cumulative voting is in effect, however, the proxy
holders of each class of common stock will have the right to cumulate and
allocate votes among those nominees standing for election with respect to such
class of common stock as such proxy holders in their discretion elect.
Messrs. Gudmundson, Muench and Thomas will stand for election by the holders
of Class A common stock, and Messrs. Daly, Miner, Mickelson, Seazholtz,
Slutzky and Wright will stand for election by the holders of Class B common
stock.
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Information with Respect to Nominees
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the nominees
for directors of Odetics as of July 31, 1999.
Nominees for Election
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Director
Name Age Position Since
---- --- -------- --------
<C> <C> <S> <C>
Joel Slutzky(2).......... 60 Chairman of the Board and Chief 1969
Executive Officer of Odetics
Vice President and Director of Gyyr
Incorporated
Chairman of the Board of Odetics ITS,
Inc.
Chairman of the Board and Vice
President of Mariner Networks, Inc.
Director of Meyer, Mohaddes
Associates, Inc.
Kevin C. Daly, Ph.D.(2).. 55 President and Chief Executive Officer 1993
of ATL Products, Inc.
Crandall Gudmundson...... 68 Former President of Odetics 1979
Ralph R. Mickelson(1).... 71 Investor 1975
Gregory A. Miner(2)...... 44 Chief Operating Officer and Chief 1998
Financial Officer of Odetics
Chief Financial Officer, Assistant
Secretary and Director of Gyyr
Incorporated
Chief Financial Officer and Director
of Odetics ITS, Inc.
Chief Financial Officer, Assistant
Secretary and Director of Mariner
Networks, Inc.
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary
and Director of Meyer, Mohaddes
Associates, Inc.
Jerry F. Muench.......... 64 Secretary and former Vice President, 1969
Marketing of Odetics
John W. Seazholtz........ 61 President and Chief Executive Officer 1998
of Telesoft America
Thomas L. Thomas......... 49 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 1999
of Vantive Corporation.
Paul E. Wright(1)(2)..... 68 President of Wright Associates-- 1993
Engineering and Business Consultants
Director of Odetics ITS, Inc.
</TABLE>
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(1) Member of the Compensation and Stock Options Committee and the Audit
Committee.
(2) Member of the Finance Committee
Joel Slutzky founded Odetics in 1969 and has served as Chairman of the Board
of Directors since 1969 and the Chief Executive Officer since 1975. From
August 1993 until January 1994, Mr. Slutzky assumed the additional
responsibilities of Chief Financial Officer on an interim basis following the
retirement of Odetics' former Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Slutzky also served
as the President of Odetics from 1969 to 1975, and served as a Director of ATL
Products, Inc. from its formation in 1993, until Quantum Corporation purchased
ATL in October 1998. Mr. Slutzky also currently serves as an officer in
various capacities for the other subsidiaries of Odetics. Prior to founding
Odetics, Mr. Slutzky was an engineering manager at Leach Corporation, now part
of the Lockheed Electronics Division of Lockheed Corporation.
Kevin C. Daly, Ph.D. has served as a director of Odetics and President,
Chief Executive Officer and a director of Odetics' former subsidiary, ATL,
since its formation in 1993. Dr. Daly has also served as Vice President and
Chief Technical Officer of Odetics from 1987 until 1997 when Odetics
consummated the spin-off of its interest in ATL. Prior to that, Dr. Daly
served as the Director of Space Systems of Odetics since 1985 when he joined
Odetics. From March 1974 until June 1985, Dr. Daly served as the Director of
the Control and Dynamics Division of the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory.
During that period, Dr. Daly participated in the
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design and development of guidance, navigation and control systems for several
major space programs, including the United States Space Shuttle program. Dr.
Daly also served as a manager of electronic systems for a major space program
of the United States Air Force from March 1970 to March 1974.
Crandall Gudmundson is a co-founder of Odetics and has served as its
President since 1975 until his retirement in 1998, and as a director since
1979. Mr. Gudmundson served as a director of ATL from 1993 to 1998. Prior to
co-founding Odetics, Mr. Gudmundson was the lead project engineer for Leach
Corporation.
Ralph R. Mickelson has been an outside member of the Board of Directors
since 1975 and was a senior partner in the Chicago law firm of Rudnick & Wolfe
until August 1997. Mr. Mickelson is currently an investor and involved in
various business matters as an arbitrator and mediator.
Gregory A. Miner has served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of
Odetics and its former subsidiary, ATL, since joining Odetics in January 1994.
In 1998, Mr. Miner joined the Board of Directors of Odetics and was promoted
to the position of Chief Operating Officer of Odetics. Mr. Miner also
currently serves as an officer in various capacities for the other
subsidiaries of Odetics. From December 1984 until joining Odetics, Mr. Miner
served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and a member of the Board
of Directors of Laser Precision Corporation, a manufacturer of
telecommunications test equipment.
Jerry F. Muench is a co-founder of Odetics and has served as a Director and
Secretary since 1969. Mr. Muench has also served as the Vice President,
Marketing of Odetics since 1975 until his retirement in December 1997. Prior
to founding Odetics, Mr. Muench was the manager of applications engineering at
Leach Corporation.
John W. Seazholtz was appointed as a director of Odetics in May 1998. Mr.
Seazholtz is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Telesoft America.
Mr. Seazholtz retired in April 1998 as the Chief Technology Officer of Bell
Atlantic after 36 years of service with that company and its predecessor. Mr.
Seazholtz was a senior officer of Bell Atlantic since 1986, serving in various
positions including as its Vice President, Operations and Engineering, its
Vice President, Marketing, its Vice President of New Services, and its Vice
President, Technology and Information Systems. Prior to 1986, Mr. Seazholtz
held positions at New Jersey Bell Telephone Co. and AT&T.
Thomas L. Thomas was elected to the Board of Directors of Odetics in May
1999. Mr. Thomas currently serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
of Vantive Corporation, a position he has held since April 1999. Mr. Thomas
has also been a director of Vantive Corporation since October 1998. Prior to
joining Vantive Corporation, Mr. Thomas served as a Senior Vice President of
e-Business and Information Services at 3Com Corporation since August 1996.
From September 1995 through July 1996, Mr. Thomas served as the Vice President
and Chief Information Officer, Global Information Systems at 3Com. Prior to
joining 3Com, Mr. Thomas served as a Vice President and the Chief Information
Officer of Dell Computer Corporation from 1993 to 1995. From 1987 to 1993, Mr.
Thomas served as Vice President of Management Information Systems at Kraft
General Foods, and at Sara Lee Corporation from 1981 to 1987. At Sara Lee, Mr.
Thomas led the development of a Sales Force Automation Distribution and
Marketing System, which was the precursor to the packaged customer
relationship management and back office products suites available today.
Paul E. Wright was appointed as a director of Odetics in June 1993. Mr.
Wright is the President of Wright Associates--Engineering and Business
Consultants, a company he formed in 1997. Mr. Wright served as the Chairman of
Chrysler Technologies Corp., the aerospace and defense electronics subsidiary
of Chrysler Corporation, a position he held from 1988 until his retirement in
1997. From 1986 to 1988, Mr. Wright served as the President and Chief
Operating Officer of Fairchild Industries, Inc. Prior to joining Fairchild, he
was employed for 28 years by RCA Corporation, where he last served as the
Senior Vice President responsible for planning RCA's merger into General
Electric Corporation.
All directors currently are elected annually and hold office until the next
annual meeting of the stockholders and until their successors are duly elected
and qualified. All of the nominees are currently directors of Odetics
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and have indicated that they are willing to continue to serve as directors. In
the event any nominee is unable or declines to serve as a director at the time
of the annual meeting, the proxies will be voted for an additional nominee who
shall be designated by the current Board of Directors. As of the date of this
proxy statement, the Board of Directors is not aware of any nominee who is
unable or will decline to serve as director.
Compensation of Directors
Directors who are not employees of Odetics receive an annual fee of $12,000
per year, paid quarterly, in addition to $1,500 for each Board meeting
attended in person and $250 for each telephone conference Board meeting. All
directors are reimbursed for their out-of-pocket expenses incurred in
attending meetings of the Board of Directors and its committees.
Nonemployee directors are also eligible to receive periodic option grants
pursuant to the Automatic Option Grant Program under Odetics' 1997 Stock
Incentive Plan. Under this plan, as proposed, each nonemployee director will
receive an option to purchase 5,000 shares of Class A common stock in
connection with his initial appointment to the Board of Directors and an
additional option to purchase 4,000 shares of Class A common stock on the date
of each annual meeting thereafter. Each such option will have an exercise
price equal to the fair market value of the Class A common stock on the grant
date and will have a maximum term of ten years, subject to earlier termination
following the optionee's cessation of service as a Board member.
