APPLIED POWER INC
10-K/A, 1998-06-19
MISC INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT
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<PAGE>
 
                                 UNITED STATES
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            Washington, D.C.  20549

                                 FORM 10-K/A

                                AMENDMENT NO. 1

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

               For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1997
                                         ---------------

                                 OR

[ ]    TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
       THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

               For the transition period from ______ to _______.
                         Commission File No. 1-11288
                                             -------  

                              APPLIED POWER INC.
                              ------------------
            (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

    Wisconsin                                       39-0168610
    ---------                                       ----------
(State or other jurisdiction of                  (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)                  Identification No.)




                        13000 West Silver Spring Drive
                           Butler, Wisconsin  53007
           Mailing address: P.O. Box 325, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201
           --------------------------------------------------------
                   (Address of principal executive offices)

                                (414) 781-6600
                                --------------
             (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
The undersigned registrant hereby amends the following items, financial
statements, exhibits or other portions of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended August 31, 1997 (the "1997 10-K") as set forth in the pages attached
hereto. 


Items 7 and 14 of the 1997 10-K are hereby amended to expand the disclosure
regarding Year 2000 considerations and to submit a dual-dated independent
auditors' report to properly reflect the footnote information contained in Note
O - "Subsequent Events" as audited and to file the related updated accountants' 
consent as Exhibit 23.


                                   SIGNATURE
                                        

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
Registrant has duly caused this Amendment to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.



                                 APPLIED POWER INC.



Date: June 19, 1998              By: /s/ Robert C. Arzbaecher
                                     ------------------------
                                     Robert C. Arzbaecher,
                                     Vice President and
                                     Chief Financial Officer
<PAGE>
 
ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in Millions, except per share amounts)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RESULTS OF CONTINUING OPERATIONS                Years Ended August 31,          Percentage of Net Sales
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                             1997        1996       1995     1997        1996        1995
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>
Net Sales                                 $  672.3    $  571.2   $  527.1   100.0%      100.0%      100.0%
Gross Profit                                 252.9       219.9      201.4    37.6        38.5        38.2

Operating Expenses                           180.0       162.6      152.6    26.8        28.5        29.0
Operating Earnings                            72.9        57.3       48.8    10.8        10.0         9.3
Other Expenses                                10.2         8.2       11.9     1.5         1.4         2.3
Earnings Before Income Taxes                  62.7        49.1       36.9     9.3         8.6         7.0
Income Tax Expense                            20.7        15.4       11.9     3.1         2.7         2.3

Earnings Before Accounting Change and
   Extraordinary Loss                         42.0        33.7       25.0     6.2         5.9         4.7
Extraordinary Loss                               -           -       (4.9)      -           -       (0.9)
     Net Earnings                         $   42.0    $   33.7   $   20.1     6.2%        5.9%        3.8%
==========================================================================================================
</TABLE>

The preceding table sets forth the results of continuing operations of the
Company for the years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.


                                       8

<PAGE>
 
RECLASSIFICATIONS
- - -----------------
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to fiscal 1997
presentation, including but not limited to the reclassification of financial
data previously reported in Tools & Supplies into Engineered Solutions and
TEE.

OVERVIEW
- - --------
In fiscal 1997, earnings per share improved 21% to $2.92 compared to $2.41 in
1996. Net earnings have more than doubled over the last two years as a result
of higher sales volume, improved operating margins and lower financing costs.

NET SALES
- - ---------
Net sales increased 18% during fiscal 1997 to $672.3 from $571.2 in fiscal
1996. The increase in sales was primarily the result of increased volume and
the effect of acquisitions. The incremental effect of acquisitions was
approximately $79.7 in fiscal 1997. Price changes have not had a significant
impact on the comparability of net sales during the last three years.
Excluding the unfavorable impact on translated sales from the stronger US
Dollar, sales increased 21% over 1996.

- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Sales             Percentage Change
                                                     from Prior Year
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 SEGMENT SALES           1997     1996      1995     1997      1996    1995
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Tools & Supplies      $ 292.5  $ 281.2   $ 264.9      4%        6%     19%
 Engineered Solutions    189.5    193.8     192.2     (2)        1      18
 Technical
 Environments and
   Enclosures            190.3     96.2      70.0     98        37      42
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Totals                $ 672.3  $ 571.2   $ 527.1     18%        8%     22%
===========================================================================

Sales in the Tools & Supplies segment increased 4% in 1997 to $292.5 from
$281.2 in 1996. The increase was primarily the result of $11.7 of increased
sales from acquisitions net of product line dispositions. The impact of the
stronger US Dollar negatively impacted reported sales by 5% for the year. The
growth rate slowed in 1997 compared to 1996 due to economic softening in some
of the economies that the Tools & Supplies segment operates in, specifically
Europe and Asia. In 1996, sales for Tools & Supplies increased 6% over 1995.
The increase for 1996 was attributed to expansion into developing markets in
Southeast Asia, Latin America and South America and approximately $16.7 from
acquisitions net of product line dispositions. The impact of the stronger US
Dollar in 1996 over 1995 negatively impacted sales by approximately 1%.

Sales for the Engineered Solutions segment fell 2% compared to 1996. The
decrease was primarily the result of the sale of the mobile equipment valve
line and the completion of the Cadillac valve contract, both in 1996.
Excluding the impact of these two items, sales increased 4% for the year. The
strengthening US Dollar negatively impacted sales by 3% in 1997. Sales
increased 1% in 1996 over 1995 primarily the result of the improving aerospace
market in the US.

Technical Environments & Enclosures (TEE) nearly doubled its sales in 1997
with an increase of 98% over 1996. The increase was the result of the
acquisitions of Everest, C Fab and Hormann Electronics, as well as the
continued expansion of its direct sales force in the US, Europe and Asia.
Excluding acquisitions and the negative impact of the stronger US Dollar,
TEE's sales grew 34%. In 1996, sales grew 37% due to the continued demand for
its products, the expansion of its direct sales force and geographic expansion
in Europe and Asia.

- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Sales             Percentage Change
                                                     from Prior Year
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 GEOGRAPHIC SALES       1997      1996      1995     1997      1996    1995
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 North America        $ 448.2   $ 360.8   $ 323.0     24%       12%     16%
 Europe                 160.7     143.7     136.8     12         5      38
 Japan and Asia          52.0      56.8      55.3     (8)        3      27
 Pacific
 Latin America           11.4       9.9      12.0     15       (18)      6
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Totals               $ 672.3   $ 571.2   $ 527.1     18%        8%     22%
===========================================================================

                                      9

<PAGE>
 
The Company does business in many different geographic regions and is subject
to various economic conditions. The improved economic environment in North
America and the effect of acquisitions made in the third quarter of 1996 and
first quarter of 1997 combined to increase sales 24% in this region over 1996.
Sales increased 12% in 1996 over 1995 primarily due to improving US economy
and the acquisition made in the third quarter of 1996.

Sales in Europe grew 12% in 1997 compared to 5% in 1996. The primary reason
for the growth in 1997 was two acquisitions made during 1997. The slowing
economies in Europe were the main reason sales grew 5% in 1996 compared to 38%
in 1995. Sales in Japan and Asia Pacific fell 8% in 1997. Excluding the
negative effect of the strengthening US Dollar, sales fell only 2%. The
slowing economies in these regions were the causes for this decline. In 1996,
sales grew 3% in Japan and Asia Pacific and 9% excluding the foreign currency
fluctuations. This growth rate was in line with the overall economic growth
for these regions. The sales growth generated in Latin America during 1997 was
the result of geographic expansion in this region. In 1996, Latin American
sales were significantly impacted by the devaluation of the Mexican Peso.
Excluding the effect of this devaluation, sales growth was 1% in 1996.

GROSS PROFIT
- - ------------
Gross profit increased 15% in 1997 to $252.9 compared to $219.9 in 1996 and
$201.4 in 1995. The increase in gross profit resulted primarily from increased
sales in 1997 and 1996.

- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------
GROSS PROFIT PERCENTAGES BY SEGMENT      1997         1996        1995
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tools & Supplies                          37.6%        40.5%       42.1%
Engineered Solutions                      32.8         30.0        28.8
Technical Environments and Enclosures     42.5         49.9        48.8
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                    37.6%        38.5%       38.2%
=========================================================================

The overall gross profit percentage is primarily influenced by the relative
sales mix between Tools & Supplies, Engineered Solutions and TEE. Engineered
Solutions gross profit percentages are lower than either TEE or Tools &
Supplies because a much higher proportion of its sales are made to OEM
customers, which typically generate lower margins than non-OEM customers. The
gross profit margin in Engineered Solutions has increased in each of the last
two years as a result of continued efforts to reduce costs associated with
manufacturing. Tools & Supplies gross profit margin declined in 1997 compared
to 1996 primarily due to $2.1 of non-recurring charges and competitive pricing
pressures. Gross profit margin in Tools & Supplies declined in 1996 relative
to 1995 as a result of inefficiencies during the implementation of automated
warehousing, competitive pricing pressures, higher discounts to distributors
and increased shipments to OEM customers. Gross profit in TEE fell during 1997
compared to 1996. This is the result of the effect of the enclosure related
acquisitions that took place during 1997. The enclosure businesses sell to OEM
customers and carry a lower gross profit margin than the technical environment
business. As the enclosure business becomes a larger percentage of TEE's
overall business, the gross profit within TEE is expected to continue to
decline. However, the enclosure businesses operate with lower selling,
administrative and engineering expenses compared to the environment business.
TEE gross profit margin increased in 1996 compared to 1995 due to higher
production levels. The overall gross profit margin of the Company will vary
depending on the levels of OEM sales within Engineered Solutions and the
enclosure business within TEE.

OPERATING EXPENSES
- - ------------------
Operating expenses increased 11% and 7% in 1997 and 1996, respectively. During
the corresponding periods, sales increased 18% and 8%, respectively. The
majority of the increase since 1995 relates to variable selling expenses,
primarily commissions and increased amortization of goodwill associated with
recent acquisitions. The Wright Line business within TEE has a direct sales
force whose compensation is commission based. As a result of the sales growth
in the Wright Line business over the last few years, its operating expenses
have increased accordingly.

