<PAGE>
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 8, 1999
Registration No. 333-
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
--------------------
PHOTRONICS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Connecticut 3861 06-0854886
(State or other jurisdiction (Primary Standard Industrial (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation) Classification Code Number) Identification No.)
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, Florida 33477
(561) 745-1222
</TABLE>
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of
registrant's principal executive offices)
Jeffrey P. Moonan, Esq.
Executive Vice President and General Counsel
Photronics, Inc.
--------------------
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of agent for service)
Copies to:
Steven L. Wasserman, Esq. Richard A. Boehmer, Esq.
Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP O'Melveny & Myers LLP
399 Park Avenue 400 South Hope Street
New York, New York 10022-4697 Los Angeles, California 90017
(212) 318-6000 (213) 430-6000
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon
as practicable after the consummation of the Merger (as defined below).
If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in
connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with
General Instruction G, check the following box. [ ]
If this form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and
list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement for the same offering. [ ] _____
If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. [ ] ______
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
===========================================================================================================================
Proposed maximum Amount of
Title of each class of securities Amount to be Proposed maximum aggregate offering priceregistration
to be registered registered (1) offering price per share (2) fee (2)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Common Stock, par value 5,725,669 shares Not Applicable $96,664,609 $26,872.76
$.01 per share
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Represents the estimated number of shares of common stock, par value $.01
per share ("Photronics Common Stock"), issuable by the Registrant upon
consummation of the merger (the "Merger") of a subsidiary of the Registrant
with and into Align-Rite International, Inc. ("Align-Rite").
(2) Pursuant to Rules 457(f)(1) and 457(c), the registration fee was computed on
the basis of (a) the average of the high and low prices of the common
stock of Align-Rite as reported on the Nasdaq National Market on October 5,
1999 ($18.5625) multiplied by (b) 5,207,521 the maximum number of shares of
Align-Rite common stock which will be converted into shares of Photronics
common stock pursuant to the merger.
The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement of such date
or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant
shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration
Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of
the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become
effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a),
may determine.
<PAGE>
Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A
registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. These securities may not be sold nor may
offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement becomes
effective. This prospectus shall not constitute an offer to sell or the
solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities
in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior
to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any State.
Subject to Completion, dated October 8, 1999
MERGER PROPOSED -- YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT.
As you may know, the boards of directors of Photronics, Inc. and Align-Rite
International, Inc. have agreed on a merger that will create one of the world's
largest photomask manufacturers. If we complete the merger, Align-Rite
shareholders will receive Photronics common stock in exchange for their Align-
Rite common stock.
We will determine the number of Photronics shares that Align-Rite
shareholders will receive in the merger for each Align-Rite share of common
stock by dividing $23.09 by the average of the daily average per share high and
low sales prices of one share of Photronics common stock as quoted on the Nasdaq
National Market during the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the third
trading day before the Align-Rite shareholders meeting, or if the closing of the
merger is more than five business days after that meeting, the closing date.
Until this conversion ratio is finally determined, the conversion ratio will
vary with the average price of Photronics common stock during this period. The
number of Photronics shares that the Align-Rite shareholders will receive
generally will increase if the average price of Photronics shares decreases, and
vice-versa. However, an Align-Rite shareholder cannot receive fewer than 0.8173
shares of Photronics common stock or more than 1.0995 shares of Photronics
common stock for each share of Align-Rite common stock regardless of the price
of Photronics common stock during the 20 consecutive trading day period.
The average of the daily average per share high and low sales prices of
Photronics common stock as quoted on the Nasdaq National Market during the 20
consecutive trading days ended ., 1999 was $. per share and the closing price of
the common stock on the Nasdaq National Market on ., 1999 was $. per share.
Assuming the average of the daily average per share high and low sales price at
the time of the Align-Rite shareholders meeting is the same as at ., 1999, we
would convert each share of Align-Rite common stock into . shares of Photronics
common stock in the merger.
The merger will not change the aggregate number of shares of Photronics
common stock held by Photronics shareholders before the merger. However,
Photronics shareholders' ownership percentage of the total shares outstanding
will decrease as a result of the merger. As the conversion ratio increases, the
post-merger ownership percentage of Align-Rite shareholders increases and the
post-merger ownership percentage of Photronics shareholders decreases. Assuming
a conversion ratio of ., we estimate that Align-Rite shareholders would own
approximately .% of the outstanding Photronics common stock after the merger
based on the number of shares of Align-Rite and Photronics common stock
outstanding on
<PAGE>
., 1999, and assuming Photronics sells 1,000,000 shares of its common stock as
described below in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
Each of our boards of directors believes that the merger is advisable and
in your best interest and unanimously recommends that you vote for the proposals
relating to the merger at your meeting.
We cannot complete the merger unless Align-Rite shareholders approve the
merger and Photronics shareholders approve the issuance of Photronics common
stock to Align-Rite shareholders in the merger. We have scheduled special
meetings of our shareholders to vote on these matters. Your vote is very
important.
The dates, times and places of the special shareholder meetings are as
follows:
For Photronics shareholders: For Align-Rite shareholders:
[to be inserted] [to be inserted]
It is important that your shares are represented and voted at your meeting
regardless of the number of shares you own and whether or not you plan to attend
the meeting. If you fail to vote or abstain, it will have the effect of a vote
against the merger. We request that you complete, sign, date and promptly
return the enclosed proxy card at your earliest convenience.
For a description of certain significant considerations in connection with
the merger and related matters described in this document, see "Risk Factors"
beginning on page ..
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
regulators has approved or disapproved of the Photronics common stock to be
issued in the merger or determined whether this document is accurate or
adequate. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
This joint proxy statement/prospectus is dated ., 1999 and is being mailed to
shareholders on ., 1999.
<PAGE>
PHOTRONICS, INC.
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, Florida 33477
________________________
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON [__________], 1999
_________________________
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special meeting of shareholders of
Photronics, Inc. will be held on [__________], 1999, at [_____] p.m., local time
at [____________________________], [_______________], [___________], for the
following purposes:
1. To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve the issuance of
shares of Photronics common stock in the merger contemplated by
that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of September
15, 1999, among Photronics, Inc., AL Acquisition Corp., a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Photronics, and Align-Rite
International, Inc. A copy of the merger agreement is attached
to the accompanying Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus as Annex A.
2. To transact such other business as may properly come before the
special meeting of shareholders or any adjournment or
postponement thereof.
The close of business on [__________], 1999 has been fixed as the record
date for determination of shareholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at,
the special meeting of shareholders and at any and all adjournments or
postponements thereof.
The board of directors of Photronics unanimously recommends that
shareholders vote FOR approval of the share issuance. The affirmative vote of
the holders of a majority of the shares represented at the meeting in person or
by proxy at which a quorum is present is required to approve the issuance of
Photronics common stock in the merger. The merger will not be completed unless
the share issuance is approved by Photronics shareholders.
The accompanying Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus gives you more
information about the merger and the share issuance. We have enclosed a proxy
card for you to cast your vote.
Whether or not you plan to attend the special meeting of shareholders,
please complete, date, sign and return the enclosed proxy card in the enclosed
envelope. You may revoke your proxy in writing or in person at any time before
the special meeting of shareholders in accordance with the instructions in the
accompanying Joint Proxy
<PAGE>
Statement/Prospectus. If your proxy card is signed, dated and returned without
specifying your choice, the shares will be voted as recommended by the
directors.
By Order of the Board of Directors
_______________________________
Jeffrey P. Moonan
Secretary
Jupiter, Florida
____________, 1999
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
2428 Ontario Street
Burbank, California 91504
________________________
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON [__________], 1999
_________________________
A special meeting of shareholders of Align-Rite International, Inc. will be
held on [________], 1999, at [_______] a.m., local time, at the
[_______________], [____________________], [______], [_________], [_________]
for the purposes of considering and acting on the following proposals:
1. A proposal to approve and adopt the principal terms of the
Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of September 15, 1999, among
Photronics, Inc., AL Acquisition Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Photronics, and Align-Rite International, Inc., and approve the merger. A
copy of the merger agreement is attached to the accompanying Joint Proxy
Statement/Prospectus as Annex A.
2. To transact such other business as may properly be presented at the
special meeting of shareholders or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
Holders of record of the Align-Rite common stock at the close of business
on [___________], 1999 are entitled to notice of and to vote at the special
meeting of shareholders.
The board of directors of Align-Rite unanimously recommends that
shareholders vote FOR approval of the principal terms of the merger agreement
and the merger. The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares of Align-Rite common stock is required to approve the
principal terms of the merger agreement and approve the merger. The merger will
not be completed unless the merger is approved by the Align-Rite shareholders.
The accompanying Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus gives you more
information about the merger. We have enclosed a proxy card for you to cast
your vote.
Whether or not you plan to attend the special meeting of shareholders in
person, please complete, date, sign and return the enclosed proxy card in the
enclosed envelope. You may revoke your proxy in writing or in person at any time
before the special meeting of shareholders in accordance with the instructions
in the accompanying Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus. If your proxy card is
signed, dated and returned without specifying your choice, the shares will be
voted as recommended by the directors.
<PAGE>
By Order of the Board of Directors
[_________________]
Petar N. Katurich
Secretary
Burbank, California
[___________ __, 1999]
<PAGE>
Table of Contents
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Section Page
- ------- ----
<S> <C>
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGER........................................ 1
SUMMARY....................................................................... 6
RISK FACTORS.................................................................. 21
The merger consideration to be received by Align-Rite shareholders is
not determinable in advance and could substantially differ from
their expectations.......................................................... 21
The cap on the conversion ratio could result in a substantial
reduction in the value of the merger consideration to be received by
Align-Rite shareholders..................................................... 21
The merger may be terminated if Photronics' stock price falls substantially. 21
Photronics shareholders will be diluted by the merger....................... 22
We may have difficulties in combining the operations of Photronics
and Align-Rite.............................................................. 22
We depend on demand for integrated circuit design activity by the
semiconductor industry, which fluctuates.................................... 22
We may experience fluctuations in our quarterly operating results........... 23
Rapid technological change may affect our operations........................ 23
Our operations require significant capital investments...................... 24
We depend on major customers, the loss of which could adversely affect
our operating results and financial condition............................... 24
We depend on major suppliers and the inability to obtain equipment or raw
materials when required could affect adversely our business and results
of operations............................................................... 24
Our acquisition strategy could place significant demands on our management
and systems................................................................. 25
Our operations in international markets could pose risks.................... 25
We will depend on key personnel of Photronics and Align-Rite................ 26
Forward looking statements.................................................. 26
THE SPECIAL MEETINGS.......................................................... 28
Times and Places; Purposes.................................................. 28
Record Dates; Voting Rights................................................. 28
Votes Required.............................................................. 28
Quorum...................................................................... 29
Proxies; Revocation of Proxies.............................................. 29
Solicitation of Proxies..................................................... 31
Share Ownership of Management............................................... 32
</TABLE>
i
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
INFORMATION ABOUT ALIGN-RITE.................................................. 32
Beneficial Ownership of Align-Rite Common Stock............................. 33
INFORMATION ABOUT PHOTRONICS.................................................. 34
Beneficial Ownership of Photronics Common Stock............................. 35
THE MERGER.................................................................... 38
Structure of the Merger..................................................... 38
Merger Consideration........................................................ 38
No Fractional Shares........................................................ 39
Effective Time of the Merger................................................ 40
Background of the Merger.................................................... 40
Photronics Board Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of the
Photronics Board.................................................. 43
Align-Rite Board Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of the
Align-Rite Board.................................................. 44
Opinions of Financial Advisors.............................................. 46
Opinion of Financial Advisor to the Photronics Board........................ 46
Opinion of Financial Advisor to Align-Rite Board............................ 63
Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger.................................. 75
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences................................ 77
Anticipated Accounting Treatment............................................ 79
Regulatory Approvals........................................................ 80
Percentage Ownership Interest of Align-Rite Shareholders After the Merger... 80
Dissenters' Rights.......................................................... 80
Nasdaq National Market Listing.............................................. 83
Certain Consequences of the Merger.......................................... 83
Management After the Merger................................................. 83
Resales of Photronics Common Stock.......................................... 83
TERMS OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT................................................. 84
Conversion of Shares in the Merger.......................................... 84
Exchange Agent; Procedures for Exchange of Certificates..................... 84
Representations and Warranties.............................................. 85
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger...................................... 86
Other Covenants............................................................. 89
Shareholders meetings....................................................... 89
Access to Information; Confidentiality...................................... 89
Filings; Other Actions...................................................... 89
No Solicitation............................................................. 90
Sale of Shares by Photronics................................................ 91
Conditions to the Merger.................................................... 91
Employee Matters............................................................ 92
Indemnification of Directors and Officers................................... 92
Termination................................................................. 93
Fees and Expenses........................................................... 95
Termination Fee............................................................. 95
Amendment................................................................... 95
Waiver...................................................................... 95
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS............................. 97
COMPARISON OF THE RIGHTS OF HOLDERS OF ALIGN-RITE
COMMON STOCK AND PHOTRONICS COMMON STOCK..................................... 106
</TABLE>
ii
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
EXPERTS....................................................................... 120
LEGAL OPINIONS................................................................ 120
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS......................................................... 120
OTHER MATTERS................................................................. 121
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION........................................... 121
</TABLE>
ANNEX A Agreement and Plan of Merger,
dated as of September 15, 1999
among Photronics, Inc., AL
Acquisition Corp. and Align-Rite
International, Inc.
ANNEX B Opinion of Banc of America
Securities LLC
ANNEX C Opinion of CIBC World Markets
Corp.
ANNEX D Chapter 13 of the California
General Corporation Law
ANNEX E Align-Rite Annual Report on Form
10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended
March 31, 1999
ANNEX F Align-Rite Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the Quarter Ended
June 30, 1999
------------------------
This document incorporates important business and financial information about
Photronics and Align-Rite that is not included in or delivered with this
document. Shareholders may obtain this information from the appropriate company
without charge upon written or oral request to the following:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Photronics, Inc. Align-Rite International, Inc.
15 Secor Road 2428 Ontario Street
Brookfield, CT 06804 Burbank, California 91504
Attention: Michael W. McCarthy Attention: Petar N. Katurich
(203) 775-9000 (818) 843-7220
</TABLE>
If you would like to request documents from us, please do so by *, 1999 so that
you may receive them before the special shareholder meetings. If you request any
incorporated documents, we will mail them to you by first class mail or other
equally prompt means as soon as practicable after we receive your request.
iii
<PAGE>
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGER
Q: Why do Photronics and Align-Rite want to merge?
A. We believe that the merger will enable Photronics and Align-Rite to more
effectively operate in the photomask industry by creating a larger company that
will be better able to fund increased capital expenditures and research and
development costs necessary to remain competitive and to serve customers in
global markets. For more detailed reasons for the merger, see pages . through ..
Q: What will Align-Rite common shareholders receive in the merger?
A: We will exchange each outstanding share of Align-Rite common stock for
between 0.8173 and 1.0995 of a share of Photronics common stock based on a
conversion ratio to be calculated as described below. Align-Rite shareholders
will not receive any fractional shares. Instead, they will receive cashbased on
the market value of a share of Photronics common stock multiplied by the
appropriate fraction in lieu of any fractional shares.
Q: How is the conversion ratio determined?
A: We will determine the conversion ratio by dividing $23.09 by the average of
the daily average per share high and low sales prices of one share of Photronics
common stock as quoted on the Nasdaq National Market during the 20 consecutive
trading days ending on the third trading day before the Align-Rite shareholders
meeting, or if the closing is more than five business days after the meeting,
the closing date. However, if the average is greater than $28.25, the conversion
ratio will be fixed at 0.8173 and if the average is less than $21.00, the
conversion ratio will be 1.0995.
The following table illustrates how the conversion ratio will be calculated
based on assumed averages of the daily average per share high and low sales
price of Photronics common stock:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Photronics average per share
high and low sales price Conversion Ratio
- ------------------------------ ------------------
<S> <C>
$29.00 .8173
28.50 .8173
28.25 .8173
27.50 .8396
</TABLE>
1
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
27.00 .8552
26.50 .8713
26.00 .8881
25.50 .9055
25.00 .9236
24.50 .9424
24.00 .9621
23.50 .9826
23.00 1.0039
22.50 1.0262
22.00 1.0495
21.50 1.0740
21.00 1.0995
20.50 1.0995
20.00 1.0995
</TABLE>
If the average price of Photronics common stock falls below $16.00,
Align-Rite may terminate the merger agreement.
If you would like up-to-date information on what the conversion ratio
would be as of a date prior to the date of the special shareholders
meetings, you may call Align-Rite's proxy solicitor, ., at ..
Q: What percentage of Photronics common stock will be received by Align-Rite
shareholders?
A: Assuming a conversion ratio of 0.8173, we estimate that Align-Rite
shareholders would own approximately 14.6% of the outstanding Photronics
common stock after the merger based on the number of outstanding shares of
Align-Rite and Photronics common stock on August 1, 1999. The percentage
assumes the exercise of options and other rights to purchase approximately
530,000 shares of Align-Rite common stock. The percentage also gives effect
to the sale by Photronics of1,000,000 shares of its common stock in order for
the merger to qualify for pooling of interests treatment. As the conversion
ratio increases, the post-merger ownership percentage of Align-Rite
shareholders will increase, and the maximum percentage would be 18.7%.
Q: Will Photronics shareholders receive any shares as a result of the merger?
A: No. Photronics shareholders will continue to hold the Photronics shares they
own at the time of the merger.
2
<PAGE>
Q: Will the merger dilute the ownership of Photronics shareholders?
A: Yes. The issuance of shares of Photronics common stock to Align-Rite
shareholders will dilute the ownership of existing Photronics shareholders.
The extent of the dilution will depend upon the conversion ratio.
Q: What are the tax consequences of the merger to Align-Rite and Photronics
shareholders?
A: The exchange of shares of Align-Rite shareholders will be tax-free to them
for U.S. federal income tax purposes, except for taxes payable on any gain
recognized as a result of receiving cash in lieu of fractional shares of
Photronics common stock. The merger will have no tax consequences to
Photronics shareholders. A summary of the material federal income tax
consequences of the merger is included in the section "The Merger -- Certain
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences" on page ..
Q: When do you expect to complete the merger?
A: We expect to complete the merger as soon as possible after the shareholders
meetings if we obtain the required shareholder approvals at these meetings.
However, we cannot complete the merger untilwe satisfy numerous additional
conditions. We cannot predict when we will complete the merger since we do
not know when we will satisfy all of the conditions. For example, federal and
state antitrust authorities must complete the review of the merger. However,
either company can terminate the merger agreement if we do not complete the
merger by February 25, 2000.
Q: What do I need to do now?
A: After reviewing this document, indicate on your proxy card how you want to
vote, sign it and mail it in the enclosed return envelope as soon as possible
so that the proxyholder may vote your shares at your shareholders meeting.
Q: How will my shares be voted if I return a blank proxy card?
A: If you sign and send in your proxy card and do not indicate how you want to
vote, we will count your proxy as a vote in favor of the proposal submitted
at your shareholders meeting.
Q: What will be the effect if I do not vote?
3
<PAGE>
A: If you fail to return your properly executed proxy card or abstain from
voting and you are
.an Align-Rite shareholder, it will have the same effect as voting against
the merger
.a Photronics shareholder, it will have the same effect as a vote against the
proposal to issue Photronics common stock in the merger.
Q: Can I vote my shares in person?
A: Yes. You may attend your shareholders meeting and vote your shares in
person, rather than signing and mailing your proxy card.
Q: Can I revoke my proxy and change my vote?
A: Yes. You may revoke your proxy on or before the day of your shareholders
meeting by following the directions on page .. Then you can either change
your vote or attend your shareholders meeting and vote in person.
Q: If my shares are held in "street name" by my broker, will my broker vote my
shares for me?
A: Your broker will vote your shares only if you instruct your broker on how to
vote. Your broker will send you directions on how you can instruct your
broker to vote. Your broker cannot vote your shares without instructions from
you.
Q: Should I send in my stock certificates now?
A: No. After we complete the merger, we will send Align-Rite shareholders
written instructions to exchange their stock certificates for certificates
evidencing Photronics common stock. Photronics shareholders will retain
their stock certificates after the merger.
4
<PAGE>
Who Can Help Answer Your Questions
If you have more questions about the merger you should contact:
Photronics, Inc. Align-Rite International, Inc.
Investor Relations Investor Relations
15 Secor Road 2428 Ontario Street
Brookfield, CT 06804 Burbank, California 91504
Attention: Michael W. McCarthy Attention: Petar N. Katurich
(203) 775-9000 (818) 843-7220
If you would like additional copies of this document, if you want updated
information concerning the conversion ratio or if you have other questions about
the merger, you may contact Align-Rite's proxy solicitor:
5
<PAGE>
SUMMARY
This summary highlights selected information from this document and may not
contain all of the information that is important to you. To understand the
terms of the merger fully and for a more complete description of these terms,
you should read carefully this entire document, including the annexes and the
documents we have referred you to. See "Where You Can Find More Information" on
page ..
The Companies (see page .)
Photronics, Inc.
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, Florida 33477
Photronics is a leading global manufacturer of photomasks. Based upon
available market information, Photronics believes that it is one of the largest
photomask manufacturers in the world.
Align-Rite International, Inc.
2428 Ontario Street
Burbank, California 91504
Align-Rite manufactures and markets photomasks for the global semiconductor
industry. Align-Rite currently serves more than 250 customers located in 21
countries from four manufacturing facilities in Burbank, California, Melbourne,
Florida, Bridgend, Wales and Heilbronn, Germany.
Our Recommendations To Shareholders (see page .)
To Photronics Shareholders:
The Photronics board of directors believes that the merger is advisableand is
in your best interest and unanimously recommends that you vote FOR the
Photronics merger proposal to approve the issuance of Photronics common stock in
the merger.
To Align-Rite Shareholders:
The Align-Rite board of directors believes that the merger is advisable and is
in your best interest and unanimously recommends that you vote FOR the Align-
Rite merger proposal to approve the principal terms of the merger agreement and
approve the merger.
Opinions of Financial Advisors
(see page .)
In deciding to approve the merger, we considered opinions from our respective
financial advisors as to the fairness of the conversion ratio from a financial
point of view to Photronics and the Align-Rite shareholders.
6
<PAGE>
Photronics received an opinion from Banc of America Securities and Align-Rite
received an opinion from CIBC World Markets. These opinions are attached as
Annexes B and C to this document. We encourage you to read them in their
entirety and consider these opinions.
Photronics Shares to be Issued to Align-Rite Shareholders
We will exchange each outstanding share of Align-Rite common stock for between
0.8173 and 1.0995 of a share of Photronics common stock based on a conversion
ratio to be calculated as described elsewhere in this document. Align-Rite
shareholders will not receive any fractional shares. Instead, they will receive
cash based on the market value of a share of Photronics common stock multiplied
by the appropriate fraction in lieu of any fractional shares.
Interests of Certain Align-Rite
Executive Officers and Directors
in the Merger
(see page .)
When considering the recommendation of the board of directors of Align-Rite
regarding the merger, you should be aware of the interest that certain executive
officers and directors of Align-Rite have in the merger that are different from
your and their interests as shareholders:
.James L. MacDonald - Align-Rite's Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive
Officer and President and Petar N. Katurich - Align-Rite's Vice President of
Finance, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and a director of Align-Rite have
entered into amendments to their existing employment agreements with Align-
Rite. These amendments will be effective only if the merger occurs and
provide for salary and bonus arrangements that will apply after the merger;
.Under the terms of existing stock option agreements, if the merger is
completed, stock options to purchase an aggregate of 510,652 shares of Align-
Rite common stock will become exercisable immediately, including stock
options to purchase 304,196 shares of Align-Rite common stock held by
directors and executive officers of Align-Rite. Each stock option will become
an option to purchase Photronics common stock;
.Photronics has agreed to continue in effect the indemnification currently in
effect for Align-Rite's directors and officers and to maintain directors' and
officers' liability insurance covering Align-Rite's directors and officers
for a
7
<PAGE>
period of six years after the merger; and
.Mr. MacDonald and a trust in which he is co-trustee have agreed to vote for
approval of the principal terms of the merger agreement and the merger and to
pay Photronics a specified amount if the merger agreement is terminated under
certain circumstances and Align-Rite completes a business combination with a
third party at a price in excess of $23.09 per share of Align-Rite common
stock.
Risks Related to the Merger
(see page .)
Please note that once the merger is completed, the combined company is subject
to certain risks as discussed in the section "Risk Factors" on pages . through
.. These risks include:
.possible difficulties in combining two companies that were previously
operated independently;
.cyclicality of demand for photomasks by semiconductor manufacturers;
.fluctuations in quarterly operating results;
.rapid technological changes;
.the continuing need for significant investment in our business;
.dependence on major customers and suppliers;
.demands on our management and systems as a result of our acquisition
strategy;
.risks posed by our international operations; and
.dependence on key personnel.
The Photronics Meeting
(see page .)
The special meeting of the Photronics shareholders will be held at
[___________] on ., 1999, at . p.m. local time.
At the Photronics meeting, holders of Photronics common stock will consider
and vote upon the proposal to approve the issuance of Photronics common stock to
the Align-Rite shareholders in the merger.
Approval of the issuance of Photronics common stock to Align-Rite shareholders
in the merger requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the
shares represented at the Photronics meeting in person or by proxy at which a
quorum is present.
Only Photronics common shareholders who hold Photronics
8
<PAGE>
common stock at the close of business on the Photronics record date, ., 1999,
will be entitled to notice of and to vote at the Photronics meeting. On
September 30, 1999, directors and executive officers of Photronics and their
affiliates beneficially owned approximately 15.6% of the outstanding shares of
Photronics common stock, including shares issuable pursuant to options.
In conjunction with the execution of the merger agreement, Constantine S.
Macricostas, Chairman of the Board of Photronics, entered into an agreement with
Align-Rite to vote all Photronics common stock that he is entitled to vote in
favor of the merger proposal. Mr. Macricostas has voting control, or is a
partner, shareholder or officer of entities that have voting control, with
respect to 2,993,742 shares of Photronics common stock, which represented
approximately 12.5% of the outstanding shares of Photronics common stock as of
September 30, 1999.
As of ., 1999, Photronics had a total of . shares of common stock outstanding.
The Align-Rite Meeting
(see page .)
The special meeting of the Align-Rite shareholders will be held at . on .,
1999, at . a.m. local time.
At the Align-Rite meeting, holders of Align-Rite common stock will consider
and vote to approve the principal terms of the merger agreement and the merger.
This approval requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares of Align-Rite common stock.
Only Align-Rite common shareholders who hold Align-Rite common stock at the
close of business on the Align-Rite record date, ., 1999, will be entitled to
notice of and to vote at the Align-Rite meeting. On September 30, 1999,
directors and executive officers of Align-Rite and their affiliates beneficially
owned approximately 15.85% of the outstanding shares of Align-Rite common stock,
including shares issuable pursuant to options.
In conjunction with the execution of the merger agreement, certain Align-Rite
shareholders who hold an aggregate of approximately 11.9% of the outstanding
Align-Rite common stock as of the date of this document entered into a voting
agreement with Photronics to vote all Align-Rite common stock that they are
entitled to vote in favor of approving the merger proposal.
As of ., 1999, Align-Rite had a total of . shares of common stock
9
<PAGE>
outstanding.
The Merger
The merger agreement is attached as Annex A to this document. We encourage
you to read the merger agreement because it is the legal document that governs
the merger.
Conditions to the Merger (see page .)
We will not complete the merger until we have satisfied numerous conditions.
Some of the conditions are listed below:
.the Photronics and Align-Rite shareholders approve the merger proposals;
.no law or court order prohibits the merger;
.the federal antitrust authorities complete their review of the merger and do
not seek to prohibit the merger;
.Photronics and Align-Rite each receives letters from its independent auditors
stating their concurrence with the respective management's conclusion as to
the appropriateness of pooling of interests accounting treatment for the
merger;
.Photronics and Align-Rite each receives opinions from its counselthat the
merger qualifies as a tax-free reorganization under the Internal Revenue
Code; and
.there are not effective demands for payment of dissenters' rights by
shareholders of Align-Rite for five percent or more of its outstanding
shares.
Certain conditions may be waived by the company entitled to assert the
condition.
Regulatory Approvals (see page .)
Under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, we must furnish
certain information and materials to the Department of Justice and the Federal
Trade Commission and wait a specified period of time before we can complete the
merger. The Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission has the
authority to challenge the merger on antitrust grounds before or after we
complete the merger. We filed premerger notification forms with the Department
of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission on October 1, 1999.
Some governmental authorities may impose conditions on the merger before
granting approval. We cannot predict whether we will obtain the required
regulatory approvals within
10
<PAGE>
the time frame specified in the merger agreement or on conditions that would not
be detrimental to either of us or the combined company.
Termination of the Merger Agreement (see page .)
The board of directors of both companies can jointly agree to terminate the
merger agreement at any time without completing the merger. In addition, either
company can individually terminate the merger agreement if we do not complete
the merger by February 25, 2000 or the shareholders of either company fail to
approve such company's merger proposal. Align-Rite also has certain termination
rights if it receives a superior acquisition proposal or if the average of the
daily average per share high and low sales prices of one share of Photronics
common stock during a specified period falls below $16.00. Both companies have
additional termination rights more specifically described in the section "Terms
of the Merger Agreement -- Termination."
If the merger agreement is terminated, in certain circumstances, Align-Rite
must pay Photronics a termination fee of $3,640,000.
Accounting Treatment (see page .)
Photronics expects to account for themerger as a pooling of interests. Under
this accounting method, Photronics will restate its consolidated financial
statements to include the assets, liabilities, shareholders' equity and results
of operations of Align-Rite. In order for the merger to qualify for pooling of
interests treatment, Photronics must sell 1,000,000 shares of its common stock
that it acquired within the two years before the transaction.