Board Meetings And Committees
The Board of Directors met a total of six times during the fiscal year ended
March 31, 1999. Each of the directors nominated for reelection attended at
least 75% of the aggregate of (i) the total number of meetings of the Board of
Directors and (ii) the total number of meetings held by all committees of the
Board on which such director served.
Odetics has three standing committees, the Compensation and Stock Option
Committee, the Audit Committee and the Finance Committee. Odetics has no
standing nominating committee, and the Board as a whole acts upon matters
which would otherwise be the responsibility of a nominating committee.
The Audit Committee supervises and reviews the audit and audit review
programs and procedures of the independent auditors of Odetics, its internal
accounting staff and the results of internal auditing procedures. The Audit
Committee also reviews the independence, professional services, fees, plans
and results of the independent auditors' engagement, and recommends their
retention or discharge to the Board. The members of the Audit Committee of
Odetics are Messrs. Mickelson and Wright. The Audit Committee held one meeting
during the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999.
The Compensation and Stock Option Committee makes recommendations to the
Board concerning the compensation of all officers of Odetics and administers
the stock option plans of Odetics. The members of the Compensation and Stock
Option Committee of Odetics are Messrs. Mickelson and Wright. The Compensation
and Stock Option Committee held one meeting during the fiscal year ended March
31, 1999.
The Finance Committee of the Board of Directors was formed in April 1999.
The members of the Finance Committee include Messrs. Daly, Miner, Slutzky and
Wright. The mission of the Finance Committee is to review Odetics' financial
planning and strategies, and to provide guidance to the Board and its Audit
Committee regarding issues and opportunities related thereto. The Finance
Committee also provides interface and advice between the Board, the capital
markets and other financing sources. The Finance Committee did not hold any
meetings during the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999.
Recommendation of the Board of Directors
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE "FOR" THE NOMINEES LISTED ABOVE.
PROXIES RETURNED TO ODETICS WILL BE VOTED "FOR" EACH NOMINEE UNLESS OTHERWISE
INSTRUCTED IN WRITING ON SUCH PROXY.
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PROPOSAL NO. 2
APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE 1997 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN
Odetics is asking its stockholders to approve an amendment to the Odetics
1997 Stock Incentive Plan (the "1997 Plan") to increase the maximum number of
shares of Class A common stock authorized for issuance over the term of the
1997 Plan by an additional 400,000 shares to 930,000 shares. The 1997 Plan was
adopted by the Board of Directors in May 1997 and was approved by the
stockholders of Odetics in September 1997. The 1997 Plan became effective on
September 5, 1997. The proposed share increase will assure that a sufficient
reserve of Class A common stock is available under the 1997 Plan to attract
and retain the services of key individuals, including through acquisitions,
essential to Odetics' long-term growth and success.
The following is a summary of the principal features of the 1997 Plan, as
amended. The summary, however, does not purport to be a complete description
of all the provisions of the 1997 Plan. Any stockholder of Odetics who wishes
to obtain a copy of the actual plan document may do so upon written request to
the Corporate Secretary at Odetics' principal executive offices in Anaheim,
California.
Equity Incentive Programs
The 1997 Plan contains three separate equity incentive programs: (i) a
Discretionary Option Grant Program, (ii) a Stock Issuance Program, and (iii)
an Automatic Option Grant Program. The principal features of each program are
described below. The Compensation and Stock Options Committee of the Board
will serve as the initial Plan Administrator with respect to the Discretionary
Option Grant and Stock Issuance Programs. However, one or more additional
Board committees may be appointed to administer those programs with respect to
certain designated classes of individuals in Odetics service. The term "Plan
Administrator" as used in this summary will mean the Compensation Committee
and any other appointed committee acting within the scope of its
administrative authority under the 1997 Plan. Administration of the Automatic
Option Grant Program will be self-executing in accordance with the express
provisions of such program.
Share Reserve
The maximum number of shares of common stock of Odetics available for
issuance over the term of the 1997 Plan may not exceed 930,000 shares, which
includes the 400,000 share increase for which stockholder approval is sought
under this proposal. In no event may any one participant in the 1997 Plan be
granted stock options, separately exercisable stock appreciation rights and
direct stock issuances for more than 80,000 shares in the aggregate per
calendar year.
Shares subject to any outstanding options under the 1997 Plan which expire
or otherwise terminate prior to exercise will be available for subsequent
option grants and direct issuances. Unvested shares issued under the 1997 Plan
and subsequently repurchased by Odetics, at the exercise price or direct issue
price paid per share, pursuant to its repurchase rights under the 1997 Plan
will also be available for subsequent issuance. However, shares subject to any
option surrendered in accordance with the stock appreciation right provisions
of the 1997 Plan will not be available for subsequent issuance.
Eligibility
Officers and employees, nonemployee Board members and independent
consultants and advisors in the service of Odetics or its parent and
subsidiaries (whether now existing or subsequently established) will be
eligible to participate in the Discretionary Option Grant and Stock Issuance
Programs. Only nonemployee members of the Board will be eligible to
participate in the Automatic Option Grant Program. As of July 24, 1999, nine
executive officers, 564 other employees and seven nonemployee Board members
were eligible to participate in the 1997 Plan.
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Valuation
The fair market value per share of Class A common stock on any relevant date
under the 1997 Plan will be the closing sales price per share on that date on
the Nasdaq National Market. On July 24, 1999, the closing sales price per
share of Class A common stock was $11.375.
Discretionary Option Grant Program
Grants. The Plan Administrator has complete discretion under the
Discretionary Option Grant Program to determine which eligible individuals are
to receive option grants, the time or times when such grants are to be made,
the number of shares subject to each such grant, the status of any granted
option as either an incentive stock option or a nonstatutory option under the
federal tax laws, the vesting schedule (if any) to be in effect for the option
grant and the maximum term for which any granted option is to remain
outstanding.
Price and Exercisability. Each granted option will have an exercise price
per share not less than one hundred percent (100%) of the fair market value
per share of Class A common stock on the option grant date, and no granted
option will have a term in excess of ten years. The option will generally
become exercisable in a series of installments over a specified period of
service measured from the grant date. The exercise price may be paid in cash
or in shares of the Class A common stock.
No optionee will have any stockholder rights with respect to the option
shares until such optionee has exercised the option and paid the exercise
price for the purchased shares. Options are generally not assignable or
transferable other than by will or the laws of inheritance and, during the
optionee's lifetime, the option may be exercised only by such optionee. The
Plan Administrator may, however, allow nonstatutory options to be transferred
or assigned during the optionee's lifetime to one or more members of the
optionee's immediate family or to a trust established exclusively for one or
more of such family members, to the extent such transfer or assignment is in
furtherance of the optionee's estate plan.
Termination of Service. Upon the optionee's cessation of employment or
service with Odetics, the optionee will have a limited period of time in which
to exercise his or her outstanding options for any shares which have vested at
that time. However, at any time while the options remain outstanding, the Plan
Administrator will have complete discretion to extend the period during which
those options may be exercised following the optionee's cessation of service.
The Plan Administrator will also have complete discretion to accelerate the
exercisability or vesting of those options in whole or in part at any time.
Stock Appreciation Rights. The Plan Administrator is authorized to issue two
types of stock appreciation rights in connection with option grants made under
the Discretionary Option Grant Program:
Tandem stock appreciation rights provide the holders with the right to
surrender their options for an appreciation distribution from Odetics equal
in amount to the excess of (a) the fair market value of the vested shares
of Class A Common Stock subject to the surrendered option less (b) the
aggregate exercise price payable for those shares. Such appreciation
distribution may, at the discretion of the Plan Administrator, be made in
cash or in shares of Class A Common Stock.
Limited stock appreciation rights may be provided to one or more officers
of Odetics as part of their option grants. Any option with such a limited
stock appreciation right may be surrendered to Odetics upon the successful
completion of a hostile tender offer for more than fifty percent (50%) of
Odetics' outstanding voting stock. In return for the surrendered option,
the officer will be entitled to a cash distribution from Odetics in an
amount per surrendered option share equal to the excess of (a) the highest
price per share of Class A common stock paid in connection with the tender
offer less (b) the exercise price payable for such share.
Cancellation/Regrant Program. The Plan Administrator will have the authority
to effect the cancellation of outstanding options under the Discretionary
Option Grant Program and to issue replacement options with an exercise price
equal to the fair market value per share of Class A common stock at the time
of the new grant.