In addition to variable selling expenses, total operating costs have increased
as a result of acquisitions, product development programs and expenditures for
geographic expansion into emerging markets. Approximately $8.4 of the increase
in fiscal 1997 was attributable to businesses acquired since the second
quarter of 1996. Approximately $3.2 of the increase in fiscal 1996 was the
result of acquisitions that took place since the third quarter of 1995. During
the

                                      10

<PAGE>
 
last few years, the company has also opened sales offices in Russia, China and
India, and has increased its presence in Latin America and Southeast Asia.

Overall, lower corporate expenses as a percent of sales, the effects of the
lower operating cost enclosure businesses and the Company's goal to
continually identify ways to be more cost efficient have allowed the Company
to reduce operating costs as a percent of sales to 27% and 28% in 1997 and
1996, respectively, from 29% in 1995.

OTHER EXPENSE(INCOME)
- - ---------------------

- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER EXPENSE(INCOME)                 1997       1996       1995
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Net financing costs                 $  12.0     $  8.5    $  10.3
Other - net                            (1.9)      (0.2)       1.7
=====================================================================

The increase in net financing costs noted in 1997 is attributable to increased
debt levels following significant acquisitions completed during 1996 and 1997.
Previously, net financing costs had been decreasing, reflecting lower interest
rates and reduced debt levels. The Company refinanced certain debt in 1995,
which also had the impact of lowering its financing costs. For further
information, see "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below.

"Other - net" includes foreign exchange (gains)losses and miscellaneous other
(income)expense. In 1997, the US Dollar strengthened against most of the major
currencies and the Company realized foreign exchange gains due to transactions
denominated in currencies outside of the functional currencies of certain of
its foreign units. In 1996, net foreign exchange losses were slightly more
than offset by miscellaneous income realized.

INCOME TAX EXPENSE
- - ------------------
The Company's effective income tax rate was 33.0% and 31.4% in 1997 and 1996,
respectively. The rate is largely impacted by the proportion of earnings
generated inside and outside the US, as well as the utilization of foreign tax
credits in the US. Higher US earnings and the utilization of foreign tax
credits had a favorable impact on the effective tax rate in 1997 and 1996.

EXTRAORDINARY LOSS
- - ------------------
The Company recorded an extraordinary loss of $4.9, or $0.36 per share, in
1995 in connection with the March 30, 1995 extinguishment of its $64.4, 9.92%
Senior Unsecured Notes. The pre-tax extraordinary loss of $7.3 was comprised
of an estimated "make whole" provision of $4.1, costs associated with the
cancellation of underlying interest rate swap agreements of $3.0 and the
write-off of $0.2 of deferred financing costs. For further information, see
Note G - "Long-term Debt" in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
- - -----------------------------
In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standard ("SFAS") No. 128, "Earnings Per Share." The
Company intends to adopt this statement, as required, in its interim financial
statements issued for the second quarter of fiscal 1998. Under the new
requirements for calculating primary earnings per share, to be called basic
earnings per share, the dilutive effect of the Company's stock plans will be
excluded. Adoption of this statement will increase basic earnings per share
previously reported as primary earnings per share by $0.13, $0.09 and $0.06
for each of the three years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. SFAS No. 128 is not expected to have a material impact on fully
diluted earnings per share.

In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued two additional
statements. SFAS No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income," and SFAS No. 131,
"Disclosure About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information," are both
effective for years beginning after December 15, 1997. The Company is
assessing the required disclosures and expects to adopt these statements in
fiscal 1998.

                                      11

<PAGE>
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
- - -------------------------------
Outstanding debt at August 31, 1997 totaled $123.1, an increase of $30.5 since
the beginning of the year. The increase in debt is a direct result of the
business acquisitions that were made during 1997. End-of-year debt to total
capital was 36% in 1997 compared to 33% in 1996. Approximately $64.8 of cash
was generated from operating activities in 1997, a 98% increase over 1996. The
Company used $75.0 of cash to fund acquisitions and $22.6 was used to fund
capital expenditures. In 1996, $32.8 of cash was generated from operations of
which $33.9 was used to fund acquisitions and $22.7 was used to fund capital
expenditures. The balance of cash generated in 1996 originated from the
additional sale of receivables. Dividends of $1.7 and $1.6 were paid during
1997 and 1996, respectively.

The Company extinguished all $64.4 of its 9.92% Senior Unsecured Notes on
March 30, 1995. The funds used to retire the debt and disburse the "make
whole" payments totaling $4.0 were obtained from new borrowings, including
those under a temporary expansion of the Company's then existing $40.0
multi-currency revolving credit agreement. The Company replaced the original
$40.0 multi- currency credit agreement and the temporary $40.0 expansion with
the proceeds from a $120.0 multi-currency credit agreement in August 1995.

In August 1996, the multi-currency credit agreement was amended to provide
unsecured credit availability of $170.0 and extend the expiration date to
August 2001. During 1997, the Company incurred interest at a rate of .375 to
 .45 of 1% above the 30-day IBOR, determined by the underlying currency of the
debt which the Company is borrowing. At August 31, 1997, the Company had
borrowings denominated in the US Dollar, the Japanese Yen and the German Mark.
For additional information, see Note G - "Long-term Debt" in Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements.

To reduce interest rate risk, the Company has entered into interest rate swap
agreements which effectively convert $85.0 of the Company's variable rate debt
to a weighted average fixed rate of 6.0% at August 31, 1997. The swap
agreements expire on varying dates through 2003.

In 1995, the Company replaced its former $25.0 accounts receivable financing
facility with a new facility that expires in August 1998 and provides up to
$50.0 of multi-currency accounts receivable financing. During 1996, the
agreement was amended to extend the terms through August 1999. An incremental
$0.6 of receivables was financed in 1997, bringing the total balance financed
to $50.0 at August 31, 1997. Proceeds were used to reduce debt. For additional
information, see Note D - "Accounts Receivable Financing" in Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements.

On August 29, 1997, the Company entered into a letter agreement that provided
for a committed credit line of an additional $140.0 for a term of 364 days.
The purpose of the agreement was to secure funding for the tender offer for
the common stock of Versa Technologies, Inc. Subsequent to year end, on
October 3, 1997, the $140.0 credit agreement was executed.

On October 22, 1997, the Company replaced its $170.0 multi-currency credit
agreement and the $140.0 credit agreement with a new multi-currency credit
agreement which provides up to $350.0 in borrowings and expires in 2002.
Additionally, the Company entered into interest rate swap agreements which
effectively convert an additional $30.0 of variable rate debt to fixed rates
at a weighted average interest rate of 6.23%. These swap agreements expire
between 2002 and 2004.

The Company does not purchase or hold any derivative financial instruments for
trading purposes.

The following table summarizes the Company's total capitalization over the
last three years.

- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Dollars               Percentage of Total
                                                         Capitalization
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 TOTAL CAPITALIZATION   1997      1996      1995    1997     1996      1995
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Total Debt           $ 123.1   $  92.6   $  87.0    36%      33%       37%
 Shareholders' Equity   204.1     168.5     131.7    60       61        56
 Deferred Taxes          14.6      15.4      16.4     4        6         7
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Totals               $ 341.8   $ 276.5   $ 235.1   100%     100%      100%
============================================================================

                                      12

<PAGE>
 
In order to minimize interest expense, the Company intentionally maintains low
cash balances and uses available cash to reduce short-term bank borrowings.
Funds available under unused non- committed lines and the $170.0
multi-currency credit agreement totaled $50.0 and $68.3, respectively, as of
August 31, 1997. The Company believes that such availability, as subsequently
expanded by the $350.0 multi-currency credit agreement, plus funds generated
from operations will be adequate to fund operating activities, including
capital expenditures and working capital, for the next fiscal year.

YEAR 2000 CONSIDERATIONS
- - ------------------------

The Company is taking actions intended to assure that its computer systems are
capable of processing periods for the Year 2000 and beyond. The Company has
developed and is implementing a program intended to address on a timely basis
the "Year 2000 Problem" (the risk that computer applications used by the Company
may be unable to recognize and perform properly date-sensitive functions
involving dates after December 31, 1999). Based on the current status of the
Company's compliance efforts, the costs associated with identified Year 2000
issues are not expected to have a material effect on the results of operations
or financial condition of the Company. Most of the Company's business units have
installed or are in the process of installing new business management systems
which go beyond just Year 2000 compliance. Some businesses have chosen to
upgrade existing systems to be compliant. At this time, the Company does not
anticipate significant risks to its operations from internal Year 2000
noncompliance. In addition, where deemed necessary, the Company is proactively
requiring key suppliers to certify their compliance. At this time, the Company
does not expect the reasonably foreseeable consequences of the Year 2000 Problem
to have material effects on the Company's business, operations or financial
condition. However, the Year 2000 Problem has many elements and potential
consequences, some of which may not be foreseeable, and there can be no
assurance that unforeseeable consequences will not arise.

INFLATION
- - ---------
No meaningful measures of inflation are available because the Company has a
significant number of small operations which operate in countries with diverse
rates of inflation and currency rate movements.

OUTLOOK
- - -------
The Company expects its trend of increasing sales and earnings per share to
continue into 1998, assuming no significant downturn in the economy in North
America or Western Europe. Net sales are expected to be approximately $900.0
with improved operating profit margins offset by increased interest expense
and a higher effective tax rate generating record earnings per share. The
strength of its core business segments, integration of recent acquisitions and
additional strategic acquisitions will be the driving forces of the growth.

RISK FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS
- - -------------------------------------------
Certain statements in the above section entitled "Outlook," as well as
statements in other Company communications, which are not historical facts,
are forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There are
several risk factors which are beyond the Company's control which could cause
the Company's actual results to differ from those expressed in such forward
looking statements. Those risk factors include, without limitation, general
economic conditions and market conditions in the industrial production,
trucking, construction, aerospace, automotive, recreational vehicle, computer,
semiconductor, telecommunication, electronic and defense industries in North
America, Europe and Asia, market acceptance of existing and new products,
successful integration of acquisitions, competitive pricing, foreign currency
risk, interest rate risk, unforeseen costs or consequences of Year 2000 issues
and other factors.