Tax Consequences of the Merger
(see page .)
The conversion of shares of Align-Rite shareholders will be tax-free to them for
U.S. federal income tax purposes, except for taxes payable on any gain
recognized as a result of receiving cash in lieu of fractional shares of
Photronics common stock. The merger will have no tax consequences to Photronics
shareholders.
Comparison of Rights of Align-Rite and Photronics Shareholders
(see page .)
When the merger is completed, Align-Rite shareholders will become Photronics
shareholders. Align-Rite is a California corporation and Photronics is a
Connecticut corporation. For a comparison of the rights of Align-Rite
shareholders and
11
<PAGE>
of Photronics shareholders see "Comparison of the Rights of Holders of Align-
Rite Common Stock and Photronics Common Stock."
Treatment of Stock Options
(see page .)
All outstanding Align-Rite stock options that are not vested will vest when the
merger is completed. Each Align-Rite stock option will become an option to
purchase Photronics common stock. Each option will entitle its holder to receive
upon exercise the same number of shares of Photronics common stock as the holder
would receive if he exercised the option immediately before the merger. The
exercise price for each option will be equal to (x) the aggregate exercise price
for the Align-Rite common stock purchasable upon exercise of the option divided
by (y) the number of shares of Photronics common stock purchasable under the
option.
Dissenters' Rights (see page .)
If holders of 5% or more of the outstanding shares of Align-Rite common stock
.vote against the merger;
.make a written demand to Align-Rite for the purchase of their shares; and
.take certain other action to secure their dissenters' rights;
they would be entitled to receive the fair market value in cash of their shares
of Align-Rite common stock as of the date prior to the announcement of the
proposed terms of the merger. However, this would allow Photronics to terminate
the merger agreement.
12
<PAGE>
Photronics, Inc.
Selected Historical Financial Data
The following selected financial data for Photronics is derived from its
consolidated financial statements. This selected historical financial data is
only a summary and should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the
consolidated financial statements and related notes to those financial
statements contained in Photronics' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended November 1, 1998 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter and
nine months ended August 1, 1999. All share and per share amounts have been
adjusted for a two-for-one stock split for shareholders of record on November
17, 1997.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended Nine Months Ended
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 31, Oct. 31, Oct. 31, Nov. 2 Nov. 1, Aug. 2, Aug. 1,
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1998 1999
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales $80,696 $125,299 $160,071 $197,451 $222,572 $169,920 $160,675
Operating costs and expenses 66,459 101,709 127,806 157,047 183,314 136,529 148,346
Non-recurring restructuring
charge - - - - 3,800 3,800 -
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Operating income 14,237 23,590 32,265 40,404 35,458 29,591 12,329
Other income (expense), net 1,064 6,252 1,638 1,032 (2,376) (1,458) (2,704)
Income before income taxes 15,301 29,842 33,903 41,436 33,082 28,133 9,625
Provision for income taxes 4,965* 11,210 12,900 15,800 12,600 10,700 3,700
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net income $10,336* $ 18,632 $ 21,003 $ 25,636 $ 20,482 $ 17,433 $ 5,925
======= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Earnings per share:
Basic $ 0.53* $ 0.87 $ 0.89 $ 1.07 $ 0.84 $ 0.72 $ 0.25
======= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Diluted $ 0.51* $ 0.83 $ 0.87 $ 1.03 $ 0.84 $ 0.70 $ 0.25
======= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Weighted average number of
common shares outstanding:
Basic 19,488 21,504 23,496 23,910 24,350 24,356 23,966
======= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Diluted 20,124 22,414 24,202 26,628 28,958 29,082 23,966
======= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
* Includes cumulative effect of change in accounting for income taxes of $237,
or $0.01 per basic and diluted share.
13
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
As of
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 31, October 31, October 31, November 2, November 1, August 1,
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------
(in thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Working capital $32,329 $ 49,653 $ 21,613 $ 81,398 $ 36,871 $ 17,197
Property, plant and equipment 39,205 72,063 123,666 203,813 251,381 280,919
Total assets 98,346 174,218 211,903 365,212 371,549 387,075
Long-term debt 495 1,809 1,987 106,194 104,261 115,799
Shareholders' equity 80,402 134,045 156,417 185,975 200,430 204,114
</TABLE>
14
<PAGE>
Align-Rite International, Inc.
Selected Historical Financial Data
Set forth below is selected financial data for Align-Rite for and as of the
periods indicated. This selected historical financial data is only a summary
and should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the consolidated financial
statements and related notes to those consolidated financial statements
contained in Align-Rite's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March
31, 1999 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Fiscal Years Ended March 31, Nine Months Ended
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
June 30, June 30,
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1998 1999
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net sales $25,404 $33,290 $38,001 $46,721 $52,443 $38,371 $38,121
Operating costs and expenses 20,402 26,260 29,935 37,187 43,946 30,688 33,565
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Operating income 5,002 7,030 8,066 9,534 8,497 7,683 4,556
Interest income (expense), net (200) 325 315 254 (124) 249 (232)
Income before income tax
provisions and minority interest 4,802 7,355 8,381 9,788 8,373 7,928 4,324
Income tax provision 1,216 2,219 3,056 3,688 3,069 2,982 1,508
Minority interest 162 172 - - - - -
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net income $ 3,424 $ 4,964 $ 5,325 $ 6,100 $ 5,304 $ 4,946 $ 2,816
======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Basic earnings per share $3.05 $1.46 $1.21 $1.37 $1.18 $1.11 $ 0.62
======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Shares used in per share
computation 1,123 3,393 4,386 4,439 4,495 4,457 4,526
======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Diluted earnings per share $1.17 $1.12 $1.11 $1.25 $1.09 $1.01 $ 0.58
======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Shares used in per share
computation 2,933 4,446 4,799 4,865 4,869 4,880 4,868
======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
As of March 31 As of June 30,
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(In thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,861 $12,707 $ 6,734 $ 5,523 $ 6,328 $ 4,550
Working capital 3,849 17,254 10,727 6,636 2,130 6,613
Property and equipment, net 6,506 8,517 22,089 33,575 61,333 60,223
Total assets 17,261 30,422 38,781 51,158 80,292 78,875
Long-term debt, less current
portion* 1,905 - - - 15,208 17,960
Total shareholders' equity 5,977 25,285 31,373 37,766 43,302 44,255
</TABLE>
15
<PAGE>
*As of March 31, and June 30, 1999, includes $10,008,000 and $10,760,000,
respectively of equipment payables to be financed utilizing existing bank lines
of credit.
Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Data
The following summary unaudited pro forma combined financial data gives
effect to the merger, which we will account for as a pooling of interests in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The operating data
assumes that the merger was completed at the beginning of the periods presented,
and the balance sheet data assumes that the merger was completed as of August
1, 1999. The summary unaudited pro forma combined financial data does not
reflect any cost savings and other synergies which may result from the merger
and is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations or the financial
position which would have occurred had the merger been completed on the dates
indicated, nor is it necessarily indicative of future results or financial
position. This information is only a summary and you should read the
information presented below in conjunction with the historical financial
statements of Photronics and Align-Rite contained in their annual and quarterly
reports incorporated by reference and the Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Statements and the related notes included in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended Nine Months Ended
------------------------------------- ---------------------
October 31, November 2, November 1, August 2, August 1,
1996 1997 1998 1998 1999
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(in thousands, except per-share amounts)
OPERATING DATA: (1)
Net sales $198,072 $244,172 $274,936 $208,291 $198,796
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net income $ 26,328 $ 31,736 $ 27,239 $ 22,379 $ 8,741
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Earnings per share:
Diluted $ 0.92 $ 1.08 $ 0.93 $ 0.76 $ 0.30
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Basic $ 0.94 $ 1.12 $ 0.94 $ 0.77 $ 0.30
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
<CAPTION>
As of
August 1,
1999
---------
<S> <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Total assets $465,950
Long-term debt 113,759
Shareholders' equity 265,369
</TABLE>
16
<PAGE>
Summary Per Share Data
We have summarized below the per share information of Photronics and Align-
Rite on a historical, pro forma combined and pro forma equivalent basis. The
information should be read in conjunction with the historical financial
statements and related notes to those financial statements of Photronics and
Align-Rite that are incorporated by reference in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. For information on where you can find more information
about Photronics and Align-Rite, see pages . and ..
You should be aware that pro forma information may not be indicative of what
actual results will be in the future or what results would have been had
Photronics and Align-Rite been merged for the periods presented.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended Nine Months Ended
March 31, June 30,
------------------ -----------------
1997 1998 1999 1998 1999
----- ------ ----- ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Align-Rite Historical
Income per common share, basic $1.21 $1.37 $1.18 $1.11 $0.62
Income per common share, diluted 1.11 1.25 1.09 1.01 0.58
Cash dividends declared per share - - - - -
Book value per share (1) 9.54 9.73
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended Nine Months Ended
-------------------------------------- --------------------
October 31, November 2, November 1, August 2, August 1,
1996 1997 1998 1998 1999
----------- ----------- ----------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Photronics Historical
Income per common share, basic $0.89 $1.07 $0.84 $0.72 $0.25
Income per common share, diluted 0.87 1.03 0.84 0.70 0.25
Cash dividends declared per share - - - - -
Book value per share (1) 8.29 8.54
</TABLE>
17
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended Nine Months Ended
-------------------------------------- --------------------
October 31, November 2, November 1, August 2, August 1,
1996 1997 1998 1998 1999
----------- ----------- ----------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Unaudited pro forma combined (2):
Income per common share, basic $0.94 $1.12 $0.94 $0.77 $0.30
Income per common share, diluted
0.92 1.08 0.93 0.76 0.30
Cash dividends declared per share - - - - -
Book value per share - - 8.44 - 9.07
Align-Rite per share equivalent (3):
Income per common share, basic
Income per common share, diluted
Cash dividends declared per share
Book value per share
</TABLE>
(1) Historical book value per share is computed by dividing shareholders' equity
by the number of shares of common stock outstanding at the end of each
period.
(2) For purposes of the unaudited pro forma combined share data, Align-Rite's
financial information has been conformed to within 93 days of Photronics'
financial information for the year ended November 1, 1998.
(3) The equivalent pro forma share amounts of Align-Rite are calculated by
multiplying unaudited pro forma combined income per share and book value per
share amounts by an assumed conversion ratio of . based on the average of
the daily average high and low sales prices of Photronics common stock of .
for the 20 consecutive trading days ending on [________], 1999.
18
<PAGE>
Comparative Per Share Market Price and Dividend Information
Photronics common stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the
symbol "PLAB." Align-Rite common stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market
under the symbol "MASK."
The table below sets forth, for the calendar quarters indicated, the
reported high and low sale prices of Photronics common stock and Align-Rite
common stock each as reported on the Nasdaq National Market.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Photronics Align-Rite
Common Common
Stock Stock
Sale Price Sale Price
---------- ----------
High Low High Low
-------- -------- -------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1997
First Quarter $19.1250 $13.9375 $13.7500 $11.3750
Second Quarter 23.8750 13.7500 14.7500 9.9375
Third Quarter 31.3750 22.8750 23.8750 12.0000
Fourth Quarter 29.5000 17.5625 24.0000 12.7500
1998
First Quarter 31.0000 20.0625 17.1250 13.0025
Second Quarter 37.0625 20.1250 17.2500 13.2500
Third Quarter 24.2500 12.6250 15.0625 9.8750
Fourth Quarter 24.9375 9.5000 14.5000 8.6875
1999
First Quarter 28.1250 18.6250 14.1250 11.5625
Second Quarter 25.8125 19.1250 14.0000 11.1250
Third Quarter 29.5000 22.4380 19.6250 13.0000
Fourth Quarter (through ., 1999)
</TABLE>
On September 15, 1999, the last full trading day prior to the public
announcement of the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, the closing
price per share of: (i)
19
<PAGE>
Photronics common stock was $24.25 and (ii) Align-Rite common stock was $14.75.
On ., 1999, the most recent practicable date prior to the date of this document,
the closing price per share of: (i) Photronics common stock was $. and (ii)
Align-Rite common stock was $.. We urge shareholders to obtain current market
quotations before making any decision with respect to the merger.
Neither Photronics nor Align-Rite has declared a cash dividend on its
common stock since it became a public company. Photronics intends to retain
future earnings for use in its business and does not anticipate paying any
dividends on Photronics common stock in the foreseeable future. Photronics'
credit facility limits its ability to pay dividends, other than dividends
payable wholly in Photronics common stock. Under Align-Rite's existing credit
facilities, Align-Rite is limited from paying cash dividends on Align-Rite's
common stock.
There were approximately . holders of record of Photronics common stock on
the record date for the special meeting of the Photronics shareholders. There
were approximately . holders of record of Align-Rite common stock on the record
date for the special meeting of the Align-Rite shareholders.
Following the completion of the merger, shares of Photronics common stock
will continue to be traded on the Nasdaq National Market, and shares of Align-
Rite common stock will cease to be traded on the Nasdaq National Market.
20
<PAGE>
RISK FACTORS
In making your determination as to how to vote on the merger proposals, you
should consider the following factors:
The merger consideration to be received by Align-Rite shareholders is not
determinable in advance and could substantially differ from their expectations.
The number of shares that Align-Rite shareholders will receive in the
merger will depend on the price of Photronics common stock. The conversion
ratio will be based on the average of the daily average of the high and low
sales prices of Photronics common stock during the 20 consecutive trading days
ending on the third trading day prior to the Align-Rite shareholders meeting, or
if the closing of the merger is more than five business days after the meeting,
the closing date. The conversion ratio would be (i) 0.8173, if the average of
the daily average high and low sales prices of Photronics common stock is
greater than $28.25 and (ii) 1.0995, if the average of the daily average high
and low sales prices of Photronics common stock is less than $21.00. In
addition, as the conversion ratio is determined based upon the average of the
daily average high and low sales prices of Photronics common stock during a 20
consecutive trading day period, the market price of the Photronics common stock
to be received by Align-Rite shareholders on the closing of the merger could
differ substantially from that average price.
The cap on the conversion ratio could result in a substantial reduction in the
value of the merger consideration to be received by Align-Rite shareholders.
The merger agreement caps the conversion ratio at 1.0995 when the average
price of Photronics common stock falls below $21.00 per share during the
applicable measurement period. Thus, Align-Rite shareholders cannot receive
more than 1.0995 shares of Photronics common stock in exchange for each share of
Align-Rite common stock regardless of how much the average price of Photronics
common stock falls below $21.00 per share. If the average price of Photronics
common stock falls below $21.00 per share, Align-Rite shareholders will receive
Photronics common stock with an average market value of less than $23.09 per
share of Align-Rite common stock.
The merger may be terminated if Photronics' stock price falls substantially.
If the average price of Photronics common stock falls below $16.00 during
the 20 day measurement period, Align-Rite's board of directors has the authority
to terminate the merger agreement.
21
<PAGE>
Photronics shareholders will be diluted by the merger.
The merger will dilute the ownership position of the present shareholders
of Photronics. The extent of the dilution will depend upon the conversion
ratio. Because the conversion ratio will not be final until the Align-Rite
shareholders meeting or if the closing date is more than five business days
after the Align-Rite shareholders meeting, the closing date, Photronics
shareholders could experience a greater degree of dilution than anticipated at
the time they vote upon the merger if the price of Photronics common stock drops
prior to the closing date.
Based on the number of shares of Align-Rite common stock outstanding on
August 1, 1999 and assuming a conversion ratio of 1.0995 (the highest) or
0.8173 (the lowest), Photronics would issue to Align-Rite shareholders
approximately 5,725,669 shares or 4,256,107 shares, respectively, of Photronics
common stock in the merger. As a result, based on the shares of Photronics
common stock outstanding at August 1, 1999, and assuming a conversion ratio of
1.0995 or 0.8173, Align-Rite shareholders would hold approximately 18.7% or
14.6%, respectively, of Photronics common stock outstanding after the completion
of the merger. These percentages assume the exercise of options and other
rights to purchase approximately 530,000 shares of Align-Rite common stock.
These percentages also give effect to the sale by Photronics of 1,000,000 shares
of its common stock in order for the merger to qualify for pooling of interests
accounting treatment.
We may have difficulties in combining the operations of Photronics and Align-
Rite.
Photronics may not be able to combine successfully the operations of Align-
Rite with its own operations. Any delays or increased costs of combining the
two companies could adversely affect Photronics and disrupt its operations. As
a result of the merger, Photronics and/or Align-Rite may experience the loss of
key personnel.
We depend on demand for integrated circuit design activity by the
semiconductor industry, which fluctuates.
Photronics and Align-Rite sell substantially all of their photomasks to
semiconductor designers and manufacturers. We believe that the demand for
photomasks primarily depends on integrated circuit design activity rather than
the volume of semiconductor sales. Consequently, an increase in semiconductor
sales does not necessarily result in a corresponding increase in photomask
sales. In addition, the reduced use of customized integrated circuits or other
changes in the technology or methods of manufacturing semiconductors could
reduce demand for photomasks even if demand for semiconductors increases.
Further, advances in semiconductor and photomask design and semiconductor
production methods could reduce the demand for photomasks. During the early
1990s, certain of these factors contributed to flat demand for photomasks
despite increased semiconductor design activity. Although demand for photomasks
increased
22
<PAGE>
beginning in late 1993, a cyclical slow down in the semiconductor industry
occurred beginning in late 1997, which began to adversely affect Photronics
during the third fiscal quarter 1998. We experienced weakness in photomask
demand and accentuated competitive pressures, especially for more mature
technologies during 1998. We cannot assure you that any of the preceding factors
will not have a material adverse effect on our business and results of
operations.
We may experience fluctuations in our quarterly operating results.
Photronics and Align-Rite have experienced fluctuations in their quarterly
operating results and we anticipate that such fluctuations will continue and
could intensify in the future. Fluctuations in operating results may result in
volatility in the price of our common stock. Our operating results may
fluctuate as a result of many factors, including:
. size and timing of orders and shipments;
. loss of significant customers;
. product mix;
. technological change;
. competition; and
. general economic conditions.
Our customers generally order our products on an as-needed basis, and
substantially all of our net sales in any quarter are dependent on orders
received during that quarter. Since we operate with a limited backlog and the
rate of new orders may vary significantly from month to month, our capital
expenditures and expense levels are based primarily on sales forecasts.
Consequently, if anticipated sales in any quarter do not occur when expected,
capital expenditures and expense levels could be disproportionately high, and
our operating results would be adversely affected. This occurred during the
second half of Photronics' 1998 fiscal year and 1999 fiscal year, as sales did
not increase as anticipated and capital expenditure commitments were incurred,
which contributed to the substantially lower operating income compared to
Photronics' first half of fiscal year 1998. Due to these factors, we believe
that period-to-period comparisons of our operating results are not necessarily
meaningful and that such comparisons cannot be relied upon as indicators of
future performance. In addition, in some future quarters our operating results
could be below the expectations of public market analysts and investors, which,
in turn, could materially adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
Rapid technological change may affect our operations.
To remain competitive, we will be required to continually anticipate,
respond to and utilize changing technologies occurring within the photomask
industry. In particular, we believe that as semiconductor geometries continue
to become smaller, we will be required to manufacture optical proximity
correction and phase-shift photomasks. These technologies currently are in
developmental stages and we have not yet manufactured these types of photomasks
in significant volume. In addition, demand for photomasks has
23
<PAGE>
been and could in the future be adversely affected by changes in methods of
semiconductor manufacturing, which could affect the type or quantity of
photomasks utilized, or increased market acceptance of alternative methods of
transferring circuit designs onto semiconductor wafers which could reduce or
eliminate the need for photomasks. If we were unable to anticipate, respond to
or utilize these or other changing technologies, our business and results of
operations could be materially adversely affected.
Our operations require significant capital investments.
The manufacture of photomasks requires a significant investment in fixed
assets. We expect that Photronics will be required to continue to make
significant capital expenditures to expand and improve its operations. We cannot
assure you that we will be able to obtain any additional capital on reasonable
terms, or at all, or that any such expenditures will not have a material adverse
effect on our results of operations.
We depend on major customers, the loss of which could adversely affect our
operating results and financial condition.
Approximately 43% of Photronics' net sales in fiscal 1998 was derived from
sales to its five largest customers. Although Photronics has arrangements which
assure it a specified amount of certain customers' requirements so long as its
performance is satisfactory, Photronics generally does not have contracts
requiring customers to purchase any minimum quantity of photomasks. Any loss
of, or significant reduction in, orders from any of these customers could have a
material adverse effect on Photronics' business and results of operations.
We depend on major suppliers and the inability to obtain equipment or raw
materials when required could affect adversely our business and results of
operations.
We rely on a limited number of photomask equipment manufacturers to develop
and supply the equipment used in the photomask manufacturing process. We use
significant manufacturing systems that usually are built to order and typically
have order lead times that can exceed one year. Further, we rely on equipment
suppliers to develop future generations of manufacturing systems to support our
requirements. The inability to obtain equipment when required could have a
material adverse affect on our business and results of operations.
Photronics uses high precision quartz photomask blanks, protective
transparent cellulose membranes and electronic grade chemicals in our
manufacturing processes. Any delays or quality problems in connection with
significant raw materials, particularly photomask blanks, could cause delays in
shipments of photomasks which could adversely affect our business and results of
operations. The fluctuation of exchange rates with
24
<PAGE>
respect to prices of significant raw materials used in manufacturing also could
have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations,
although they have not been material to date.
Our acquisition strategy could place significant demands on our management and
systems.
Photronics has rapidly expanded its operations, primarily by acquisitions
of existing photomask manufacturing operations. This expansion has placed, and
will continue to place, significant demands on our administrative, operational
and financial personnel and systems. Managing acquired operations, including
Align-Rite, entails numerous operational and financial risks, including
difficulties in the assimilation of acquired operations, diversion of
management's attention to other business concerns, amortization of acquired
intangible assets and potential loss of key employees of acquired operations.
Sales of acquired operations also may decline following an acquisition,
particularly if there is an overlap of customers served by us and the acquired
operation, and such customers transition to another vendor in order to ensure a
second source of supply. In addition, we have experienced in the past, and
could experience in the future, difficulties and delays in ramping up new
production facilities. Our failure to successfully manage our expanding
operations could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of
operations.
Our operations in international markets could pose risks.
International sales account for significant portions of both Photronics and
Align-Rite sales and we plan to continue to expand our international operations.
We believe that achieving additional international sales in markets in which we
have no manufacturing presence requires us to develop, among other things, a
local presence in these markets. Such a strategy requires a significant
investment of financial, management, operational and other resources. In
certain international markets where we do not have a significant presence,
existing independent photomask suppliers have local presences and market share.
Accordingly, we would likely experience competition as we expand to new markets
which could adversely affect our ability to establish a significant presence in
the international markets that we target. In addition, existing and any new
operations outside the United States can be affected by:
. fluctuations in exchange rates;
. political and economic conditions in various countries;
. unexpected changes in regulatory requirements;
. tariffs and other trade barriers;
. difficulties in staffing and managing foreign operations; and
. longer accounts receivable payment cycles and potentially adverse
tax consequences.
25
<PAGE>
We cannot assure you that these factors will not have a material adverse effect
on our ability to generate sales outside the United States and, consequently, on
our business and results of operations.
We will depend on key personnel of Photronics and Align-Rite.
Our success, in part, depends upon key managerial, engineering and
technical personnel of Photronics and Align-Rite, as well as our ability to
continue to attract and retain additional personnel. The loss of certain key
personnel could have a material adverse effect upon our business and results of
operations. We cannot assure you that Photronics can retain its key managerial,
engineering and technical employees and those of Align-Rite or that we can
attract similar skilled employees in the future.
Forward-looking statements
Certain statements about Photronics, Align-Rite and the combined company
contained in this joint proxy/prospectus, including statements containing the
words "believes", "anticipates", "intends", "expects", and words of similar
import, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section
21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements
involve numerous known or unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that
may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially
different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or
implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause
actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements,
certain of which are beyond the control of Photronics, Align-Rite or the
combined company, include:
. general economic and business conditions, both nationally and
internationally and including in those localities in which Photronics or
Align-Rite operates manufacturing facilities;
. uncertain demand for photomasks and the cyclical nature of the
semiconductor industry;
. rapid technological changes;
. competition;
. the need for capital to fund expansion;
. the ability to manage expanding operations;
. dependence on customers and suppliers; and
26
<PAGE>
. other factors referenced in this joint proxy statement/prospectus or in
our reports incorporated by reference.
Given these uncertainties, you are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on such forward-looking statements. We disclaim any obligation to
update any such factor or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to
any of the forward-looking statements contained here to reflect future events or
developments.
27
<PAGE>
THE SPECIAL MEETINGS
This document is furnished in connection with the solicitation of proxies
from Photronics common shareholders by the Photronics board for use at
Photronics shareholders meeting and Align-Rite common shareholders by the Align-
Rite board for use at the Align-Rite shareholders meeting.
Times and Places; Purposes
The Photronics shareholders meeting will be held on ., 1999, at . p.m., local
time, at ., ., ., .. The purpose of the Photronics shareholders meeting is to
consider and vote upon the Photronics merger proposal to approve the issuance of
shares of Photronics common stock in the merger and to transact any other
business which properly comes before the meeting or any adjournment or
postponement.
The Align-Rite shareholders meeting will be held on ., 1999, at . a.m., local
time, at ., ., ., .. The purpose of the Align-Rite shareholders meeting is to
consider and vote upon the Align-Rite merger proposal to approve the principal
terms of the merger agreement and approve the merger and to transact any other
business which properly comes before the meeting or any adjournment or
postponement.
Record Dates; Voting Rights
Photronics. Only holders of record of Photronics common stock at the close
of business on ., 1999 are entitled to receive notice of and to vote at
Photronics shareholders meeting. At the close of business on ., 1999, there
were . shares of Photronics common stock outstanding. Each share of Photronics
common stock is entitled to one vote at the Photronics shareholders meeting.
Align-Rite. Only holders of Align-Right common stock at the close of
business on ., 1999 are entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Align-
Rite shareholders meeting. At the close of business on ., 1999, there were .
shares of Align-Rite common stock outstanding. Each share of Align-Rite common
stock is entitled to one vote at the Align-Rite shareholders meeting.
Votes Required
Photronics. The rules governing companies listed on the Nasdaq National
Market require companies to obtain shareholder approval before issuing
additional shares of common stock in connection with an acquisition if the
number of additional shares proposed to be issued exceeds 20% of the shares
outstanding before the issuance. Depending on what the conversion ratio will be
and the number of Align-Rite shares outstanding, Photronics may have to issue
more than 20% of its outstanding common stock to Align-Rite shareholders. As
such, Photronics is seeking its shareholders'
28
<PAGE>
approval of the issuance of Photronics common stock in the merger. The rules of
the Nasdaq National Market provide that the issuance must be approved by the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast at the
Photronics meeting in person or by proxy. However, Photronics' bylaws require
approval of any matter presented to shareholders by a majority of the voting
power represented at a shareholders meeting, except as otherwise provided by a
bylaw, the certificate of incorporation or law.
Align-Rite. California law requires the affirmative vote of holders of a
majority of the outstanding shares of Align-Rite common stock for the approval
of the principal terms of the merger agreement and approval of the merger.
Quorum
Photronics. The presence in person or by proxy of the holders of a
majority of the Photronics common stock issued, outstanding and entitled to vote
at the Photronics shareholders meeting will constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business. The shares of Photronics common stock present at the
Photronics shareholders meeting that abstain from voting or that are the subject
of broker non-votes will be counted as present for the purpose of determining a
quorum. A broker non-vote occurs when a nominee holding stock for a beneficial
owner does not vote on a particular matter because the nominee does not have
discretionary voting power with respect to the matter and has not received
voting instructions from the beneficial owner. If a quorum is not present at
the Photronics shareholders meeting, the Photronics board will likely adjourn or
postpone the meeting to solicit additional proxies.
Align-Rite. The presence in person or by proxy of the holders of a
majority of the Align-Rite common stock issued, outstanding and entitled to vote
at the Align-Rite shareholders meeting will constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business. The shares of Align-Rite common stock present at the
Align-Rite shareholders meeting that abstain from voting or that are the subject
of broker non-votes will be included for the purpose of determining a quorum and
will have the effect of a vote against the Align-Rite merger proposal. A broker
non-vote occurs when a nominee holding stock for a beneficial owner does not
vote on a particular matter because the nominee does not have discretionary
voting power with respect to the matter and has not received voting instructions
from the beneficial owner. If a quorum is not present at the Align-Rite
shareholders meeting, the Align-Rite board will likely adjourn or postpone the
meeting to solicit additional proxies.
Proxies; Revocation of Proxies
Photronics. The Photronics board is soliciting proxies for the
shareholders meeting to enable its shareholders to vote upon the Photronics
merger proposal, whether or not they attend the Photronics shareholders meeting.
For all shares of Photronics common stock represented by a properly executed
proxy received before or at the Photronics shareholders meeting, the proxy
holders will vote in accordance with the
29
<PAGE>
instructions on the proxies. If no voting instructions are indicated on a proxy,
then the proxy holders will vote the shares represented by the proxy in favor of
the Photronics merger proposal.
In addition, the proxy holders will have discretion to vote on any other
matters properly presented at the Photronics shareholders meeting. If
Photronics proposes to adjourn the Photronics shareholders meeting, the proxy
holders will vote all shares for which they have voting authority in favor of
adjournment, except for those shares that were voted against the Photronics
merger proposal. The Photronics board requests Photronics shareholders to
complete, sign, date and promptly return the enclosed proxy card in the enclosed
postage-prepaid envelope. Brokers who hold shares of Photronics common stock as
nominees will not have discretionary authority to vote the shares in the absence
of instructions from the beneficial owners. Broker non-votes will not be
counted as votes cast with respect to, will not count as votes cast for or
against, and will not be included in calculating the number of votes necessary
for approval of the Photronics merger proposal.