8
<PAGE>
Stock Issuance Program
Shares of Class A common stock may be issued under the Stock Issuance
Program as a bonus for services rendered to Odetics or sold at a price per
share not less than one hundred percent (100%) of their fair market value,
payable in cash or through a promissory note payable to Odetics. The shares
issued as a bonus for past services will be fully vested upon issuance. All
other shares issued under the program will be subject to a vesting schedule
tied to the performance of service or the attainment of performance goals. The
Plan Administrator will, however, have the discretionary authority at any time
to accelerate the vesting of any and all unvested shares outstanding under the
1997 Plan.
Automatic Option Grant Program
Under the Automatic Option Grant Program, nonemployee Board members will
receive option grants at specified intervals over their period of Board
service. All grants under the Automatic Option Grant Program will be made in
strict compliance with the express provisions of such program, and stockholder
approval of this Proposal will also constitute preapproval of each option
granted pursuant to the provisions of the Automatic Option Grant Program
summarized below and the subsequent exercise of that option in accordance with
such provisions.
Grants. Each individual who first becomes a nonemployee Board member on or
after the Effective Date, whether through election by the stockholders or
appointment by the Board, will automatically be granted, at the time of such
initial election or appointment, a nonstatutory option to purchase 5,000
shares of Class A common stock, provided such individual has not previously
been in the employ of Odetics.
On the date of each Annual Meeting, beginning with the 1998 Annual Meeting,
each individual who is to continue to serve as a nonemployee Board member,
whether or not such individual is standing for re-election at that particular
Annual Meeting, will automatically be granted a nonstatutory option to
purchase 4,000 shares of Class A common stock, provided such individual has
served as a nonemployee Board member for at least six months. There will be no
limit on the number of such 4,000 share option grants any one nonemployee
Board member may receive over his or her period of Board service, and
nonemployee Board members who have previously been employed by Odetics will be
eligible to receive one or more of those annual grants.
Exercise/Vesting. Each automatic option grant will have an exercise price
per share equal to 100% of the fair market value per share of Class A common
stock on the grant date and a maximum term of ten years measured from such
date. Each option will be immediately exercisable for all of the option
shares. Any shares purchased under the option will, however, be subject to
repurchase by Odetics at the exercise price paid per share upon the optionee's
cessation of Board service prior to vesting in those shares. The shares of
Class A common stock subject to each initial 5,000 share will be fully vested,
and the shares subject to each annual 4,000 share grant will vest in a series
of four successive equal annual installments over the optionee's period of
continued Board service measured from the automatic grant date.
Each automatic option will remain exercisable for a twelve month period
following the optionee's cessation of service as a Board member. In no event,
however, may the option be exercised after the expiration date of the option
term. During the applicable post-service exercise period, the option may not
be exercised for more than the number of option shares (if any) in which the
Board member is vested at the time of his or her cessation of Board service.
Special Vesting. The shares subject to each automatic option grant will
immediately vest upon (i) the optionee's death or permanent disability while a
Board member, (ii) an acquisition of Odetics by merger or asset sale, (iii)
the successful completion of a tender offer for more than 50% of Odetics
outstanding voting stock, or (iv) a change in the majority of the Board
effected through one or more contested elections for Board membership.
9
<PAGE>
Stock Appreciation Rights. Upon the successful completion of a hostile
tender offer for more than 50% of Odetics outstanding voting stock, each
outstanding automatic option grant may be surrendered to Odetics for a cash
distribution per surrendered option share in an amount equal to the excess of
(a) the highest price per share of Class A common stock paid in connection
with such tender offer less (b) the exercise price payable for such share.
Stockholder approval of this Proposal will constitute preapproval of each
option granted with such a surrender right and the subsequent surrender of
that option in accordance with the foregoing provisions. No additional
approval of the 1997 Plan Administrator or the Board will be required at the
time of the actual option surrender and cash distribution.
The remaining terms and conditions of each automatic option grant will, in
general, conform to the terms summarized above for option grants made under
the Discretionary Option Grant Program and will be incorporated into the
option agreement evidencing the automatic grant.
General Provisions
Acceleration. In the event that Odetics is acquired by merger or asset sale,
each outstanding option under the Discretionary Option Grant Program which is
not to be assumed by the successor corporation will automatically accelerate
in full, and all unvested shares under the Discretionary Option Grant and
Stock Issuance Programs will immediately vest, except to the extent Odetics
repurchase rights with respect to those shares are to be assigned to the
successor corporation. The Plan Administrator will have complete discretion to
grant one or more options under the Discretionary Option Grant Program which
will become fully exercisable for all the option shares in the event those
options are assumed in the acquisition and the optionee's service with Odetics
or the acquiring entity terminates within a designated period following such
acquisition. The Plan Administrator also has the authority to grant options
which will immediately vest upon an acquisition of Odetics, whether or not
those options are assumed by the successor corporation. The vesting of
outstanding shares under the Stock Issuance Program may be accelerated upon
similar terms and conditions.
The Plan Administrator is also authorized to provide for the full and
immediate vesting of all outstanding options and unvested shares under the
Discretionary Option Grant and Stock Issuance Programs in connection with a
change in control of Odetics (whether by successful tender offer for more than
fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding voting stock or a change in the
majority of the Board by reason of one or more contested elections for Board
membership), with such vesting to occur either at the time of such change in
control or upon the subsequent termination of the individual's service within
a designated period following such change in control.
The acceleration of vesting in the event of a change in the ownership or
control of Odetics may be seen as an anti-takeover provision and may have the
effect of discouraging a merger proposal, a takeover attempt or other efforts
to gain control of Odetics.
Financial Assistance. The Plan Administrator may institute a loan program to
assist one or more participants in financing the exercise of outstanding
options or the purchase of shares under the 1997 Plan. The terms of any such
assistance will be established in the sole discretion of the Plan
Administrator. However, all loans made under the 1997 Plan will be full-
recourse and interest bearing, and the maximum credit available may not exceed
the purchase price payable for the acquired shares plus any withholding tax
liability incurred in connection with such acquisition.
Changes In Capitalization. In the event any change is made to the
outstanding shares of Class A common stock by reason of any recapitalization,
stock dividend, stock split, combination of shares, exchange of shares or
other change in corporate structure effected without Odetics receipt of
consideration, appropriate adjustments will automatically be made to (i) the
maximum number and/or class of securities issuable under the 1997 Plan, (ii)
the number and/or class of securities for which any one person may be granted
stock options, separately exercisable stock appreciation rights and direct
stock issuances per calendar year, (iii) the number and/or class of securities
for which grants are subsequently to be made under the Automatic Option Grant
Program to new and continuing Board members and (iv) the number and/or class
of securities and the exercise price per share in effect under each
outstanding option. The adjustments to such outstanding options will preclude
the dilution or enlargement of the rights and benefits available under those
options.
10
<PAGE>
Special Tax Election. The Plan Administrator may provide one or more holders
of options or unvested shares with the right to have Odetics withhold a
portion of the shares otherwise issuable to such individuals in satisfaction
of the tax liability incurred by such individuals in connection with the
exercise of those options or the vesting of those shares. Alternatively, the
Plan Administrator may allow such individuals to deliver previously acquired
shares of Class A common stock in payment of such tax liability.
Amendment and Termination. The Board may amend or modify the 1997 Plan in
any or all respects whatsoever subject to any required stockholder approval.
The Board may terminate the 1997 Plan at any time, and the 1997 Plan will in
all events terminate upon the expiration of the ten (10) year term measured
from the Effective Date.
Stock Awards
The table below shows, as to each of Odetics executive officers named in the
Summary Compensation Table of the Executive Compensation and Other Information
section of this proxy statement and the various indicated individuals and
groups, the number of shares of Class A common stock subject to options
granted under the 1997 Plan between the September 5, 1997, the effective date
of the 1998 Plan, and July 24, 1999, together with the weighted average
exercise price payable per share. No direct stock issuances have been made to
date under the 1997 Plan.