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
- - -----------------
On October 3, 1997, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, accepted
for payment all shares of Versa Technologies, Inc. ("Versa/Tek") common stock
which were tendered pursuant to the Company's tender offer to purchase all
outstanding shares at a cash price of $24.625 net per share. Consideration for
the transaction totaled approximately $140.0. The transaction was funded with
proceeds from a $140.0, 364-day revolving credit facility from existing
lenders. Versa/Tek, based in Racine, Wisconsin, is a value-added manufacturer
of custom engineered components and systems for diverse industrial markets.

On October 15, 1997, the Company acquired certain assets of Nylo-Flex
Manufacturing Company, Inc. ("Nylo-Flex") for approximately $3.0 in cash. The
transaction was funded by proceeds from borrowings under existing credit
facilities. Nylo-Flex, headquartered in Mobile, Alabama, does business under
the TAM name and is a manufacturer, packager and distributor of high quality
battery terminals, battery cables and battery maintenance accessories to the
automotive, marine, farm, fleet and industrial markets.

                                      13

<PAGE>
 
                                   PART IV

ITEM 14.  EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
          ----------------------------------------------------------------
(a)      Documents filed as part of this report:
         ---------------------------------------
         1.     Consolidated Financial Statements
                ---------------------------------
                See "Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial
                Statement Schedules" on page 16, the Independent Auditors'
                Report on page 17 and the Consolidated Financial Statements on
                pages 18 to 35, all of which are incorporated herein by
                reference.

         2.     Financial Statement Schedules
                -----------------------------
                See "Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial
                Statement Schedules" on page 16 and the Financial Statement
                Schedule on page 36, all of which are incorporated herein by
                reference.

         3.     Exhibits
                --------
                See "Index to Exhibits" on pages 38 to 43, which is
                incorporated herein by reference.

(b)      Reports on Form 8-K:
         --------------------
                No reports on Form 8-K were filed in the fourth quarter.












                                      15

<PAGE>
 
 INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES


INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS                    Page
- - ------------------------------------------                    ----
   Independent Auditors' Report                                 17

   Consolidated Statement of Earnings
         For the years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995     18

   Consolidated Balance Sheet
         As of August 31, 1997 and 1996                         19

   Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity
         For the years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995     20

   Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
         For the years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995     21

   Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                 22 - 35

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
- - --------------------------------------
   Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts              36

All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required,
or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial
statements or notes thereto.














                                      16

<PAGE>
 
Independent Auditors' Report
- - ----------------------------

To the Shareholders and Directors of Applied Power Inc.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Applied Power
Inc. and subsidiaries as of August 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related
consolidated statements of earnings, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 1997. Our audits also
included the consolidated financial statement schedule listed in the Index at
Item 14. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express
an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based
on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of Applied Power Inc. and
subsidiaries at August 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of their operations
and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August
31, 1997 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in
our opinion, such consolidated financial statement schedule, when considered
in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole,
presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.



DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
September 25, 1997
[October 16, 1997 as to Note O]









                                      17

<PAGE>
 
                              APPLIED POWER INC.
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
               (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Years ended August 31,
                                              ------------------------------
                                                1997       1996       1995
                                              --------   --------   --------
<S>                                           <C>        <C>        <C>
Net sales                                     $672,316   $571,215   $527,058
Cost of products sold                          419,420    351,283    325,621
                                              --------   --------   --------
    Gross Profit                               252,896    219,932    201,437

Engineering, selling and
administrative expenses                        173,200    158,485    149,210
Amortization of intangible assets                6,813      4,054      3,369
                                              --------   --------   --------
   Operating Earnings                          72,883      57,393     48,858

Other Expense(Income):
    Net financing costs                         12,003      8,456     10,291
    Other - net                                 (1,863)      (230)     1,694
                                              --------   --------   --------
Earnings Before Income Tax Expense and
Extraordinary Loss                              62,743     49,167     36,873

Income Tax Expense                              20,705     15,438     11,868
                                              --------   --------   --------
Earnings Before Extraordinary Loss              42,038     33,729     25,005
Extraordinary Loss from Early
Extinguishment of Debt, net of $2,423 tax
benefit                                              -          -     (4,920)
                                              --------   --------   --------
Net Earnings                                   $42,038    $33,729    $20,085
                                              ========   ========   ========
Primary Earnings(Loss)
Per Share:
    Earnings Before Extraordinary
    Loss                                         $2.92      $2.41      $1.82
    Extraordinary Loss                               -          -      (0.36)
                                              --------   --------   --------
Net Earnings Per Share                           $2.92      $2.41      $1.46
                                              ========   ========   ========
Weighted Average Common and Equivalent
Shares (000's)                                  14,377     13,983     13,746
                                              ========   ========   ========

Fully Diluted Earnings(Loss) Per Share:
    Earnings Before Extraordinary Loss           $2.88      $2.41      $1.79
    Extraordinary Loss                               -          -      (0.35)
                                              --------   --------   --------
Net Earnings Per Share                           $2.88      $2.41      $1.44
                                              ========   ========   ========
Weighted Average Common and Equivalent
Shares (000's)                                  14,613     13,983     13,958
                                              ========   ========   ========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

                                      18

<PAGE>
 
                              APPLIED POWER INC.
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

               (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  August 31,
                                                            -------------------
                                                              1997       1996
ASSETS                                                      --------   --------
<S>                                                         <C>        <C>
Current Assets
   Cash and cash
   equivalents                                              $  5,846   $  1,001
   Accounts receivable, less allowances of $4,329 and
   $4,179, respectively                                       84,697     68,747
   Inventories                                               115,761    120,648
   Prepaid income tax                                         11,209     10,734
   Prepaid expenses                                            8,393      5,775
                                                            --------   --------
Total Current Assets                                         225,906    206,905

Other Assets                                                   7,305      6,370
Goodwill, net of accumulated amortization of $17,870 and
$13,937, respectively                                        109,078    58,266
Other Intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of
$14,691 and $11,917, respectively                             30,723    33,464

Property, Plant and
Equipment
   Property                                                    2,197      1,923
   Plant                                                      46,501     40,252
   Machinery and equipment                                   142,638    125,950
                                                            --------   --------
                                                             191,336    168,125
   Less:  Accumulated depreciation                          (100,756)   (91,889)
                                                            --------   --------
Net Property, Plant and Equipment                             90,580     76,236
                                                            --------   --------

Total Assets                                                $463,592   $381,241
                                                            ========   ========

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current
Liabilities
   Short-term borrowings                                    $ 21,428   $ 16,068
   Trade accounts payable                                     54,555     41,397
   Accrued compensation and benefits                          24,736     20,805
   Income taxes payable                                        7,093      7,081
   Other current liabilities                                  20,462     22,378
                                                            --------   --------
Total Current Liabilities                                    128,274    107,729

Long-term Debt                                               101,663     76,548
Deferred Income Tax                                           14,596     15,395
Other Deferred Liabilities                                    14,950     13,114

Shareholders' Equity
   Class A common stock, $0.20 par value per share,
   authorized 40,000,000 shares, issued and outstanding
   13,816,678 and 13,652,349 shares, respectively              2,763      2,730
   Additional paid-in capital                                 38,388     34,383
   Retained earnings                                         166,776    126,392
   Cumulative translation adjustments                         (3,818)     4,950
                                                            --------   --------
Total Shareholders' Equity                                   204,109    168,455
                                                            --------   --------

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity                  $463,592   $381,241
                                                            ========   ========
</TABLE>
  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

                                      19

<PAGE>
 
                              APPLIED POWER INC.
                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
               (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            Years Ended August 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995
                                            -------------------------------------------
                                             Class A  Additional            Cumulative
                                             Common    Paid-in   Retained  Translation
                                              Stock    Capital   Earnings  Adjustments
                                             -------  ---------- --------  -----------
<S>                                          <C>       <C>       <C>         <C>
Balances at September 1, 1994                $ 2,630   $23,648   $75,802     $ 5,231
      Net earnings for the year                    -         -    20,085           -
      Cash dividends declared - $0.12 per
      share                                        -         -    (1,602)          -
      Exercise of stock options                   51     4,168         -           -
      Tax benefit of option exercises              -       512         -           -
      Currency translation adjustments             -         -         -       1,161
                                             -------   -------   -------     -------

Balances at August 31, 1995                    2,681    28,328    94,285       6,392
      Net earnings for the year                    -         -    33,729           -
      Cash dividends declared -
       $0.12 per share                             -         -    (1,622)          -
      Exercise of stock options                   24     1,582         -           -
      Issuance of stock in acquisition            25     3,905         -           -
      Tax benefit of option exercises              -       568         -           -
      Currency translation adjustments             -         -         -      (1,442)
                                             -------   -------   -------     -------

Balances at August 31, 1996                    2,730    34,383   126,392       4,950
      Net earnings for the year                    -         -    42,038           -
      Cash dividends declared -
       $0.12 per share                             -         -    (1,654)          -
      Exercise of stock options                   33     2,883         -           -
      Tax benefit of option exercises              -     1,052         -           -
      Other                                        -        70         -           -
      Currency translation adjustments             -         -         -      (8,768)
                                             -------   -------   -------     -------

Balances at August 31, 1997                  $ 2,763  $ 38,388  $166,776    $ (3,818)
                                             =======   =======   =======     =======
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

                                      20

<PAGE>
 
                              APPLIED POWER INC.
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                            (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                            Years ended August 31,
                                                     ---------------------------------
                                                       1997         1996         1995
                                                     ---------------------------------
<S>                                                  <C>          <C>          <C>
Net Earnings                                         $42,038      $33,729      $20,085
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings
  to net cash provided by operating activities:
     Depreciation and amortization                    23,663       21,078       18,456
     Non-cash charge - extraordinary loss                  -            -        4,920
     Provision for deferred taxes                     (1,274)      (1,588)      (2,707)
     Changes in operating assets and liabilities,
        excluding the effects of business
        acquisitions and disposals:
         Accounts receivable                          (9,147)      (5,703)     (15,413)
         Inventories                                   6,121      (14,219)      (8,170)
         Prepaid expenses and other assets            (5,013)      (2,505)      (2,077)
         Trade accounts payable                        5,898        2,262        1,231
         Other liabilities                             2,544         (240)       7,499
                                                     -------     --------      -------
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities             64,830       32,814       23,824