A Photronics shareholder may revoke his or her proxy at any time before the
proxy is exercised by filing a revoking instrument with the secretary of
Photronics or by executing another proxy bearing a later date. A Photronics
shareholder who executed a proxy may suspend the powers of the proxy holders
with respect to his shares by attending the Photronics shareholders meeting in
person and voting or requesting the suspension. Attendance at the Photronics
shareholder's meeting will not, in itself, revoke a proxy.
If the Photronics shareholders meeting is postponed or adjourned for any
reason, at any subsequent reconvening of the Photronics shareholders meeting,
the proxy holders will vote all shares represented by a proxy in the same manner
as they would have been voted at the initial convening of the Photronics
shareholders meeting, even if they were voted on the same or any other matter at
a previous meeting. However, the proxy holders will not vote those shares
represented by a proxy which was revoked or withdrawn before the reconvened
meeting.
Align-Rite. The Align-Rite board is soliciting proxies for the Align-Rite
shareholders meeting to enable its shareholders to vote upon the Align-Rite
merger proposal, whether or not they attend the Align-Rite shareholders meeting.
For all shares of Align-Rite common stock represented by a properly executed
proxy received before or at the Align-Rite shareholders meeting, the proxy
holders will vote in accordance with the instructions on the proxies. If no
voting instructions are indicated on a proxy, then the proxy holders will vote
the shares represented by the proxy in favor of approval of the principal terms
of the merger agreement and approval of the merger.
In addition, the proxy holders will have discretion to vote on any other
matters properly presented at the Align-Rite shareholders meeting. If Align-
Rite proposes to adjourn the Align-Right shareholders meeting, the proxy holders
will vote all shares for
30
<PAGE>
which they have voting authority in favor of adjournment, except for those
shares that were voted against the Align-Rite merger proposal. The Align-Rite
board requests Align-Rite shareholders to complete, sign, date and promptly
return the enclosed proxy card in the enclosed postage-prepaid envelope. Brokers
who hold shares of Align-Rite common stock as nominees will not have
discretionary authority to vote the shares in the absence of instructions from
the beneficial owners. Broker non-votes will not be counted as votes cast, but
will have the same effect as votes cast against the Align-Rite merger proposal.
An Align-Rite shareholder may revoke his or her proxy at any time before
the proxy is exercised by filing a revoking instrument with the secretary of
Align-Rite or by executing another proxy bearing a later date. An Align-Rite
shareholder who executed a proxy may suspend the powers of the proxy holders
with respect to his shares by attending the Align-Rite shareholders meeting in
person and voting or requesting the suspension. If an Align-Rite shareholder
executes two or more proxies with respect to the same shares, the proxy bearing
the most recent date will be honored if otherwise valid. Attendance at the
Align-Rite shareholders meeting will not, in itself, revoke a proxy.
If Align-Rite shareholders make a proper motion to adjourn or postpone the
Align-Rite shareholders meeting to another time and/or place for the purpose of
soliciting additional proxies in favor of the Align-Rite merger proposal, the
proxy holders will vote upon the motion as determined in the proxy holder's
discretion. If Align-Rite shareholders postpone or adjourn the Align-Rite
shareholders meeting for any reason, at any subsequent reconvening of the Align-
Rite shareholders meeting, the proxy holders will vote all shares represented by
a proxy in the same manner as they would have been voted at the initial
convening of the Align Rite shareholders meeting, even if they were voted on the
same or any other matter at a previous meeting. However, the proxy holders will
not vote those shares represented by a proxy which was revoked or withdrawn
before the reconvened meeting.
In connection with the Align-Rite shareholders meeting, holders of Align-
Rite common stock should not return to Align-Rite any stock certificates with
their proxy cards. We will inform you when and how to return your stock
certificates after the merger.
Solicitation of Proxies
Photronics and Align-Rite will each bear the cost of proxy solicitation for
their shareholders meeting, including the reasonable expenses of brokers,
fiduciaries and other nominees in forwarding solicitation material to beneficial
owners. In addition to solicitation by mail, directors, officers and employees
of Photronics and Align-Rite may solicit proxies personally or by telephone,
facsimile transmission or otherwise. Photronics and Align-Rite will not pay
additional compensation to these directors, officers and employees for their
solicitation but may reimburse them for out-of-pocket expenses. We expect to
incur nominal expenses, if any, to engage in such solicitation. Align-Rite has
31
<PAGE>
retained . at an estimated cost of approximately ., plus reimbursement of out-
of-pocket expenses, to assist in solicitation of proxies. We will make
arrangements with brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees, fiduciaries
and shareholders of record to forward proxy solicitation materials to the
beneficial owners of the stock held of record by such persons. We may reimburse
these solicitors for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.
Share Ownership of Management
Photronics. At the close of business on September 30, 1999, directors and
executive officers of Photronics and their affiliates beneficially owned an
aggregate of approximately 3,839,235 shares or approximately 15.6% of the
Photronics common stock then outstanding, including 647,125 shares issuable
pursuant to options for Photronics common stock. See "Beneficial Ownership of
Photronics Common Stock" and "The Merger - Interests of Certain Persons in the
Merger." In conjunction with the execution of the merger agreement, Constantine
S. Macricostas entered into a voting agreement with Align-Rite to vote all
shares of Photronics common stock that he is entitled to vote in favor of the
issuance of Photronics common stock in the merger. See "The Merger - Interests
of Certain Persons in the Merger - Voting Agreements" and "Beneficial Ownership
of Photronics Common Stock."
Align-Rite. At the close of business on September 30, 1999, directors and
executive officers of Align-Rite and their affiliates beneficially owned an
aggregate of approximately 773,193 shares or approximately 15.85% of the Align-
Rite common stock then outstanding, including 197,693 shares issuable pursuant
to options for Align-Rite common stock. See "Beneficial Ownership of Align-Rite
Common Stock" and "The Merger - Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger." In
conjunction with the execution of the merger agreement, James L. MacDonald, and
Robin A MacDonald, as trustees of certain family trusts, and Mr. MacDonald,
individually, have entered into a voting agreement with Photronics. Pursuant to
the voting agreement, each of these Align-Rite shareholders agreed to vote all
shares of Align-Rite common stock they are entitled to vote in favor of
approving the merger and approving the principal term of the merger agreement.
See "The Merger - Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger" and "Information
about Align-Rite - Beneficial Ownership of Align-Rite Common Stock."
INFORMATION ABOUT ALIGN-RITE
Align-Rite manufactures and markets photomasks for the global semiconductor
industry. Photomasks are required for the manufacturing of virtually all
integrated circuits, which are essential components in consumer and industrial
electronic products. Photomasks are precision photographic quartz or glass
plates containing microscopic images of integrated circuits. Align-Rite
photomasks for more than 250 customers located in 21 countries using electron
beam, laser beam and optical microlithography methods at its
32
<PAGE>
manufacturing facilities in Burbank, California, Melbourne, Florida, Bridgend,
Wales and Heilbronn, Germany.
Align-Rite's principal executive offices are located at 2428 Ontario
Street, Burbank, California 91504 (telephone (818) 843-7220)).
Recent Development
Align-Rite expects revenues for its second fiscal quarter ended September
30, 1999 to be approximately $15.6 million, which represents an increase of 11%
over the same period of 1998 and of 16% over the first fiscal quarter ended June
30, 1999. Revenues, while up significantly from these comparable periods, were
below Align-Rite's expectations primarily due to a softening of demand in
September in certain sectors of the market, including the disk drive industry.
As a result of the lower than anticipated revenue levels, the start-up
expenses associated with the ramp up of new manufacturing tools in California
and the integration of newly acquired operations in Florida, Align-Rite expects
its second quarter diluted earnings per share to be in the range of $0.19 to
$0.21.
This joint proxy statement/prospectus is accompanied by a copy of
Align-Rite's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999
and a copy of Align-Rite's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
June 30, 1999.
Beneficial Ownership of Align-Rite Common Stock
The following table sets forth, as of September 30, 1999, the number of
shares and percentage of Align-Rite common stock beneficially owned by each
person who Align-Rite knows to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of Align-
Rite common stock, by Align-Rite's directors, and by all of Align-Rite's
executive officers and directors as a group.
The mailing address for all directors and officers of Align-Rite is c/o
Align-Rite International, Inc., 2428 Ontario Street, Burbank, CA 91504.
Except as otherwise noted, each shareholder has sole voting and investment
power with respect to the shares beneficially owned.
33
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Amount and
Nature of
Beneficial
Name of Beneficial Owner Ownership Percent of Class
- ----------------------------------------------- ------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Fidelity Management (1) 448,000 9.58
Brinson Partners, Inc. (2) 405,772 8.67
Heartland Advisors, Inc. (3) 300,000 6.41
Kennedy Capital Management, Inc. (4) 265,100 5.67
James L. MacDonald (5) 722,558 14.92
Petar N. Katurich (6) 20,967 *
Alan G. Duncan (7) 20,667 *
George Wells (8) 7,667 *
William Elder (9) 1,334 *
All directors and executive officers as a group 773,193 15.85
(5 persons) (10)
</TABLE>
___________________
* Less than 1%.
(1) Reflects ownership as reported on a Schedule 13G by Fidelity Management
("Fidelity"), dated as of February 10, 1999, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.
(2) Reflects ownership as reported on a Schedule 13G by Brinson Partners, Inc.
("Brinson"), dated as of February 11, 1999, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.
(3) Reflects ownership as reported on a Schedule 13G by Heartland Advisors,
Inc. ("Heartland"), dated as of February 2, 1999, filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission.
(4) Reflects ownership as reported on a Schedule 13G by Kennedy Capital
Management, Inc. ("Kennedy"), dated as of February 9, 1999, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
(5) Includes 164,558 shares subject to options that are currently exercisable
or will become exercisable before November 30, 1999.
(6) Includes 13,467shares subject to options that are currently exercisable or
will become exercisable before November 30, 1999.
(7) Includes 10,667 shares subject to options that are currently exercisable or
will become exercisable before November 30, 1999.
(8) Includes 7,667 shares subject to options that are currently exercisable or
will become exercisable before November 30, 1999.
(9) Includes 1,334 shares subject to options that are currently exercisable or
will become exercisable before November 30, 1999.
(10) Includes 197,693 shares subject to options that are currently exercisable
or will become exercisable before November 30, 1999. See Notes 5 through 9.
INFORMATION ABOUT PHOTRONICS
Photronics is a leading manufacturer of photomasks, which are used
primarily by the semiconductor industry in the manufacture of integrated
circuits. Based upon available market information, Photronics believes that it
is one of the largest photomask manufacturers in the world.
During fiscal 1998 and 1999, Photronics continued to invest in its global
manufacturing network and enhance its technological and manufacturing
capabilities. In the United States, its new Austin, Texas facility became
operational in early 1998. In
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<PAGE>
addition, on December 31, 1997, Photronics acquired the internal photomask
manufacturing operations of Motorola, Inc. in Mesa, Arizona. The assets acquired
include modern manufacturing systems capable of supporting a wide range of
photomask technologies. Additionally, Photronics entered into a supply agreement
whereby it will supply the photomask requirements previously provided by the
acquired operation. Photronics continues to operate the facility in place, but
anticipates moving the operations to a leased facility in Phoenix, AZ in the
first half of the year 2000.
During 1998, Photronics also re-organized its Silicon Valley operations and
consolidated its Colorado Springs operations (other than its large area mask
operations) into its other North American facilities. The large area mask
operation was not significant to Photronics and was sold in January 1999.
Further, due to market conditions, Photronics delayed the commencement of
construction of its proposed Hillsboro, Oregon facility.
In March 1999, Photronics acquired from Cirrus Logic, Inc., a leading
supplier of semiconductor products, certain assets of its mask engineering
group. As part of this acquisition, Photronics established a new business unit,
"D2W." D2W offers mask-related technology consulting and data processing
services to the semiconductor industry. D2W is based in Fremont, CA and is
staffed primarily by those employees formerly with Cirrus Logic, Inc.'s mask
engineering group.
In July 1999, Photronics announced that it was engaging in a joint research
and development venture with IBM related to "next generation lithography"
technology at the mask center of competency at IBM's Burlington, Vermont
facility. The purpose of the venture is to develop and provide a
commercialization strategy for photomasks to be used in "next generation" wafer
exposure systems.
In addition to its other efforts during 1998 and 1999, Photronics increased
its research and development activities and continued to invest in advanced
manufacturing equipment to allow it to meet future technological and volume
demands.
Photronics' principal executive offices are located at 1061 East Indiantown
Road, Jupiter, Florida 33477 (telephone (561) 745-1222)).
Beneficial Ownership of Photronics Common Stock
The following table sets forth, as of September 30, 1999, the number of
shares and percentage of Photronics common stock beneficially owned by
Photronics' directors, Photronics' executive officers, Photronics' directors and
executive officers as a group, and each person known to Photronics to
beneficially own more than 5% of the Photronics common stock outstanding.
35
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address Amount and Nature of Percentage
of Beneficial Owner Beneficial Ownership (l) of Class
- -------------------------- ---------------------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Robert J. Bollo 58,410 (2) *
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, FL 33477
Walter M. Fiederowicz 58,580 (2) (3) *
39 Painter Hill Road
Woodbury, CT 06798
Joseph A. Fiorita, Jr. 46,650 (2) (4) *
146 Deer Hill Avenue
Danbury, CT 06810
James R. Northup 89,435 (2) *
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, FL 33477
Constantine S. Macricostas 2,993,742 (2) (5) 12.5
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, FL 33477
Macricostas Partners, L.P. 2,280,000 9.5
1122 Bel Air
Allen, TX 75013
Jeffrey P. Moonan 152,834 (2) *
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, FL 33477
Toppan Printing Co., Ltd. 2,180,000 9.1
1, Kanda Izumi-cho
Chiyoda-ku
Tokyo, Japan 101
Michael J. Yomazzo 439,584 (2) (6) 1.8
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, FL 33477
Directors and Executive 3,839,235 (7) 15.6
Officers as a group
(7 persons)
</TABLE>
___________________
* Less than 1%
(1) Except as otherwise indicated, the named person has the sole voting and
investment power with respect to the shares of the Photronics' Common Stock
set forth opposite such person's name.
(2) Includes shares of common stock subject to stock options exercisable as of
November 30, 1999 as follows: Mr. Bollo (58,125); Mr. Fiederowicz
(39,950); Mr. Fiorita (32,750); Mr. Macricostas (76,250); Mr. Northup
(88,500); Mr. Yomazzo (221,550); and Mr. Moonan (130,000). Also includes
shares subject to forfeiture under restricted stock award grants as
follows: Mr. Fiederowicz (4,000) and Mr. Fiorita (4,000).
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(3) Includes 12,050 shares owned by the wife of Mr. Fiederowicz and 800 shares
owned by his child, as to which shares he disclaims beneficial ownership.
(4) Includes 300 shares owned by the wife of Mr. Fiorita, as to which shares he
disclaims beneficial ownership.
(5) Includes 34,000 shares held by the wife of Mr. Macricostas as to which
shares he disclaims beneficial ownership. Also includes 2,280,000 shares
owned by Macricostas Partners, L.P., of which Mr. Macricostas is a limited
partner and 50,618 shares owned by the corporate general partner of such
partnership of which Mr. Macricostas is President and Director and a
significant shareholder. Mr. Macricostas disclaims beneficial ownership of
those shares not represented by his ownership interests.
(6) Includes 46,000 shares held by the wife of Mr. Yomazzo as to which shares
he disclaims beneficial ownership. Also includes 86,000 shares owned by
Yomazzo Associates Limited Partnership of which Mr. Yomazzo is a general
partner and a limited partner. Mr. Yomazzo disclaims beneficial ownership
of those shares not represented by his ownership interests.
(7) Includes the shares listed in notes (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), and (7) above.
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THE MERGER
The information in this document summarizes all material terms of the
merger agreement. We urge you to read the merger agreement which is the legal
document that governs the merger and which is attached hereto as Annex A and
incorporated by reference into this document.
Structure of the Merger
At the time the merger becomes effective, Align-Rite will merge with and
into a wholly-owned subsidiary of Photronics, with Align-Rite as the surviving
corporation. Photronics' merger subsidiary and Align-Rite are both incorporated
in California.
Merger Consideration
We will convert each share of Align-Rite common stock outstanding
immediately before the effective time of the merger into Photronics common
stock. We will determine the number of shares that Align-Rite shareholders will
receive for each share of Align-Rite common stock by dividing $23.09 by the
average of the daily average per share high and low sales prices of one share of
Photronics common stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market for each of
the 20 trading days ending on the third trading day prior to the Align-Rite
shareholders meeting, or if the closing date is more than five business days
after the meeting, the closing date. However, if the average of the daily
average per share high and low sales prices is less than $21.00, the conversion
ratio will be 1.0995 and if such average is greater than $28.25, the conversion
ratio will be 0.8173. We will calculate the conversion ratio as follows:
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
If the Photronics average share price is: Then each share of Align-Rite
common stock will convert into the
following number of shares of
Photronics common stock:
<S> <C>
Less than $21.00 1.0995
$21.00 or above, but less
than or equal to $28.25 1.0995 to 0.8173, as determined by
dividing $23.09 by the average of the
daily average per share high and low
sales prices for Photronics common
stock
Example: Assume the average of the daily average per
share high and low sales prices of Photronics common
stock is $24.625. You can calculate the conversion ratio
by dividing $23.09 by $24.625, which equals
approximately .9377 share of Photronics common stock
for each share of Align-Rite common stock.
Greater than $28.25 0.8173
</TABLE>
If you would like up-to-date information on what the conversion ratio would
be as of a date prior to the special shareholders meetings, you may call Align-
Rite's proxy solicitor, ., at ..
No Fractional Shares
Photronics will not issue fractional shares of Photronics common stock to
Align-Rite shareholders. Instead, for each fractional share, Photronics will
pay an amount of cash determined by multiplying the fractional share interest to
which such Align-Rite shareholder would otherwise be entitled by the last sale
price of Photronics common stock reported on the Nasdaq National Market on the
last trading day before the completion of the merger. For more information
regarding the conversion of Align-Rite common stock, see "Terms of the Merger
Agreement -- Conversion of Shares in the Merger."
Example: Assume both the average price of Photronics common stock and
the fractional share price are $24.625. If an Align-Rite shareholder
owns 10 shares of Align-Rite common stock, then the conversion ratio
is .9377 shares of Photronics common stock. Accordingly, this Align-
Rite shareholder will receive nine shares of Photronics common stock
and a
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check for the value of .377 fractional share, which will be
$9.28 (.377 fractional share multiplied by $24.625).
Treatment of Stock Options
All outstanding Align-Rite stock options that are not vested will vest when
the merger is completed. Each Align-Rite stock option will become an option to
purchase Photronics common stock. Each option will entitle its holder to
receive upon exercise the same number of shares of Photronics common stock as
the holder would receive if he exercised the option immediately before the
merger. The exercise price for each option will be equal to (x) the aggregate
exercise price for the Align-Rite common stock purchasable upon exercise of the
option divided by (y) the number of shares of Photronics common stock
purchasable under the option.
Effective Time of the Merger
The merger will become effective when we file the merger agreement with the
California Secretary of State. We will file the merger agreement as soon as
practicable after all conditions in the merger agreement are waived or
satisfied. For more information regarding these conditions, see "Terms of the
Merger Agreement -- Conditions to the Merger."
Background of the Merger
In May 1999, Constantine Macricostas, Chairman of the Board of Photronics,
contacted James MacDonald, the Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer
and President of Align-Rite, and discussed generally the possibility of a
transaction between the two companies. Mr. MacDonald agreed to schedule a
meeting between representatives of Align-Rite and representatives of Photronics.
Mr. Macricostas and William Elder, a director of Align-Rite, subsequently met at
an unrelated function at which Mr. Elder confirmed that he would attend such a
meeting.
On June 13 through June 15, 1999, Mr. MacDonald, Mr. Elder, Petar N.
Katurich, the Vice President of Finance, Chief Financial Officer and a director
of Align-Rite, and George Wells, a director of Align-Rite, met with
representatives of Photronics, including Mr. Macricostas, Michael J. Yomazzo,
Vice Chairman of Photronics, Walter Fiederowicz, a director of Photronics, and
Robert Bollo, the Vice President/Finance and Chief Financial Officer of
Photronics. The parties discussed a possible transaction, including the
possible form of a transaction and the possible value.
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On June 22, 1999, Mr. MacDonald informed Alan Duncan, the remaining
director of Align-Rite, of the nature and substance of the discussions with
Photronics. Also on June 22, 1999, counsel for Align-Rite provided to counsel
for Photronics forms of confidentiality agreements to be executed by each of
Photronics and Align-Rite. On June 24, 1999, counsel for Photronics commented
on the draft confidentiality agreements.
On June 25, 1999, counsel for Photronics provided to counsel for Align-Rite
a draft of a merger agreement.
On July 8 and July 9, 1999, representatives of Align-Rite and Photronics
and their respective counsel met to discuss further the structure and terms of a
possible transaction. Counsel for Align-Rite also provided comments on the draft
merger agreement.
On July 16, 1999, each of Align-Rite and Photronics entered into
confidentiality agreements which provide, among other things, that non-public
information made available to a party will be kept confidential and, for a
period of 18 months, neither party will take certain actions to seek to take
control or influence the management of the other party without the other party's
consent.
On July 26, 1999, representatives of Align-Rite and Photronics held a
conference call to discuss the status of the discussions to date and to schedule
meetings to conduct due diligence and discuss further the draft merger agreement
and a proposed voting agreement requested from Mr. MacDonald in his capacity as
a shareholder of Align-Rite.
On July 30, 1999, a special telephonic meeting of the board of directors of
Align-Rite was held. Mr. MacDonald informed the board regarding the progress of
the transaction. Representatives of CIBC World Markets Corp. made a
presentation regarding their experience in rendering fairness opinions. Counsel
for Align-Rite reviewed with the board the terms of the proposed merger
agreement and voting agreement and the remaining open issues. Copies of the
draft merger agreement and voting agreement had previously been provided to the
directors. Mr. MacDonald also informed the board regarding the proposed terms
of amendments to the existing employment agreements between Align-Rite and
Messrs. MacDonald and Katurich and new arrangements with other officers and key
managers of Align-Rite that would be in effect if a merger was consummated with
Photronics. The board authorized management to engage CIBC World Markets to
render a fairness opinion regarding a possible transaction with Photronics if an
agreement could be reached with Photronics.
On August 2 through 4, 1999, representatives of Photronics conducted due
diligence with respect to Align-Rite and counsel for Align-Rite and Photronics
met to discuss the terms of the proposed merger agreement and voting agreement.
On August 9, 1999, representatives of Align-Rite and Photronics and their
respective counsel participated in a conference call to establish a schedule for
further discussions.
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Representatives of Align-Rite and Photronics and their respective counsel
met on August 11 through 13, 1999 to negotiate the terms of a possible
transaction between the parties.
On August 13, 1999, a special telephonic meeting of the board of directors
of Align-Rite was held. Mr. MacDonald and counsel for Align-Rite described for
the directors the status of the negotiations and the remaining issues, including
the method of determining the number of shares of Photronics common stock to be
exchanged for each share of Align-Rite common stock. Mr. MacDonald also
discussed with the Align-Rite board the proposed terms of amendments to the
employment agreements between Align-Rite and Messrs. MacDonald and Katurich and
new arrangements with other officers and key managers of Align-Rite that would
be in effect if a merger was consummated with Photronics.
On August 13, 1999, a special meeting of the Photronics board was held to
review and discuss the negotiations with Align-Rite. The Photronics board
reviewed the substance of the discussions and the impact the transaction would
have on Photronics. The Photronics board also evaluated and discussed various
issues with its counsel and Banc of America Securities regarding, among other
things, the role of Align-Rite employees in the combined company. The
Photronics board directed the officers to continue with negotiations.
After the meetings of the boards of directors of Align-Rite and Photronics,
representatives of Align-Rite and Photronics continued to negotiate a possible
transaction, however the parties could not reach agreement on the method of
determining the number of shares of Photronics common stock to be received by
the shareholders of Align-Rite and the discussions terminated. Mr. MacDonald
contacted each member of the board of directors of Align-Rite to advise them as
to the negotiations and that an agreement had not been reached.
On September 1, 1999, a regular meeting of the board of directors of Align-
Rite was held. At that meeting, the Align-Rite board concluded that Photronics
should be contacted to determine if Photronics had an interest in participating
in further discussions. On September 3, 1999, George Wells, a director of Align-
Rite, contacted Walter Fiederowicz, a director of Photronics, and Mr. MacDonald
contacted Mr. Macricostas. The parties concluded that further discussions were
appropriate.
On September 10, 1999, representatives of Align-Rite and Photronics and
their respective investment bankers met to discuss a possible transaction. At
that meeting, a tentative agreement was reached regarding the conversion ratio
of Photronics common stock for Align-Rite common stock. Align-Rite also
requested that Mr. Macricostas enter into an agreement with Align-Rite to vote
his shares of Photronics in favor of the proposed transaction if an agreement
was reached and the transaction was brought before the shareholders of
Photronics.
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<PAGE>
On September 13, 1999, representatives of Align-Rite and Photronics and
their respective counsel participated in a conference call to identify the
remaining open issues and to resolve a number of those issues.
On September 14, 1999, a special telephonic meeting of the board of
directors of Align-Rite was held. At that meeting, counsel for Align-Rite
summarized the terms of the proposed merger agreement, voting agreement and the
agreement with Mr. Macricostas to vote for the proposed transaction at the
Photronics shareholders meeting. CIBC World Markets reviewed with the board
certain information regarding the value of Align-Rite and the value of
Photronics common stock using a variety of valuation techniques. The proposed
terms of the employment agreements with Messrs. MacDonald and Katurich and
certain other officers and key managers of Align-Rite were discussed.
On September 15, 1999, a special telephonic meeting of the board of
directors of Align-Rite was held. Counsel for Align-Rite described the final
terms of the proposed merger agreement, the voting agreement and the agreement
with Mr. Macricostas. CIBC World Markets summarized for the Board certain
information regarding their valuation of Align-Rite and Photronics. CIBC World
Markets then rendered an oral opinion (subsequently confirmed in writing on that
date) to the board of directors of Align-Rite to the effect that, as of that
date, the conversion ratio was fair to the shareholders of Align-Rite from a
financial point of view. The board of directors of Align-Rite then approved the
merger agreement. Mr. William Elder did not participate in the meeting but
later that day confirmed his approval of the merger agreement.
On September 15, 1999, a special telephonic meeting of the board of
directors of Photronics was held. The Photronics board of directors considered
the final terms of the proposed merger agreement, the voting agreement and the
agreement with Mr. Macricostas. Representatives of Banc of America Securities
reviewed the financial analysis of the merger and orally opined (which opinion
was subsequently confirmed in writing on that date) that the conversion ratio
was fair to Photronics from a financial point of view as of that date. The
Photronics board of directors approved the merger.
Thereafter, the merger agreement, the voting agreement and the agreement
from Mr. Macricostas were executed and delivered.
Photronics Board Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of the Photronics Board
The Photronics board believes that the terms of the merger are fair to and
in the best interest of Photronics and its shareholders. Accordingly, the
Photronics board has unanimously approved the merger agreement. In reaching its
determination, the Photronics board consulted with Photronics' management, as
well as its financial and legal advisors, and considered the following material
factors:
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. The combined company will be better able to fund capital expenditures
and research and development costs necessary to maintain a leading
position in a very competitive industry;
. The combined company will have a larger manufacturing network that will
enable it to better serve global customers;
. The merger provides economies of scale and other efficiencies that would
contribute to the financial strength of the combined companies;
. The terms of the merger agreement limit the dilutive effect on
Photronics shareholders; and
. The financial presentation by Banc of America Securities (including the
assumptions and methodology underlying the financial information
presented) and the written opinion of Banc of America Securities to the
effect that as of September 15, 1999, the conversion number was fair to
Photronics from a financial point of view.
In view of the wide variety of factors considered in connection with its
evaluation of the merger, the Photronics board did not find it practical, and
did not, quantify or otherwise attempt to assign relative weights to the
specific factors considered in reaching its determination. The Photronics board
relied on the experience and expertise of Banc of America Securities LLC, its
financial advisor, for quantitative analysis of the financial terms of the
merger.
The Photronics board unanimously recommends that Photronics shareholders
vote in favor of the Photronics merger proposal at the Photronics shareholders
meeting.
Align-Rite Board Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of the Align-Rite Board
In reaching their conclusion to approve the merger agreement, the board of
directors of Align-Rite considered the following information:
. Discussions with the management of Align-Rite during the past year
regarding the business, operations, financial condition, business
strategy and prospects of Align-Rite;
. The financial presentations by CIBC World Markets (including the
assumptions and methodology underlying the financial information
presented) and the written opinion of CIBC World Markets to the effect
that, as of September 15, 1999, the conversion ratio was fair to the
shareholders of Align-Rite from a financial point of view;
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<PAGE>
. Presentations by CIBC World Markets regarding Align-Rite, Photronics and
the valuation of Align-Rite using different valuation techniques;
. Presentations by and discussions with counsel for Align-Rite regarding
the duties and obligations of the Align-Rite board in considering
transactions of this type; and
. Discussions of the terms and conditions of the merger agreement and the
voting agreement with senior executives of Align-Rite, counsel for
Align-Rite and representatives of CIBC World Markets.