Option Transactions
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Options Weighted Average
Granted Exercise Price
(Number of Granted
Name of Shares) Options
---- ---------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky(1)..................................... 50,000 $5.088
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Gregory A. Miner(2)................................. 25,000 $4.625
Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer
Jack Johnson........................................ 12,000 $4.625
Vice President
Frank Borst......................................... 12,000 $4.625
Vice President
Timothy Crabtree ................................... 12,000 $4.625
Vice President
All current executive officers as a group (9
persons)........................................... 165,000 $4.765
All current non-employee directors as a group (7
persons)........................................... 30,000 $6.073
All employees, including current officers who are
not executive officers, as a group (242 persons)... 318,104 $4.625
</TABLE>
As of July 24, 1999, options covering 517,104 shares of Class A common stock
were outstanding under the 1997 Plan, 7,200 shares remained available for
future option grant or direct issuance, and 5,696 shares have been issued
pursuant to the exercise of outstanding options under the 1997 Plan.
Amendment and Termination
The Board may amend or modify the 1997 Plan in any or all respects
whatsoever, subject to any stockholder approval required under applicable law
or regulation. The Board may terminate the 1997 Plan at any time, and the 1997
Plan will in all events terminate on September 4, 2007.
11
<PAGE>
New Plan Benefits
As of July 24, 1999, no options have been granted, and no direct stock
issuances have been made, on the basis of the 400,000 share increase which
forms part of this proposal. At the 1999 annual meeting of stockholders, each
individual who will continue to serve as a non-employee Board member will
receive an option grant under the Automatic Option Grant Program to purchase
4,000 shares of Class A common stock at an exercise price per share equal to
the fair market value per share of Class A common stock on the grant date.
Stockholder Approval
The affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting shares of
Odetics present or represented by proxies and entitled to vote at the annual
meeting is required for approval of the proposed amendment to the 1997 Plan.
In the event stockholder approval not be obtained, then the share reserve will
not be increased. The 1997 Plan will, however, continue to remain in effect,
and option grants and stock issuances may continue to be made pursuant to the
provisions of the 1997 Plan prior to its amendment until the available reserve
of Class A common stock under such plan is issued.
The Board of Directors believes that it is in the best interests of Odetics
to implement a comprehensive equity incentive program for Odetics which will
provide a meaningful opportunity for officers, employees and non-employee
Board members to acquire a substantial proprietary interest in the enterprise
and thereby encourage such individuals to remain in Odetics service and more
closely align their interests with those of the stockholders.
Recommendation of the Board of Directors
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT THE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE
APPROVAL OF THE AMENDMENT OF THE 1997 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN TO INCREASE THE
NUMBER OF SHARES AUTHORIZED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER THIS PLAN BY 400,000 SHARES.
12
<PAGE>
PROPOSAL NO. 3
RATIFICATION OF SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The accounting firm of Ernst & Young LLP served as the independent auditors
of Odetics for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999. The Board of Directors
has selected that firm to continue in this capacity for the current fiscal
year. Odetics is asking the stockholders to ratify the selection by the Board
of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent auditors of Odetics to
audit the financial statements of Odetics for the fiscal year ending March 31,
2000 and to perform other appropriate services. Stockholder ratification of
the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as Odetics' independent auditor is not
required by the bylaws of Odetics or otherwise. In the event that the
stockholders fail to ratify the appointment, the Board of Directors will
reconsider its selection. Even if the selection is ratified, the Board of
Directors, in its discretion, may direct the appointment of a different
independent accounting firm at any time during the year if the Board of
Directors feels that such a change would be in the best interest of Odetics
and its stockholders.
A representative of Ernst & Young LLP is expected to be present at the
annual meeting to respond to stockholders' questions, and that representative
will be given an opportunity to make a brief presentation to the stockholders
if he or she so desires.
Stockholder Approval
The affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of Odetics
present or represented and entitled to vote at the annual meeting will be
required for ratification of the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as the
independent auditors of Odetics for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2000.
Recommendation of the Board of Directors
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT THE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE
RATIFICATION AND APPROVAL OF THE SELECTION OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP AS THE
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS OF ODETICS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING MARCH 31, 2000.
13
<PAGE>
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS AND COMMON STOCK OWNERSHIP
OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth, as of July 24, 1999, the number and
percentage ownership of the Class A common stock and Class B common stock of
Odetics by (i) all persons known to Odetics to beneficially own more than 5%
of either class of outstanding common stock (based upon reports filed by such
persons with the SEC), (ii) each of the named executive officers in the
Summary Compensation Table which appears elsewhere herein, (iii) each director
of Odetics and director nominee named under "Election of Directors," and (iv)
all executive officers and directors of Odetics as a group. To the knowledge
of Odetics, except as otherwise indicated, each of the persons named in this
table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the common stock
shown as beneficially owned, subject to community property and similar laws,
where applicable.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock
---------------------------- ----------------------------
Amount and Nature Amount and Nature
Name and Address of of Beneficial Percent of of Beneficial Percent of
Beneficial Owner(1) Ownership(2)(3) Class(2) Ownership(2)(3) Class(2)
------------------- ----------------- ---------- ----------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky............ 562,620(4) 7.0% 262,089(5) 24.7%
Gerald A. Weber......... 264,658(6) 3.3 196,624 18.5
Crandall Gudmundson..... 75,382(7) * 69,743 6.6
Jerry F. Muench......... 108,096(8) 1.4 61,537(9) 5.8
Ralph R. Mickelson...... 86,194(10) * 20,445(11) 1.9
Gregory A. Miner........ 62,273(12) * -- --
Kevin C. Daly, Ph.D. ... 58,894(13) * -- --
Paul E. Wright.......... 47,994(14) * -- --
John W. Seazholtz....... 6,500(15) * -- --
Thomas L. Thomas........ 5,000(16) * -- --
All executive officers
and directors as a
group (16 persons)..... 1,259,960(17) 15.6% 415,470 39.2%
</TABLE>
- --------
* Less than 1%
(1) The address for Gerald A. Weber is 222 North LaSalle, Suite 899, Chicago,
Illinois 60601. The address of all other persons named in the table is
1515 South Manchester Avenue, Anaheim, California 92802.
(2) Based on 8,000,659 shares of Class A common stock and 1,060,041 shares
of Class B common stock outstanding as of July 24, 1999. Shares of each
class of common stock subject to options which are exercisable within 60
days of July 24, 1999 are deemed to be beneficially owned by the person
holding such options for the purpose of computing the percentage of
ownership of such person but are not treated as outstanding for the
purpose of computing the percentage of any other person. Other than as
described in the preceding sentence, shares issuable upon exercise of
outstanding options are not deemed to be outstanding for purposes of
this calculation.
(3) In addition to the shares held in the individual's name, this column also
includes shares held for the benefit of the named person under Odetics'
401(k) Plan and Associate Stock Ownership Plan.
(4) Includes 16,667 shares issuable upon exercise of options that are
currently exercisable or will become exercisable within 60 days after
July 24, 1999. Excludes 233,779 shares held in trust for the benefit of
the children and relatives of Mr. Slutzky as to which Mr. Slutzky has no
investment or voting power and disclaims any beneficial ownership. See
note 6.
(5) Excludes 142,236 shares held in trust for the benefit of the children and
relatives of Mr. Slutzky as to which Mr. Slutzky has no investment or
voting power and disclaims any beneficial ownership. See note 6.
(6) All of such shares are owned beneficially of record by various trusts
with respect to which Mr. Weber serves as trustee or co-trustee. Mr.
Weber shares investment and voting power as to 30,879 shares of Class A
common stock and 56,088 shares of Class B common stock. Mr. Weber
exercises sole investment and voting power over the remaining 233,779
shares of Class A common stock and 140,536 shares of Class B common
stock. The shares shown include an aggregate of 233,779 shares of Class A
common
14
<PAGE>
stock and 142,236 shares of Class B common stock, respectively, held in
trust for the benefit of the children and relatives of Mr. Slutzky, as to
which shares Mr. Slutzky has no investment or voting power and disclaims
any beneficial ownership.
(7) Includes 4,500 shares held by Mr. Gudmundson's IRA. Also includes 1,000
shares issuable upon exercise of options that are currently exercisable
or will become exercisable within 60 days after July 24, 1999.
(8) Includes 31,114 shares held by Mr. Muench's spouse. Also includes 1,000
shares issuable upon exercise of options that are currently exercisable
or will become exercisable within 60 days after July 24, 1999.
(9) Includes 23,235 shares held by Mr. Muench's spouse.
(10) Includes 8,000 shares held by Mr. Mickelson's IRA. Also includes 1,000
shares issuable upon exercise of options that are currently exercisable
or will become exercisable within 60 days after July 24, 1999.
(11) Includes 18,445 shares held in trust for the benefit of Mr. Mickelson's
wife, as to which Mr. Mickelson shares investment and voting power with
his wife.
(12) Also includes 8,333 shares issuable upon exercise of options that are
currently exercisable or will become exercisable within 60 days after
July 24, 1999.