Investing Activities
     Proceeds on the sale of property, plant
      and equipment                                    3,517          821          614
     Additions to property, plant and equipment      (22,641)     (22,734)     (15,986)
     Business acquisitions                           (75,015)     (33,949)      (2,758)
     Product line dispositions                             -        5,181            -
     Other                                                79           65          162
                                                     -------     --------      -------
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities                (94,060)     (50,616)     (17,968)

Financing Activities
     Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt         77,000       42,433      116,055
     Principal payments on long-term debt            (49,932)     (37,877)    (123,997)
     Refinancing expenditures                              -            -       (4,370)
     Net borrowings(repayments) on short-term
      credit facilities                                6,691        3,484       (2,092)
     Net commercial paper repayments                       -       (3,276)      (6,671)
     Additional receivables financed                     525       13,275       11,200
     Dividends paid on common stock                   (1,654)      (1,622)      (1,602)
     Stock option exercises and other                  2,867        1,551        4,219
                                                     -------     --------      -------
Net Cash Provided by(Used in) Financing Activities    35,497       17,968       (7,258)

Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash               (1,422)         (76)         406
                                                     -------     --------      -------

Net Increase(Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents    4,845           90         (996)

Cash and Cash Equivalents - Beginning of Year          1,001          911        1,907
                                                     -------     --------      -------
Cash and Cash Equivalents - End of Year              $ 5,846      $ 1,001       $  911
                                                     =======     ========      =======
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

                                      21

<PAGE>
 
                              APPLIED POWER INC.
                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
               (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)

NOTE A - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the
accounts of Applied Power Inc. and its subsidiaries ("Applied Power" or the
"Company"). All significant intercompany balances, transactions and profits
have been eliminated.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: The Company considers all highly liquid investments
with original maturities of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents.

Inventories: Inventories are comprised of material, direct labor and
manufacturing overhead, and are stated at the lower of cost or market.

Property, Plant and Equipment: Property, plant and equipment are stated at
cost. Plant and equipment are depreciated over the estimated useful lives of
the assets, ranging from two to thirty years, under the straight-line method
for financial reporting purposes and both straight-line and accelerated
methods for tax purposes. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs not
expected to extend the useful life of an asset beyond its normal useful life
are expensed.

Intangible Assets: Goodwill is amortized on a straight-line basis over periods
of fifteen to forty years. Other intangible assets, consisting primarily of
purchased patents, trademarks and noncompete agreements, are amortized over
periods from two to forty years. The Company periodically evaluates the
carrying value of intangible assets in accordance with Statement of Financial
Accounting Standard ("SFAS") No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of
Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of." Impairment of
goodwill, if any, is measured on the basis of whether anticipated undiscounted
operating cash flows generated by the acquired businesses will recover the
recorded goodwill balances over the remaining amortization period. At August
31, 1997 and 1996, no impairment of goodwill was indicated.

Revenue Recognition: Revenues and costs of products sold are recognized as the
related products are shipped.

Research and Development Costs: Research and development costs are expensed as
incurred. Such costs incurred in the development of new products or
significant improvements to existing products totaled approximately $9,960,
$9,852 and $8,725 in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

Financing Costs: Net financing costs represents interest expense on debt
obligations, investment income and accounts receivable financing costs.

Income Taxes: The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with SFAS
No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." For further information, see Note L -
"Income Taxes."

Earnings Per Share: Earnings per share is based on the weighted average number
of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the year. The
dilutive effect of stock options, which are considered common stock
equivalents, is calculated using the treasury stock method.

Foreign Currency Translation: Foreign currency translation adjustments are
generally excluded from the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and are
included in Cumulative translation adjustments in the Consolidated Balance
Sheet. Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are
included in Other - net in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

Derivative Financial Instruments: Derivative financial instruments are
primarily utilized by the Company to manage risks associated with interest
rate market volatility and foreign exchange exposures. The Company does not
hold or

                                      22

<PAGE>
 
issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. The Company
currently holds both interest rate and foreign currency swap agreements. For
both interest rate and foreign currency swap agreements, the differential to
be paid or received is accrued monthly as an adjustment to interest expense.
The Company also utilizes foreign currency forward contracts to hedge existing
foreign exchange exposures. Gains and losses resulting from these instruments
are recognized in the same period as the underlying transaction. For further
information, see Note G - "Long-term Debt."

Use of Estimates: The financial statements have been prepared in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles and necessarily include amounts
based on estimates and assumptions by management. Actual results could differ
from those amounts.

New Accounting Standards: In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board issued SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share," which is required to be
adopted in the Company's interim financial statements issued for the second
quarter of fiscal 1998. At that time, the Company will be required to change
the method currently used to compute earnings per share and to restate all
prior periods. Under the new requirements for calculating primary earnings per
share, to be called basic earnings per share, the dilutive effect of stock
options will be excluded. Adoption of this statement will increase basic
earnings per share previously reported as primary earnings per share by $0.13,
$0.09 and $0.06 for each of the three years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and
1995, respectively. SFAS No. 128 is not expected to have a material impact on
fully diluted earnings per share.

In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 130,
"Reporting Comprehensive Income," and SFAS No. 131, "Disclosure About Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information." Both statements are effective for
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1997. The Company is currently
assessing the impact these statements will have on its required disclosures.

Reclassifications: Certain prior year amounts shown have been reclassified to
conform to fiscal 1997 presentation, including but not limited to the
reclassification of financial data previously reported in Tools & Supplies
into Engineered Solutions and TEE.

NOTE B - ACQUISITIONS

The Company, through its C Fab subsidiary, acquired all of the outstanding
stock of Hormann Security Systems Limited ("Hormann") on June 6, 1997 for
approximately $10,000 in cash. The transaction was funded through borrowings
under existing credit facilities. Approximately $4,200 of the purchase price
was assigned to goodwill. Hormann, based in Cork, Ireland, assembles
electronic equipment for a variety of customers. The operating results of
Hormann subsequent to June 6, 1997 are included in the Consolidated Statement
of Earnings.

On April 1, 1997, the Company's Wright Line subsidiary purchased certain
assets of All-Round Systemen B.V. ("All-Round"), one of its distributors based
in the Netherlands. Of the approximately $1,500 cash paid for the assets,
$1,400 was assigned to goodwill. The results of All-Round subsequent to April
1, 1997 are included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

On January 13, 1997, the Company, through its Wright Line subsidiary, acquired
C Fab Group Limited ("C Fab") for approximately $11,300 in net cash plus
future consideration. The amount of future consideration ranges between $0 and
$12,000 based on targeted sales and earnings. At August 31, 1997, no amounts
had been paid related to the earn-out. The transaction generated goodwill of
approximately $5,600, and was funded through borrowings under existing credit
facilities. C Fab, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, manufactures electronic
enclosures used by the computer, telecom, datacom and other industries. The
results of operations for C Fab subsequent to the acquisition date are
included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

The Company, through its Wright Line subsidiary, purchased the net assets of
Everest Electronic Equipment, Inc. ("Everest") on September 26, 1996 for cash
consideration of $52,000, which was funded through borrowings under existing
credit facilities. Approximately $43,000 of the purchase price was assigned to
goodwill. Everest is a

                                      23

<PAGE>
 
manufacturer of custom and standard electronic enclosures used by the
computer, telecom, datacom and other industries and is headquartered in
Anaheim, California. The results of Everest subsequent to September 26, 1996
are included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings. The following
unaudited pro forma data summarizes the results of operations for the periods
indicated as if the acquisition of Everest had been completed on September 1,
1995, the beginning of the 1996 fiscal year. The pro forma data give effect to
actual operating results prior to the acquisition and adjustments to interest
expense, depreciation, goodwill amortization and income taxes. These pro forma
amounts do not purport to be indicative of the results that would have
actually been obtained if the acquisition had occurred on September 1, 1995 or
that may be obtained in the future. The pro forma data do not give effect to
the acquisitions completed subsequent to August 31, 1997. See Note O -
"Subsequent Events."

- - ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                       Years Ended August 31,
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                          1997        1996
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------
 Net Sales                              $675,812    $613,760
 Net Earnings                           $ 42,128    $ 35,059
 Net Earnings Per Share                 $   2.93    $   2.51
================================================================


On May 15, 1996, CalTerm, Inc. ("CalTerm") was merged with a wholly-owned
subsidiary of the Company. Consideration included 122,810 shares of Applied
Power Inc. Class A common stock (valued at approximately $3,930) and
approximately $1,038 in cash. In addition, the Company assumed approximately
$6,000 of outstanding debt which was extinguished by the Company shortly after
the merger. In conjunction with the acquisition, a warehouse operated by
CalTerm in Reno, Nevada was purchased for approximately $2,300 and there were
payments of $1,000 for non-compete agreements. Three individuals received
employment agreements and related stock options. Cash payments required were
funded through borrowings under existing credit facilities. Goodwill of
approximately $2,000 was recorded as a result of this transaction.
Headquartered in San Diego, California, CalTerm is a supplier of electrical
consumables and tools primarily to the retail automotive aftermarket. The
results of operations of CalTerm subsequent to the acquisition date are
included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

On February 23, 1996, the Company's TEE division acquired the European
distribution rights for its products for cash of $1,250 plus forgiveness of
accounts receivable outstanding of $723 from its European distributor.
Goodwill of approximately $1,900 was generated in conjunction with the
transaction.

On December 8, 1995, the Company acquired the remaining 10% minority interest
in Applied Power Korea. Cash of $388 was used in the acquisition, which
generated goodwill of approximately $340. The results of operations of this
subsidiary have historically been included in the Consolidated Statement of
Earnings.