The Align-Rite board, in making its determination that the merger agreement
was in the best interest of Align-Rite's shareholders, considered the following
factors, which constitute all the material factors considered by the Align-Rite
board:
. The Align-Rite board's belief that, due to the financial position of
Align-Rite and the likelihood that there would be a requirement for
significant capital expenditures over the next two years, a business
combination with a financially stronger company was in the best interest
of the Align-Rite shareholders;
. The $23.09 value implicit in the conversion ratio represented a 57%
premium over the closing price of the Align-Rite common stock on
September 15, 1999, the last trading day before the announcement of the
merger;
. The Align-Rite board's belief that the analysis and opinion of CIBC
World Markets supported the Align-Rite board's conclusion that the
conversion ratio is fair from a financial point of view to, and in the
best interest of, the shareholders of Align-Rite;
. The provisions of the merger agreement that are structured so as to (i)
accommodate additional bona fide unsolicited offers to acquire Align-
Rite and specifically to permit the Align-Rite board to provide
information to and negotiate with other interested parties that make a
superior proposal and (ii) enable the Align-Rite board to terminate the
merger agreement and accept a better offer, subject to the payment of a
$3,640,000 termination fee and compliance with the other provisions of
the merger agreement;
. Current and historical market prices and trading information with
respect to the Align-Rite common stock and the Photronics common stock;
and
. The fact that, under the merger agreement, the merger is expected to be
treated as a tax-free reorganization under the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended.
The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by the
Align-Rite board is not intended to be exhaustive. The information and factors
were considered
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<PAGE>
by the Align-Rite board in connection with its review of the merger agreement
and voting agreement. In view of the variety of factors considered in connection
with the evaluation of the merger agreement, the Align-Rite board did not find
it practical to, and did not, quantify or otherwise assign relative weights to
the specific factors considered in its determination. In addition, individual
members of the Align-Rite board may have given different weights to different
factors.
Based upon this analysis, the Align-Rite board determined that the merger
was in the best interest of the shareholders of Align-Rite.
The Align-Rite board unanimously recommends that Align-Rite shareholders
vote in favor of the Align-Rite merger proposal at the Align-Rite shareholders
meeting.
Opinions of Financial Advisors
Opinion of Financial Advisor to the Photronics Board
In July 1999, the Photronics board retained Banc of America Securities to
act as its financial advisor in connection with the possible acquisition of, or
business combination involving, Align-Rite. Banc of America Securities is a
nationally recognized investment banking firm. Banc of America Securities is
regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in
connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, secondary
distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements and
valuations for corporate and other purposes. Photronics selected Banc of
America Securities to act as its financial advisor on the basis of Banc of
America Securities' experience in transactions similar to the merger.
Banc of America Securities delivered its opinion to the Photronics board on
September 15, 1999, stating that the conversion number under the terms of the
draft merger agreement was fair to Photronics from a financial point of view as
of that date. The Photronics board did not limit the investigations made or
procedures followed by Banc of America Securities in rendering its opinion.
We have attached the full text of Banc of America Securities' written
opinion to the Photronics board as Annex B, which is hereby incorporated in its
entirety. You should read this opinion carefully and in its entirety in
connection with this joint proxy statement/prospectus. However, we have also
included the following summary of Banc of America Securities' opinion, which is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the opinion.
Banc of America Securities' opinion is directed to the Photronics board.
It does not constitute a recommendation to you on how to vote with respect to
the merger. The opinion addresses only the financial fairness of the conversion
number
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<PAGE>
to Photronics. The opinion does not address the relative merits of the merger or
any alternatives to the merger, the underlying decision of the Photronics board
to proceed with or effect the merger or any other aspect of the merger. In
furnishing its opinion, Banc of America Securities did not admit that it is an
expert within the meaning of the term "expert" as used in the Securities Act,
nor did it admit that its opinion constitutes a report or valuation within the
meaning of the Securities Act. Statements to such effect are included in Banc of
America Securities' opinion.
Banc of America Securities:
. reviewed publicly available financial statements and other business and
financial information of Align-Rite and Photronics, respectively;
. reviewed internal financial statements and other financial and operating
data concerning Align-Rite and Photronics, respectively;
. analyzed financial forecasts prepared by the management of Align-Rite
with respect to Align-Rite and financial forecasts for Photronics
prepared by the management of Photronics;
. reviewed information relating to potential strategic, financial and
operational benefits anticipated from the transactions contemplated by
the merger agreement, prepared by the managements of Align-Rite and
Photronics, respectively;
. discussed the past and current operations, financial condition and
prospects of Align-Rite with senior executives of Align-Rite and
discussed the past and current operations, financial condition and
prospects of Photronics with senior executives of Photronics;
. reviewed and discussed with senior executives of Photronics and Align-
Rite information relating to potential strategic, financial and
operational benefits anticipated from the contemplated transactions;
. reviewed the pro forma impact of the contemplated transactions on the
earnings per share, cash flow, consolidated capitalization and financial
ratios of Photronics;
. reviewed and considered in its analysis, information prepared by members
of senior management of Align-Rite and Photronics relating to the
relative contributions of Align-Rite and Photronics to the combined
company;
. reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for Align-Rite common
stock and Photronics common stock;
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. compared the financial performance of Align-Rite and Photronics and the
prices and trading activity of Align-Rite common stock and Photronics
common stock with that of other publicly traded companies which Banc of
America Securities deemed relevant;
. reviewed the financial terms, including premiums paid, to the extent
publicly available, of other business combination transactions which
Banc of America Securities deemed relevant;
. participated in discussions with representatives of Align-Rite and
Photronics and their financial and legal advisors;
. reviewed the draft merger agreement; and
. performed other analyses and considered other factors which Banc of
America Securities deemed appropriate.
Banc of America Securities reviewed the September 10, 1999 draft of the
merger agreement in its preparation of its opinion. While Photronics and Align-
Rite had the opportunity to agree to materially add, delete or alter material
terms of the merger agreement prior to its execution, the final merger agreement
was substantially similar to the September 10, 1999 draft of the merger
agreement.
Banc of America Securities did not assume any responsibility to
independently verify the information listed above. Instead, with the consent of
the Photronics board, Banc of America Securities relied on the information as
being accurate and complete in all material respects. Banc of America
Securities also made the following assumptions with the consent of the
Photronics board:
. with respect to the financial forecasts for Align-Rite and Photronics
provided to Banc of America Securities by the management of each
company, upon the advice of Photronics management, that (a) the
forecasts were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best
available estimates and judgments of the managements of Photronics and
Align-Rite at the time of preparation as to the future financial
performance of both companies and (b) the forecasts provided a
reasonable basis upon which Banc of America Securities could form its
opinion;
. that there were no material changes in the assets, financial condition,
results of operations, business or prospects of either of Photronics or
Align-Rite since the respective dates of their last financial statements
made available to Banc of America Securities;
. that the acquisition would be consummated in a manner that complies in
all respects with the applicable provisions of the Securities Act of
1933, the Securities
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Exchange Act of 1934, and all other applicable federal and state
statutes, rules and regulations;
. that the merger would be recorded as a pooling of interests transaction
under generally accepted accounting principles and would be treated as a
tax-free reorganization or exchange or both pursuant to the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; and
. that the merger would be consummated in accordance with the terms
described in the September 10, 1999 draft merger agreement, without any
further amendments to the agreement, and without waiver by Photronics of
any of the conditions to its obligations that are contained in the
merger agreement.
Photronics and Align-Rite do not publicly disclose internal management
forecasts of the type provided to Banc of America Securities by the managements
of each of Photronics and Align-Rite in connection with Banc of America
Securities' review of the merger. Such forecasts were not prepared with a view
toward public disclosure. In addition, the forecasts were based upon numerous
variables and assumptions that are inherently uncertain, including factors
related to general economic and competitive conditions. Accordingly, actual
results could vary significantly from the results set forth in the forecasts.
In addition, for purposes of its opinion, Banc of America Securities:
. relied on advice of counsel and independent accountants to Photronics as
to all legal and financial reporting matters with respect to Photronics,
the merger and the September 10, 1999 draft merger agreement; and
. did not assume any responsibility for making an independent evaluation,
appraisal or physical inspection of any of the assets or liabilities,
contingent or otherwise, of Align-Rite or Photronics nor did Banc of
America Securities receive any appraisals.
Banc of America Securities' opinion was based on economic, monetary, market
and other conditions in effect on, and the information made available to it as
of, the date of the opinion.
The following represents a brief summary of the material financial analyses
performed by Banc of America Securities in connection with providing its opinion
to the Photronics board. Some of the summaries of financial analyses performed
by Banc of America Securities include information presented in tabular format.
In order to fully understand the financial analyses performed by Banc of America
Securities, you should read the tables together with the text of each summary.
The tables alone do not constitute a complete description of the financial
analyses. Considering the data set forth in the tables without considering the
full narrative description of the financial analyses, including
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the methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses, could create a
misleading or incomplete view of the financial analyses performed by Banc of
America Securities.
Valuation Analyses Regarding Photronics
Comparable Company Analysis. Based on public and other available
information, Banc of America Securities calculated the multiples of aggregate
value to each of (a) revenues and (b) earnings before interest and taxes
("EBIT") each for the last twelve months, based on the most recent financial
reporting period for the relevant companies, and the multiples of equity value
to (x) net income for estimated calendar year 1999 and projected calendar year
2000 and (y) book value, for companies that Banc of America Securities deemed to
be comparable to Photronics. Banc of America Securities defined aggregate value
to mean:
. equity value, defined as the product of the number of shares of common
stock outstanding for a company multiplied by its stock price; plus
. outstanding debt; less
. cash and cash equivalents.
Banc of America Securities calculated multiples for two manufacturers of
photomasks and one manufacturer of equipment used to make photomasks:
. Align-Rite
. DuPont Photomasks Inc.
. Etec Systems Inc
Each company was selected because (a) it had an active public trading
market for its equity securities, (b) was either a manufacturer of photomasks or
a manufacturer of equipment used to make photomasks, and (c) Banc of America
Securities believed the company had operating characteristics similar to those
of Photronics.
The following table sets forth the multiples indicated by this analysis for
these three companies:
Aggregate Value to: Range of Multiples Median Mean
- ----------------------------- ------------------ ------ -----
Last twelve months revenues 1.6x to 3.6x 3.4x 2.8x
Last twelve months EBIT 11.8x to 36.3x 26.8x 25.0x
50
<PAGE>
Equity Value to: Range of Multiples Median Mean
- ------------------------------ ------------------ ------ -----
Estimated calendar year 1999 14.4x to 36.9x 25.7x 25.7x
net income
Projected calendar year 2000 9.3x to 28.6x 23.5x 20.5x
net income
Book value 1.6x to 4.1x 3.3x 3.0x
The comparable company analysis compared Align-Rite to the three comparable
companies on the basis that the companies selected were the most relevant given
the factors considered above. Consequently, Banc of America Securities did not
include every company that could be deemed to be a participant in the same
industry.
Banc of America Securities noted that the aggregate value of Photronics on
September 10, 1999 implied multiples of 3.4x last twelve months revenues and
67.5x last twelve months EBIT. Using the financial forecasts provided to Banc of
America Securities by the management of Photronics, the equity value of
Photronics on September 10, 1999 implied multiples of 46.9x estimated calendar
year 1999 net income, 25.2x projected calendar year 2000 net income and 3.0x
book value. Using the estimates obtained from Banc of America Securities
research, the equity value of Photronics on September 10, 1999 implied multiples
of 44.4x estimated calendar year 1999 net income and 23.4x projected calendar
year 2000 net income. Banc of America Securities also noted that these
multiples equaled or exceeded the respective mean multiples indicated in the
analysis of the three comparable companies.
Comparable Transactions Analysis. Based on public and other available
information, Banc of America Securities calculated the multiples of aggregate
value to each of the last twelve months revenues and EBIT based on the most
recent financial reporting period for the target company implied in seventeen
semiconductor capital equipment and materials company acquisitions announced
between February 1998 and June 1999. Aggregate value for purposes of the
comparable transactions analysis excludes the value of options. Aggregate value
for a target company was taken to equal equity value if information on the
target company's net debt was not publicly available.
Banc of America Securities calculated multiples for the comparable company
acquisitions:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Announcement
Acquiror Target Date
- -------- ------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
The BOC Group, Inc. Chemical Management June 9, 1999
Division of FSI International,
Inc.
ATMI, Inc. Delatech, Inc. June 1, 1999
Applied Materials, Inc. Obsidian, Inc. May 28, 1999
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
51
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Announcement
Acquiror Target Date
- -------- ------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
ATMI, Inc. Advanced Chemical Systems May 17, 1999
International, Inc.
Electro Scientific Industries, MicroVision Corporation February 1, 1999
Inc.
STEAG Electronic Systems AG Associates January 19, 1999
GmbH and MIG Acquisition
Corporation
(a subsidiary of STEAG)
FEI Company Micrion Corporation December 3, 1998
PRI Automation, Inc. Promis Systems Corporation, November 25, 1998
Ltd.
SpeedFam-IPEC, Inc. Integrated Process Equipment November 23, 1998
Corporation
Applied Materials, Inc. Consilium, Inc. October 12, 1998
United States Filter Unit Instruments, Inc. July 2, 1998
Corporation
Advanced Energy Industries, RF Power Products, Inc. June 2, 1998
Inc.
Helix Technology Corporation Granville-Phillips Company April 17, 1998
ADE Corporation Phase Shift Technology, Inc. March 17, 1998
ATMI, Inc. NOW Technologies, Inc. February 20, 1998
Veeco Instruments, Inc. Digital Instruments, Inc. February 9, 1998
Danaher Corporation Pacific Scientific Company February 2, 1998
</TABLE>
Each transaction was selected because:
. Banc of America Securities believed the target company had similar
operating characteristics to those of Photronics;
. the transaction involved a change of control in ownership of the target
company; and
. the transaction was relatively recent and of a size comparable to the
contemplated merger.
Transactions where the target company had an aggregate value less than $25
million or where an aggregate value for the target company was not publicly
available were excluded.
The following table sets forth the multiples indicated by this analysis for
these seventeen acquisitions:
52
<PAGE>
Aggregate Value to: Range of Multiples Median Mean
- ----------------------------- ------------------ ------ -----
Last twelve months revenues 0.8x to 3.2x 1.7x 1.9x
Last twelve months EBIT 8.8x to 21.9x 10.7x 13.1x
The comparable transactions analysis compared the merger to all seventeen
acquisitions on the basis that the transactions selected were the most relevant
given the factors considered above. Consequently, Banc of America Securities
did not include every transaction that could be deemed to have occurred in the
industry.
Banc of America Securities noted that the aggregate value of Photronics on
September 10, 1999 implied multiples of 3.4x last twelve months revenues and
67.5x last twelve months EBIT. Banc of America Securities also noted that these
multiples exceeded the respective median multiples indicated in the analysis of
the seventeen acquisitions.
No company or transaction used in the comparable company or comparable
transactions analyses is identical to Photronics or the merger. Accordingly, an
analysis of the foregoing results is not mathematical. Rather, it involves
complex considerations and judgments concerning differences in financial and
operating characteristics of the companies and other factors that could affect
the public trading value or purchase price of the companies to which Photronics
and the merger are being compared.
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. Banc of America Securities used financial
cash flow forecasts for Photronics for calendar years 1999 through 2003, as (a)
estimated by the management of Photronics and (b) obtained from Banc of America
research, to perform a discounted cash flow analysis. In conducting this
analysis, Banc of America Securities estimated the terminal value of Photronics
at the end of 2003 by applying multiples to Photronics' projected 2003 revenues,
which multiples ranged from 2.50x to 3.50x. Banc of America Securities then
discounted the cash flows and terminal value to present values using rates
ranging from 10% to 20%. Banc of America Securities selected the range of
terminal value multiples based on the multiples of comparable public companies
and comparable transactions, Photronics' current and historical multiples, and
by applying judgment based upon its prior experience. Banc of America
Securities selected the range of discount rates by estimating the weighted
average cost of capital for Photronics.
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Photronics for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as estimated by the management of Photronics, this analysis
indicated a range of aggregate value for Photronics as follows:
53
<PAGE>
Implied Aggregate Value
(dollar amounts in thousands)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.50x Projected 3.00x Projected 3.50x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
10% $929,199 $1,115,648 $1,302,098
15% 734,904 882,532 1,030,161
20% 586,910 704,968 823,025
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Photronics for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as estimated by the management of Photronics, this analysis
indicated a range of aggregate value on a price per share basis for Photronics
as follows:
Implied Price Per Share
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.50x Projected 3.00x Projected 3.50x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
10% $34.17 $41.93 $49.69
- -------------- ------------------ ------------------ ------------------
15% 26.08 32.22 38.37
20% 19.92 24.83 29.75
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Photronics for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as obtained from Banc of America research, this analysis indicated
a range of aggregate value for Photronics as follows:
54
<PAGE>
Implied Aggregate Value
(dollar amounts in thousands)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.50x Projected 3.00x Projected 3.50x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
- -------------- ------------------ ------------------ ------------------
10% $885,273 $1,062,400 $1,239,527
15% 700,546 840,793 981,040
20% 559,819 671,973 784,128
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Photronics for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as obtained from Banc of America Securities research, this analysis
indicated a range of aggregate value on a price per share basis for Photronics
as follows:
Implied Price Per Share
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.50x Projected 3.00x Projected 3.50x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
- -------------- ------------------ ------------------ ------------------
10% $32.34 $39.71 $47.09
15% 24.65 30.49 36.32
20% 18.79 23.46 28.13
Banc of America Securities noted that the aggregate value of Photronics on
September 10, 1999 was $727 million and the price per share of Photronics on
September 10, 1999 was $25.75. The aggregate value of Photronics and the price
per share of Photronics on September 10, 1999 were within the ranges of
aggregate value and price per share indicated by the analyses.
Accretion/Dilution Analysis. Using financial forecasts of Photronics and
Align-Rite provided by their respective managements, Banc of America Securities
reviewed the pro forma effects of the merger, including a comparison of
estimated earnings per share on a stand-alone basis for Photronics to the
estimated earnings per share of the combined company for calendar year 2000
based on (a) the lower collar of $21.00 per share of Photronics common stock and
(b) the upper collar of $28.25 per share of Photronics common stock. Banc of
America Securities noted that, based on (x) the forecasts provided by each
company and (y) assuming completion of the merger pursuant to the terms set
forth in the draft merger agreement, the accretion or dilution to the earnings
per share of Photronics would be:
55
<PAGE>
Lower Collar Upper Collar
------------- -------------
Percentage of
Accretion (Dilution) for
Projected Calendar
Year 2000 5.1% 10.2%
Valuation Analysis of Align-Rite
Comparable Company Analysis. Based on public and other available
information, Banc of America Securities calculated the multiples of aggregate
value to each of (a) revenues and (b) EBIT each for the last twelve months,
based on the most recent financial reporting period for the relevant companies,
and the multiples of equity value to (x) net income for estimated calendar year
1999 and projected calendar year 2000 and (y) book value, for companies that
Banc of America Securities deemed to be comparable to Align-Rite.
First, Banc of America Securities calculated multiples for two
manufacturers of photomasks and one manufacturer of equipment used to make
photomasks:
. DuPont Photomasks Inc.
. Etec Systems Inc
. Photronics
Each company was selected because (a) it had an active public trading
market for its equity securities, (b) was either a manufacturer of photomasks or
a manufacturer of equipment used to make photomasks, and (c) Banc of America
Securities believed the company had operating characteristics similar to those
of Align-Rite.
The following table sets forth the multiples indicated by this analysis for
these three companies:
Aggregate Value to: Range of Multiples Median Mean
- ------------------ ------------------ ------ -----
Last twelve months revenues 3.4x to 3.6x 3.4x 3.4x
Last twelve months EBIT 26.8x to 67.5x 36.3x 43.5x
56
<PAGE>
Equity Value to: Range of Multiples Median Mean
- --------------- ------------------ ------ -----
Estimated calendar year 1999 36.9x to 44.4x 40.7x 40.7x
net income
Projected calendar year 2000 23.4x to 28.6x 23.5x 25.2x
net income
Book value 3.0x to 4.1x 3.3x 3.5x
The comparable company analysis compared Align-Rite to the three comparable
companies on the basis that the companies selected were the most relevant given
the factors considered above. Consequently, Banc of America Securities did not
include every company that could be deemed to be a participant in the same
industry.
Banc of America Securities noted that the aggregate value of the
consideration to be received by Align-Rite shareholders in connection with the
merger implied multiples of 2.2x last twelve months revenues and 16.5x last
twelve months EBIT. Using the financial forecasts provided to Banc of America
Securities by the management of Align-Rite, the equity value of the
consideration to be received by Align-Rite shareholders in connection with the
merger implied multiples of 23.5x estimated calendar year 1999 net income, 14.7x
projected calendar year 2000 net income and 2.6x book value. Using the
estimates obtained from CIBC World Markets Corp. research, the equity value of
the consideration to be received by Align-Rite shareholders in connection with
the merger implied multiples of 23.0x estimated calendar year 1999 net income
and 14.4x projected calendar year 2000 net income. Banc of America Securities
also noted that these multiples were below the range of multiples indicated in
the analysis of the three comparable companies.
Comparable Transactions Analysis. Based on public and other available
information, Banc of America Securities calculated the multiples of aggregate
value to each of the last twelve months revenues and EBIT based on the most
recent financial reporting period for the target company implied in seventeen
semiconductor capital equipment and materials company acquisitions announced
between February 1998 and June 1999. Aggregate value and equity value for
purposes of the comparable transactions analysis excludes the value of options.
Aggregate value for a target company was taken to equal equity value if
information on the target company's net debt was not publicly available.
Banc of America Securities calculated multiples for the comparable company
acquisitions in the same manner as described above for Photronics:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Announcement
Acquiror Target Date
- -------- ------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
The BOC Group, Inc. Chemical Management June 9, 1999
Division of FSI International,
Inc.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
57
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Announcement
Acquiror Target Date
- -------- ------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
ATMI, Inc. Delatech, Inc. June 1, 1999
Applied Materials, Inc. Obsidian, Inc. May 28, 1999
ATMI, Inc. Advanced Chemical Systems May 17, 1999
International, Inc.
Electro Scientific Industries, MicroVision Corporation February 1, 1999
Inc.
STEAG Electronic Systems AG Associates January 19, 1999
GmbH and MIG Acquisition
Corporation
(a subsidiary of STEAG)
FEI Company Micrion Corporation December 3, 1998
PRI Automation, Inc. Promis Systems Corporation, November 25, 1998
Ltd.
SpeedFam-IPEC, Inc. Integrated Process Equipment November 23, 1998
Corporation
Applied Materials, Inc. Consilium, Inc. October 12, 1998
United States Filter Unit Instruments, Inc. July 2, 1998
Corporation
Advanced Energy Industries, RF Power Products, Inc. June 2, 1998
Inc.
Helix Technology Corporation Granville-Phillips Company April 17, 1998
ADE Corporation Phase Shift Technology, Inc. March 17, 1998
ATMI, Inc. NOW Technologies, Inc. February 20, 1998
Veeco Instruments, Inc. Digital Instruments, Inc. February 9, 1998
Danaher Corporation Pacific Scientific Company February 2, 1998
</TABLE>
Each transaction was selected because:
. Banc of America Securities believed the target company had similar operating
characteristics to those of Align-Rite;
. the transaction involved a change of control in ownership of the target
company; and
. the transaction was relatively recent and of a size comparable to the
contemplated merger.
Transactions where the target company had an aggregate value less than $25
million or where an aggregate value for the target company was not publicly
available were excluded.
The following table sets forth the multiples indicated by this analysis for
these seventeen acquisitions:
58
<PAGE>
Aggregate Value to: Range of Multiples Median Mean
- ------------------ ------------------ ------ -----
Last twelve months revenues 0.77x to 3.22x 1.65x 1.91x
Last twelve months EBIT 8.8x to 21.9x 10.7x 13.1x
The comparable transactions analysis compared the merger to all seventeen
acquisitions on the basis that the transactions selected were the most relevant
given the factors considered above. Consequently, Banc of America Securities
did not include every transaction that could be deemed to have occurred in the
industry.
Banc of America Securities noted that the aggregate value of the consideration
to be received by the Align-Rite shareholders in connection with the merger
implied multiples of 2.2x last twelve months revenues and 16.5x last twelve
months EBIT. Banc of America Securities also noted that these multiples were
within the range of multiples indicated in the analysis of the seventeen
acquisitions.
No company or transaction used in the comparable company or comparable
transactions analyses is identical to Align-Rite or the merger. Accordingly, an
analysis of the foregoing results is not mathematical. Rather, it involves
complex considerations and judgments concerning differences in financial and
operating characteristics of the companies and other factors that could affect
the public trading value or purchase price of the companies to which Align-Rite
and the merger are being compared.
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. Banc of America Securities used financial cash
flow forecasts for Align-Rite for calendar years 1999 through 2003, as (a)
estimated by the management of Align-Rite and (b) obtained from CIBC World
Markets research, to perform a discounted cash flow analysis. In conducting this
analysis, Banc of America Securities estimated the terminal value of Align-Rite
at the end of 2003 by applying multiples to Align-Rite's projected 2003
revenues, which multiples ranged from 2.00x to 3.00x. Banc of America Securities
then discounted the cash flows and terminal value to present values using rates
ranging from 10% to 20%. Banc of America Securities selected the range of
terminal value multiples based on the multiples of comparable public companies
and comparable transactions, Align-Rite's current and historical multiples, and
by applying judgment based upon its prior experience. Banc of America Securities
selected the range of discount rates by estimating the weighted average cost of
capital for Align-Rite.
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Align-Rite for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as estimated by the management of Align-Rite, this analysis
indicated a range of aggregate value for Align-Rite as follows:
59
<PAGE>
Implied Aggregate Value
(dollar amounts in thousands)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.00x Projected 2.50x Projected 3.00x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
- -------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------
10% $182,712 $227,182 $271,652
15% 144,984 180,195 215,405
20% 116,204 144,362 172,519
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Align-Rite for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as estimated by the management of Align-Rite, this analysis
indicated a range of aggregate value on a price per share basis for Align-Rite
as follows:
Implied Price Per Share
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.00x Projected 2.50x Projected 3.00x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
- -------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------
10% $31.37 $40.48 $49.59
15% 23.64 30.85 38.07
20% 17.75 23.51 29.28
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Align-Rite for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as obtained from CIBC World Markets research, this analysis
indicated a range of aggregate value for Align-Rite as follows:
60
<PAGE>
Implied Aggregate Value
(dollar amounts in thousands)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.00x Projected 2.50x Projected 3.00x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
- -------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------
10% $182,923 $227,502 $272,082
15% 145,115 180,412 215,710
20% 116,275 144,503 172,730
Using financial cash flow forecasts for Align-Rite for calendar years 1999
through 2003 as obtained from CIBC World Markets research, this analysis
indicated a range of aggregate value on a price per share basis for Align-Rite
as follows:
Implied Price Per Share
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount Rate Terminal Value of Terminal Value of Terminal Value of
2.00x Projected 2.50x Projected 3.30x Projected
Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003 Calendar Year 2003
Revenue Revenue Revenue
- -------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------
10% $31.41 $40.54 $49.68
15% 23.67 30.90 38.13
20% 17.76 23.54 29.32
Banc of America Securities noted that within the upper and lower collars
established by the draft merger agreement, the aggregate value of the
consideration to be received by Align-Rite shareholders was $142 million and the
price per share of Align-Rite was $23.09. The amounts implied by the
consideration to be paid to Align-Rite shareholders with respect to each
category of financial measurement were within the ranges of aggregate value and
price per share indicated by the analyses.
Contribution Analysis. Banc of America Securities used financial forecasts for
Align-Rite provided by the management of Align-Rite and estimates obtained from
Banc of America Securities research regarding Photronics and CIBC World Markets
research regarding Align-Rite to review the estimated contribution of each
company to the (a) revenues, (b) EBIT and (c) net income, for each of (1)
calendar year 1998, (2) estimated calendar year 1999 and (3) projected calendar
year 2000 for the combined company. This analysis indicated that Align-Rite
would contribute:
61
<PAGE>
On a Calendar On an Estimated On a Projected
Year Calendar Year Calendar Year
Contribution to: 1998 Basis 1999 Basis 2000 Basis
- ---------------- ------------- --------------- --------------
Revenues.......... 19.4% 20.6% 23.3%
EBIT.............. 26.0% 24.5% 22.4%
Net income........ 29.1% 25.9% 22.0%
Banc of America Securities then compared the contributions to the pro forma
share ownership of the combined company to be owned by each company's
stockholders, assuming the merger was consummated pursuant to the September 10,
1999 draft merger agreement. On a pro forma basis, Align-Rite stockholders
would own approximately between (a) 18.1% at the lower collar of $21.00 per
share and (b) 13.9% at the upper collar of $28.25 per share, of the combined
company on a diluted basis.
Premiums Paid Analysis. Banc of America Securities reviewed the
consideration paid in the seventeen merger and acquisition transactions
previously listed. Banc of America Securities calculated the premiums paid
relative to the prices of the acquired companies for one day and one month prior
to the announcement of the acquisition offer. This analysis indicated the
following mean and median premiums:
Premium One Day Premium One
Prior to Month Prior to
Announcement Announcement
--------------- --------------
High 145.7% 151.1%
Mean 65.0% 100.0%
Median 51.5% 101.9%
Low 5.7% 46.7%
Banc of America Securities noted that the premiums implied by the merger
were 55% and 69% for the period one day and one month prior to September 10,
1999.