(13) Includes 100 shares held by Dr. Daly's spouse. Also includes 1,000 shares
issuable upon exercise of options that are currently exercisable or will
become exercisable within 60 days after July 24, 1999.
(14) Includes 1,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options that are
currently exercisable or will become exercisable within 60 days after
July 24, 1999.
(15) Includes 5,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options that are
currently exercisable or will become exercisable within 60 days after
July 24, 1999.
(16) Includes 5,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options that are
currently exercisable or will become exercisable within 60 days after
July 24, 1999.
(17) Includes 70,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options that are
currently exercisable or will become exercisable within 60 days after
July 24, 1999.
15
<PAGE>
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION
Executive Officers
The following table sets forth certain information regarding all executive
officers of Odetics as of July 31, 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Age Capacities in Which Served
---- --- --------------------------
<C> <C> <S>
Joel Slutzky............ 60 Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
of Odetics
Director and Vice President of Gyyr Incorporated
Chairman of the Board of Odetics ITS, Inc.
Chairman of the Board and Vice President of
Mariner Networks, Inc.
Director of Meyer, Mohaddes Associates, Inc.
Thomas G. Bartholet..... 51 Vice President, Corporate Development of Odetics
Frank Borst............. 40 Vice President of Odetics
President, Secretary and Director of Gyyr
Incorporated
Timothy Crabtree........ 44 Vice President of Odetics
General Manager of the Broadcast Division
Hugo Fruehauf........... 60 Vice President of Odetics
President of the Communications Division
Jack Johnson............ 52 Vice President of Odetics
Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
of Odetics ITS, Inc.
Director of Meyer, Mohaddes Associates, Inc.
Gregory A. Miner........ 44 Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer
and Director of Odetics
Chief Financial Officer, Assistant Secretary and
Director of Gyyr Incorporated
Chief Financial Officer and Director of Odetics
ITS, Inc.
Chief Financial Office, Assistant Secretary and
Director of Mariner Networks, Inc.
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Director
of Meyer, Mohaddes Associates, Inc.
David Scheel............ 47 Vice President of Odetics
Chief Executive Officer and President of Mariner
Networks, Inc.
Gary Smith.............. 42 Vice President, Controller and Assistant
Secretary of Odetics
Assistant Secretary of Gyyr Incorporated
Assistant Secretary of Odetics ITS, Inc.
Secretary of Mariner Networks, Inc.
</TABLE>
The following is a brief description of the capacities in which each of the
executive officers has served during the past five years. The biographies of
Messrs. Miner and Slutzky appear earlier in this proxy statement. See
"Election of Directors."
Thomas G. Bartholet has served as the Vice President, Corporate Development
of Odetics since 1993, and as the Director, Corporate Development of Odetics
from 1990 to 1993. Prior to that, Mr. Bartholet served as the General Manager
of the Advanced Intelligent Machines Division of Odetics from 1986 to 1990 and
as the Director of Strategic Planning of Odetics from 1983 to 1986.
Frank Borst has served as the Vice President of Odetics since 1994 and
President of Odetics' wholly-owned subsidiary, Gyyr Incorporated since its
formation in 1997. Prior to that, Mr. Borst served as the Director of Global
Business Development from 1992 to 1997. Mr. Borst has also served as the
Managing Director for Odetics Europe Limited and Odetics Asia Pacific Pte.,
Ltd., subsidiaries of Odetics.
16
<PAGE>
Timothy Crabtree has served as the General Manager of the Broadcast Division
and a Vice President of Odetics since 1994. Between 1988 and 1994, Mr.
Crabtree served as the Director of Engineering for the Broadcast Division.
Prior to that, Mr. Crabtree served as a Senior Project Engineer since joining
Odetics in 1983.
Hugo Fruehauf joined Odetics in October 1997 as the Chief Technology Officer
of the Communications Division, became the President of the Communications
Division in December 1997, and became a Vice President of Odetics in February
1999. Prior to joining Odetics, Mr. Fruehauf was the Group Vice President of
Defense Systems at Alliant Techsystems. From 1978 to 1995, Mr. Fruehauf served
as President of Efratom Time and Frequency Products, a company specializing in
telecommunications. From 1965 to 1978, Mr. Fruehauf was employed by Rockwell
International in various management functions including Chief Engineer.
Jack Johnson has served as the Vice President of the Odetics since 1986 and
has served as the President of Odetics' subsidiary, Odetics ITS, Inc., since
its formation in 1998, and prior to that, as General Manager of the ITS
Division from 1996 to 1998. From 1990 to 1996, Mr. Johnson served as the
General Manager of the Gyyr Customer Service Division. Mr. Johnson served in
various other capacities with Odetics since joining Odetics in 1974, including
the Vice President and General Manager of the Omutec Division from 1986 to
1990, the Director of Contracts for the Space Division from 1980 to 1986, the
Controller of Infodetics, a former subsidiary of Odetics from 1975 to 1980 and
the Controller of Odetics from 1974 to 1975. Prior to joining Odetics,
Mr. Johnson served as a certified public accountant with Peat Marwick.
David Scheel has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of
Mariner Networks since its formation in August 1998 and has served as a Vice
President of Odetics since September 1997. Prior to that, Mr. Scheel was
General Manager of Odetics' Telecom Division from January 1997 to March 1998.
Mr. Scheel has also served in various other management positions with Odetics
since joining Odetics in 1982.
Gary Smith has served as Controller of Odetics since 1992 and was appointed
Vice President in August 1994. Prior to that, Mr. Smith served as Assistant
Controller of Odetics between 1990 and 1992, and Senior Financial Analyst from
1986 until 1990.
Officers serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors.
17
<PAGE>
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth the compensation earned by the Chief
Executive Officer and each of the four other most highly compensated executive
officers of Odetics whose total cash salary and bonus during the fiscal year
ended March 31, 1999 exceeded $100,000 (collectively, the "Named Executive
Officers") for each of the three fiscal years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and
1997.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Long-Term
Compensation
---------------------
Awards
---------------------
Annual Compensation Securities
-------------------- Underlying All Other
Name and Principal Fiscal Bonus Restricted Options Compensation
Positions Year Salary ($)(1) ($) Stock ($) (#)(2) ($)(3)
- ------------------ ------ ------------- ------ ---------- ---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky............ 1999 326,111 -- -- 55,000 5,157
Chairman of the Board 1998 325,627 -- -- 50,000 3,710
and Chief Executive 1997 326,362 84,000 3,200 55,000 4,817
Executive Officer of
Odetics
Gregory A. Miner........ 1999 156,751 -- -- 25,000 4,613
Chief Operating Officer 1998 151,946 -- -- 25,000 4,009
and Chief Financial 1997 167,551 30,744 3,200 35,000 4,125
Officer of Odetics
Jack Johnson............ 1999 152,115 -- -- -- 3,920
Vice President of 1998 153,815 -- -- 12,000 3,315
Odetics 1997 145,854 30,000 1,656 25,000 2,303
Frank Borst............. 1999 150,047 -- -- -- 3,242
Vice President of 1998 140,384 -- -- 12,000 2,394
Odetics 1997 108,879 -- 2,452 -- 2,827
Timothy Crabtree........ 1999 154,662 -- -- -- 3,701
Vice President of 1998 149,264 -- -- 12,000 3,589
Odetics 1997 152,252 -- 3,200 -- 3,723
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Represents all amounts earned from Odetics and its subsidiaries during the
fiscal years shown, including amounts deferred under the Executive
Deferral Plan and the Section 401(k) Plan of Odetics.
(2) The vesting schedules of all options granted prior to August 1997 were
accelerated in fiscal 1998 in anticipation of Odetics' spin-off of its
interest in ATL.
(3) Unless otherwise indicated, consists solely of the matching contribution
of Odetics to the respective accounts of the Named Executive Officers
under the Section 401(k) Plan of Odetics.
18
<PAGE>
Option Grants In The Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 1999
The following table sets forth information with respect to grants of options
to purchase Class A common stock during fiscal 1999 to each of the Named
Executive Officers. No stock appreciation rights were granted to any of the
Named Executive Officers.