On October 26, 1995, the Company's Enerpac division acquired the assets of
Designed Fluid-Air Systems, Inc. ("DFAS"). Consideration consisted of $298 in
cash plus future royalties over the next five years not to exceed $500 in the
aggregate. As of August 31, 1997, approximately $50 in royalties were earned.
Approximately $100 of the purchase price was assigned to goodwill. DFAS,
located in Oswego, Illinois, designs, fabricates and assembles customized
quick die change systems utilizing hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical
components. The operating results of DFAS subsequent to the acquisition date
are included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

On September 29, 1995, the Company completed the acquisition of substantially
all of the assets and certain liabilities of Vision Plastics Manufacturing
Company ("Vision") for $3,557 in cash. Included in the liabilities assumed was
$1,357 of outstanding mortgage debt, which was subsequently extinguished by
the Company during the first quarter of fiscal 1996. On January 10, 1996, in a
separate transaction, the Company acquired certain proprietary technology
rights and patents related to Vision. Total consideration for the two
transactions of approximately $21,500 was funded by proceeds from borrowings
under existing credit facilities. Intangible assets of $19,942 were recorded
which included approximately $950 of goodwill. Vision, based in San Diego,
California, manufactures plastic cable ties which are sold through electrical
wholesale, retail and OEM channels. The operating results of Vision subsequent
to September 29, 1995 are included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

                                      24

<PAGE>
 
The Company acquired all of the outstanding stock of New England Controls,
Inc. ("NECON") on June 28, 1995 for approximately $2,059 in cash.
Approximately $1,536 of the purchase price was assigned to goodwill. NECON,
based in Milford, Connecticut, manufactures electrical switches for the
electrical wholesale, retail and OEM markets. The operating results of NECON
subsequent to June 28, 1995 are included in the Consolidated Statement of
Earnings.

All acquisitions were accounted for using the purchase method. The
transactions, except for Everest, were not material to the results of
operations or the financial position of the Company.

NOTE C - SALES OF PRODUCT LINES

On January 24, 1996, the Company sold substantially all of the assets and
liabilities of its APITECH mobile equipment product line. Total consideration
from the transaction, which included future collection of retained accounts
receivable, was approximately $5,200, which approximated the book value of the
product line.

On December 13, 1995, the Company's GB Electrical subsidiary sold its HIT
spring steel product line for approximately $2,400 in cash. Proceeds from the
sale approximated the book value of the product line.

NOTE D - ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE FINANCING

In August 1995, the Company entered into a multi-currency accounts receivable
financing agreement that allows up to the equivalent of $50,000 of sold
receivables at any one time. The agreement, as amended August 30, 1996 and
again on February 28, 1997, expires in August 1999.

Under the terms of such agreement, the Company and certain subsidiaries
(collectively, "Originators") sell trade accounts receivable to Applied Power
Credit Corporation ("APCC"), a wholly-owned limited purpose subsidiary of the
Company. APCC is a separate corporate entity that sells participating
interests in its pool of accounts receivable to financial institutions
("Purchasers"). The Purchasers, in turn, receive an ownership and security
interest in the pool of receivables. Participation interests in new
receivables generated by the Originators are purchased by APCC and resold to
the Purchasers as collections reduce previously sold participation interests.
The sold accounts receivable are reflected as a reduction of receivables in
the Consolidated Balance Sheet. APCC has the risk of credit loss on such
receivables up to a maximum recourse amount and, accordingly, the full amount
of the allowance for doubtful accounts has been retained on the Company's
Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Company retains collection and administrative
responsibilities on the participation interests sold as servicer for APCC and
the Purchasers.

At August 31, 1997 and 1996, accounts receivable were reduced by $50,000 and
$49,475, respectively, representing receivable interests sold under this
program. The proceeds from the sales were used to reduce debt.

Accounts receivable financing costs totaling $2,978, $2,324 and $1,892 for the
years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, are included with
financing costs in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

NOTE E - NET INVENTORIES

Inventory cost is determined using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for
substantially all US owned inventory (approximately 69% of total inventories
in both 1997 and 1996). The first-in, first-out or average cost methods are
used for all other inventories. If the LIFO method was not used, inventory
balances would be higher than the amounts in the Consolidated Balance Sheet by
approximately $7,920 and $9,222 at August 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

It is not practical to segregate the amounts of raw materials, work-in-process
or finished goods at the respective balance sheet dates, since the segregation
is possible only as the result of physical inventories which are taken at
dates different from the balance sheet dates. The systems at many of the
Company's operating units have not been designed to capture this segregation
due to the very short production cycle of their products and the minimal
amount of work-in-process.

                                      25

<PAGE>
 
NOTE F - SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

The Company had borrowings under unsecured non-committed lines of credit with
banks aggregating approximately $21,428 and $16,068 at August 31, 1997 and
1996, respectively. Interest rates vary depending on the currency being
borrowed. The weighted average interest rates on the US and non- US short-term
borrowings were 6.22% and 9.37% at August 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The
amount of unused available borrowings under such lines of credit was
approximately $50,000 at August 31, 1997.

NOTE G - LONG-TERM DEBT

- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    August 31,
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 1997         1996
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Borrowings under:
  Multi-currency revolving credit agreement    $101,663    $  76,298
  Other notes                                         -          250
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Long-term Debt                           $101,663    $  76,548
======================================================================


During 1995, the Company recorded an extraordinary loss of $4,920 ($0.36 per
share) relating to the March 30, 1995 extinguishment of the outstanding
$64,350, 9.92% Senior Unsecured Notes. The pre-tax extraordinary loss of
$7,343 was comprised of an estimated "make whole" provision of $4,050, costs
associated with the cancellation of underlying interest rate swap agreements
of $3,047 and the write-off of deferred financing costs of $246.

Funds used to retire the Senior Unsecured Notes and pay the "make whole"
obligation were obtained from borrowings under a then existing $40,000
multi-currency revolving credit agreement and a temporary $40,000 expansion to
the existing multi-currency revolving credit agreement. These borrowings were
extinguished on August 21, 1995, and all amounts outstanding were
simultaneously reborrowed under a $120,000 multi-currency revolving credit
agreement.

The $120,000 multi-currency revolving credit agreement was amended August 29,
1996 to increase the credit line to $170,000 and extend the term to August
2001. The Company can borrow at a floating rate of IBOR plus .30 to .70 of 1%
annually, depending on the debt-to-capital ratio. Currently, the Company
incurs interest at .450 of 1% above 30-day IBOR, determined by the underlying
currency of the debt which the Company is borrowing. At August 31, 1997, the
Company had borrowings denominated in the US Dollar, the Japanese Yen and the
German Mark. A commitment fee, currently computed at a rate of .175 of 1%
annually, is payable quarterly on the average unused credit line. The unused
credit line at August 31, 1997 was $68,337.

The multi-currency credit agreement contains customary restrictions concerning
investments, liens on assets, sales of assets, dividend payments, maximum
levels of debt and minimum levels of shareholders' equity. In addition, the
agreement requires the Company to maintain certain financial ratios. As of
August 31, 1997, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants. Under
the most restrictive covenant, approximately $89,277 of retained earnings was
available for the payment of future dividends on common stock as of August 31,
1997.

On August 29, 1997, the Company entered into a letter agreement that provided
for a committed credit line of an additional $140,000 for a term of 364 days.
The purpose of the agreement was to secure funding for the tender offer for
the common stock of Versa Technologies, Inc. Subsequent to year end, the
$140,000 credit agreement was executed. In addition, the Company subsequently
replaced its $170,000 multi-currency credit agreement and the additional
$140,000 credit agreement with a new multi-currency credit agreement which
provides up to $350,000 in borrowings and expires in 2002.

Derivative Financial Instruments: As part of its interest rate management
program, the Company periodically enters into interest rate swap agreements
with respect to portions of its outstanding debt. The interest rate swap
agreements in place at August 31, 1997 effectively convert $85,000 of the
Company's variable rate debt to a weighted average

                                      26

<PAGE>
 
fixed rate of 6.03%. The swap agreements expire on varying dates through 2003.
The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet at August 31, 1997 does not
reflect a value for these swap agreements. The purpose of the Company's
foreign currency hedging activities is to protect the Company from the risk
that the eventual dollar cash flows resulting from the sale and purchase of
products in foreign currencies will be adversely affected by changes in
exchange rates. In addition, the Company seeks to manage the impact of foreign
currency fluctuations related to the repayment of intercompany borrowings.
Fluctuations in the value of hedging instruments are offset by fluctuations in
the value of the underlying exposures being hedged.

The Company uses forward exchange contracts to hedge certain firm purchases
and sales commitments and the related receivables and payables including other
third party or intercompany foreign currency transactions. Cross-currency
swaps are used to hedge foreign currency denominated payments related to
intercompany loan agreements. Hedged transactions are denominated primarily in
European currencies. The net realized and unrealized gains or losses on
forward contracts deferred at August 31, 1997 were negligible.

The counterparties to these financial instruments consist of major financial
institutions with investment grade or better credit ratings. The Company does
not expect any losses from nonperformance by these counterparties.

Fair Values:  The fair value of the Company's short-term borrowings and
long-term debt approximated book value as of August 31, 1997 and 1996. The
fair value of debt instruments is calculated by discounting the cash flow of
such obligations using the market interest rates for similar instruments. If
the Company decided to terminate the interest rate swap agreements, the
Company would have had to pay $553 as of August 31, 1997. The swap agreements
in place at August 31, 1996 had a fair value of approximately $886. The
estimated fair values of the foreign currency contracts in place at August 31,
1997 were negligible.

Aggregate Maturities: Long-term debt outstanding at August 31, 1997 is payable
in its entirety in 2001.

The Company paid $11,705, $8,084 and $10,363 for financing costs in 1997, 1996
and 1995, respectively, excluding the "make whole" payments associated with
refinancing the 9.92% Senior Unsecured Debt.

NOTE H - LEASES

The Company leases certain facilities, computers, equipment and vehicles under
various lease agreements over periods of one to twenty years. Under most
arrangements, the Company pays the property taxes, insurance, maintenance and
expenses related to the leased property. Many of the leases include provisions
which enable the Company to renew leases based upon the fair values on the
date of expiration of the initial lease.

Future obligations on non-cancelable operating leases in effect at August 31,
1997 were: $12,775 in 1998; $11,423 in 1999; $9,770 in 2000; $7,371 in 2001;
$7,058 in 2002 and $24,794 thereafter.

Total rental expense under operating leases was $12,295, $10,739 and $11,076
in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

NOTE I - STOCK OPTION PLANS

A total of 4,092,901 shares of Class A common stock are authorized under the
Company's stock option plans, of which a total of 1,269,443 have been issued
through exercises of option grants. At August 31, 1997, 2,823,458 shares were
reserved for issuance under the plans.