As noted above, the foregoing is merely a summary of the analyses and
examinations that Banc of America Securities considered to be material to its
opinion. It is not a comprehensive description of all analyses and examinations
actually conducted by Banc of America Securities. The preparation of a fairness
opinion is not susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. Banc of
America Securities believes that its analyses and the summary above must be
considered as a whole. Banc of America Securities further believes that
selecting portions of its analyses and of the factors considered, without
considering all analyses and factors, would create an incomplete view of the
process underlying the analyses set forth in its presentation to the Photronics
board of directors. Banc of America Securities did not assign any specific
weight to any of the
62
<PAGE>
analyses described above. The fact that any specific analysis has been referred
to in the summary above is not meant to indicate that such analysis was given
greater weight than any other analysis. Accordingly, the ranges of valuations
resulting from any particular analysis described above should not be taken to be
Banc of America Securities' view of the actual value of either Photronics or
Align-Rite.
In performing its analyses, Banc of America Securities made numerous
assumptions with respect to industry performance, general business and economic
conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of Photronics
and Align-Rite. The analyses performed by Banc of America Securities are not
necessarily indicative of actual values or actual future results, which may be
significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by these analyses.
These analyses were prepared solely as part of Banc of America Securities'
analysis of the financial fairness of the consideration to be paid by Photronics
in the merger and were provided to the Photronics board of directors in
connection with the delivery of Banc of America Securities' opinion. The
analyses do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which a
company might actually be sold or the prices at which any securities may trade
at any time in the future.
As described above, Banc of America Securities' opinion and presentation to
the Photronics board of directors were among the many factors taken into
consideration by the Photronics board of directors in making its determination
to approve, and to recommend that Photronics shareholders approve, the merger
and the merger agreement.
Photronics agreed to pay Banc of America Securities a sale transaction fee,
with a portion of the fee contingent upon the execution of the merger agreement
and a portion of the fee contingent upon the consummation of the merger.
Photronics also agree to pay Banc of America Securities a percentage-based fee
for its services as a private placement agent in a sale of approximately 1.1
million shares of Photronics common stock. The Photronics board of directors
was aware of this fee structure and took it into account in considering Banc of
America Securities' fairness opinion and in approving the merger. The engagement
letter also calls for Photronics to reimburse Banc of America Securities for its
reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. Pursuant to a separate letter agreement,
Photronics has agreed to indemnify Banc of America Securities, its affiliates,
and their respective partners, directors, officers, agents, consultants,
employees and controlling persons against certain liabilities, including
liabilities under the federal securities laws.
Opinion of Financial Advisor to Align-Rite Board
CIBC World Markets Corp. has acted as financial advisor to Align-Rite in
connection with the merger. At the request of Align-Rite, CIBC World Markets
delivered an oral opinion to the Align-Rite board on September 15, 1999, which
was subsequently confirmed by a written opinion delivered on September 15, 1999,
that, based upon and subject to the various assumptions, limitations and other
matters set forth in the opinion,
63
<PAGE>
as of such date, the conversion ratio is fair to the shareholders of Align-Rite
from a financial point of view. No limitations were imposed by Align-Rite upon
CIBC World Markets with respect to investigations made or procedures followed by
CIBC World Markets in rendering its opinion.
The full text of the written opinion of CIBC World Markets dated September
15, 1999, which sets forth assumptions made, general procedures followed,
matters considered and limits on the scope of the review undertaken by CIBC
World Markets is attached as Annex C and is incorporated herein by reference.
Align-Rite's shareholders are urged to and should read and carefully consider
the entire opinion. The summary set forth herein of the opinion of CIBC World
Markets is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the
opinion attached hereto as Annex C.
The opinion of CIBC World Markets addresses only the fairness to the
holders of shares of Align-Rite common stock, from a financial point of view, of
the conversion ratio used to calculate the number of shares of Photronics common
stock that the shareholders of Align-Rite will receive pursuant to the merger
and does not constitute a recommendation to any shareholder as to how such
shareholder should vote on any matters relating to the merger.
CIBC World Markets reviewed the September 15, 1999 draft of the merger
agreement in the preparation of its opinion. While Align-Rite and Photronics had
the opportunity to agree to materially add, delete or alter material and other
terms of the merger agreement prior to its execution, the merger agreement
entered into by the parties was substantially similar to the September 15, 1999
draft.
In connection with rendering its opinion, CIBC World Markets:
. reviewed the draft of the merger agreement dated September 15, 1999;
. reviewed the audited financial statements of Align-Rite for the fiscal years
ended March 31, 1998 and 1999, and the unaudited financial statements of
Align-Rite for the three months ended June 30, 1998 and 1999;
. reviewed the audited financial statements of Photronics for the fiscal years
ended November 2, 1997 and November 1, 1998, and the unaudited financial
statements of Photronics for the nine months ended August 1, 1999;
. reviewed financial projections for Align-Rite, prepared and supplied by
Align-Rite's management, for the fiscal years ending March 31, 2000 and 2001;
. reviewed financial projections for Photronics, prepared and supplied by
Photronics' management, for the fiscal years ending October 31, 1999, 2000
and 2001;
. held discussions with senior management of Align-Rite and Photronics with
respect to the business and prospects for future growth of Align-Rite and
Photronics;
. reviewed and analyzed certain publicly available financial data and
historical trading price information for certain companies CIBC World Markets
deemed comparable to Align-Rite and Photronics;
64
<PAGE>
. reviewed and analyzed certain publicly available information for
transactions that CIBC World Markets deemed comparable to the merger;
. performed discounted cash flow analyses of Align-Rite using certain
assumptions of future performance provided to CIBC World Markets by the
management of Align-Rite;
. performed discounted cash flow analyses of Photronics using certain
assumptions of future performance provided to CIBC World Markets by the
management of Photronics;
. reviewed certain publicly available research analyst reports on Align-Rite
and Photronics;
. reviewed historical market prices, trading volume and relative price
performance for shares of Align-Rite common stock and Photronics common
stock;
. utilized estimates for the future financial performance of Align-Rite and
Photronics, provided by the managements of Align-Rite and Photronics, to
calculate the relative contributions of Align-Rite and Photronics to the pro
forma combined company, and reviewed the pro forma stock ownership and pro
forma enterprise value of the combined company;
. analyzed the pro forma impact of the merger on Photronics' earnings per share
for the fiscal years ending October 31, 2000 and October 31, 2001, based on
financial projections provided by the managements of Align-Rite and
Photronics;
. reviewed publicly available information concerning Align-Rite and Photronics
that CIBC World Markets deemed relevant; and
. performed such other analyses and reviewed such other information as CIBC
World Markets deemed appropriate.
In the course of its review, CIBC World Markets at the direction of Align-
Rite, relied upon and assumed, without independent verification or
investigation, the accuracy and completeness of all of the financial and other
information reviewed by it, as well as all of the financial and other
information provided to or discussed with it by Align-Rite and Photronics and
their employees, representatives and affiliates. With respect to forecasts of
future financial condition and operating results, and certain assumptions for
the future performance, of Align-Rite and Photronics provided to CIBC World
Markets or discussed with it, CIBC World Markets assumed, at the direction of
Align-Rite's management, without independent verification or investigation, that
such forecasts were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best available
information, estimates and judgments of Align-Rite's or Photronics' management,
as the case may be, and provided a reasonable basis upon which CIBC World
Markets could form its opinion. CIBC World Markets further relied upon the
assurance of management of Align-Rite and Photronics that they are unaware of
any facts that would make the information provided to CIBC World Markets
incomplete in any meaningful respect or misleading in any respect. CIBC World
Markets assumes no responsibility for and expresses no view as to any forecasts
or the information or assumptions on which they are based.
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CIBC World Markets neither made nor was provided with any independent
valuations or appraisals of any assets or liabilities of Align-Rite or
Photronics and made no physical inspection of the properties and facilities of
Align-Rite or Photronics. CIBC World Markets further made certain assumptions,
with the consent of Align-Rite, including that:
. the representations and warranties of the parties contained in the merger
agreement are true and correct;
. the merger will be consummated in accordance with the terms described in
the merger agreement and related agreements, without any amendment to those
terms;
. the merger will qualify as a tax-free reorganization pursuant to Section
368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code;
. the merger will be accounted for under the pooling of interests method in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; and
. the merger will be consummated in a manner that complies in all material
respects with all applicable federal, foreign, state and local statutes,
rules, regulations and other laws.
The opinion of CIBC World Markets was necessarily also based upon the
information reviewed by it and general economic, financial and stock market
conditions and circumstances as they existed on the date of its opinion.
In connection with rendering its opinion to the Align-Rite board, CIBC
World Markets performed a variety of financial analyses, the material portions
of which are summarized below. The summary set forth below does not purport to
be a complete description of the analyses performed by CIBC World Markets. In
addition, CIBC World Markets believes that its analyses must be considered as a
whole and that selecting portions of such analyses and the factors considered in
those analyses, without considering all factors and analyses, could create an
incomplete view of the analyses and processes on which the opinion of CIBC World
Markets was based. Some of the financial analyses summarized below include
information presented in tabular format. In order to understand CIBC World
Markets' financial analysis fully, the tables must be read together with the
text of each summary. Considering the data set forth in the tables below without
considering the full narrative description of the financial analyses, including
the methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses, could create a
misleading or incomplete view of the financial analysis of CIBC World Markets.
The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process involving
subjective judgments and is not susceptible to partial analysis or summary
description. CIBC World Markets performed certain procedures, including each of
the financial analyses described below, and reviewed with the management of
Align-Rite the assumptions on which the analyses were based and other factors,
including historical, current and projected financial results. The forecasts and
assumptions for Align-Rite and Photronics in published research reports and the
forecasts and assumptions for Align-Rite and Photronics provided by their
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respective managements are forward looking, are not necessarily indicative of
future results or values, which may be significantly more or less favorable, and
are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Estimates of values of
companies do not purport to be appraisals or necessarily reflect the prices at
which companies or their securities may be sold.
The following is a brief summary of all material financial analyses
performed by CIBC World Markets in connection with its presentation to the
Align-Rite board on September 15, 1999.
Comparable Companies Analysis
Using publicly available information, CIBC World Markets compared financial
information for Align-Rite with similar information for selected companies in
the photomask/maskmaking and semiconductor capital equipment industries. The
selected companies were segregated into two groups: photomask/maskmaking and
semiconductor equipment with relatively small market capitalizations. The
photomask/maskmaking group consisted of DuPont Photomasks, Inc., Etec Systems,
Inc. and Photronics. The semiconductor equipment group with relatively small
market capitalizations consisted of GaSonics International Corp., LTX
Corporation, Mattson Technology Inc. and Nanometrics Incorporated. For each of
these companies, CIBC World Markets calculated firm value, which is defined as
market value of equity plus net debt, of the comparable companies as a multiple
of their estimated revenues for calendar year 2000. In addition, for each of
these companies, CIBC World Markets calculated the stock price as a multiple of
their estimated earnings per share for calendar year 2000. These calculations
produced the following range of multiples.
Multiple Range
-------------------
Low Mean High
----- ----- -----
Estimated 2000 Revenues 1.8x 2.2x 2.7x
Estimated 2000 Earnings Per Share 15.8x 22.5x 29.1x
The results of these calculations were then compared to the results of
similar calculations made with respect to Align-Rite. Using the multiples in the
above table and applying them to the estimated revenues and earnings per share
for Align-Rite for the calendar year 2000, produced a range of per common share
equity values of between $24.16 and $32.71, based on the average of the low per
share equity values and the average of the mean per share equity values. The
average of the mean per share equity values was used as the upper end of the
range to take into consideration a market discount for Align-Rite's small market
capitalization.
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Because of the inherent differences between the businesses, operations,
financial conditions and prospects of Align-Rite and the businesses, operations,
financial conditions and the prospects of the companies included in its
comparable company groups, CIBC World Markets believes that it is inappropriate
to rely solely on the quantitative results of the analysis, and accordingly,
also made qualitative judgments concerning differences between the financial and
operating characteristics of Align-Rite and the comparable companies that would
affect the public trading values of Align-Rite and the comparable companies.
Using publicly available information, CIBC World Markets compared financial
information for Photronics with similar information for selected companies in
the photomask/maskmaking and semiconductor capital equipment industries. The
selected companies were segregated into two groups: photomask/maskmaking and
semiconductor equipment with relatively large market capitalizations. The
photomask/maskmaking group consisted of Align-Rite, DuPont Photomasks, Inc. and
Etec Systems, Inc. The semiconductor equipment group with relatively large
market capitalizations consisted of Applied Materials, Inc., KLA-Tencor
Corporation, Lam Research Corporation, Novellus Systems, Inc. and Teradyne, Inc.
For each of these companies, CIBC World Markets calculated firm value as a
multiple of their estimated revenues for calendar year 2000, firm value as a
multiple of their estimated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization ("EBITDA") for calendar year 2000 and stock price as a multiple of
their estimated earnings per share for calendar year 2000. These calculations
produced the following range of multiples with Align-Rite excluded from the
multiple calculations as it was deemed to be an outlier from the multiples
calculated for the other companies.
Multiple Range
-------------------
Low Mean High
----- ----- -----
Calendar Year 2000 Revenues 2.3x 3.4x 4.7x
Calendar Year 2000 EBITDA 8.6x 13.2x 19.8x
Calendar Year 2000 Earnings Per 22.3x 26.4x 30.6x
Share
The results of these calculations were then compared to the results of
similar calculations made with respect to Photronics. Using the multiples in
the above table and applying them to the estimated revenues, EBITDA and earnings
per share for Photronics for the calendar year 2000, produced a range of per
common share equity values of between $23.81 and $49.71 based on the average of
the low per share equity values and the average of the high per share equity
values.
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Because of the inherent differences between the businesses, operations,
financial conditions and prospects of Photronics and the businesses, operations,
financial conditions and the prospects of the companies included in its
comparable company groups, CIBC World Markets believes that it is inappropriate
to rely solely on the quantitative results of the analysis, and accordingly,
also made qualitative judgments concerning differences between the financial and
operating characteristics of Photronics and the comparable companies that would
affect the public trading values of Photronics and the comparable companies.
CIBC World Markets calculated a range of conversion ratios based on the
comparable companies analysis. The low per share equity value for Align-Rite
common stock was divided by the low per share equity value for Photronics common
stock. The high per share equity value for Align-Rite common stock was divided
by the high per share equity value for Photronics common stock. These
calculations resulted in a conversion ratio range of 0.6581 to 1.0144.
Precedent Transactions Analysis
CIBC World Markets compared the financial terms of the merger to the
financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of 21 transactions CIBC World
Markets believed to be comparable that occurred within the semiconductor capital
equipment industry since September 5, 1995. For each of these transactions, CIBC
World Markets calculated, to the extent possible:
. the firm value, which is defined as the offer value for the equity plus the
net debt of the acquired company, as a multiple of the last twelve months
revenues of the acquired company prior to the date of the announcement of the
transaction;
. the firm value of the acquired company as a multiple of the last twelve
months EBITDA of the acquired company prior to the date of the announcement
of the transaction;
. the offer value per share for the acquired equity as a multiple of the last
twelve months earnings per share of the acquired company prior to the date of
the announcement of the transaction;
. the firm value of the acquired company as a multiple of the estimated
revenues for the next fiscal year following the date of the announcement of
the transaction;
. the firm value of the acquired company as a multiple of the estimated EBITDA
for the next fiscal year following the date of the announcement of the
transaction;
. the offer value per share for the acquired equity as a multiple of the
estimated earnings per share for the next fiscal year following the date of
the announcement of the transaction; and
. the control premium per share paid, or proposed to be paid in the case of
pending transactions, by the acquiror compared to the share price of the
target company as of five days prior to the announcement of the transaction.
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These analyses produced the following range of multiples and premiums:
Multiple Range
---------------------
Low Mean High
----- ----- -----
Last Twelve Months Revenues 0.9x 2.0x 3.6x
Last Twelve Months EBITDA 5.3x 11.3x 14.7x
Last Twelve Months Earnings Per 11.1x 19.2x 21.9x
Share
Fiscal Year+1 Revenues 0.8x 1.7x 2.3x
Fiscal Year+1 EBITDA 8.8x 12.9x 16.5x
Fiscal Year+1 Earnings Per Share 14.0x 22.0x 27.7x
Control Premium 9.9% 50.2% 80.3%
The results of these calculations were then compared to the results of
similar calculations made with respect to Align-Rite. Using the multiples and
control premiums in the above table and applying them to the last twelve months
revenues, EBITDA and earnings per share, the fiscal year 2000 estimated
revenues, EBITDA and earnings per share and the September 10, 1999 closing stock
price for Align-Rite produced a range of per common share equity values of
between $13.14 and $24.14, based on the average of the low per share equity
values and the average of the mean per share equity values. The average of the
mean per share equity values was used as the upper end of the range to take into
consideration a market discount for Align-Rite's small market capitalization.
CIBC World Markets calculated a range of conversion ratios based on the
precedent transactions analysis. The low per share equity value for Align-Rite
common stock was divided by the September 10, 1999 closing price of Photronics
common stock. The high per share equity value for Align-Rite common stock was
divided by the September 10, 1999 closing price of Photronics common stock.
These calculations resulted in a conversion ratio range of 0.5102 to 0.9376.
Because the reasons for and the circumstances surrounding each of the
transactions analyzed were so diverse and because of the inherent differences in
the business, operations, financial condition and prospects of Align-Rite and
the businesses, operations, financial conditions and prospects of the companies
included in the precedent transactions group, CIBC World Markets believes that a
purely quantitative comparable transaction analysis would not be particularly
meaningful in the context of the merger. CIBC World Markets believes that the
appropriate use of comparable transaction analysis in this
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instance involves qualitative judgments concerning the differences between the
characteristics of these transactions and the merger that affect the acquisition
values of the acquired companies and Align-Rite.
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis
Using a discounted cash flow analysis based on forecasts provided by Align-
Rite's management, CIBC World Markets estimated the present value of the future
streams of free cash flows that Align-Rite could produce during the six fiscal
years ending March 31, 2005. In this analysis, CIBC World Markets estimated the
terminal value based on multiples of 7.5 to 8.5 times Align-Rite's estimated
EBITDA for the twelve months ended March 31, 2005. The free cash flows and
terminal values were discounted to present values using rates of 16%, 18% and
20%. After deducting net debt, preferred and minority interest from, and adding
back cash to, the present value of free cash flows and terminal values, this
analysis produced a range of per common share equity values for Align-Rite
common stock of between $13.11 and $20.81.
Using a discounted cash flow analysis based on forecasts provided by
Photronics' management, CIBC World Markets estimated the present value of the
future streams of free cash flows that Photronics could produce during the five
fiscal years ending October 31, 2004. In this analysis, CIBC World Markets
estimated the terminal value based on multiples of 8.5 to 9.5 times Photronics'
estimated EBITDA for the twelve months ended October 31, 2004. The free cash
flows and terminal values were discounted to present values using rates of 15%,
17% and 19%. After deducting net debt, preferred and minority interest from, and
adding back cash to, the present value of free cash flows and terminal values,
this analysis produced a range of per common share equity values for Photronics
common stock of between $19.15 and $26.32.
CIBC World Markets calculated a range of conversion ratios based on the
discounted cash flow analysis. The low per share equity value for Align-Rite
common stock was divided by the low per share equity value for Photronics common
stock. The high per share equity value for Align-Rite common stock was divided
by the high per share equity value for Photronics common stock. These
calculations resulted in a conversion ratio range of 0.6846 to 0.7909.
Research Price Targets
CIBC World Markets reviewed certain publicly available research analyst
reports on Align-Rite to determine a range of research price targets. This
review resulted in a range of per common share equity values for Align-Rite
common stock of between $18.00 and $24.00.
CIBC World Markets reviewed certain publicly available research analyst
reports on Photronics to determine a range of research price targets. This
review resulted in a
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range of per common share equity values for Photronics common stock of between
$29.00 and $39.00.
CIBC World Markets calculated a range of conversion ratios based on the
research price targets. The low per share equity value for Align-Rite common
stock was divided by the low per share equity value for Photronics common stock.
The high per share equity value for Align-Rite common stock was divided by the
high per share equity value for Photronics common stock. These calculations
resulted in a conversion ratio range of 0.6154 to 0.6207.
Fifty-two Week Trading Range
CIBC World Markets reviewed the closing trading prices for Align-Rite
common stock for the fifty-two week period ending September 10, 1999. During
this period, Align-Rite's common stock closed at a low of $8.50 per share and a
high of $16.88 per share.
CIBC World Markets reviewed the closing trading prices for Photronics
common stock for the fifty-two week period ending September 10, 1999. During
this period, Photronics' common stock closed at a low of $9.50 per share and a
high of $28.88 per share.
CIBC World Markets calculated a range of conversion ratios based on the
fifty-two week trading range. The low per share equity value for Align-Rite
common stock was divided by the low per share equity value for Photronics common
stock. The high per share equity value for Align-Rite common stock was divided
by the high per share equity value for Photronics common stock. These
calculations resulted in a conversion ratio range of 0.5844 to 0.8947.
Historical Conversion Ratio Analysis
CIBC World Markets compared historical ratios of the closing trading price
or average closing trading prices for Align-Rite common stock to the closing
trading price or average closing trading prices for Photronics common stock for
the period from September 10, 1998 to September 10, 1999. CIBC World Markets
calculated historical conversion ratios based on the respective closing trading
prices as of September 10, 1999 and the respective average closing trading
prices for the two months, six months and one year preceding September 10, 1999.
The following table presents the results of these calculations:
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Two Six One
As of Month Month Year
9/10/99 Average Average Average
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Ratio of closing prices for Align-Rite 0.5752 0.5365 0.5578 0.5914
common stock to Photronics common
stock
</TABLE>
Contribution Analysis
CIBC World Markets utilized estimates for the future financial performance
of Align-Rite and Photronics, provided by the management of Align-Rite and
Photronics, to calculate the relative contributions of Align-Rite and Photronics
to the pro forma combined company with respect to revenues, EBITDA, earnings
before interest and taxes ("EBIT") and unadjusted net income, for the fiscal
years ending October 31, 2000 and October 31, 2001. CIBC World Markets also
reviewed the pro forma stock ownership and the pro forma enterprise value of the
combined company.
Fiscal Year End 10/31
-----------------------
Align-Rite Contribution: 2000E 2001E
- ----------------------- ---------- ---------
Percentage of Combined Revenues 22.5% 22.8%
Percentage of Combined EBITDA 19.8% 19.2%
Percentage of Combined EBIT 23.3% 21.8%
Percentage of Combined Net Income 24.0% 21.1%
Pro Forma Stock Ownership: %
- ------------------------- ---------
Align-Rite 15.1%
Photronics 84.9%
Pro Forma Enterprise Value: %
- -------------------------- ---------
Align-Rite 16.1%
Photronics 83.9%
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Pro Forma Merger Analysis
CIBC World Markets analyzed the pro forma impact of the merger on
Photronics' earnings per share for the fiscal years ending October 31, 2000 and
October 31, 2001, based on financial projections provided by the management of
Align-Rite and Photronics. As a result of these analyses, CIBC World Markets
concluded the merger would be accretive in both the fiscal year ending October
31, 2000 and the fiscal year ending October 31, 2001.
The foregoing is a summary of the financial analyses used by CIBC
World Markets in connection with rendering its opinion but does not purport to
be a complete description of the analyses performed by CIBC World Markets. The
preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and involves various
determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant methods of financial
analysis and the application of these methods to the particular circumstances,
and therefore is not necessarily susceptible to a partial analysis or summary
description. CIBC World Markets believes that its analyses must be considered as
a whole and that selecting portions of its analyses, without considering the
analyses taken as a whole, would create an incomplete view of the process
underlying the analyses set forth in the opinion. In addition, CIBC World
Markets considered the results of all such analyses and did not assign relative
weights to any of the analyses, so that the ranges of valuations resulting from
any particular analysis described above should not be taken to be CIBC World
Markets' view of Align-Rite, Photronics or the combined entity. No company used
in the comparable company analyses summarized above is identical to Align-Rite
or Photronics, and no transaction used in the comparable transaction analysis is
identical to the merger. Any analysis of the fairness of the merger, from a
financial point of view, to the shareholders of Align-Rite involves complex
considerations and judgments concerning differences in the potential financial
and operating characteristics of the comparable companies and transactions and
other factors in relation to the trading and acquisition values of comparable
companies. Analyses based upon forecasts of future results are not necessarily
indicative of actual future results, which may be significantly more or less
favorable than those suggested by such analyses. As described above, the opinion
of CIBC World Markets and the related presentation to the Align-Rite board on
September 15, 1999 was one of many factors taken into consideration by the
Align-Rite board in making its determination to approve the merger agreement.
CIBC World Markets was selected by Align-Rite because of its
familiarity with Align-Rite and its business and CIBC World Markets'
qualifications and expertise in the semiconductor capital equipment industry and
in providing valuations of businesses and securities in connection with
acquisitions and mergers, underwritings, secondary distributions of securities,
private placements and valuations for other purposes. In its ordinary course of
business, CIBC World
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Markets acts as a market maker and broker in the publicly traded securities of
Align-Rite and Photronics, and also provides research coverage for Align-Rite
and Photronics. In its ordinary course of business, CIBC World Markets and its
affiliates may actively trade securities of Align-Rite and Photronics for their
own accounts and for the accounts of their customers and, accordingly, may at
any time hold long or short positions in such securities. CIBC World Markets may
in the future provide investment banking or other financial advisory services to
Align-Rite or Photronics.
Align-Rite engaged CIBC World Markets to act as its financial advisor
in connection with the merger and agreed to pay CIBC World Markets an opinion
fee, payable in cash upon the delivery of an oral or written opinion, plus a
transaction fee, payable in cash on the closing date of a transaction if, during
the term of the engagement or within 12 months thereafter, a transaction is
consummated with Photronics and Align-Rite does not request that CIBC World
Markets advise it with respect to proposals by other parties. Align-Rite has
also agreed to reimburse CIBC World Markets for certain expenses incurred and to
indemnify CIBC World Markets against certain liabilities, including liabilities
under United States federal securities laws.
In furnishing its opinion, CIBC World Markets does not admit that it
is an expert within the meaning of the term "expert" as used in the Securities
Act, nor does it admit that its opinion constitutes a report or valuation within
the meaning of the Securities Act.
Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger
In considering the recommendations of the Align-Rite board regarding
the merger, you should be aware of the interests that certain directors and
executive officers have in the merger that are different from your interests and
the interests of shareholders of Align-Rite. In this regard, you should
consider, among other things, the following information.
Align-Rite
James L. MacDonald - Align-Rite's Chairman of the Board, Chief
Executive Officer and President, has entered into an amendment to his existing
employment agreement with Align-Rite. This amendment will be effective only if
the merger occurs and provides that Mr. MacDonald will be appointed to the
Photronics board and become a member of the Office of the Chief Executive of
Photronics. His base annual salary will be increased from $260,000 to $300,000
per annum and he will receive options to acquire 50,000 shares of Photronics
common stock. The exercise price of the options will be equal to the market
price of Photronics common stock on the date of grant and the options will vest
over a four-year period. Mr. MacDonald has agreed that, during the first 12
months after the merger is completed, he will not exercise the right under his
existing employment agreement to terminate his employment as a result of a
change in control of Align-Rite, which would occur if the merger is completed.
Petar N. Katurich - Align-Rite's Vice President of Finance, Chief
Financial Officer and Secretary and a director of Align-Rite, has entered into
an amendment to his existing
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employment agreement with Align-Rite. The amendment will be effective only if
the merger occurs and provides that his base salary will increase from $120,000
to $125,000 per annum and that he will receive options to acquire 12,000 shares
of Photronics common stock. The exercise price of these options will be equal to
the market price of Photronics common stock on the date of grant and the options
will vest over a four-year period. Align-Rite also has agreed to pay Mr.
Katurich a bonus of $100,000 if the merger is completed and, prior to September
15, 2000, he does not voluntarily terminate his employment with Align-Rite or is
not terminated for cause.
Align-Rite has entered into agreements or amendments to existing
employment agreements with other officers and key managers of Align-Rite that
provide for bonuses if the merger is completed and the officer or key manager
does not voluntarily terminate his employment with Align-Rite or is not
terminated for cause prior to September 15, 2000. The aggregate amount of these
bonuses is approximately $180,000. In addition, if the merger is completed,
these officers and key managers will be entitled to receive options to acquire
an aggregate of 88,000 shares of Photronics common stock. The exercise price of
these options will be equal to the market price of Photronics common stock on
the date of grant and the options will vest over a four-year period.
Under the terms of existing option agreements, upon consummation of
the merger, stock options to purchase an aggregate of 510,652 shares of Align-
Rite common stock will become immediately exercisable and will be exchanged for
options to purchase the same number of shares of Photronics common stock. The
following are the stock options held by directors and executive officers:
James L. MacDonald - 241,396 shares
Petar N. Katurich - 22,800 shares
Alan G. Duncan - 17,000 shares
William Elder - 7,000 shares
George Wells - 16,000 shares
Photronics has agreed to continue in effect the indemnification
currently in effect for Align-Rite's directors and officers indefinitely and to
continue in effect directors and officers insurance for a period of six years
after the merger subject to certain limitations. For more information, see
"Terms of the Merger Agreement - Other Covenants - Indemnification of Directors
and Officers."
Mr. MacDonald and a trust for which he acts as co-trustee have entered
into a voting agreement with Photronics to vote all shares of Align-Rite common
stock they are entitled to vote in favor of approving the merger and approving
the principal terms of the merger agreement. The agreement with Photronics
provides that if the merger agreement
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is terminated under certain circumstances because of the existence of a third
party proposal to acquire Align-Rite and, within six months after the
termination of the merger agreement Align-Rite enters into an agreement for, and
within 18 months consummates, certain specified business combinations involving
Align-Rite, then if Mr. MacDonald or the trust receives more than $23.09 per
share in value in that business combination, they will pay Photronics any amount
received for their shares of Align-Rite common stock above $23.09 per share, up
to an aggregate amount of $360,000.