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Individual Grants
-------------------------------------------
Percent of Potential Realizable
Total Value at Assumed
Number of Options Annual Rates of Stock
Securities Granted to Price Appreciation for
Underlying Employees Exercise Option Term(2)
Options in Fiscal or Base Expiration -----------------------
Name Granted(1) 1999 Price Date 5% 10%
---- ---------- ---------- -------- ---------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky............ 55,000 36.9% $8.663(3) 01/20/09 $229,050 $646,950
Gregory A. Miner........ 25,000 16.8% $7.875 01/20/09 $123,814 $313,768
Jack Johnson............ -- -- -- -- -- --
Frank Borst............. -- -- -- -- -- --
Timothy Crabtree........ -- -- -- -- -- --
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) All of the options were granted pursuant to Odetics' 1994 Long-Term
Incentive Plan and entitle the holder to purchase shares of Class A common
stock. These options have a maximum term of ten years, subject to earlier
termination in the event of the optionee's termination of employment with
Odetics or its subsidiaries. These options vest in three equal annual
installments commencing January 20, 2000 subject to acceleration of
vesting in the event of the merger, consolidation or reorganization of
Odetics.
(2) The 5% and 10% assumed rates of appreciation are prescribed by the rules
and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and do not
represent management's estimate or projection of future trading prices of
the Class A common stock. Unless the market price of the Class A common
stock does in fact appreciate over the option term, no value will be
realized from the option grants.
(3) The exercise price per share of the options granted represented 110% of
the closing sales price of the underlying shares of Class A common stock
on the date the options were granted.
Option Exercises in the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 1999
The table below sets forth certain information with respect to Odetics'
Named Executive Officers concerning their exercise of options to purchase
Class A common stock during fiscal 1999 and the unexercised options they held
as of the end of fiscal 1999. None of the Named Executive Officers held or
exercised any stock appreciation rights during fiscal year ended March 31,
1999.
19
<PAGE>
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
AND YEAR END OPTION VALUES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of Securities
Number of Underlying Value of Unexercised
Shares Unexercised Options at In-the-Money Options at
Acquired on March 31, 1999 (#) March 31, 1999 ($)(1)
Exercise Value ------------------------- -------------------------
(#) Realized ($) Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------- ----------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky............ -- -- 16,666 88,334 77,697 215,205
Gregory A. Miner........ -- -- 8,333 41,667 42,707 132,293
Jack Johnson............ -- -- 4,000 8,000 20,500 41,000
Frank Borst............. -- -- 4,000 8,000 20,500 41,000
Timothy Crabtree........ -- -- 4,000 8,000 20,500 41,000
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Calculated based on the closing sale price per share of the Class A common
stock at March 31, 1999 ($9.75) less the applicable exercise price.
Ten Year Information Regarding Repricing, Cancellation and Regrant of Options
In May 1995, Odetics repriced certain outstanding stock options which were
originally granted in January 1994. In connection with the repricing, Odetics
made an offer to the holders of the options, including the Named Executive
Officers, to reduce by one-third the number of shares covered by these options
in consideration of a reduction in the exercise price of the options from
their original exercise price to the market price of the Class A common stock
of Odetics at the time of the offer. The following table sets forth certain
information with respect to the repricing of options held by the Named
Executive Officers.
Ten Year Option/SAR Repricings
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Amended Length of
Number of Original
Original Number Securities Market Price Option Term
of Securities Underlying of Stock at Exercise Price New Remaining at
Underlying Options Time of at Time of Exercise Date of
Name Date Options Repriced Repriced Repricing Repricing Price Repricing
---- -------- ---------------- ---------- ------------ -------------- -------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky............ 05/23/95 33,000 22,000 $4.25 $9.90 $4.675(1) 8.67 Years
Jack Johnson............ 05/23/95 10,000 6,667 4.25 9.00 4.25 8.67 Years
Gregory A. Miner........ 05/23/95 12,000 8,667 4.25 9.00 4.25 8.67 Years
Frank Borst............. 05/23/95 1,000 667 4.25 9.00 4.25 8.67 Years
Timothy Crabtree........ 05/23/95 2,000 1,333 4.25 9.00 4.25 8.67 Years
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Represents 110% of the closing sales price of the Class A common stock on
the date of the repricing.
Associate Benefit Plans
Odetics maintains a Profit Sharing Plan and Trust (the "Profit Sharing
Plan") which qualifies under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code. Odetics
refers to its employees as associates. The Profit Sharing Plan provides that
associates who meet a six month service requirement automatically become
participants. Each fiscal year, Odetics, at its discretion, makes a
contribution to the Profit Sharing Plan. Odetics may contribute Class A common
stock or cash to the Profit Sharing Plan. These contributions are allocated to
separate accounts of the participants in proportion to their relative
compensation, and are held in trust and invested. Participant accounts are
credited with investment gains and losses. Vesting depends on the
participant's years of service, with contributions being fully vested after
the participant has five years of service. When an associate leaves Odetics,
his account under the Profit Sharing Plan, if vested, becomes distributable in
a lump sum or over a period of time at the discretion of the Profit Sharing
Plan Administrator. No contributions were made to the Profit Sharing Plan for
fiscal years 1999, 1998 and 1997.
20
<PAGE>
The Profit Sharing Plan also includes the Odetics, Inc. 401(k) Plan. Under
the 401(k) Plan, associates with at least six months of service with Odetics
or any subsidiary may elect to defer up to 15% of their annual compensation,
not to exceed the limits set by the Internal Revenue Code. The maximum
deferral for calendar year 1999 is $10,000.
Odetics maintains an Associate Stock Ownership Plan (the "ASOP"), which
qualifies under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code. The ASOP provides
that associates who meet a six month service requirement automatically become
participants. Each fiscal year, Odetics, at its discretion, makes a
contribution to the ASOP. Odetics may contribute Class A common stock or the
cash to buy Class A common stock. These contributions are allocated to
separate accounts of the participants in proportion to their relative
compensation, and are held in trust. Vesting depends on the participant's
years of service, with contributions being fully vested after the participant
has five years of service. When an associate leaves Odetics, his account under
the ASOP, if vested, is distributed in shares of Class A common stock. Odetics
contributed Class A common stock valued at approximately $511,000 as of the
date of the contribution to the ASOP for fiscal 1997. Odetics did not make any
contributions to the ASOP in fiscal 1998 or fiscal 1999.
Odetics maintains an Executive Deferral Plan which is intended to provide
deferred compensation benefits to designated executives of Odetics who
contribute to Odetics' growth and success. Eligible executives may elect to
defer up to 75%, but not less than $5,000, of their annual compensation.
Participation in the Executive Deferral Plan is voluntary and may be
discontinued at any time. Payment of benefits under this plan commences upon
the retirement, death, disability or termination of employment of a
participating executive.
Employment Contracts, Termination of Employment Agreements and Change of
Control Arrangements
Odetics does not currently have any employment contracts in effect with any
of its Named Executive Officers. Odetics provides incentives such as salary,
benefits and option grants to attract and retain executive officers and other
key associates. The Compensation Committee, as Plan Administrator of the 1997
Plan, has the authority to provide for the accelerated vesting of the shares
of common stock subject to any outstanding options held by such individual, in
connection with the termination of the individual's employment following an
acquisition in which these options are assumed or the repurchase rights with
respect to the unvested shares are assigned or certain hostile changes in
control of Odetics. Other than such accelerated vesting, there is no agreement
or policy which would entitle any executive officers to severance payments or
any other compensation as a result of such officer's termination.
Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Under Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, Odetics can
indemnify its directors and officers against liabilities they may incur in
such capacities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended (the "Securities Act"). Odetics' bylaws provide that Odetics will
indemnify its directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by law
and require Odetics to advance litigation expenses upon receipt by Odetics of
an undertaking by the director or officer to repay such advances if it is
ultimately determined that the director or officer is not entitled to
indemnification. The bylaws further provide that rights conferred under such
bylaws do not exclude any other right such persons may have or acquire under
any bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or
otherwise.
Odetics' certificate of incorporation provides that, pursuant to Delaware
law, its directors shall not be liable for monetary damages for breach of the
directors' fiduciary duty of care to Odetics and its stockholders. This
provision in the certificate of incorporation does not eliminate the duty of
care, and in appropriate circumstances equitable remedies such as injunctive
or other forms of non-monetary relief will remain available under Delaware
law. In addition, each director will continue to be subject to liability for
breach of the director's duty of loyalty to Odetics or its stockholders, for
acts or omissions not in good faith or involving intentional misconduct or
knowing violations of law, for actions leading to improper personal benefit to
the director, and for payment of
21
<PAGE>
dividends or approval of stock repurchases or redemptions that are unlawful
under Delaware law. The provision also does not affect a director's
responsibilities under any other law, such as the federal securities laws or
state or federal environmental laws.