Employee Plans: On January 8, 1997, shareholders of the Company approved the
adoption of the Applied Power Inc. 1996 Stock Plan (the "1996 Plan").
Previously, the Company had three nonqualified stock option plans for
employees - the 1985, 1987 and 1990 plans. No further options may be granted
under the 1985, 1987 or 1990 plans, although options previously issued and
outstanding under these plans remain exercisable pursuant to the provisions of
the plans. Under the terms of the 1996 Plan, options may be granted to
officers and key employees. Options generally have a maximum term of ten years
and an exercise price equal to 100% of the fair market value of a share of the
Company's common stock at the date of grant. Options generally vest 50% after
2 years and 100% after 5 years.

                                      27
<PAGE>
 
A summary of option activity under the four plans is as follows:

- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Number of      Weighted Average
                                           Shares        Exercise Price
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at September 1, 1994          1,585,535          $ 16.82
   Granted                                  227,740            28.46
   Exercised                               (250,136)           16.43
   Canceled                                (119,450)           17.55
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at August 31, 1995            1,443,689          $ 18.93
   Granted                                   80,854            31.21
   Exercised                               (121,949)           12.87
   Canceled                                (154,699)           21.82
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at August 31, 1996            1,247,895          $ 20.13
   Granted                                  229,250            36.58
   Exercised                               (164,329)           17.73
   Canceled                                 (31,358)           26.44
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at August 31, 1997            1,281,458          $ 23.13
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exercisable at August 31, 1997              892,045          $ 20.45
==========================================================================

The following table summarizes information concerning currently outstanding
and exercisable options:

- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Options Outstanding            Options Exercisable
                  ---------------------------------   -----------------------
                               Weighted
                                Average    Weighted                  Weighted
                               Remaining   Average                   Average
   Range of        Number     Contractual  Exercise     Number       Exercise
 Exercise Price   Outstanding     Life       Price    Exercisable     Price
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 $8.50               8,500     0.4 years    $ 8.50        8,500       $ 8.50
 $13.50 - $20.19   686,045     3.5 years    $17.07      631,758       $17.19
 $20.56 - $30.38   301,963     7.2 years    $25.55      151,287       $25.21
 $31.75 - $44.75   278,950     9.1 years    $35.25      100,500       $34.75
 $52.25              6,000     9.9 years    $52.25
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 1,281,458                  $23.13      892,045       $20.45
=============================================================================

The Company applies Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting
for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations in accounting for
its employee stock option plans. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been
recognized for its stock-based compensation plans other than for the outside
director plan. If the Company had accounted for these stock options issued to
employees in accordance with SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation," the Company's net earnings and earnings per share would have
been changed to the pro forma amounts indicated below:

- - ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                       Years Ended August 31,
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                       1997            1996
- - ---------------------------------------------------------------
 Net earnings - as reported          $42,038         $33,729
 Net earnings - pro forma             41,197          33,643
 Earnings per share - as reported    $  2.92         $  2.41
 Earnings per share - pro forma         2.87            2.41
===============================================================

The pro forma effects of applying SFAS No. 123 may not be representative of
the effects on reported net income and earnings per share for future years
since options vest over several years and additional awards are made each
year.

                                      28
<PAGE>
 
The fair value of Applied Power stock options used to compute pro forma net
earnings and pro forma earnings per share disclosures is the estimated present
value at grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The weighted
average fair values per share of options granted in 1997 and 1996 are $11.03
and $8.80, respectively. The following weighted average assumptions were used
in completing the model:

- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           Years Ended August 31,
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         1997                 1996
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
 Dividend yield                          0.33%                0.40%
 Expected volatility                     19.0%                18.3%
 Risk-free rate of return                 6.3%                 6.3%
 Forfeitures                          2% ANNUALLY         2% annually
 Expected life                          5 YEARS             5 years
======================================================================

Outside Director Plan: Annually, each outside director is granted stock
options to purchase 1,500 shares of common stock at a price equal to the
market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant. The amount of
shares granted was increased in 1997, from 1,000 shares, by an amendment to
the plan adopted on October 31, 1996. These options are recorded as
compensation expense as required by SFAS No. 123. A maximum of 60,000 shares
may be issued under this plan. Options vest 100% after 11 months.

A summary of option activity under this plan is as follows:

- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       Number of         Weighted Average
                                        Shares           Exercise Price
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at September 1, 1994        19,000              $17.43
   Granted                               5,000               25.00
   Exercised                            (4,000)              17.81
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at August 31, 1995          20,000              $19.25
   Granted                               6,000               27.63
   Exercised                            (1,000)              17.00
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at August 31, 1996          25,000              $21.53
   Granted                               7,500               38.88
   Canceled                             (2,000)              16.84
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at August 31, 1997          30,500              $26.05
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exercisable at August 31, 1997          23,000              $21.93
==========================================================================


NOTE J - EMPLOYEE STOCK OWNERSHIP AND RETIREMENT PLANS

US Employees: Primarily all of the Company's full-time US employees are
participants in the Applied Power Inc. Employee Stock Ownership Plan (the
"ESOP Plan"). Under the provisions of the ESOP Plan, the plan administrator
acquires shares of Class A common stock on the open market and allocates such
shares to accounts set aside for Company employees' retirements. Contributions
equal 3% of each employee's annual cash compensation, subject to IRS
limitations. During the years ended August 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, pre-tax
expense related to the ESOP Plan was $2,614, $1,735 and $1,720, respectively.

The Company also offers an employee 401(k) Savings Plan (the "Savings Plan")
to encourage eligible employees to save on a regular basis for their
retirements. Primarily all full-time US employees are eligible to participate
in the Savings Plan, and generally may contribute up to 15% of their base
compensation. Effective January 1, 1996, the Company's annual match equals
approximately 25% of each participant's first 6% of earnings. Expense
attributable to the Savings Plan was approximately $1,035, $672 and $643 for
1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

Non-US Employees: The Company contributes to a number of retirement programs
for employees outside the US. Pension expense amounted to approximately
$1,000, $948 and $821 in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. These

                                      29

<PAGE>
 
plans are not required to report to US governmental agencies under the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Company does not,
therefore, determine the actuarial value of accumulated plan benefits or net
assets available for benefits.

NOTE K - POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

The Company does not offer postretirement health care and life insurance
benefits to employees. However, certain employees of businesses previously
acquired by the Company were entitled to such benefits upon retirement. The
individuals receiving health care benefits under these programs are required
to make monthly contributions to defray a portion of the cost. Retiree
contributions are adjusted annually. Retirees currently do not contribute
toward the cost of life insurance. The accounting for retiree health care
benefits assumes retirees will continue to contribute toward the cost of such
benefits.

Net periodic postretirement benefit expense for 1997, 1996 and 1995 included
the following components:

- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                1997    1996    1995
- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Service cost of benefits earned               $   5   $   8   $   9
 Interest cost on accumulated postretirement     353     400     482
 benefit obligation
 Amortization of unrecognized gain              (305)   (251)   (180)
- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Total Postretirement Benefit Expense          $  53   $ 157   $ 311
========================================================================


The Company's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for such benefits
is as follows:


- - --------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   August 31,
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                1997       1996
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------
Retirees                                       $3,843     $4,174
Vested former employees                           748      1,029
Active employees                                  174        225
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------
Subtotal                                        4,765      5,428
Unrecognized gain                               4,312      4,131
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------
Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation  $9,077     $9,559
====================================================================

The Company's postretirement benefit obligation is not funded. Benefits paid
in 1997 and 1996 were $128 and $22 higher than that expensed during those
years, respectively. Payments in 1995 were $24 lower than that expensed during
that year.

The health care cost trend rate used in the actuarial calculations was 10.2%,
trending downward to 6.5% by the year 2009, and remaining level thereafter.
The discount rate used in determining the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation was 7.75% in each of the years 1997, 1996 and 1995. The effect of a
one percentage-point increase in health care cost trend rates would change the
accumulated postretirement benefit obligation by approximately 8%.



                                      30

<PAGE>
 
NOTE L - INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense for continuing operations consists of the following:

- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               1997     1996       1995
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Currently Payable:
    Federal                                  $14,736  $ 9,361   $  7,007
    Foreign                                    5,415    6,059      6,313
    State                                      1,828    1,606      1,255
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subtotals                                     21,979   17,026     14,575
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred:
    Federal                                   (1,196)    (711)   (2,582)
    Foreign                                       87     (780)      230
    State                                       (165)     (97)     (355)
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subtotals                                     (1,274)   (1,588)  (2,707)
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                       $20,705   $15,438  $11,868
==========================================================================

Components of deferred income tax benefits include the following:

- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               1997       1996     1995
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Compensation and other employee benefits     $  (677)  $   371  $  (443)
Inventory items                                 (873)     (694)      26
Depreciation and amortization                    258    (1,917)    (956)
Restructuring expenses                           (65)      373      574
Deferred income                                  526       574   (1,225)
Book reserves and other items                   (443)     (295)    (683)
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                      $ (1,274)  $(1,588) $(2,707)
==========================================================================

Income tax expense differs from the amounts computed by applying the Federal
income tax rate to earnings before income tax expense. A reconciliation of
income taxes at the US statutory rate to the effective tax rate follows:

- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Percent of Pre-tax Earnings
- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 1997       1996       1995
- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal statutory rate                           35.0%      35.0%      35.0%
State income taxes, net of Federal effect         1.7        2.0        1.6
Non-deductible amortization                       0.8        0.9        1.2
Net effects of foreign tax rates and credits     (4.2)      (5.0)      (5.6)
Other items                                      (0.3)      (1.5)         -
- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effective Tax Rate                               33.0%      31.4%      32.2%
==============================================================================






                                      31

<PAGE>
 
Temporary differences and carryforwards which gave rise to the deferred tax
assets and liabilities included the following items:

- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                        August 31,
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     1997      1996
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
 Deferred tax assets:
    Operating loss and foreign tax credit          $ 3,487   $ 2,064
    carryforwards
    Compensation and other employee benefits         6,004     5,327
    Inventory items                                  6,531     5,821
    Restructuring expenses                             242       177
    Deferred income                                    611     1,137
    Book reserves and other items                    3,321     3,092
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    20,196    17,618
    Valuation allowance                             (4,206)   (2,441)
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    15,990    15,177
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
 Deferred tax liabilities:
    Depreciation and amortization                   10,571    10,313
    Inventory items                                  3,882     4,045
    Other items                                      4,924     5,480
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    19,377    19,838
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------
 Net Deferred Tax Liability                        $(3,387)  $(4,661)
======================================================================

The valuation allowance primarily represents foreign and state loss
carryforwards for which utilization is uncertain. The increase in the
valuation allowance represents the current year increase in such losses. The
majority of the foreign losses may be carried forward indefinitely. The state
loss carryforwards expire in various years through 2012.