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following is a general discussion of the material United States
federal income tax consequences of the merger. This discussion addresses only
shareholders who hold their shares as capital assets within the meaning of
Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The discussion
does not address all aspects of federal income taxation that may be important to
particular shareholders because of their individual circumstances, or to
shareholders who are subject to special rules, such as
. financial institutions,
. tax-exempt organizations,
. insurance companies,
. dealers in securities or foreign currencies,
. traders in securities who elect to apply a mark-to-market
method of accounting,
. foreign holders,
. persons who hold shares as a hedge against currency risk or as part
of a straddle, constructive sale or conversion transaction, or
. holders who acquired their shares upon the exercise of employee
stock options or otherwise as compensation.
The following discussion is based upon current provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code, existing regulations promulgated under the Internal
Revenue Code and current rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject
to change, possibly with retroactive effect. Tax consequences under state,
local and foreign laws are not addressed. Holders of Align-Rite common stock
are advised to consult their own tax advisors regarding the federal income tax
consequences of the merger in light of their personal circumstances and the
consequences under applicable state, local and foreign tax laws.
Neither Align-Rite, Photronics nor AL Acquisition Corp. intends to
obtain a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service with respect to the tax
consequences of the merger; however, consummation of the merger is conditioned
upon the receipt by Photronics of the opinion of its tax counsel, Paul,
Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP, and the receipt by Align-Rite of the opinion of
its tax counsel, O'Melveny & Myers LLP, each dated as of the effective time of
the merger, and each substantially to the effect that, on the basis of facts,
representations and assumption set forth or referred to in such opinion, the
merger will be treated as a tax-free "reorganization" within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Internal
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Revenue Code. In rendering their opinions, counsel to each of Align-Rite and
Photronics have relied upon the representations made by Align-Rite and
Photronics. Neither the tax opinions nor this discussion will bind the Internal
Revenue Service and the Internal Revenue Service is not precluded from
successfully asserting a contrary opinion.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Implications to Align-Rite Shareholders
Assuming the merger is treated as a reorganization within the meaning
of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, no gain or loss will be
recognized for federal income tax purposes by holders of Align-Rite common stock
who exchange their Align-Rite common stock for Photronics common stock pursuant
to the merger, except with respect to cash received in lieu of fractional
shares. The aggregate tax basis of the Photronics common stock to be received
by an Align-Rite shareholder in the merger will be the same as such
shareholder's aggregate tax basis in the Align-Rite common stock surrendered in
the exchange (reduced by any amount allocable to a fractional share of
Photronics common stock as discussed below).
The holding period of the Photronics common stock to be received by an
Align-Rite shareholder as a result of the merger will include the period during
which such shareholder held the Align-Rite common stock exchanged. Cash
received by a holder of Align-Rite common stock instead of a fractional share of
Photronics common stock should be treated as received in exchange for such
fractional share interest, and gain or loss will be recognized for federal
income tax purposes, measured by the difference between the amount of cash
received and the portion of the basis of the Align-Rite common stock allocable
to the fractional share interest. Such gain or loss will be capital gain or
loss provided that the shares of Align-Rite common stock were held as capital
assets and will be long term capital gain or loss if the Align-Rite common stock
had been held for more than one year at the time of the merger. The amount of
such gain or loss will be the difference between the amount of cash received for
such fractional share and the amount of such tax basis.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Implications of the Merger to Align-Rite,
Photronics and AL Acquisition Corp.
Assuming the merger is treated as a reorganization within the meaning
of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, no gain or loss will be
recognized for United States federal income tax purposes by Align-Rite,
Photronics or AL Acquisition Corp. as a result of the merger.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Implications of the Merger to Dissenting
Shareholders
Holders of Align-Rite common stock who exercise and perfect their
dissenters' rights with respect to their shares will generally be treated as if
such shares were exchanged for the amount of cash received. Accordingly,
dissenting shareholders will
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recognize gain or loss as a result of the merger. The nature and amount of such
gain or loss will depend on a number of factors, and shareholders considering
such actions are strongly urged to consult their tax advisors as to the
particular tax consequences to them of exercising their dissenters' rights.
Backup Withholding
Under the Internal Revenue Code, a holder of Align-Rite common stock
may be subject, under certain circumstances, to backup withholding at a rate of
31% with respect to the amount of cash, if any, received unless the holder
provides proof of an applicable exemption or a correct taxpayer identification
number, and otherwise complies with applicable requirements of the backup
withholdings rules. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules are
not an additional tax and may be refunded or credited against the holder's
federal income tax liability, provided the required information is furnished to
the Internal Revenue Service.
The United States federal income tax discussion set forth above is
intended to provide only a general summary and does not address tax consequences
which may vary with, or are contingent on, individual circumstances. Moreover,
this discussion does not address any tax consequences of the disposition of
Align-Rite common stock before the merger or the disposition of Photronics
common stock after the merger. This discussion is directed to investors who are
United States citizens or residents or domestic corporations. No attempt has
been made to determine any tax that may be imposed on a shareholder by the
country, state or jurisdiction in which the holder resides or is a citizen other
than the material United States federal income tax consequences discussed
herein. Holders of Align-Rite common stock are advised to consult their own tax
advisors regarding the federal income tax consequences in light of their
personal circumstances and the consequences under applicable state, local and
foreign tax laws.
Anticipated Accounting Treatment
The merger is intended to qualify as a pooling of interests for
financial reporting purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. Consummation of the merger is conditioned upon receipt by
Photronics and Align-Rite of letters from Deloitte & Touche LLP, Photronics'
independent auditors, and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Align-Rite's independent
auditors, reaffirming the firms' concurrence with Photronics and Align-Rite
management's conclusion as to the appropriateness of pooling of interests
accounting for the merger under APB No. 16, if consummated in accordance with
the merger agreement. In addition, in order for the merger to qualify for
pooling of interests treatment, Photronics must sell 1,000,000 shares of its
common stock that it acquired within the two years before the transaction. If
Photronics is unable to sell such shares, the merger may not qualify as a
pooling of interests and Deloitte & Touche LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
would not be able to deliver the letters. The receipt of the letters is a
condition to Photronics' obligation to consummate the merger.
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Regulatory Approvals
We must comply with all applicable antitrust laws and regulations before we
can complete the merger. The Federal Trade Commission and the Department of
Justice will review the potential effects of the merger on competition in the
markets where we operate. If they determine that the merger will substantially
reduce competition, they can challenge all or certain aspects of the merger and
seek to block the merger or impose restrictive conditions on the merger.
It can be a lengthy process to obtain the requisite clearances and
approvals needed. Therefore, we initiated the formal process of obtaining the
required regulatory approvals by filing on October 1, 1999 a notification report
with the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice pursuant to the
Hart-Scott Rodino Anti-Trust Improvements Act .
Percentage Ownership Interest of Align-Rite Shareholders After the Merger
In the merger, Align-Rite shareholders will become shareholders of
Photronics. Based on the number of shares of Photronics and Align-Rite common
stock outstanding as of August 1, 1999, and assuming a conversion ratio of
0.8173, we estimate that the Photronics common stock to be issued to Align-Rite
shareholders will represent approximately 14.6% of the outstanding Photronics
common stock after the merger (and giving effect to the sale by Photronics of
1,000,000 shares of its common stock and also assuming the exercise of options
and other rights to purchase approximately 530,000 shares of Align-Rite common
stock). As the conversion ratio increases, the post-merger ownership percentage
of Align-Rate shareholders will increase, and the maximum percentage would be
18.7% based on the foregoing.
Dissenters' Rights
If you hold Align-Rite common stock and you do not wish to accept the
merger consideration, as described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus,
then Chapter 13 (Sections 1300 through 1312) of the California General
Corporation Law provides that you may elect instead to receive cash in the
amount of the "fair market value" of your shares (exclusive of any appreciation
or depreciation in connection with the proposed merger) determined as of the day
before the first announcement of the terms of the proposed merger if dissenters'
rights are available. Dissenters' rights will be available if demands for
payment are properly filed with Align-Rite with respect to 5% or more of Align-
Rite's outstanding shares on or prior to the date of Align-Rite's special
shareholders meeting. The closing price of Align-Rite common stock on the Nasdaq
National Market on September 14, 1999, the day before the first announcement of
the proposed merger for purposes of determining fair market value, was $14.50
per share.
Chapter 13 is set forth in its entirety in Appendix D to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. If you wish to exercise your dissenters' rights or to
preserve the
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right to do so, you should carefully review Appendix D. If dissenters' rights
are available and you fail to comply with the procedures specified in Chapter 13
in a timely manner, you may lose your dissenters' rights. Because of the
complexity of these procedures, you should seek the advice of counsel if you are
considering exercising your dissenters' rights.
If you wish to exercise your dissenters' rights under Chapter 13, you must
satisfy each of the conditions described below:
Demand for Purchase. You must deliver to Align-Rite or its transfer agent a
written demand for purchase of your shares of Align-Rite common stock, and it
must be received not later than the date of Align-Rite's special shareholders
meeting. This written demand is in addition to and separate from any proxy or
vote against the principal terms of the merger agreement. Merely voting against
the approval of the principal terms of the merger agreement will not constitute
a demand for appraisal within the meaning of Chapter 13.
The demand for purchase must be made in writing and must be mailed or
delivered to either: Align-Rite, 2428 Ontario Street, Burbank, California 91504,
Attention: Corporate Secretary, or its transfer agent, *, Attention: *. The
demand must state the number and class of shares you hold of record that you
demand to be purchased and the amount claimed to be the "fair market value" of
those shares on September 14, 1999, the day before the announcement of the
merger (exclusive of any appreciation or depreciation in connection with the
proposed merger). The statement of the fair market value will constitute an
offer by you to sell such dissenting shares at that price.
Voting Your Dissenting Shares Against the Merger. You must vote your
dissenting shares against the merger.
Submission of Stock Certificates. If it is determined that dissenters'
rights are available, you must deliver your shares to Align-Rite or the transfer
agent within 30 days after the date on which notice of shareholder approval of
the merger is mailed to you by Align-Rite. The certificates representing the
shares will be stamped or endorsed with a statement that they are dissenting
shares. The notice will be mailed by Align-Rite within 10 days after the
approval of the merger and will contain a statement of the price which
Align-Rite has determined to be the fair market value of Align-Rite common stock
on September 14, 1999, the day before the first announcement of the merger. The
statement of price will constitute an offer to purchase any dissenting shares at
that price.
Disagreement Regarding Dissenting Shares of Fair Market Value. If
Align-Rite denies that the shares are dissenting shares or if you disagree with
Align-Rite as to the calculation of "fair market value," you must file a
petition in the Superior Court of the appropriate county demanding a
determination of the fair market value of your shares of Align-Rite common
stock. This petition must be filed by either you or Align-Rite within six months
of the notice of approval of the merger described above. If a suit is filed to
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determine the fair market value of the shares of Align-Rite common stock, the
costs of the action will be assessed or apportioned as the court concludes is
equitable, provided that Align-Rite must pay all such costs if the value awarded
by the court is more than 125% of the price offered by Align-Rite. You will
continue to have all the rights and privileges incident to your dissenting
shares until the fair market value of the shares is agreed upon or determined or
you lose your dissenters' rights.
If dissenters' rights are available and you properly demand appraisal of
your shares of Align-Rite common stock under Chapter 13 but you fail to perfect
or withdraw your right to appraisal, your shares of Align-Rite common stock will
be converted as described in "Terms of the Merger Agreement - Conversion of
Shares in the Merger" on page ..
You will lose your right to require Align-Rite to purchase your shares of
Align-Rite common stock if
. the merger is terminated,
. you transfer the dissenting shares prior to submitting them for endorsement
as dissenting shares,
. you and Align-Rite do not agree upon the status of the shares as dissenting
shares or upon the purchase price, and neither you nor Align- Rite files a
complaint or intervenes in a pending action within six months after the
date on which notice of approval of merger was mailed to shareholders or
. with the consent of Align-Rite, you withdraw your demand for purchase.
Photronics is not obligated to complete the merger, and could terminate the
merger agreement, if there are effective demands for payment of dissenters'
rights by shareholders of Align-Rite than five percent or more of the
outstanding shares.
Dissenters' rights cannot be validly exercised by persons other than
shareholders of record regardless of the beneficial ownership of the shares. If
you are a beneficial owner of shares that are held of record by another person,
such as a broker, a bank or a nominee, and you want to dissent from approval of
the merger, you should instruct the record holder to follow the procedures in
Annex D for perfecting your dissenters' rights.
If you are considering exercising your dissenters' rights, you should be
aware that the fair market value of your shares of Align-Rite common stock as
determined under Chapter 13 could be greater than, the same as, or less than the
merger consideration. The opinion delivered by CIBC World Markets is not an
opinion as to fair market value under Chapter 13.
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The foregoing is a summary of the provisions of Chapter 13 of the General
Corporation Law of the State of California and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the full text of Chapter 13, which is included as Appendix D.
Nasdaq National Market Listing
As a condition to the merger, the Nasdaq National Market must authorize the
listing of the Photronics common stock to be issued in the merger.
Certain Consequences of the Merger
Following the merger, Align-Rite common stock will no longer be traded on
the Nasdaq National Market, will be deregistered under the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, and will no longer be publicly traded.
Management After the Merger
At the time Photronics' merger subsidiary merges into Align-Rite, the
directors of Photronics' merger subsidiary immediately before the merger will
remain the directors of the surviving corporation, and the officers of Align-
Rite immediately before the merger will become the officers of the surviving
corporation.
Resales of Photronics Common Stock
All shares of Photronics common stock to be issued in the merger will be
freely transferable, except for shares received by any person who may be deemed
to be an affiliate of Align-Rite under Rule 145 under the Securities Act of
1933, such as directors and certain executive officers of Align-Rite. Under Rule
145, an affiliate of Align-Rite may not resell his or her shares of Photronics
common stock received in the merger except in transactions permitted by Rule 145
or as otherwise permitted under the Securities Act, including selling such
shares pursuant to an effective registration statement. Align-Rite will deliver
to Photronics a list setting forth the names of all persons who are, in
Align-Rite's reasonable judgment, affiliates of Align-Rite.
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TERMS OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT
Conversion of Shares in the Merger
As of the effective time of the merger, by virtue of the merger and without
any additional action on the part of the Align-Rite shareholders or the
shareholders of Photronics' merger subsidiary:
. each share of Align-Rite common stock issued and outstanding immediately
before the effective time of the merger (other than dissenting shares) will
be converted into a number of shares of Photronics common stock determined
by the conversion ratio. Photronics will not issue any fractional shares of
its common stock to Align-Rite shareholders. Rather, Photronics will pay
the Align-Rite shareholders cash for these fractional shares. For more
information regarding fractional shares, see "The Merger -- No Fractional
Shares";
. each share of common stock of Photronics' merger subsidiary outstanding
immediately before the effective time of the merger will become one share
of common stock of the surviving corporation; and
. each share of Align-Rite common stock held immediately before the effective
time of the merger by Photronics, Photronics' merger subsidiary or any
other subsidiary of Photronics, will automatically be canceled and retired
and will cease to exist, and Photronics will pay no consideration for these
shares.
The Align-Rite common stock converted as described above will no longer be
outstanding, will automatically be canceled and retired, and will cease to
exist. Each holder of Align-Rite common stock (other than any holder of
dissenting shares) will cease to have any rights in Align-Rite common stock,
except the right to receive the appropriate number of shares of Photronics
common stock, cash in lieu of fractional shares and dividends, if any, declared
with a record date after the effective time of the merger. For information
regarding how to exchange Align-Rite common stock, see "-- Exchange Agent;
Procedures for Exchange of Certificates."
Exchange Agent; Procedures for Exchange of Certificates
After the merger, Photronics will appoint a bank or trust company to serve
as the exchange agent and will deliver to the exchange agent certificates
representing the number of shares of Photronics common stock to be issued to
Align-Rite shareholders in the merger. The exchange agent will, according to
irrevocable instructions, deliver to the Align-Rite shareholders the Photronics
common stock, any dividends or other distributions relating to such stock, and
any cash in lieu of fractional shares.
The exchange agent will mail to each Align-Rite shareholder a letter of
transmittal and instructions to surrender their certificates representing Align-
Rite common stock in
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exchange for certificates representing Photronics common stock or cash in lieu
of fractional shares. After an Align-Rite shareholder surrenders his or her
Align-Rite common stock certificate along with a duly executed and properly
completed letter of transmittal and other required documents, the exchange agent
will deliver to such shareholder the following:
. a certificate representing the number of whole shares of Photronics common
stock to which such shareholder is entitled;
. cash in lieu of any fractional shares of Photronics common stock; and
. the amount of any dividends or other distributions declared on Photronics
common stock with a record date after the effective time of the merger and
a payment date before surrender of the Align-Rite common stock.
Align-Rite shareholders receiving Photronics common stock in the merger
will receive a payment at the appropriate payment date of the amount of
dividends or other distributions declared on Photronics common stock with a
record date after the effective time of the merger and a payment date after
surrender of the Align-Rite common stock.
The surviving corporation and the exchange agent may deduct and withhold
from the consideration payable to Align-Rite shareholders amounts required to be
deducted and withheld under the Internal Revenue Code, or any provision of
state, local or foreign tax law. If the surviving corporation or the exchange
agent deducts or withholds any amounts so required to be deducted or withheld,
then these amounts will be treated, for all purposes of the merger agreement, as
having been paid to the Align-Rite shareholders with respect to whom such
amounts were deducted or withheld.
Align-Rite shareholders should not forward their Align-Rite common stock
certificates with the enclosed proxy card nor should they forward their Align-
Rite common stock certificates to the exchange agent until they have received
the packet of information, including a letter of transmittal, described above.
Representations and Warranties
The merger agreement contains various representations and warranties of
Photronics, Align-Rite and Photronics' merger subsidiary, relating to, among
other things, the following:
. their incorporation, existence, good standing, corporate power and similar
corporate matters;
. their capitalization;
. their authorization, execution, delivery, and performance and the
enforceability of the merger agreement and related matters, and the absence
of violations;
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. the documents, reports and financial statements filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission and the accuracy and completeness of the
information contained therein;
. the absence of undisclosed liabilities;
. compliance with laws, ordinances and regulations;
. environmental matters;
. employee benefit matters;
. the absence of certain material changes or events since March 31, 1999, in
the case of Align-Rite and November 1, 1998, in the case of Photronics;
. pending or threatened investigations or litigation;
. the registration statement and this document and the accuracy and
completeness of the information contained therein and herein and in the
merger agreement;
. accounting and tax matters;
. the receipt of opinions of financial advisors;
. required vote of shareholders;
. insurance; and
. material contracts.
In addition, the merger agreement contains representations and warranties
of Align-Rite relating to, among other things, intellectual property,
relationships with suppliers and vendors and year 2000 matters.
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger
The merger agreement requires that until completion of the merger or
termination of the merger agreement, Photronics, Align-Rite and their
subsidiaries will conduct their operations according to their ordinary and usual
course of business. The merger agreement does not, however, limit Photronics'
discretion with respect to the issuance of debt or equity securities or
acquisitions.
Furthermore, the merger agreement specifies that Align-Rite and its
subsidiaries will:
. consistent with past practice, preserve its business organization and
goodwill, keep available the services of its officers and employees as a
group, subject to changes
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in the ordinary course, and maintain satisfactory relationships with its
customers, suppliers, distributors and others having business relationships
with it;
. notify Photronics promptly of:
. any complaints, investigations or hearings of any governmental body or
authority;
. any actions, suits or proceeding initiated or threatened against
or affecting Align-Rite or any of its subsidiaries or any of
their respective properties or before any federal, state, local
or foreign governmental entity which could have in the aggregate
a material adverse effect on Align-Rite;
. any complaint, charge or claim against Align-Rite or any of its
subsidiaries filed with any public or governmental authority,
arbitrator or courts with respect to labor matters; and
. any claims with respect to Align-Rite's intellectual property
rights, any trade secret material to Align-Rite or any of its
subsidiaries or third party intellectual property rights which
could have in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on
Align-Rite;
. not adopt any amendments to its corporate charter or bylaws or authorize or
pay any dividends or distributions on its outstanding shares of capital
stock;
. not enter into or amend any severance or similar agreements or arrangements
(including by amendment of any existing agreement or arrangement);
. except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice,
not enter into any new employment, consulting or salary continuation
agreements with any officers, directors or employees or other than
increases in the ordinary course of business, grant any increases in the
compensation or benefits to officers, directors and employees;
. subject to Align-Rite's right to respond to certain unsolicited acquisition
proposals, not authorize, propose or announce an intention to authorize or
propose or enter into an agreement for a merger, consolidation or business
combination, any acquisition of a material amount of assets or securities,
any disposition of assets or securities, or any release or relinquishment
of any material contract rights not in the ordinary course of business;
. not issue any shares of its common stock, except upon exercise of rights,
warrants or options issued pursuant to the existing stock plan and stock
purchase plan, effect any stock split or otherwise change Align-Rite's
capitalization;
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. not grant, confer or award any additional, or amend or modify any existing
options, warrants, conversion rights or other rights to acquire any shares
of its common stock;
. not purchase or redeem any shares of its stock;
. not amend the terms of their respective employee benefit plans or
arrangements that exist on the date of the merger agreement, or adopt any
new employee benefit plans, programs or arrangements, except as required by
law or to maintain tax-qualified status, or as requested by the Internal
Revenue Service to receive a determination letter;
. not incur or assume any long-term debt or, except in the ordinary course of
business, incur or assume any short-term indebtedness in amounts not
consistent with past practice;
. not amend any existing loan agreement or enter into any new loan agreement;
. not assume, guarantee, endorse or otherwise become liable or responsible
(whether directly, contingently or otherwise) for the obligations of
another person;
. not make any loans, advances or capital contributions to another person;
. not enter into any agreement, commitment or transaction (including with
respect to capital expenditures or purchase, sale or lease of assets or
real estate) with aggregate consideration of $250,000 or more;
. not enter into an agreement with any affiliate of Align-Rite, any family
member of any affiliate of Align-Rite or any Align-Rite shareholder who
owns more than 5% of the outstanding common stock of Align-Rite;
. not make any material tax election or settle or compromise any material tax
liability or make any significant change in any tax or accounting methods
or system of internal accounting control, except as may be appropriate to
conform to changes in tax laws or generally accepted accounting principles;
. not enter into or amend any material collective bargaining or other labor
agreement, except as required by law; and
. not buy, sell or trade any Photronics equity security, including entering
into any put, call, option, swap, collar or other similar derivative
transaction.
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Other Covenants
Under the merger agreement, Photronics and Align-Rite agreed to the
following additional covenants:
Shareholders meetings
Photronics and Align-Rite will each duly call, give notice of, and hold a
special meeting of its shareholders to approve their respective merger
proposals. Align-Rite and Photronics will use their reasonable efforts to cause
their shareholders meetings to occur within 45 days after the effective date of
the registration statement relating to the Photronics common stock to be issued
in the merger.
Access to Information; Confidentiality
Align-Rite and Photronics will each afford the other, and that party's
officers, employees, accountants, legal counsel, financial advisors and other
representatives, reasonable access during normal business hours in a manner so
as not to interfere with normal operations, to all of its personnel, properties,
books, contracts, commitments and records. Align-Rite will not be required to
provide customer specific pricing information, other than any commitment for
specific pricing for more than 360 days. and performance data. Also, Align-Rite
will provide to Photronics:
. copies of registration statements and other documents filed by it or
its subsidiaries pursuant to applicable federal or state securities
laws;
. copies of all internally prepared interim financial statements,
reports or memoranda; and
. all other information concerning its business, financial results and
condition, properties and personnel as Photronics may reasonably
request.
Each party will keep the information provided to it by the other party
confidential in accordance with the terms of the confidentiality agreements in
effect between Photronics and Align-Rite.
Filings; Other Actions
Before we can complete the merger, we must satisfy all regulatory
requirements and obtain the approval of all regulatory agencies having
jurisdiction over the merger. To facilitate the regulatory review and approval
process, we have each agreed to promptly make all necessary filings, seek all
required approvals of relevant regulatory agencies and use reasonable efforts to
take all actions necessary to complete the merger. Accordingly, we must make
filings and other required submissions under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. We will
also make any other filings or submissions and seek the approval of all other
applicable regulatory agencies. This includes our prompt compliance with
requests by
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these agencies for additional information or documentation following our initial
filings or submissions.
Furthermore, we have each agreed to take all actions to resolve objections
to the merger raised by regulatory agencies.
During the regulatory review process, each party will consult with the
other, permit the other to review all material communications with regulatory
agencies and will give the other the opportunity to participate in all
conferences and meetings with regulatory agencies.
No Solicitation
Align-Rite and its subsidiaries will not solicit, initiate, encourage or
participate in any negotiations regarding any proposal for a merger,
consolidation, liquidation, reorganization, tender offer or other business
combination involving Align-Rite or any proposal to acquire at least 50% of the
voting securities of Align-Rite or all or substantially all of the assets of
Align-Rite or any of its subsidiaries. Furthermore, Align-Rite and its
subsidiaries will not disclose information in response to such a proposal.
However, the board of directors of Align-Rite is not prohibited from, at
any time prior to approval of the principal terms of the merger agreement by the
Align-Rite shareholders, providing information to, or discussing or negotiating
with, any person that makes an unsolicited bona fide written acquisition
proposal if the following conditions are satisfied:
. the person must enter into a confidentiality agreement on terms no less
favorable to Align-Rite or no less restrictive than contained in the
confidentiality agreement from Align-Rite to Photronics;
. the Align-Rite board of directors determines after consultation with
outside legal counsel that failure to engage in discussions or negotiations
would create a reasonable possibility of a breach of their fiduciary
duties; and
. the board of directors determines in good faith, after consultation with
its financial advisor, that the acquisition proposal, if accepted,
. is likely to be consummated, taking into account all legal,
financial and regulatory aspects of the proposal and the person
making it and
. would be more favorable from a financial point of view to the
Align-Rite shareholders than the merger.
Before initially furnishing information or discussing or negotiating with
that person, Align-Rite must give Photronics two business days' advance written
notice. Also, if Align-Rite receives any inquiries, offers or proposals from any
person with respect to
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any acquisition proposal, then Align-Rite will notify Photronics of the inquiry,
offer or proposal within 24 hours after Align-Rite receives it. In addition,
Align-Rite will give Photronics five business days' advance notice of any
agreement to be entered into with the person that made the inquiry, offer or
proposal.
The merger agreement does not prohibit Align-Rite from disclosing to Align-
Rite shareholders the statement required by Rule 14e-2(a) under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 with respect to an acquisition proposal by means of a
tender offer.
Sale of Shares by Photronics
Photronics will sell shares of its common stock that it acquired within the
two years before the merger so that accounting for the merger as a pooling of
interests will not be adversely affected.
Conditions to the Merger
We are not obligated to complete the merger unless the following conditions
are satisfied or waived:
. the Securities and Exchange Commission declares Photronics' registration
statement effective for the registration of the Photronics common stock to
be issued in the merger and does not issue a stop order suspending
effectiveness or initiate any proceedings for that purpose;
. the requisite number of Align-Rite shareholders approve the principal terms
of the merger agreement and the merger;
. the requisite number of Photronics shareholders approve the issuance of
Photronics common stock to Align-Rite shareholders in the merger;
. the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott Rodino Act expires or is
terminated;
. the parties obtain all consents and approvals necessary for the merger,
other than those that in the aggregate are not material; and
. the shares of Photronics common stock to be issued in the merger have been
authorized for trading in the Nasdaq National Market.
Furthermore, neither Photronics and its merger subsidiary nor Align-Rite is
obligated to complete the merger unless the other party's representations and
warranties in the merger agreement are true and correct in all respects on the
effective date of the merger and the other party has materially performed all of
its material agreements and covenants required to be performed or complied with
before the effective time of the merger. However, exceptions to a party's
representations and warranties that, in the aggregate,
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would not materially and adversely affect such party will not give the other
party the right to prevent the completion of the merger. A party may waive
certain unsatisfied conditions if such party is entitled to require the
satisfaction of such condition before the completion of the merger.
In addition, Photronics is not obligated to complete the merger
. if there are effective demands for payment of dissenters' rights by
shareholders of Align-Rite for more than five percent of the outstanding
shares;
. unless each of Photronics and Align-Rite receives pooling letters from each
of their respective independent accountants; and
. unless each of Photronics and Align-Rite receives an opinion from its legal
counsel regarding certain tax matters.
Employee Matters
The surviving corporation and its subsidiaries will honor all existing
employment, severance, consulting and salary continuation agreements between
Align-Rite or any of its subsidiaries and any current or former officer,
director, employee or consultant of Align-Rite or any of its subsidiaries. The
surviving corporation and its subsidiaries will provide benefits, plans and
programs to its employees which are no less favorable in the aggregate than
those generally available to similarly situated employees of Photronics in the
same jurisdiction of Photronics and its subsidiaries.
Indemnification of Directors and Officers
The merger agreement provides that all rights to indemnification and all
limitations on liability that exist for any officer, director or employee of
Align-Rite or any of its subsidiaries and that are provided in Align-Rite's
charter, bylaws or any agreement will survive the merger and continue in full
force and effect. To the extent permitted by California law, the Align-Rite
charter and bylaws or any indemnity agreement, advancement of expenses pursuant
to their terms will be mandatory rather than permissive, and the surviving
corporation and Photronics must advance costs in connection with such
indemnification. Photronics will cause the surviving corporation to honor the
terms of all indemnity agreements.