Odetics has entered into agreements to indemnify its directors and certain
of its officers in addition to the indemnification provided for in the
certificate of incorporation and bylaws. These agreements, among other things,
indemnify Odetics' directors and certain of its officers for certain expenses
(including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and settlement amounts incurred
by such person in any action or proceeding, including any action by or in the
right of Odetics, on account of services as a director or officer of Odetics,
or as a director or officer of any other company or enterprise to which the
person provides services at the request of Odetics.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
The members of the Compensation and Stock Options Committee of Odetics'
Board of Directors during fiscal 1999 were Messrs. Mickelson, Wexler and
Wright. Mr. Wexler resigned from the Board of Directors of Odetics in April
1999. None of the executive officers of Odetics has served on the Board of
Directors or on the compensation committee of any other entity, any of whose
officers served either on the Board of Directors or on the Compensation and
Stock Options Committee of Odetics. No member of the Compensation and Stock
Option Committee was an officer or employee of Odetics or its subsidiaries
during fiscal 1999.
Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, set forth in any of Odetics'
previous or future filings under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that might incorporate by
reference previous or future filings, including this proxy statement, in whole
or in part, the following Compensation Committee Report and the Performance
Graph are not "soliciting materials," are not deemed filed with the SEC and
shall not be incorporated by reference into any of such filings.
This report covers Odetics' fiscal year ended March 31, 1999.
The Compensation and Stock Option Committee (the "Compensation Committee")
for fiscal 1999 was comprised of three outside directors, Messrs. Mickelson,
Wexler and Wright. Mr. Wexler resigned from the compensation committee in
April 1999. The Compensation Committee recommends the general compensation
levels for executives. The Compensation Committee meets periodically to review
and recommend for approval by the Board of Directors, the salaries, bonuses
and benefit plans for officers and key associates. In fiscal 1999, the
Compensation Committee held one meeting.
The guiding principle of the Compensation Committee is to establish a
compensation program that aligns executive compensation with Odetics'
objectives and business strategies as well as with financial and operational
performance. In keeping with this principle the Compensation Committee seeks
to:
(1) Attract and retain qualified senior executives who can play a
significant role in the achievement of Odetics' goals;
(2) Reward executives for strategic management and the long-term
enhancement of stockholder value; and
(3) Create a performance-oriented environment that rewards performance
with respect to the financial and operational goals of Odetics.
In fiscal year 1999, the annual compensation for the executive officers
included base salaries, bonuses and stock options.
Odetics establishes salaries for the Chief Executive Officer and other
officers by considering the salaries of officers at comparably sized companies
according to data obtained by the Compensation Committee from executive
compensation consultants and from other independent outside sources, including
the American Electronics Association annual survey of executive compensation.
Half of the annual bonuses payable to Odetics'
22
<PAGE>
executive officers are based upon the achievement by Odetics and its divisions
of certain corporate financial targets established for each fiscal year. The
remaining portion of the bonuses is discretionary based upon the performance
of the individual officers.
A substantial portion of the compensation of executive officers is based
upon the award of stock options which rely on increases in the value of
Odetics' securities. The award of options is intended to encourage executives
to establish a meaningful, long-term ownership interest in Odetics consistent
with the interests of Odetics' stockholders. Under Odetics' stock option
plans, options are granted from time to time to certain officers and key
associates of Odetics and its subsidiaries at the fair market value of the
shares of Class A common stock at the time of grant. Because the compensation
element of options is dependent on increases over time in the market value of
such shares, stock options represent compensation that is tied to Odetics'
long-term performance. The award of stock options to the Chief Executive
Officer and the other executive officers is determined based upon individual
performance, level of base salary and position with Odetics.
The Compensation Committee has reviewed the fiscal year 1999 base salaries
of the Chief Executive Officer and each of the other executive officers and is
of the opinion that such salaries are not unreasonable in view of those paid
by Odetics' competitors and by other companies of similar size. The
Compensation Committee also reviewed the stock options awarded to the
executive officers for their services in fiscal year 1999 and is of the
opinion that the option awards are reasonable in view of the officers'
individual performance and positions with Odetics.
Compliance with Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Section 162(m) of the
Internal Revenue Code generally disallows a tax deduction to publicly held
corporations for compensation exceeding $1.0 million paid to certain of the
corporation's executive officers. The limitation applies only to compensation
which is not considered to be performance-based. The nonperformance based
compensation to be paid to Odetics' executive officers for fiscal year 1999
did not exceed the $1.0 million limit per officer, nor is it expected that the
nonperformance based compensation to be paid to Odetics' executive officers
for fiscal year 1999 will exceed that limit. Odetics' compensation plan is
structured so that any compensation deemed paid to an executive officer in
connection with the exercise of option grants made under that plan will
qualify as performance-based compensation which will not be subject to the
$1.0 million limitation. Because it is very unlikely that the cash
compensation payable to any of Odetics' executive officers in the foreseeable
future will approach the $1.0 million limit, the Compensation Committee has
decided at this time not to take any other action to limit or restructure the
elements of cash compensation payable to Odetics' executive officers. The
Compensation Committee will reconsider this decision should the individual
compensation of any executive officer ever approach the $1.0 million level.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE:
Ralph R. Mickelson, Chairman
Paul E. Wright
23
<PAGE>
PERFORMANCE GRAPH FOR ODETICS, INC.
INDEXED COMPARISON OF CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
The performance graph shows the cumulative total return on investment
assuming an investment of $100 on April 1, 1995 in each of the Class A common
stock and Class B common stock of Odetics, the Nasdaq National Market Index
and Media General's Industry Group 836 for Diversified Electronics. The total
stockholder return assumes reinvestment of dividends on a daily basis,
although cash dividends have not been declared on either class of Odetics'
common stock. The stockholder returns shown in the following graph are not
necessarily indicative of future performance.
[INSERT CHART]
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Measurement Period
-----------------------------------------
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Odetics, Inc. Class A common stock....... 50.00 65.91 119.32 236.04 263.02
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Odetics, Inc. Class B common stock....... 58.14 65.12 132.56 186.32 269.13
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nasdaq National Market Index............. 106.09 142.70 159.64 241.26 315.28
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Media General Industry Group 836......... 120.52 131.30 129.02 156.08 150.36
</TABLE>
24
<PAGE>
Certain Transactions
In December 1998, Odetics issued and sold an aggregate of 1,499,851 shares
of its Class A common stock in a private placement at a purchase price equal
to $6.625 per share. Of these shares, the following officers and directors of
Odetics and its subsidiaries purchased an aggregate of 293,434 shares of Class
A common stock in this offering:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
No. of Aggregate
Name Shares Purchase Price
---- ------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky...................................... 232,303 $1,539,007
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of Odetics
Ralph R. Mickelson................................ 15,094 99,998
Director
Paul E. Wright.................................... 15,094 99,998
Director
Hugo Fruehauf..................................... 12,075 79,997
Vice President of Odetics
John W. Seazholtz................................. 7,547 49,999
Director
Gary Smith........................................ 7,547 49,999
Vice President, Controller and Assistant
Secretary of Odetics
David Scheel...................................... 3,774 25,003
Vice President of Odetics
</TABLE>
Cruttenden Roth Incorporated served as the placement agent for this
offering. In March 1999, the stockholders of Odetics approved and ratified the
issuance of the Class A common stock to the foregoing officers and directors.
Odetics has filed a Registration Statement on Form S-1 with the SEC to
register all of these shares.
In July 1999, Odetics sold an option to Manchester Capital LLC for an
aggregate purchase price of $5 million to purchase certain real property of
Odetics consisting of approximately 14 acres located at 1515 South Manchester
Avenue, Anaheim, California. The option exercise price is equal to the lessor
of (a) the appraised fair market value of this real property as determined at
November 1, 1999, or (b) at the option of Manchester Capital, the appraised
fair market value of this real estate at November 1, 2000 or November 1, 2002.
The option is exercisable until October 31, 2002. Odetics has the right to
repurchase this option at any time between July 31, 2000 and August 1, 2002
for the following amounts:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Aggregate
Repurchase Date Repurchase Date
--------------- ---------------
<S> <C>
July 31, 2000.......................... $5,600,000
January 31, 2001....................... $5,936,000
July 31, 2001.......................... $6,272,000
January 31, 2002....................... $6,648,500
July 31, 2001.......................... $7,025,000
</TABLE>
Odetics also has the right to repurchase the option prior to July 31, 2000
if Manchester Capital has previously notified Odetics of its exercise of the
option. If Manchester Capital exercises its option, the full amount of the
option repurchase right at the most recent adjustment date will be credited
against the option exercise price.