Income taxes paid during 1997, 1996 and 1995 were $20,666, $17,039 and
$12,280, respectively.

The Company's policy is to remit earnings from foreign subsidiaries only to
the extent any resultant foreign income taxes are creditable in the US.
Accordingly, the Company does not currently provide for the additional US and
foreign income taxes which would become payable upon remission of
undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries. Undistributed earnings on
which additional income taxes have not been provided amounted to approximately
$59,000 at August 31, 1997. If all such undistributed earnings were remitted,
an additional provision for income taxes of approximately $3,000 would have
been necessary as of August 31, 1997.

Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes from non-US operations
were $11,612, $10,639 and $16,156 for 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

NOTE M - SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company's operations are classified into three business segments: Tools &
Supplies, Engineered Solutions and Technical Environments and Enclosures.
Tools & Supplies is involved in the design, manufacture and distribution of
tools and supplies to the construction, electrical wholesale, retail DIY,
datacom, retail automotive, industrial and production automation markets.
Engineered Solutions focuses on developing and marketing value-added,
customized solutions for OEMs in the automotive, truck, off-highway equipment,
medical, aerospace, semiconductor, defense and industrial markets. Technical
Environments and Enclosures designs, manufactures and sells furnishings and
enclosures utilized in technology intensive business environments.


                                      32

<PAGE>
 
Summarized financial information by business segment is as follows:

- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           1997      1996      1995
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
NET SALES:
Tools & Supplies                         $292,492  $281,225  $264,823
Engineered Solutions                      189,481   193,812   192,219
Technical Environments and Enclosures     190,343    96,178    70,016
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                   $672,316  $571,215  $527,058
=======================================================================

OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES:
Tools & Supplies                         $ 28,890  $ 35,044  $ 35,628
Engineered Solutions                       20,590    14,978    13,880
Technical Environments and Enclosures      30,636    13,678     8,289
General corporate and other               (17,373)  (14,533)  (20,924)
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                   $ 62,743  $ 49,167  $ 36,873
=======================================================================

DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION:
Tools & Supplies                         $  9,521  $  8,631  $  6,578
Engineered Solutions                        8,218     9,410     9,119
Technical Environments and Enclosures       5,849     2,971     2,704
General corporate and other                    75        66        55
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                   $ 23,663  $ 21,078  $ 18,456
=======================================================================

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES:
Tools & Supplies                         $  8,125  $  9,515  $  6,440
Engineered Solutions                        6,133     6,497     6,321
Technical Environments and Enclosures       8,312     6,715     2,955
General corporate and other                    71         7       270
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                   $ 22,641  $ 22,734  $ 15,986
=======================================================================

- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   August 31,
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           1997      1996      1995
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS:
Tools & Supplies                         $196,666  $209,270  $163,053
Engineered Solutions                      120,372   122,669   129,682
Technical Environments and Enclosures     135,449    37,077    25,969
General corporate                          11,105    12,225    14,242
- - -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                   $463,592  $381,241  $332,946
=======================================================================




                                      33

<PAGE>
 
Summarized financial information by geographic region is as follows:

- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          1997        1996         1995
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET SALES:
North America                           $448,231    $360,844     $323,015
Europe                                   160,656     143,683      136,813
Japan and Asia Pacific                    51,961      56,750       55,208
Latin America                             11,468       9,938       12,022
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                  $672,316    $571,215     $527,058
==========================================================================

OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES:
North America                           $ 66,281    $ 45,070     $ 34,885
Europe                                    16,458      16,043       14,850
Japan and Asia Pacific                    (1,120)      3,772        7,207
Latin America                             (1,503)     (1,185)         855
General corporate and other              (17,373)    (14,533)     (20,924)
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                  $ 62,743    $ 49,167     $ 36,873
==========================================================================

- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       August 31,
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          1997        1996         1995
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS:
North America                           $299,572    $240,420     $192,032
Europe                                   109,220      78,445       77,505
Japan and Asia Pacific                    33,668      38,834       37,200
Latin America                             10,027      11,317       11,967
General corporate                         11,105      12,225       14,242
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                  $463,592    $381,241     $332,946
==========================================================================

Operations before income taxes for each business and geographic segment do not
include general corporate expenses, interest expense or currency exchange
adjustments. Sales between business segments and geographic areas are
insignificant and are accounted for at prices intended to yield a reasonable
return to the selling affiliate. No single customer accounted for more than
10% of total sales in 1997, 1996 or 1995. Export sales from domestic
operations were less than 10% in each of the periods presented.

Corporate assets, which are not allocated, represent principally cash and
prepaid taxes.

NOTE N - CONTINGENCIES AND LITIGATION

The Company had outstanding letters of credit totaling $773 and $830 at August
31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The letters of credit generally serve as
collateral for liabilities included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

The Company is involved in various legal proceedings which have arisen in the
normal course of its business. These legal proceedings typically include
product liability, environmental, labor and patent claims. The Company has
recorded reserves for loss contingencies based on the specific circumstances
of each case. Such reserves are recorded when the occurrence of loss is
probable and can be reasonably estimated. In the opinion of management, the
resolution of these contingencies will not have a material adverse effect on
the Company's financial condition or results of operations.

The Company has facilities at numerous geographic locations which are subject
to a range of environmental laws and regulations. Environmental costs are
expensed or capitalized depending on their future economic benefit.
Expenditures that have no future economic value are expensed. Liabilities are
recorded when environmental

                                      34

<PAGE>
 
remediation is probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. Although
the level of future expenditures for environmental remediation is impossible
to determine with any degree of certainty, it is management's opinion that
such costs will not have a material effect on the Company's financial
position. Environmental remediation accruals of $448 and $611 were included in
the Consolidated Balance Sheet at August 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

NOTE O - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Subsequent to year end, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary,
accepted for payment all shares of Versa Technologies, Inc. ("Versa/Tek")
common stock which were tendered pursuant to the Company's tender offer to
purchase all outstanding shares at a cash price of $24.625 net per share.
Consideration for the transaction was expected to total approximately
$140,000. The transaction will be funded with proceeds from a $140,000,
364-day revolving credit facility from existing lenders. Versa/Tek, based in
Racine, Wisconsin, is a value-added manufacturer of custom engineered
components and systems for diverse industrial markets.

Subsequent to year end, the Company agreed to terms for the acquisition of
certain assets of Nylo-Flex Manufacturing Company, Inc. ("Nylo-Flex") for
approximately $3,000 in cash. The transaction is expected to be funded by
proceeds from borrowings under existing credit facilities. Nylo-Flex,
headquartered in Mobile, Alabama, does business under the TAM name and is a
manufacturer, packager and distributor of high quality battery terminals,
battery cables and battery maintenance accessories to the automotive, marine,
farm, fleet and industrial markets.











                                      35

<PAGE>
 
                     APPLIED POWER INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES


               SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
                                 (Dollars in Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Additions                   Deductions
                                            -----------------------     -----------------------
                                                                          Accounts
                              Balance at    Charged to                   Written Off                  Balance
                               Beginning     Costs and       Net            Less                      at End
         Description           of Period     Expenses      Acquired      Recoveries      Other       of Period
- - ----------------------------- ----------    -----------    --------      -----------     ------      ---------
 <S>                             <C>          <C>            <C>            <C>           <C>         <C>
 Deducted from assets to
 which they apply:

 Allowance for losses -
   trade accounts receivable

 August 31, 1997                 $ 4,179      $1,696         $133           $1,370        $309        $ 4,329
                                 =======      ======         ====           ======        ====        =======
 August 31, 1996                 $ 3,593      $1,203         $100           $  662        $ 55        $ 4,179
                                 =======      ======         ====           ======        ====        =======
 August 31, 1995                 $ 3,131      $1,255            -           $  840        $(47)       $ 3,593
                                 =======      ======         ====           ======        ====        =======

 Allowance for losses -
   inventory
 August 31, 1997                 $12,045      $7,488         $456           $5,674        $452        $13,872
                                 =======      ======         ====           ======        ====        =======
 August 31, 1996                 $ 8,371      $7,529         $ 30           $3,794        $ 91        $12,045
                                 =======      ======         ====           ======        ====        =======
 August 31, 1995                 $ 6,268      $5,413            -           $3,429        $(119)      $ 8,371
                                 =======      ======         ====           ======        ====        =======

</TABLE>






                                      36

<PAGE>
 
                              APPLIED POWER INC.
                        (COMMISSION FILE NO. 1-11288)
                          ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
                  FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 1997

                              INDEX TO EXHIBITS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                           INCORPORATED HEREIN                   FILED
 EXHIBIT                 DESCRIPTION                         BY REFERENCE TO                   HEREWITH
 ---------       ------------------------------            --------------------                --------
 <S>             <C>                                       <C>                                      <C>
   3.1           (a)  Amended and Restated                 Exhibit 19.1(a) to the
                 Articles of Incorporation (as             Registrant's Form 10-Q for
                 adopted January 8, 1987)                  quarter ended February 28, 1990
                                                           ("2/28/90 10-Q")

                 (b)  Articles of Amendment to             Exhibit 19.1(b) to 2/28/90 10-Q
                 Amended and Restated Articles
                 of Incorporation, amending
                 Sections 3.1 and 3.2 of Article
                 III and Article IV (as adopted
                 January 13, 1990)


   3.2           Amended and Restated By-Laws                                                       X
                 (as last amended by amendment to
                 Section 3.01 decreasing the number
                 of directors to six, adopted August
                 8, 1996 and effective as of
                 January 8, 1997)

   4+


   4.1           Articles III, IV and V of Amended         See Exhibit 3.1 above
                 and Restated Articles of
                 Incorporation, as amended

   4.2           Agreement for Purchase and Sale,          Exhibit 19.2(a)-(g) to the
                 dated August 29, 1990, between            Registrant's Form 10-Q for
                 Minnesota Mining and                      quarter ended May 31, 1991
                 Manufacturing Company and
                 Applied Power Inc., and seven related
                 Leases, each dated April 29, 1991,
                 between Bernard Garland and
                 Sheldon Garland, d/b/a Garland
                 Enterprises, as Landlord, and
                 Applied Power Inc., as Tenant
</TABLE>

+  Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K, the Registrant agrees
to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request a copy of
any unfiled instruments, or any unfiled exhibits or schedules to filed
instruments, defining the rights of security holders.