The merger agreement also provides that, for six years after the merger,
Photronics will, and will cause the surviving corporation to, maintain officers'
and directors' liability insurance and fiduciary liability insurance covering
those officers, directors or employees who are covered as of the date of the
merger agreement by Align-Rite's existing liability insurance policies. The
terms of the new insurance policies will be no less advantageous to such
officers, directors or employees than the existing insurance policies. However,
if neither Photronics nor the surviving corporation can obtain coverage
equivalent to the
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existing insurance policies at an annual premium equal to or less than a
specified ceiling, then Photronics or the surviving corporation will maintain
policies that in Photronics' good faith judgment provide maximum coverage at an
annual premium equal to the specified ceiling.
The merger agreement also requires that for a period of six years after the
merger, Photronics and the surviving corporation will indemnify Align-Rite's
former directors and officers for losses, claims, damages and certain other
expenses relating to their service as officers, directors or employees of Align-
Rite on or before the effective time of the merger. Photronics and the surviving
corporation will make advances to such directors and officers for all expenses
incurred in connection with any such indemnifiable claim. Unless otherwise
provided in any indemnity agreement, Photronics or the surviving corporation may
require an indemnitee to provide an undertaking to repay any expense advances if
a court ultimately determines that this indemnitee is not entitled to
indemnification from Photronics or the surviving corporation.
The obligations of Photronics, Align-Rite and the surviving corporation are
binding on all their successors and assigns and survive the completion of the
merger.
Termination
The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the effective
time of the merger as follows:
. by mutual written consent of Photronics and Align-Rite;
. unless Photronics is in material breach of any representation, warranty,
covenant or agreement in the merger agreement, by Photronics if Align-Rite
breaches any of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements in
the merger agreement or if any representation or warranty of Align-Rite
becomes untrue, and such breach or untruth continues for ten days following
notice to Align-Rite of such breach or untruth, and the nature of such
breach or untruth is such that certain conditions to Photronics'
obligations to consummate the merger would be incapable of being satisfied
by February 25, 2000;
. unless Align-Rite is in material breach of any representation, warranty,
covenant or agreement in the merger agreement, by Align-Rite if Photronics
breaches any of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements in
the merger agreement or if any representation or warranty of Photronics
becomes untrue, and such breach or untruth continues for ten days following
notice to Photronics of such breach or untruth, and the nature of such
breach or untruth is such that certain conditions to Align-Rite's
obligations to consummate the merger would be incapable of being satisfied
by February 25, 2000;
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. by either Photronics or Align-Rite if any governmental entity shall have
issued an order, decree or ruling, or taken any other action, permanently
enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the
merger, and this order, decree, ruling or other action shall have become
final and nonappealable;
. by either Photronics or Align-Rite if the merger does not occur by February
25, 2000, unless the merger does not occur due to a breach of a covenant,
or a material breach of a representation or warranty, in the merger
agreement by the party seeking to terminate;
. by either Photronics or Align-Rite if the Align-Rite shareholders fail to
approve the Align-Rite merger proposal, as long as Align-Rite is not in
material breach under the merger agreement;
. by either Photronics or Align-Rite if the Photronics shareholders fail to
approve the Photronics merger proposal, as long as Photronics is not in
material breach under the merger agreement;
. by Align-Rite, if before the Align-Rite shareholders meeting, a third party
presents a superior proposal. However, before Align-Rite may terminate the
merger agreement, it must give Photronics notice of the proposed
termination and the opportunity for Photronics to amend the merger
agreement to make it substantially similar to the third party superior
proposal. Align-Rite may terminate the merger agreement if Photronics and
Align-Rite do not reach an agreement to amend the merger agreement within
five days following Photronics' receipt of Align-Rite's termination notice;
. by Photronics if the Align-Rite board (A) withdraws or modifies adversely
its recommendation of the merger, (B) recommends an alternative acquisition
proposal to Align-Rite shareholders, or (C) fails to call or hold the
Align-Rite shareholders meeting because Align-Rite received an alternative
acquisition proposal; and
. by Align-Rite by notice delivered to Photronics if the average per share
high and low sales price of Photronics common stock as reported on the
Nasdaq National Market during the 20 consecutive trading days ending the
third trading day before the Align-Rite shareholders meeting or if the
closing of the merger is more than five business days after the meeting,
the closing date, is less than $16.00.
The party desiring to terminate the merger agreement must give written
notice of such termination to the other party.
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<PAGE>
Fees and Expenses
Except as described in "-- Termination Fee" below, the party incurring
costs and expenses will pay all such costs and expenses incurred in connection
with the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement.
Termination Fee
Align-Rite must pay Photronics $3,640,000 as a result of the termination of
the merger agreement under any of the following circumstances:
. Align-Rite terminated the merger agreement because it received a superior
proposal and it did not reach agreement with Photronics to amend the merger
agreement so as to make it substantially similar to the alternative
proposal;
. Photronics terminated the merger agreement because Align-Rite's board
withdrew or adversely modified its recommendation to its shareholders;
. Photronics terminated the merger agreement because Align-Rite breached any
of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements;
. An alternative acquisition proposal was made before the Align-Rite
shareholders meeting, the Align-Rite shareholders do not approve the Align-
Rite merger proposal. Align-Rite must pay the $3,640,000 termination fee if
within six months after the termination of the merger agreement Align- Rite
enters into an agreement with the third party presenting the alternative
acquisition proposal and completes an acquisition with such third party
within 18 months after the termination of the merger agreement on
substantially the same terms as presented in the alternative acquisition
proposal.
Amendment
Align-Rite and Photronics may amend or supplement the merger agreement in
writing at any time, except that following approval by the Align-Rite
shareholders and Photronics shareholders, there may be no amendment to the
merger agreement that by law requires further approval by the Align-Rite
shareholders and Photronics shareholders unless Align-Rite or Photronics, as
applicable, first obtains such approval.
Waiver
The merger agreement permits Align-Rite, Photronics and Photronics' merger
subsidiary at any time before the effective time of the merger to:
. extend the time to perform any of the obligations or other acts of the
other parties;
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. waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties contained in
the merger agreement or in any document delivered pursuant to the merger
agreement; and
. waive compliance with any of the agreements or conditions of the other
party contained in the merger agreement unless, if such party waives
compliance after approval by the Align-Rite shareholders and the Photronics
shareholders, as applicable, and such waiver would require approval by the
Align-Rite shareholders, or the Photronics shareholders, as applicable,
such party first obtains such approval, in each case pursuant to a written
instrument.
The failure of any party to the merger agreement to assert any of its
rights thereunder or otherwise will not constitute a waiver of those rights.
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<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following unaudited pro forma combined financial information gives
effect to the merger using the pooling of interests method of accounting, after
giving effect to the pro forma adjustments described in the accompanying notes.
The unaudited pro forma combined financial information should be read in
conjunction with the audited historical consolidated financial statements and
related notes of Photronics and Align-Rite, which are incorporated by reference
into this proxy statement/prospectus.
The unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet gives effect to the merger
as if it had occurred on August 1, 1999, the balance sheet date. The unaudited
pro forma combined balance sheet combines Photronics' August 1, 1999 unaudited
consolidated balance sheet with Align-Rite's June 30, 1999 unaudited
consolidated balance sheet. The unaudited pro forma combined statements of
operations give effect to the merger as if it had occurred at the beginning of
the periods presented. The unaudited pro forma combined statements of operations
combine Photronics' historical operating results for the nine months ended
August 1, 1999 and August 2, 1998 and for the fiscal years ended November 1,
1998, November 2, 1997 and October 31, 1996 with the corresponding Align-Rite
period as shown in the following table:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Photronics Period Ended Align-Rite Period Ended
- --------------------------------- --------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Nine months ended August 1, 1999 Nine months ended June 30, 1999
Nine months ended August 2, 1998 Nine months ended June 30, 1998
Year ended November 1, 1998 Twelve months ended September 30, 1998
Year ended November 2, 1997 Year ended March 31, 1998
Year ended October 31, 1996 Year ended March 31, 1997
</TABLE>
Photronics most recent fiscal year-end was November 1, 1998. Accordingly,
Align-Rite's financial statements for the most recent year have been conformed
so that the twelve months end within 93 days of the Photronics most recent year-
end. Earlier periods are shown as previously reported.
For purposes of the preparation of the unaudited pro forma combined balance
sheet, merger-related expenses (which the companies estimate will be
approximately $3 million on a pre-tax basis) were included. The estimate of
merger-related expenses is preliminary and subject to change.
Certain financial statement balances of Align-Rite have been reclassified
to conform with Photronics financial statement presentation.
The unaudited pro forma combined financial information is presented for
illustrative purposes only and does not purport to be indicative of the
operating results or
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<PAGE>
financial position that would have actually occurred if the merger had been in
effect on the dates indicated, nor is it necessarily indicative of future
operating results or financial position of the merged companies. The pro forma
adjustments are based on the information and assumptions available as of the
date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus. The unaudited pro forma combined
financial statements do not give effect to any cost savings or synergies which
may result from the integration of Photronics and Align-Rite operations.
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<PAGE>
Photronics Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Balance Sheet
August 1, 1999
(in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 1, 1999 JUNE 30, 1999 PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
PHOTRONICS ALIGN-RITE ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Assets
- ------
Current assets:
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Cash and cash equivalents.......... $ 7,574 $ 4,550 $ 20,000 $ 32,124
Accounts receivable (less allowances
for doubtful accounts).............. 37,173 8,250 45,423
Inventories.......................... 13.417 2,941 16,358
Deferred income taxes................ 5,923 - 5,923
Other current assets................. 3,348 1,403 4,751
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Total current assets............... 67,435 17,144 - 104,579
Property, plant and equipment, net. 280,919 60,223 341,142
Intangible assets, net............... 23,402 - 23,402
Investments.......................... 10,123 - 10,123
Other assets......................... 5,196 1,508 6,704
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
$387,075 $78,875 $ - $485,950
=============== ============== ============= =========
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
- --------------------------------------
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt.... $ 264 $ 2,908 3,172
Accounts payable................... 39,048 3,939 42,987
Accrued salaries and wages......... 3,270 - 3,270
Accrued interest payable........... 1,100 - 1,100
Other accrued liabilities.......... 5,759 2,754 3,000 11,513
Income taxes payable............... 797 930 1,727
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Total current liabilities.......... 50,238 10,531 3,000 63,769
Long-term debt....................... 115,799 17,960 133,759
Deferred income taxes................ 12,546 5,355 17,901
Other liabilities.................... 4,378 774 5,152
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Total liabilities.................. 182,961 34,620 (17,000) 220,581
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock.................... - -
Common stock....................... 239 45 100 384
Additional paid-in capital......... 79,536 19,107 19,900 118,543
Retained earnings.................. 126,016 25,206 (3,000) 148,222
Other comprehensive income (loss).. (1,677) (103) - (1,780)
Deferred compensation.............. (73) - (73)
Total shareholders' equity......... 204,114 44,255 17,000 265,369
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
$387,075 $78,875 $ - $485,950
=============== ============== ============= =========
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
Photronics, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Earnings
for the Nine Months Ended August 1, 1999
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 1, 1999 JUNE 30, 1999 PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
PHOTRONICS ALIGN-RITE ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales.............................. $160,675 $38,121 $198,796
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales....................... 114,180 26,292 140,482
Selling, general and administrative. 22,899 6,505 29,404
Research and development............ 11,257 768 12,025
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Operating income.................. 12,329 4,556 - 16,885
Other income and expense:
Interest income..................... 774 (27) 747
Interest expense.................... (4,592) (107) (4,699)
Other income, net................... 1,114 (98) 1,016
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Income before income taxes............. 9,625 4,324 - 13,949
Provision for income taxes............. 3,700 1,508 5,208
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Net income.......................... $ 5,925 $ 2,816 $ - $ 8,741
=============== ============== ============= =========
Earnings per share:
Basic............................... $0.25 $0.62 - $0.30
=============== ============== ============= =========
Diluted............................. $0.25 $0.58 - $0.30
=============== ============== ============= =========
Weighted average number of
common shares outstanding:
Basic............................... 23,966 4,526 - 29,317
=============== ============== ============= =========
Diluted............................. 23,966 4,868 - 29,317
=============== ============== ============= =========
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
Photronics, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Earnings
for the Nine Months Ended August 2, 1998
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUGUST 2, 1998 JUNE 30, 1998 PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
PHOTRONICS ALIGN-RITE ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales.............................. $169,920 $38,371 $208,291
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales....................... 105,415 24,170 129,585
Selling, general and administrative. 21,699 6,021 27,720
Research and development............ 9,415 497 9,912
Non-recurring restructuring charge.. 3,800 - 3,800
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Operating income.................. 29,591 7,683 - 37,274
Other income and expense:
Interest income..................... 2,056 113 2,169
Interest expense.................... (4,457) - (4,457)
Other income, net................... 943 132 1,075
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Income before income taxes............. 28,133 7,928 - 36,061
Provision for income taxes............. 10,700 2,982 13,682
--------------- -------------- ------------- ---------
Net income.......................... $ 17,433 $ 4,946 $ - $ 22,379
=============== ============== ============= =========
Earnings per share:
Basic............................... $0.72 $1.11 - $0.77
=============== ============== ============= =========
Diluted............................. $0.70 $1.01 - $0.76
=============== ============== ============= =========
Weighted average number of
common shares outstanding:
Basic............................... 24,356 4,457 - 28,887
=============== ============== ============= =========
Diluted............................. 29,082 4,880 - 33,613
=============== ============== ============= =========
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
Photronics, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Earnings
for the Year Ended November 1, 1998
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NOVEMBER 1, SEPTEMBER
1998 30, 1998 PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
PHOTRONICS ALIGN-RITE ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
------------- ------------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales............................. $222,572 $52,364 $274,936
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales...................... 141,628 32,802 174,430
Selling, general and administrative 28,793 8,262 37,055
Research and development........... 12,893 712 13,605
Non-recurring restructuring charge. 3,800 - 3,800
------------- ------------- ----------- ---------
Operating income................. 35,458 10,588 - 46,046
Other income and expense:
Interest income.................... 2,721 104 2,825
Interest expense................... (6,143) - (6,143)
Other income, net.................. 1,046 143 1,189
------------- ------------- ----------- ---------
Income before income taxes............ 33,082 10,835 - 43,917
Provision for income taxes............ 12,600 4,078 16,678
------------- ------------- ----------- ---------
Net income......................... $ 20,482 $ 6,757 $ - $ 27,239
============= ============= =========== =========
Earnings per share:
Basic.............................. $0.84 $1.51 - $0.94
============= ============= =========== =========
Diluted............................ $0.84 $1.39 - $0.93
============= ============= =========== =========
Weighted average number of
common shares outstanding:
Basic.............................. 24,350 4,463 - 28,933
============= ============= =========== =========
Diluted............................ 28,958 4,876 - 33,541
============= ============= =========== =========
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
Photronics, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Earnings
for the Year Ended November 2, 1997
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NOVEMBER 2,
1997 MARCH 31, 1998 PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
PHOTRONICS ALIGN-RITE ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales............................. $197,451 $46,721 $244,172
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales......................... 121,502 29,236 150,738
Selling, general and administrative... 24,940 7,442 32,382
Research and development.............. 10,605 509 11,114
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
Operating income...................... 40,404 9,534 - 49,938
Other income and expense:
Interest income....................... 2,424 122 2,546
Interest expense...................... (2,466) - (2,466)
Other income, net..................... 1,074 132 1,206
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
Income before income taxes............ 41,436 9,788 - 51,224
Provision for income taxes............ 15,800 3,688 19,488
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
Net income............................ $ 25,636 $ 6,100 $ - $ 31,736
============= ============== ============ =========
Earnings per share:
============= ============== ============ =========
Basic................................. $1.07 $1.37 - $1.12
============= ============== ============ =========
Diluted............................... $1.03 $1.25 - $1.08
Weighted average number of
common shares outstanding:
Basic................................. 23,910 4,439 - 28,441
============= ============== ============ =========
Diluted............................... 26,628 4,865 - 31,159
============= ============== ============ =========
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
Photronics, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Earnings
for the Year Ended October 31, 1996
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OCTOBER 31,
1996 MARCH 31, 1997 PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
PHOTRONICS ALIGN-RITE ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales............................. $160,071 $38,001 $198,072
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales...................... 98,267 23,530 121,797
Selling, general and administrative 21,079 6,072 27,151
Research and development........... 8,460 333 8,793
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
Operating income................. 32,265 8,066 - 40,331
Other income and expense:
Interest income.................... 1,601 308 1,909
Interest expense................... (160) - (160)
Other income, net.................. 197 7 204
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
Income before income taxes............ 33,903 8,381 - 42,284
Provision for income taxes............ 12,900 3,056 15,956
------------- -------------- ------------ ---------
Net income......................... $ 21,003 $ 5,325 $ - $ 26,328
============= ============== ============ =========
Earnings per share:
Basic.............................. $0.89 $1.21 - $0.94
============= ============== ============ =========
Diluted............................ $0.87 $1.11 - $0.92
============= ============== ============ =========
Weighted average number of
common shares outstanding:
Basic.............................. 23,496 4,386 - 28,027
============= ============== ============ =========
Diluted............................ 24,202 4,799 - 28,733
============= ============== ============ =========
</TABLE>
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Photronics, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Financial Information
The unaudited pro forma combined financial information reflects the merger
and gives effect to the following assumptions:
(a) In connection with the merger, Photronics will sell 1,000,000 shares of
common stock at an estimated net price of $20 per share, or $20,000,000.
The net price per share was determined based on the October 1, 1999 closing
price, adjusted for a discount to reflect the sale of 1,000,000 shares and
the cost of such sales. As a result of the timing of the purchase of the
one million shares between September 1998 and March 1999, 820,000 common
shares have been included in the pro forma adjustment for basic and
diluted shares outstanding for the nine months ended August 1, 1999 and
50,000 shares have been included in the pro forma adjustment for the year
ended November 1, 1998.
(b) It is estimated that approximately $3,000,000 will be incurred for
direct costs of the merger, consisting primarily of transactions costs for
investment banking, legal and accounting fees. The unaudited pro forma
combined balance sheet gives effect to these expenses as if they had been
incurred as of August 1, 1999, but the unaudited pro forma combined
statement of operations do not give effect to any merger related costs.
(c) The equivalent pro forma share amounts of Align-Rite are calculated by
multiplying unaudited pro forma combined income per share and book value
per share amounts by an assumed conversion ratio of .993 based on the
closing price of Photronics common stock of $23.25 on October 1, 1999.
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COMPARISON OF THE RIGHTS OF HOLDERS OF ALIGN-RITE COMMON
STOCK AND PHOTRONICS COMMON STOCK
As a result of the merger, Align-Rite common shareholders will become
holders of Photronics common stock. Align-Rite is a California corporation and
Photronics is a Connecticut corporation. The rights of Align-Rite shareholders
are currently governed by Align-Rite's articles of incorporation and bylaws and
the laws of California. Following the merger, the rights of all former holders
of Align-Rite common stock will be governed by the Photronics certificate of
incorporation and bylaws, and the laws of Connecticut. The following is a
summary comparison of the material differences between the rights of holders of
Align-Rite common stock and holders of Photronics common stock and more
particularly certain material differences between certain provisions of the
Photronics certificate of incorporation and the Align-Rite articles of
incorporation, the Photronics bylaws and the Align-Rite bylaws, and between
certain provisions of the Connecticut Business Corporation Act and the
California General Corporation Law.
For information on how to obtain copies of the Photronics certificate of
incorporation, the Photronics bylaws, the Align-Rite articles of incorporation,
and the Align-Rite bylaws, see "Where You Can Find More Information."
Furthermore, the description of the differences between Connecticut law and
California law is a summary only, is not a complete description of the
differences between Connecticut law and California law, and is qualified in its
entirety by references to Connecticut law and California law.
Authorized Capital
The total number of authorized shares of capital stock of Photronics is
77,000,000, consisting of 75,000,000 shares of Photronics common stock, par
value $0.01 per share, and 2,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $0.01
per share. As of August 1, 1999, 23,907,120 shares of Photronics common stock
were outstanding and no shares of Preferred Stock were outstanding.
The authorized capital stock of Align-Rite consists of 35,000,000 shares of
common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of which 4,677,869 shares were issued
and outstanding as of September 30, 1999.
Number of Directors; Removal; Vacancies
Number of Directors. Connecticut law provides that a corporation's board of
directors must consist of one or more members, with the number specified in or
fixed in accordance with the certificate of incorporation or the bylaws. In
addition, Connecticut law provides that the number of directors may be increased
or decreased from time to time by amendment to, or in the manner provided in,
the certificate of incorporation or the bylaws.
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<PAGE>
The Photronics bylaws state that the number of directors shall be between
three and fifteen. The number at any time shall be the number most recently
determined by the board of directors or the shareholders or, absent such action,
shall be the number of directors elected at the preceding annual meeting, plus
the number of directors elected since the meeting, if any, to fill a vacancy
created by an increase in the size of the board. There are currently four
directors serving on the Photronics board.
Connecticut law provides that directors are elected by a plurality of the
votes cast by the shares entitled to vote at a meeting where a quorum is
present, and shareholders do not have the right to cumulate their votes unless
the certificate of incorporation so provides. The Photronics certificate of
incorporation does not provide for cumulative voting.
California law provides that a corporation's board of directors must
consist of one or more members, with the number specified in or fixed in
accordance with the articles of incorporation or the bylaws. In addition,
California law provides that the number of directors may be increased or
decreased from time to time by amendment to, or in the manner provided in, the
articles of incorporation or the bylaws. The Align-Rite bylaws state that the
number of directors shall be between five and nine members. There are currently
five directors serving on the Align-Rite board.
California law requires corporations to provide for cumulative voting in
the election of directors unless the articles of incorporation or bylaws
eliminate cumulative voting. The Align-Rite articles of incorporation
specifically prohibits cumulative voting.
Removal. Under Connecticut law, a director may be removed by shareholders
with or without cause unless the certificate of incorporation provides that
directors may be removed only for cause. Additionally, a director may be removed
by shareholders only at a meeting called for the purpose of removing that
director, and the notice calling the meeting must state that the purpose or one
of the purposes of the meeting is removal of the director. The Photronics bylaws
provide that a director may be removed with or without cause by a vote of the
holders of a majority of the stock entitled to vote.
Under California law, the holders of at least 10% of the outstanding shares
of any class of stock may initiate a court action to remove any director for
cause. In addition, any or all of the directors of a California corporation may
be removed without cause by the affirmative vote of a majority of the
outstanding shares entitled to vote. However, no director may be removed, unless
the entire board is removed, when the votes cast against removal would be
sufficient to elect the director if voted cumulatively at an election at which
the same total number of votes were cast and the entire number of the directors
authorized at the time of the director's most recent election were then being
elected.
Vacancies. Under Connecticut law, unless the certificate of incorporation
provides otherwise, any vacancy in a board of directors may be filled by either
the shareholders, the board of directors, or, if the directors remaining in
office constitute fewer than a quorum of the board,
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by the affirmative vote of a majority of all the directors remaining in office.
The Photronics certificate of incorporation conforms with the requirements of
Connecticut law.
Under California law, unless otherwise provided in the articles of
incorporation or bylaws and except for a vacancy created by the removal of a
director, vacancies on the board of directors may be filled by approval of the
board. In addition, any vacancies on the board resulting from the removal of
directors may be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares
represented and voting at a meeting at which a quorum is present (or by consent
signed by holders of shares having not less than the minimum number of votes
required at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote were present and
voted). The Photronics by-laws provide that vacancies occurring on the board as
a result of the death or resignation of a director shall be filled by a majority
of the remaining directors. A vacancy on the board occurring as a result of the
removal of a director shall be filled by the majority vote of the shareholders
as provided under California law.
Charter Amendments
Under Connecticut law, a corporation's certificate of incorporation may be
amended in some limited respects by the board of directors of that corporation
without shareholder action. A corporation may also amend its certificate of
incorporation in any respect by (a) recommendation of the board of directors
(unless the board determines that because of conflict of interest or other
special circumstances it should make no recommendation and communicates the
basis for its determination to the shareholders with the amendment), and (b)
unless the certificate of incorporation or directors require a greater vote, by
approval of either (x) a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on the
amendment by each voting group, if any, with respect to which the amendment
would create dissenter's rights, or (y) a majority of the votes cast by every
other voting group entitled to vote on the amendment. The Photronics certificate
of incorporation does not require the vote of a greater number of shares than
provided under Connecticut law.
Under California law, a corporation's articles of incorporation may be
amended by the board of directors and the shareholders if (a) the board of
directors approves the proposed amendment; and (b) the holders of at least a
majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote approve such amendment by
affirmative vote, unless the corporation's articles of incorporation require the
vote of a greater number of shares. In addition, each class of stock affected by
such a proposed amendment, even if such stock would not otherwise have such
rights, must approve by at least a majority vote amendments which make certain
specified changes to the rights of such class of capital stock. The Align-Rite
articles of incorporation do not require a number of shares different from
California law to approve an amendment to the Align-Rite articles of
incorporation.
Bylaw Amendments
Under Connecticut law, a corporation's board of directors may amend or
repeal the bylaws unless either the corporation's certificate of incorporation
or certain specified provisions of the Connecticut Business Corporation Act
reserve this power exclusively to the shareholders
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in whole or in part, or the shareholders, in amending or repealing a particular
bylaw, expressly provided that the board of directors may not amend or repeal
that bylaw. The Photronics certificate of incorporation does not reserve the
power to amend the bylaws exclusively to the shareholders. In addition, no bylaw
enacted by Photronics's shareholders expressly provides that the board may not
amend or repeal such bylaw.
Under California law, a corporation's bylaws may be adopted, amended or
repealed either by the vote of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to
vote or by the approval of the board of directors except (a) if the number of
directors is set forth in the articles of incorporation, in which case this
number may be changed only by an amendment to the articles of incorporation, and
(b) after the issuance of shares, a bylaw specifying or changing a fixed number
of directors or the maximum or minimum number or changing from a fixed to a
variable board or vice versa may be adopted by approval only of the outstanding
shares, provided that an amendment reducing the number of directors to less than
five cannot be adopted if the votes cast against adoption (or not consenting)
equal or exceed 16 2/3% of the outstanding shares entitled to vote. The Align-
Rite bylaws provide that the bylaws may be amended either by approval of the
outstanding shares or, other than changes increasing or decreasing the size of
the board of directors or altering the method of election and term of directors,
by the approval of the board of directors.
Special Meetings of Shareholders
Under Connecticut law, a corporation is required to hold a special meeting
of shareholders if (a) the board of directors calls such a meeting; or (b)
holders of at least ten percent of all votes entitled to be cast on any issue
proposed to be considered at the special meeting make a written demand for the
meeting to the corporation's secretary describing the purpose for the proposed
special meeting; provided, that if the corporation has a class of voting stock
registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and no
person held ten percent or more of such votes on February 1, 1998, the
corporation need not hold such a special meeting except upon demand of the
holders of not less than thirty five percent of such votes.
Unless the corporation's certificate of incorporation or Connecticut law
provides otherwise, a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on a matter
constitutes a quorum for action on that matter. Connecticut law further provides
that unless Connecticut law or a corporation's certificate of incorporation
requires a greater number of affirmative votes, if a quorum exists, action on a
matter, other than the election of directors, is approved if the majority of
votes cast favor of the action.
In addition to the requirements of Connecticut law, the Photronics bylaws
provide that special meetings of the shareholders may also be called by the
President or the Secretary of the corporation. A quorum under the Photronics
bylaws consists of the holders of a majority of the stock entitled to vote,
represented in person or by proxy.
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California law provides that a special meeting of shareholders may be
called by the board of directors, the chairman of the board, the president or
the holders of shares entitled to cast not less than ten percent of the votes at
the meeting or such additional persons as may be provided in the articles of
incorporation of bylaws (there being none specified in the Align-Rite articles
of incorporation or bylaws). Under California law and the Align-Rite articles of
incorporation, a quorum for a special meeting of shareholders is a majority of
the shares entitled to vote.
Cumulative Voting
Under Connecticut law, shareholders do not have a right to cumulate their
votes for directors unless the certificate of incorporation so provides. The
Photronics certificate of incorporation does not provide for cumulative voting.
California law requires corporations to provide for cumulative voting for
the election of directors unless, in the case of a listed corporation, bylaws
are amended to eliminate cumulative voting. The Align-Rite articles of
incorporation specifically provide that cumulative voting is not permitted.
Shareholder Action Without a Meeting
Under Connecticut law, shareholders may take action without a meeting (a)
by unanimous written consent of all the persons who would be entitled to vote
upon that action at a meeting, or (b) if the certificate of incorporation so
provides, by written consent of a majority of the persons who would be entitled
to vote upon that action at a meeting. The Photronics' bylaws provide for any
action which may be taken at a meeting of shareholders may be taken without a
meeting provided this action is consented to in writing by all persons entitled
to vote at such a meeting.
Under California law, unless otherwise provided in the articles of
incorporation, any action which may be taken at a meeting of shareholders may
also be taken without a meeting and without prior notice by the execution of a
written consent of the holders of at least the same number of outstanding shares
as would be necessary to take such action at a meeting on which all shares
entitled to vote were present and voted, except that the election of directors
by written consent requires the unanimous consent of all shares entitled to vote
in such election. The Align-Rite articles of incorporation, however,
specifically prohibit shareholder action without a meeting.
Required Vote for Certain Transactions
Extraordinary Transactions. Under Connecticut law, in order for a plan of
merger or share exchange to be approved, the board of directors must adopt the
plan of merger or share exchange and recommend it to the shareholders for
approval, unless the board determines that, due to a conflict of interest or
other special circumstances, it should make no recommendation and communicates
the basis for its determination to the shareholders. For corporations
incorporated before January 1, 1997, a plan of merger or share exchange must be
approved by
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each voting group entitled to vote separately on the plan by at least two-thirds
of the voting power of such voting group, unless the certificate of
incorporation provides otherwise. Photronics' certificate of incorporation does
not contain such an alternative.