25
<PAGE>
The following officers and directors are members of Manchester Capital and
have made capital contributions to Manchester Capital in the amounts set forth
opposite their names below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Membership
Amount Percentage
Name Invested Interest
---- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
Joel Slutzky(1)..................................... $2,500,000 50%
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of Odetics
Crandall Gudmundson................................. 500,000 10%
Director
Paul E. Wright...................................... 500,000 10%
Director
Timothy Crabtree(2)................................. 500,000 10%
Vice President of Odetics
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Includes $2,000,000 investment by Mr. Slutzky's trust. Does not include
$500,000 investment made by Mr. Slutzky's adult son.
(2) Consists of holdings held by Mr. Crabtree's mother's trust. Mr. Crabtree
currently is a beneficiary for one-third of the trust.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Under the federal securities laws, Odetics' directors and officers and any
persons holding more than 10% of Odetics' common stock are required to report
their ownership of Odetics' common stock and any changes in that ownership to
the Securities and Exchange Commission. Specific due dates for these reports
have been established, and Odetics is required to report in this proxy
statement any failure to file by these dates. During fiscal 1999, all of these
filing requirements were satisfied by its directors, officers and 10%
stockholders. In making these statements, Odetics has relied upon a review of
Forms 3, 4 and 5 and amendments thereto furnished to Odetics during fiscal
1999 pursuant to Rule 16a-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended.
Deadline for Receipt of Stockholder Proposals
If Odetics has not received notice prior to June 25, 2000 of any matter a
stockholder intends to propose for a vote at the 2000 annual meeting of
stockholders, then a proxy solicited by the Board of Directors may be voted on
such matter in the discretion of the proxy holder, without discussion of the
matter in the proxy statement soliciting such proxy and without such matter as
a separate item on the proxy card.
The deadline for stockholders to submit proposals to be considered for
inclusion in Odetics' Proxy Statement for next year's annual meeting of
stockholders is anticipated to be April 11, 2000. Such proposals may be
included in next year's proxy statement if they comply with certain rules and
regulations promulgated by the SEC. Stockholder proposals must be mailed to
the attention of the Secretary of Odetics at the principal executive offices
of Odetics located at 1515 South Manchester, Anaheim, California 92802.
Annual Report
A copy of Odetics' annual report to stockholders, including Odetics'
consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999,
accompanies the proxy materials being mailed to all stockholders. The annual
report is not incorporated into this proxy statement and is not considered
proxy solicitation materials.
26
<PAGE>
Other Business
The Board of Directors is not aware of any other matter which will be
presented for action at the annual meeting other than the matters set forth in
this proxy statement. If any other matter requiring a vote of the stockholders
arise, it is intended that the proxy holders will vote the shares they
represent as the Board of Directors may recommend. Discretionary authority
with respect to such other matters is granted by the execution of the enclosed
proxy card.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ Jerry F. Muench
JERRY F. MUENCH
Secretary
Anaheim, California
August 9, 1999
27
<PAGE>
PROXY
ODETICS, INC.
CLASS A COMMON STOCK
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned stockholder of Class A common stock of ODETICS, INC. hereby
appoints THOMAS G. BARTHOLET and GARY SMITH, and each of them, proxies of the
undersigned, each with full power to act without the other and with power of
substitution, to represent the undersigned at the annual meeting of stockholders
of Odetics to be held at 1515 South Manchester Avenue, Anaheim, California on
September 30, 1999 at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time), and at any adjournments
thereof, and to vote all shares of Class A common stock of Odetics held of
record by the undersigned on August 2, 1999, with all the powers the undersigned
would possess if personally present, in accordance with the instructions on the
reverse hereof.
The undersigned hereby revokes any other proxy to vote at such annual
meeting of stockholders and hereby ratifies and confirms all that said proxies,
and each of them, may lawfully do by virtue hereof. The undersigned also
acknowledges receipt of the notice of annual meeting of stockholders, the proxy
statement and annual report to stockholders for the year ended March 31, 1999
which were furnished with this proxy.
THIS PROXY, WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED, WILL BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
INSTRUCTIONS BELOW, OR IF NO INSTRUCTIONS ARE INDICATED, THIS PROXY WILL BE
VOTED FOR PROPOSALS 1, 2 AND 3, AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DISCRETION OF THE
PROXY HOLDERS WITH REGARD TO ANY OTHER MATTERS PROPERLY BROUGHT TO A VOTE AT THE
ANNUAL MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENT OR POSTPONEMENT THEREOF.
CONTINUED AND TO BE SIGNED ON REVERSE SIDE
SEE REVERSE SIDE
<PAGE>
[X] Please mark votes as in this example.
1. Election of Directors
Nominees standing for election by holders of Class A common stock:
Crandall Gudmundson, Jerry F. Muench and Thomas L. Thomas.
[ ] FOR [ ] WITHHOLD AUTHORITY to vote for all nominees listed
below
(Instruction: To withhold authority to vote for any individual
nominee, write that nominee's name in the space provided below.)
_____________________________________________________________________
2. Approval of an amendment to Odetics' 1997 Stock Incentive Plan to
increase in the number of shares of Class A common stock authorized
for issuance by an additional 400,000 shares.
[ ] FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN
3. Ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent auditors of
Odetics for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2000.
[ ] FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN
MARK HERE FOR ADDRESS CHANGE AND INDICATE NEW ADDRESS [ ]
MARK HERE IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING [ ]
Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________________
Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________________
(This Proxy must be signed exactly as your name appears hereon. Executors,
administrators, trustees, etc., should give full title as such. If the
stockholder is a corporation, a duly authorized officer should sign on behalf of
the corporation and should indicate his or her title.)
PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THIS PROXY CARD PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED
ENVELOPE
<PAGE>
PROXY
ODETICS, INC.
CLASS B COMMON STOCK
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned stockholder of Class B common stock of ODETICS, INC. hereby
appoints THOMAS G. BARTHOLET and GARY SMITH, and each of them, proxies of the
undersigned, each with full power to act without the other and with power of
substitution, to represent the undersigned at the annual meeting of stockholders
of Odetics to be held at 1515 South Manchester Avenue, Anaheim, California on
September 30, 1999 at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time), and at any adjournments
thereof, and to vote all shares of Class B common stock of Odetics held of
record by the undersigned on August 2, 1999, with all the powers the undersigned
would possess if personally present, in accordance with the instructions on the
reverse hereof.
The undersigned hereby revokes any other proxy to vote at such annual
meeting of stockholders and hereby ratifies and confirms all that said proxies,
and each of them, may lawfully do by virtue hereof. The undersigned also
acknowledges receipt of the notice of annual meeting of stockholders, the proxy
statement and annual report to stockholders for the year ended March 31, 1999
which were furnished with this proxy.
THIS PROXY, WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED, WILL BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
INSTRUCTIONS BELOW, OR IF NO INSTRUCTIONS ARE INDICATED, THIS PROXY WILL BE
VOTED FOR PROPOSALS 1, 2 AND 3, AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DISCRETION OF THE
PROXY HOLDERS WITH REGARD TO ANY OTHER MATTERS PROPERLY BROUGHT TO A VOTE AT THE
ANNUAL MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENT OR POSTPONEMENT THEREOF.
CONTINUED AND TO BE SIGNED ON REVERSE SIDE
SEE REVERSE SIDE
<PAGE>
[X] Please mark votes as in this example.
1. Election of Directors
Nominees standing for election by holders of Class B common stock:
Kevin C. Daly, Ralph R. Mickelson, Gregory A. Miner, John W.
Seazholtz, Joel Slutzky and Paul E. Wright.
[ ] FOR [ ] WITHHOLD AUTHORITY to vote for all nominees listed
below
(Instruction: To withhold authority to vote for any individual
nominee, write that nominee's name in the space provided below.)
_____________________________________________________________________
2. Approval of an amendment to Odetics' 1997 Stock Incentive Plan to
increase in the number of shares of Class A common stock authorized
for issuance by an additional 400,000 shares.
[ ] FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN
3. Ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent auditors of
Odetics for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2000.
[ ] FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN
MARK HERE FOR ADDRESS CHANGE AND INDICATE NEW ADDRESS [ ]
MARK HERE IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING [ ]
Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________________
Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________________
(This Proxy must be signed exactly as your name appears hereon. Executors,
administrators, trustees, etc., should give full title as such. If the
stockholder is a corporation, a duly authorized officer should sign on behalf of
the corporation and should indicate his or her title.)
PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THIS PROXY CARD PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED
ENVELOPE