                                      38
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           INCORPORATED HEREIN                   FILED
 EXHIBIT                 DESCRIPTION                         BY REFERENCE TO                   HEREWITH
 ---------       ------------------------------            --------------------                --------
<S>             <C>                                       <C>                                  <C>
   4.3          (a) Multi-currency Credit Agreement,      Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant's
                dated as of August 22, 1995               Form 10-K for fiscal year ended
                between Applied Power Inc. and            August 31, 1995
                Applied Power Finance S.A., as            ("1995 10-K")
                borrowers, various financial
                institutions, as lenders, Bank of
                America National Trust and Savings
                Association, as agent, and BA
                Securities, Inc., as arranger

                (b) First Amendment Agreement             Exhibit 4.3(b) to 1996 10-K
                dated as of August 29, 1996

   4.4          (a) Amended and Restated Receivables      Exhibit 4.4 to 1995 10-K
                Purchase Agreement, dated as of
                August 30, 1995, between Applied
                Power Inc., Barry Wright
                Corporation, Technical Environments
                and Enclosures, GB Electrical, Inc.,
                and certain other subsidiaries from
                time to time parties thereto, as
                sellers, and PNC Bank, National
                Association, and other financial
                institutions from time to time parties
                thereto, as purchasers

                (b) First Amendment to Amended            Exhibit 4.4(b) to 1996 10-K
                and Restated Receivables Purchase
                Agreement dated as of August 30,
                1996

                (c)  Second Amended and Restated                                                    X
                Receivables Purchase Agreement
                dated as of February 28, 1997

   4.5          Credit Agreement, dated as of             Exhibit (b)(2) filed with Amendment
                October 3, 1997 among Applied             No. 3 to the Registrant's Tender
                Power Inc., Bank of America               Offer Statement on Schedule 14D-1
                National Trust and Savings                dated October 6, 1997
                Association, as agent, and the other      (File No. 5-13342)
                financial institutions party hereto
</TABLE>

                                      39
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           INCORPORATED HEREIN                   FILED
 EXHIBIT                 DESCRIPTION                         BY REFERENCE TO                   HEREWITH
 ---------       ------------------------------            --------------------                --------
<S>             <C>                                        <C>                                 <C>
   4.6          Multi-currency Credit Agreement,                                                    X
                dated as of October 22, 1997
                between Applied Power Inc. and
                Applied Power Finance, S.A., as
                borrowers, various financial
                institutions, as lenders, Bank of
                America National Trust and Savings
                Association, as agent, and BA
                Robertson Stephens, as arranger

  10.1*         Employment Agreement dated                Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's
                May 9, 1994 between Applied               form 10-K for fiscal year ended
                Power Inc. and Richard G. Sim             August 31, 1994
                (superseding Employment Agreement
                dated July 5, 1985, as amended)

  10.2*         (a) Applied Power Inc. 1985 Stock         Exhibit 10.2(a) to the Registrant's
                Option Plan adopted by Board of           Form 10-K for fiscal year ended
                Directors on August 1, 1985 and           August 31, 1989 ("1989 10-K")
                approved by shareholders on
                January 6, 1986, as amended
                ("1985 Plan")

                (b) Amendment to 1985 Plan adopted        Exhibit 10.2(b) to 1989 10-K
                by Board of Directors on November
                8, 1989 and approved by shareholders
                on January 13, 1990

                (c) Amendment to 1985 Plan adopted        Exhibit 10.2(c) to the
                by Board of Directors on August 9,        Registrant's Form 10-K for fiscal year
                1990                                      ended August 31, 1990 ("1990 10-K")

                (d) Amendment to 1985 Plan adopted                                                  X
                by Board of Directors on May 8, 1997

  10.3*         (a) Applied Power Inc. 1987               Exhibit 10.8 to the Registrant's
                Nonqualified Stock Option Plan            Form 10-K for fiscal year ended
                adopted by Board of Directors on          August 31,1987
                November 3, 1987 and approved by
                shareholders on January 7, 1988
                ("1987 Plan")
</TABLE>

* Management contracts and executive compensation plans and arrangements
required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 14(c) of Form 10-K.

                                      40
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           INCORPORATED HEREIN                   FILED
 EXHIBIT                 DESCRIPTION                         BY REFERENCE TO                   HEREWITH
 ---------       ------------------------------            --------------------                --------
<S>             <C>                                       <C>                                  <C>
                (b) Amendment to 1987 Plan adopted        See Exhibit 10.2(b)
                by Board of Directors on November
                8, 1989 and approved by shareholders
                on January 13, 1990

                (c) Amendment to 1987 Plan adopted                                                  X
                by Board of Directors on May 8, 1997

  10.4*         (a) Applied Power Inc. 1990 Stock         Exhibit A to the Registrant's Proxy
                Option Plan adopted by Board of           Statement dated December 5, 1990
                Directors on August 9, 1990 and           for 1991 Annual Meeting of
                approved by shareholders on               Shareholders
                January 7, 1991 ("1990 Plan")

                (b) Amendment to 1990 Plan adopted        Exhibit 10.5(b) to the Registrant's
                by Board of Directors on August 10,       Form 10-K for fiscal year ended
                1992 and approved by shareholders         August 31, 1992
                on January 7, 1993

                (c) Amendment to 1990 Plan adopted                                                  X
                by Board of Directors on May 8, 1997

  10.5*         Description of Fiscal 1997                Exhibit 10.6 to 1996 10-K
                Management Bonus Arrangements

  10.6*         Description of Fiscal 1998                                                          X
                Management Bonus Arrangements

  10.7*         (a) Applied Power Inc. 1989               Exhibit 10.7 to 1989 10-K
                Outside Directors' Stock Option
                Plan adopted by Board of Directors
                on November 8, 1989 and
                approved by shareholders on
                January 13, 1990 ("1989 Plan")

                (b) Amendment to 1989 Plan                Exhibit 10.7(b) to 1990 10-K
                adopted by Board of Directors on
                November 9, 1990 and approved
                by shareholders on January 7, 1991
</TABLE>

* Management contracts and executive compensation plans and arrangements
required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 14(c) of Form 10-K.

                                      41
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           INCORPORATED HEREIN                   FILED
 EXHIBIT                 DESCRIPTION                         BY REFERENCE TO                   HEREWITH
 ---------       ------------------------------            --------------------                --------
<S>             <C>                                       <C>                                 <C>
                 (c) Amendment to 1989 Plan               Exhibit 10.7(c) to 1996 10-K
                 adopted by Board of Directors on
                 October 31, 1996

  10.8*          Outside Directors' Deferred              Exhibit 10.8 to 1995 10-K
                 Compensation Plan adopted by Board
                 of Directors on May 4, 1995

  10.9           Asset Purchase Agreement                 Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant's
                 between Applied Power Inc. and           Form 8-K dated October 11, 1996
                 Wright Line Inc., on the one hand
                 and Everest Electronic Equipment,
                 Inc., Wallace H. Twedt, Terry D.
                 Wells and Robert L. Wells, on the
                 other hand dated August 27, 1996

  10.10*         (a) 1996 Stock Plan adopted by Board     Annex A to the Registrant's Proxy
                 of Directors on August 8, 1996 and       Statement dated November 19, 1996
                 proposed for shareholder approval        for 1997 Annual Meeting of
                 on January 8, 1997                       Shareholders

                 (b) Amendment to 1996 Stock Plan                                                   X
                 adopted by Board of Directors on
                 May 8, 1997

  10.11*         Deferred Compensation Plan               Exhibit 10.11 to 1996 10-K
                 adopted by Board of Directors on
                 October 31, 1996

  10.12          Agreement and Plan of Merger,            Exhibit (c)(1) to Registrant's
                 dated as of September 2, 1997,           Tender Offer Statement on
                 among Applied Power Inc., TVPA           Schedule 14D-1 filed on September
                 Corp. and Versa Technologies, Inc.       5, 1997 (File No. 5-13342)

  11             Statement regarding Computation of                                                 X
                 Earnings Per Share

  21             Subsidiaries of the Registrant                                                     X

  23             Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP                                                   X

</TABLE>

* Management contracts and executive compensation plans and arrangements
required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 14(c) of Form 10-K.

                                      42
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           INCORPORATED HEREIN                   FILED
 EXHIBIT                 DESCRIPTION                         BY REFERENCE TO                   HEREWITH
 ---------       ------------------------------            --------------------                --------
<S>             <C>                                       <C>                                 <C>
    24           Power of Attorney                        See Signature Page of this report

    27           Financial Data Schedule                                                            X

</TABLE>

                                      43

<PAGE>
 
                                                                      Exhibit 23



INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT



We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements of 
Applied Power Inc. on Form S-3 No. 333-47493 and on Forms S-8, No. 33-18140, No.
33-21250, No. 33-24197, No. 33-38719, No. 33-38720, No. 33-62658, No. 333-42353 
and No. 333-46469 of our report dated September 25, 1997, October 16, 1997 as to
Note O, appearing in the Annual Report on Form 10-K/A of Applied Power Inc. for 
the year ended August 31, 1997. We also consent to the incorporation by 
reference in the above-mentioned registration statements of our report dated May
9, 1997 relating to Versa Technologies, Inc. appearing in the Current Report on 
Form 8-K of Applied Power Inc. dated October 3, 1997.




DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
June 18, 1998





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