California law requires approval of the board of directors and a majority
of shares outstanding for mergers, exchanges, sales of assets (other than sales
in the ordinary course of business) or share exchange tender offers. California
law generally requires that, unless all shareholders of a class or series
consent, each share of a class or series of any party to a merger must be
treated equally with respect to any distribution of cash, property, rights or
securities.
Absence of Required Vote for Certain Corporate Mergers and Reorganizations.
Connecticut law does not require a vote of the shareholders of a corporation
surviving a merger to approve a merger if:
. the agreement of merger does not amend the certificate of
incorporation of such corporation, except for certain enumerated
amendments;
. each shareholder of the surviving corporation whose shares were
outstanding immediately before the effective date of the merger will
hold the same number of shares with identical designations,
preferences, limitations and relative rights, immediately thereafter;
. the number of voting shares outstanding immediately after the merger,
plus the number of voting shares issuable as a result of the merger,
will not exceed by more than twenty percent the total number of shares
outstanding immediately before the merger; and
. the number of participating shares (as defined under Connecticut law),
outstanding immediately after the merger, plus the number of
participating shares issuable as a result of the merger, will not
exceed by more than twenty percent the total number of participating
shares outstanding immediately before the merger
However, neither the merger nor the potential issuance of shares
representing more than 20% of the outstanding shares of Photronics common stock
requires approval by Photronics shareholders under Connecticut law because the
merger involves a merger of AL Acquisition Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Photronics, and Align-Rite, a California corporation. Shareholder approval of
the potential issuance of shares of common stock by Photronics representing more
than 20% of its outstanding shares is required by the rules governing companies
listed on the Nasdaq National Market.
California law does not require a vote of the shareholders of a corporation
surviving a reorganization (defined as mergers, certain share exchange
transactions and/or certain acquisitions of securities) to approve such
reorganization if such corporation, or its shareholders immediately before the
reorganization, or both, shall own (immediately after the reorganization) equity
securities other than any warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase such
equity
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securities, of the surviving or acquiring corporation or a parent party
possessing more than five-sixths of the voting power of the surviving or
acquiring corporation or parent party.
State Takeover Legislation
Connecticut law provides for limitations and prohibitions on certain
defined "business combinations." Under Connecticut law, a "business combination"
includes:
. mergers,
. combinations,
. certain transfers or issuances of equity securities to " interested
shareholders" (generally defined as the beneficial owner of ten percent or more
of the voting power of the outstanding shares of voting stock of a corporation)
and their affiliates,
. liquidation/dissolution resolutions passed by interested shareholders
and their affiliates; or
. reclassifications of securities that result in the proportionate
increase of ownership of outstanding shares by interested shareholders and their
affiliates.
Connecticut law generally requires that in addition to any vote otherwise
required by law or a corporation's certificate of incorporation, a business
combination must first be approved by a corporation's board of directors and
then be approved by the affirmative vote of at least:
(a) the holders of 80% of the voting power of the outstanding shares of the
corporation; and
(b) the holders of two-thirds of the voting power of the outstanding shares
of the corporation (other than shares held by the interested shareholder and any
affiliates.)
Connecticut law also generally prohibits a resident domestic corporation
from engaging in any business combination with any interested shareholder for a
period of five years following the date that such shareholder became an
interested shareholder, unless (a) prior to such date the board of directors of
the corporation and a majority of such corporation's non-employee directors (of
which there must be at least two) approved either the business combination or
the transaction which resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested
shareholder, or (b) the business combination is otherwise exempted from the
five-year prohibition by applicable provisions of Connecticut law.
Finally, Connecticut law permits transactions involving a Connecticut
corporation and an interested director of that corporation so long as
(a) the transaction is approved by an affirmative vote of a majority, but
no fewer than two, of those qualified directors (defined as a director who is
not interested or a director who is not an affiliate of an interested director)
on the board of directors or on a duly empowered
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committee of the board who voted on the transaction after the existence and
nature of the directors' conflicting interest and all facts known to him
respecting the subject matter of the conflicting interest transaction that an
ordinarily prudent person would reasonably believe to be material to a judgment
about whether or not to proceed with the transaction are known or disclosed to
them,
(b) a majority of the votes entitled to be cast by the holders of all
qualified shares (defined as shares that are not owned or controlled by an
interested director or an affiliate of an interested director) were cast in
favor of the transaction after the existence and nature of the director's
conflicting interest and all facts known to the interested director respecting
the subject matter of the conflicting interest transaction that an ordinarily
prudent person would reasonably believe to be material to a judgment about
whether or not to proceed with the transaction are known or disclosed to the
holders of such shares, or
(c) the transaction, judged according to the circumstances at the time of
commitment, is established to have been fair to the corporation. Connecticut
law contains no provisions explicitly treating conflict-of-interest transactions
with officers of a corporation.
California law requires that an "interested party" (defined below) in a
corporation provide such corporation's shareholders with copies of a fairness
opinion if such interested party and the corporation enter into various forms of
transactions, including a merger transaction. An "interested party" for
purposes of California law means a person who is a party to the transaction and
(a) directly or indirectly controls the corporation, (b) is or is directly or
indirectly controlled by, an officer or director of the corporation or (c) is an
entity in which a material financial interest is held by any director or
executive officer of the corporation.
California law also provides that contracts or transactions between a
corporation and (a) any of its directors or (b) a company in which a director
has a material financial interest are not void or voidable if the material facts
as to the transaction and as to the director's interest are fully disclosed and
either (x) approved by vote of a majority of the share represented at a meeting
(or consented to by shares sufficient in number to approve the matter at a
meeting), excluding shares owned by the director or other interested party; or
(y) approved or ratified by vote of the directors sufficient, without counting
the vote of the interested director, to adopt the matter and the contract or
transaction is just and reasonable as to the corporation at the time of the
vote. Alternatively, the person asserting the validity of the contract or
transaction may sustain the burden of proving that the contract or transaction
was just and reasonable as to the corporation at the time it was authorized,
approved or ratified.
Standard of Conduct for Directors
Connecticut law requires that a director of a corporation discharge his
duties as a director in good faith, with the care an ordinarily prudent person
in a like position would exercise under similar circumstances, and in a manner
such director reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the
corporation. In connection with the director's consideration of certain
business
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combination transactions, Connecticut law requires that a director consider, in
determining what such director reasonably believes to be in the best interests
of the corporation,
(a) the long-term as well as the short-term interests of the corporation,
(b) the interests of the shareholders, long-term as well as short-term,
including the possibility that these interests may be best served by the
continued independence of the corporation,
(c) the interests of the corporation's employees, customers, creditors, and
suppliers, and
(d) community and societal considerations including those of any community
in which any office or other facility of the corporation is located. A director
may also use his discretion in considering any other factors he reasonably
considers appropriate in determining what he reasonably believes to be in the
best interests of the corporation with respect to such a businesses combination.
California law requires that a director discharge his duties, including
duties as a member of any committee of the board upon which the director may
serve, in good faith, in a manner such director believes to be in the best
interests of the corporation and its shareholders and with such care, including
reasonable inquiry, as an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use
under similar circumstances. In performing the duties of a director, a director
is entitled to rely on information, opinions, reports or statements, including
financial statements and other financial data, in each case prepared or
presented by any of the following:
(a) one or more officers or employees of the corporation whom the director
believes to be reliable and competent in the matters presented;
(b) counsel, independent accountants or other persons as to matters which
the director believes to be within such person's professional and expert
competence; and
(c) a committee of the board upon which the director does not serve, as to
matters within its designated authority, which committee the director believes
to merit confidence, so long as, in any such case, the director acts in good
faith, after reasonable inquiry when the need therefor is indicated by the
circumstances and without knowledge that would cause such reliance to be
unwarranted.
Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Unless the certificate of incorporation provides otherwise, Connecticut law
provides that a corporation formed prior to January 1, 1997 (such as Photronics)
shall indemnify its officers, directors, employees or agents against liability
incurred by them in connection with proceedings, if they acted in good faith
and, in the case of conduct in their official capacity, in a manner they
reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the corporation and, in all
other cases, that their conduct was at least not opposed to the best interest of
the corporation, and with respect to criminal proceedings, had no reasonable
cause to believe that their conduct was unlawful. A
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corporation may advance expenses to its officers, directors, employees or agents
prior to final adjudication, as long as they deliver to the corporation a
written affirmation of their good faith belief that they have satisfied the
required standard of conduct and undertake to repay the amounts advanced if it
is ultimately determined that they were not entitled to be indemnified. Finally,
Connecticut law permits a corporation to purchase liability insurance for
directors and officers.
The Photronics bylaws provide that shareholders, directors, officers,
employees and agents shall be entitled to indemnification as provided by
Connecticut law.
Under California law, a corporation has the power to indemnify, with
certain exceptions, any agent who is a party to any action, other than an action
by or in the right of the corporation to procure a judgment in its favor,
against expenses, judgments fines and settlements if that person acted in good
faith and in a manner that person reasonably believed to be in the best
interests of the corporation and, in the case of a criminal proceeding, had no
reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. In addition, a
corporation has the power to indemnify, with certain exceptions, any agent who
is a party to any action by or in the right of the corporation against expenses
actually and reasonably incurred by that person in connection with the defense
or settlement of the action if that person acted in good faith and in a manner
that person believed to be in the best interests of the corporation and its
shareholders. An agent of a corporation for purposes of California law includes
directors, officers and employees of such corporation. The indemnification
authorized by California law is not exclusive and a corporation may grant its
directors certain additional rights to indemnification.
Furthermore, California law provides, upon receipt of an undertaking to
reimburse the corporation if indemnification is ultimately determined to be
inappropriate, that a corporation may advance expenses of defense. In addition,
a corporation must reimburse a successful defendant for expenses, actually and
reasonably incurred in connection with their defense. California law also
permits a corporation to purchase liability insurance for its directors and
officers. California law provides that a corporation may not indemnify for any
matter as to which a person has been adjudged to be liable to the corporation,
but only to the extent a court determines that the person is entitled to
indemnity.
Align-Rite's articles of incorporation and by-laws provide that Align-Rite
shall provide indemnification to its agents to the fullest extent permissible
under California law. Align-Rite also has entered into indemnity agreements with
its directors and officers that obligate Align-Rite to indemnify the director or
officer to the fullest extent permitted under California law.
Limitation of Personal Liability of Directors and Officers
Under Connecticut law, a corporation is permitted to limit the personal
liability of a director to the corporation or its shareholders for money damages
for breach of duty as a director to an amount that is not less than the
compensation received by the director for serving the corporation during the
year of the violation if such breach did not
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(a) involve a knowing or culpable violation of law by the director,
(b) enable the director or an associate to receive improper personal
economic gain,
(c) show a lack of good faith and a conscious disregard for the duty of the
director to the corporation under circumstances in which the director was aware
that his conduct or omission created an unjustifiable risk of serious injury to
the corporation,
(d) constitute a sustained and unexcused pattern of inattention that
amounted to an abdication of the director's duty to the corporation, or
(e) create liability for unlawful distributions. The Photronics
certificate of incorporation provides for the limitation on director's liability
to the maximum extent permitted by law.
Under California law, a corporation's articles of incorporation may
eliminate all monetary liability of each director to the corporation or its
shareholders for conduct in the performance of such director's duties other than
certain conduct specifically excluded from protection. California law does not,
however, permit any limitation of liability of a director for certain acts,
including:
(a) acts or omissions that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing and
culpable violation of law;
(b) acts or omissions that a director believes to be contrary to the best
interests of the corporation or its shareholders or that involve the absence of
good faith on the part of the director;
(c) any transaction from which a director derived a improper personal
benefit;
(d) acts or omissions that show a reckless disregard for the director's
duty to the corporation or its shareholders in circumstances in which the
director was aware, or should have been aware, in the ordinary course of
performing a director's duties to the corporation or its shareholders; and
(e) acts or omissions that constitute an unexcused pattern of inattention
that amounts to an abdication of the director's duty to the corporation or its
shareholders. The Align-Rite charter eliminates the monetary liability of
Align-Rite's directors to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Appraisal and Dissenters' Rights
Under Connecticut law, a shareholder is entitled to dissent from, and
receive the fair value of shares owned in the event of a plan of merger or share
exchange to which the corporation is a party as the corporation whose shares
will be acquired, if shareholder approval is required for the merger or the
share exchange and the shareholder is entitled to vote on the
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transaction. Connecticut law also provides for appraisal rights in the case of
(a) a sale or exchange of all, or substantially all, of the property of the
corporation other than in the ordinary and regular course of business if the
shareholder is entitled to vote on the sale, with certain judicially ordered and
other special sales excluded (b) amendments to the certificate of incorporation
that materially and adversely affect the dissenters' rights in respect of such
dissenters' shares; and c) any corporate action taken pursuant to a shareholder
vote to the extent the certificate of incorporation, bylaws or a board
resolution provides that shareholders are entitled to dissent and obtain payment
for their shares. Neither Photronics' certificate of incorporation nor its
bylaws contain provisions concerning appraisal and dissenters' rights.
Generally, under California law, a shareholder of a corporation has (a) the
right to dissent from any reorganization or disposition to which such
corporation is a party if California law requires a shareholder vote; and (b)
appraisal rights upon compliance with the statutory procedures. If appraisal
rights are available after compliance with the prescribed statutory procedures,
a shareholder is entitled to receive from the corporation cash equal to the
"fair market value" of his shares (exclusive of any appreciation or depreciation
in connection with the proposed merger) determined as of the day before the
announcement of the proposed corporate action. Neither the Align-Rite charter
nor its bylaws contain provisions concerning appraisal of dissenter's rights.
See "The Merger - Dissenters Rights" for a discussion of the rights of Align-
Rite shareholders in connection with the merger.
Preemptive Rights
Under Connecticut law, shareholders do not generally have preemptive rights
unless the corporation's certificate of incorporation specifically grants such
rights. The Photronics certificate of incorporation provides that no Photronics
shareholder shall have any preemptive or preferential rights to subscribe for,
purchase or receive any shares of stock of or any obligation convertible into
shares of stock of the corporation, including warrants, subscription rights, or
options to acquire share, which Photronics may issue or sell.
Under California law, a shareholder does not have preemptive rights unless
the articles of incorporation specifically grants such rights. The articles of
incorporation of Align-Rite do not provide for preemptive rights.
Voting Rights of Classes of Stock
Connecticut law provides that holders of the outstanding shares of a class
of stock shall be entitled to vote as a separate voting group upon a proposed
amendment to the certificate of incorporation, whether or not entitled to vote
thereon by the certificate of incorporation, if the amendment would
(a) increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares of the
class;
(b) effect an exchange or reclassification of all or part of the shares of the
class into shares of another class;
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(c) effect an exchange or reclassification, or create the right of exchange,
of all or part of the shares of another class into shares of the class;
(d) change the designations, rights, preferences or limitations of all or part
of shares of the class;
(e) change the shares of all or part of the class into a different number of
shares of the same class;
(f) create a new class of shares having rights or preferences with respect to
distributions or to dissolution that are prior, superior or substantially equal
to the shares of the class;
(g) increase the rights, preferences or number of authorized shares of any
class that, after giving effect to the amendment, have rights or preferences
with respect to distributions or to dissolution that are prior, superior or
substantially equal to the shares of the class;
(h) limit or deny an existing preemptive right of all or part of the shares of
the class; or
(i) cancel or otherwise affect rights to distributions or dividends that have
accumulated but not yet been declared on all or part of the shares of the class.
California law provides that holders of each class of shares are entitled to
vote as a class upon a proposed amendment to the articles of incorporation,
whether or not entitled to vote thereon by the articles of incorporation, if the
amendment would
(a) increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares of such
class;
(b) effect an exchange, reclassification, or cancellation of all or part of
the shares of such class;
(c) effect an exchange, or create a right of exchange, of all or part of the
shares of another class into the shares of such class;
(d) change the rights, preferences, privileges or restrictions of the shares
of such class;
(e) create a new class of shares having rights, preferences or privileges
prior to the shares of such class, or increase the rights, preferences or
privileges or the number of authorized shares of any class having rights,
preferences or privileges prior to the shares of such class;
(f) in the case of preferred shares, divide the shares of any class into
series having different rights, preferences, privileges or restrictions or
authorize the board to do so; or
(g) cancel or otherwise affect dividends on the shares of such class which
have accrued but have not been paid.
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Payment of Dividends
Under Connecticut law, a corporation may make distributions, including
dividends, to its shareholders subject to restriction by its certificate of
incorporation unless, after giving effect to the dividend or distribution,
either the corporation would not be able to pay its debts as they become due in
the usual course of business or the corporation's total assets would be less
than the sum of its total liabilities plus, unless its certificate of
incorporation permits otherwise, the amount that would be needed, if the
corporation were to be dissolved at that time, to satisfy the preferential
rights of shareholders whose rights are superior to those shareholders receiving
the dividend or distribution. Neither Photronics' amended certificate of
incorporation nor its bylaws contain a limitation on such powers.
Generally, a California corporation may pay dividends or repurchase shares
out of retained earnings. Dividends or repurchases of shares may also be made
if, immediately after giving effect thereto, the sum of (a) the assets
(excluding goodwill and certain other assets) of the corporation are at least
equal to 1.25 times its liabilities (excluding certain deferred credits) and (b)
the current assets of the corporation are at least equal to its current
liabilities or, if the average of the earnings of the corporation before taxes
and interest expense for the two preceding fiscal years were less than the
average of the interest expense of such corporation for such fiscal years, at
least equal to 1.25 times its current liabilities. There are exceptions to the
foregoing rules for repurchases of shares in connection with certain rescission
actions or pursuant to certain employee stock plans. Neither Align-Rite's
articles of incorporation nor its bylaws contain any limitations on such powers.
Inspection of Books and Records
Under Connecticut law, a shareholder is entitled to inspect and copy the
list of shareholders provided he gives the corporation at least five days
written notice, and his demand is in good faith, for a proper purpose, and the
records are directly connected with his purpose. Additionally, Connecticut law
entitles a shareholder to inspect and copy corporate records such as the
certificate of incorporation, bylaws, shareholder meeting minutes, and the list
of current directors and officers.
California law allows any shareholder upon written demand to inspect a
corporation's shareholders' list for a purpose reasonably related to such
person's interests as a shareholder. In addition, California law provides an
absolute right to inspect and copy the corporation's shareholders' list to
persons holding an aggregate of 5% or more of a corporation's voting shares, or
shareholders holding an aggregate of 1% or more of such shares who have filed a
Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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EXPERTS
The financial statements of Photronics, Inc. as of November 1, 1998 and
November 2, 1997, and for each of the three years in the period ended November
1, 1998, incorporated in this joint proxy statement/prospectus by reference from
Photronics' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 1, 1998, have
been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent auditors, as stated in their
report which is incorporated herein by reference, and is incorporated in
reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts in
accounting and auditing.
The consolidated financial statements of Align-Rite International, Inc. as
of March 31, 1999 and 1998 and for each of the three years in the period ended
March 31, 1999 which appears in Align-Rite International, Inc.'s Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 1999 included as Annex E of this joint
proxy statement/prospectus, have been so included in reliance on the report of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants, given on the authority of
said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
LEGAL OPINIONS
The legality of the shares of Photronics common stock to be issued in
connection with the merger will be passed upon by Paul, Hastings, Janofsky &
Walker LLP. Certain federal income tax consequences of the merger will be passed
upon for Align-Rite by O'Melveny & Myers LLP.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Align-Rite will hold an annual meeting of shareholders in the year 2000 if
the merger is not consummated before the time of such meeting. In the event that
such a meeting is held, any proposals of shareholders intended to be presented
at the 2000 annual meeting of Align-Rite shareholders must have been received by
the Secretary of Align-Rite no later than May 17, 2000 in order to be considered
for inclusion in its proxy materials.
For shareholder proposals to be presented at the 2000 annual meeting of
Photronics shareholders and to be considered for inclusion in Photronics 2000
proxy materials, notice of such proposal was required to have been received by
Photronics no later than October 15, 1999.
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OTHER MATTERS
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, the Photronics
board knows of no matters that will be presented for consideration at the
Photronics shareholders meeting other than as described in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. If any other matters shall properly come before the
Photronics shareholders meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof and
be voted upon, the enclosed proxies will be deemed to confer discretionary
authority on the individuals named as proxies therein to vote the shares
represented by such proxies as to any such matters. The persons named as proxies
intend to vote or not to vote in accordance with the recommendation of the
management of Photronics.
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, the Align-Rite
board knows of no matters that will be presented for consideration at the
Align-Rite shareholders meeting other than as described in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. If any other matters shall properly come before either the
Align-Rite shareholders meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof and
be voted upon, the enclosed proxies will be deemed to confer discretionary
authority on the individuals named as proxies therein to vote the shares
represented by such proxies as to any such matters. The persons named as proxies
intend to vote or not to vote in accordance with the recommendation of the
management of Align-Rite.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Align-Rite and Photronics file annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy
statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
You may read and copy any reports, statements or other information we file at
the Securities and Exchange Commission's public reference rooms in Washington,
D.C., New York, New York and Chicago, Illinois. Please call the Securities and
Exchange Commission at 1-800-SEC-8330 for further information on the public
reference room. Our Securities and Exchange Commission filings are also
available to the public from commercial document retrieval services and at the
web site maintained by the Securities and Exchange Commission at
http://www.sec.gov.
Photronics filed a registration statement on Form S-4 to register with the
Securities and Exchange Commission the Photronics common stock which Photronics
will issue to the Align-Rite shareholders in the merger. This document is part
of that registration statement and constitutes a prospectus of Photronics in
addition to being a proxy statement for Photronics and Align-Rite for their
shareholders meetings. As allowed by the Securities and Exchange Commission
rules, this document does not contain all of the information you can find in the
registration statement or the exhibits to the registration statement.
The Securities and Exchange Commission allows Photronics and Align-Rite to
incorporate by reference information into this document, which means that
Photronics and Align-Rite can disclose important information to you by referring
to another document filed separately with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. The information incorporated by reference is
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deemed to be part of this document, except for any information superseded by
information in this document.
This document incorporates by reference the documents set forth below:
Photronics Securities and Exchange Commission Filings:
1. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 1, 1998
2. Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended January 31, May 2 and
August 1, 1999
3. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September 24, 1999
4. Registration Statement on Form 8-A, dated March 31, 1987
Photronics is also incorporating by reference any additional documents that it
may file with the Securities and Exchange Commission between the date of this
document and the date of the shareholders meetings.
Align-Rite Securities and Exchange Commission Filings:
1. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999
2. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1999
3. Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 27, 1999
If you are a shareholder of Align-Rite, we have sent you the Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999 and the Quarterly Report
on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended June 30, 1999. The documents incorporated by
reference by Photronics and Align-Rite (other than the Align-Rite documents
included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus) are available from Photronics
and Align-Rite, as applicable, without charge, excluding all exhibits unless the
exhibits have specifically been incorporated by reference in this document.
Shareholders may obtain documents listed above by requesting them in writing
from the appropriate company at the following address:
Photronics, Inc. Align-Rite International, Inc.
Investor Relations 2428 Ontario Street
15 Secor Road Burbank, California 91504
Brookfield, CT 06804 Attention: Petar N. Katurich
Attention: Michael W. McCarthy (818) 843-7220
(203) 775-9000
If you would like to request documents from us, please do so by *, so that
you may receive them before the shareholders meetings. You should rely on the
information contained in this document to vote on the proposals submitted by the
Photronics and Align-Rite boards. We have not authorized anyone to provide you
with information that is different from what is contained in this document. This
document is dated *. You should not assume that the information contained in
this document is accurate as of any date other than such date, and
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neither the mailing of this document to shareholders of Photronics and
Align-Rite nor the issuance of Photronics common stock in the merger shall
create any implication to the contrary.
You are urged to sign, date and promptly mail the enclosed proxy in the
enclosed prepaid envelope. Prompt return of your proxy may save Align-Rite and
Photronics additional solicitation expense.
We encourage all shareholders of Align-Rite and Photronics to attend the
special shareholders meetings on *.
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ANNEX A
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
among
PHOTRONICS, INC.,
AL ACQUISITION CORP.
and
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Dated as of September 15, 1999
<PAGE>
This AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of September 15, 1999, is
entered into by and among PHOTRONICS, INC., a Connecticut corporation
("Parent"), AL ACQUISITION CORP., a California corporation and a wholly owned
subsidiary of Parent ("Merger Sub"), and ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC., a
California corporation (the "Company").
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the respective Boards of Directors of Parent, Merger Sub and the
Company and Parent as the sole shareholder of Merger Sub have approved the
acquisition of the Company by Parent upon the terms and subject to the
conditions set forth in this Agreement and Plan of Merger, including, without
limitation, the exhibits attached hereto (collectively, the "Agreement");
WHEREAS, the respective Boards of Directors of Parent, Merger Sub and the
Company have determined that it is advisable and in the best interests of their
respective shareholders for Merger Sub to merge with and into the Company as set
forth below (the "Merger") upon the terms and subject to the conditions set
forth in this Agreement, whereby each issued and outstanding share of common
stock, par value $.01 per share, of the Company ("Company Common Stock"), other
than Dissenting Shares (as defined in Section 2.5) and shares owned directly or
indirectly by Parent, Merger Sub or by the Company, will be converted into
shares of common stock, par value $.01 per share, of Parent (the "Parent Common
Stock") in accordance with the provisions of Article II of this Agreement;
WHEREAS, as a condition and inducement to Parent's willingness to enter
into this Agreement, concurrently with the execution and delivery of this
Agreement, Parent and certain shareholders of the Company (the "Voting
Shareholders") are entering into a voting agreement dated as of the date of this
Agreement (the "Voting Agreement") pursuant to which such shareholder agrees to
vote his shares of Company Common Stock in favor of the proposal to approve and
adopt the Merger and this Agreement;
WHEREAS, for federal income tax purposes, the Merger is intended to qualify
as a reorganization under the provisions of Section 368(a) of the Code;
WHEREAS, for financial accounting purposes, it is intended that the Merger
shall be accounted for as a "pooling-of-interests;" and
WHEREAS, Parent, Merger Sub and the Company desire to make certain
representations, warranties, covenants and agreements in connection with the
Merger and also to prescribe certain conditions to the Merger.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants
and agreements herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby,
Parent, Merger Sub and the Company hereby agree as follows:
<PAGE>
ARTICLE I.
The Merger
Section 1.1 The Merger. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set
forth in this Agreement and the California General Corporation Law (the "CGCL"),
Merger Sub shall be merged with and into the Company at the Effective Time (as
defined in Section 1.3) of the Merger. Following the Merger, the separate
corporate existence of Merger Sub shall cease, and the Company shall continue as
the surviving corporation (the "Surviving Corporation") and shall succeed to and
assume all the rights and obligations of Merger Sub in accordance with the CGCL.
Section 1.2 Closing. The closing of the Merger (the "Closing") shall
take place at 10:00 a.m. on a date to be specified by the parties which shall be
no later than the third business day after the satisfaction or waiver of the
conditions set forth in Article VI (other than those conditions that by their
nature are to be satisfied at the Closing, but subject to the fulfillment or
waiver of those conditions) (the "Closing Date") at such place as the parties
may mutually agree.
Section 1.3 Effective Time. On the Closing Date, the parties shall
execute and file in the office of the Secretary of State of California this
Agreement and a duly executed officers' certificate by each of the Company and
Merger Sub in accordance with the CGCL and shall make all other filings or
recordings, and take such other and further action as may be required under the
CGCL. The Merger shall become effective upon the filing of this Agreement and
such officers' certificates (such time as the Merger becomes effective is
referred to herein as the "Effective Time").
Section 1.4 Effects of the Merger. The Merger shall have the effects set
forth in the CGCL.
Section 1.5 Articles of Incorporation and By Laws of the Surviving
Corporation.
(a) The Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company
as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time shall become the Amended
and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation after the
Effective Time, and thereafter may be amended as provided therein and as
permitted by law.
(b) The by laws of the Merger Sub as in effect immediately prior to
the Effective Time shall become the by laws of the Surviving Corporation after
the Effective Time, and thereafter may be amended as provided therein and as
permitted by law.
Section 1.6 Directors. The directors of the Merger Sub immediately prior
to the Effective Time shall become the directors of the Surviving Corporation,
until the earlier of their resignation or removal or until their respective
successors are duly elected and qualified, as the case may be.
Section 1.7 Officers. The officers of the Company immediately prior to
the Effective Time shall become the officers of the Surviving Corporation, until
the earlier of their resignation or removal or until their respective successors
are duly elected and qualified, as the case may be.
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ARTICLE II.
Effect of the Merger on the Capital Stock of the
Constituent Corporations; Exchange of Certificates
Section 2.1 Capital Stock of Merger Sub. At the Effective Time, by
virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder of any
shares of Company Common Stock or any shares of capital stock of Merger Sub,
each share of common stock, par value $.01 per share, of Merger Sub issued and
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be converted into and
become one fully paid and nonassessable share of common stock, par value $.01
per share, of the Surviving Corporation.
Section 2.2 Cancellation of Parent Owned Stock. At the Effective Time,
by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder of any
shares of Company Common Stock or any shares of capital stock of Merger Sub,
each share of Company Common Stock that is owned by Parent, Merger Sub or any
other subsidiary of Parent, shall automatically be canceled and retired and
shall cease to exist, and no consideration shall be delivered in exchange
therefor.
Section 2.3 Conversion of Company Common Stock. At the Effective Time,
by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder of any
shares of Company Common Stock or any shares of capital stock of Merger Sub,
subject to this Section 2.3 and Section 2.4(f), each share of Company Common
Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than
shares to be canceled in accordance with Section 2.2 (the "Canceled Shares") and
Dissenting Shares) shall be converted into a number (the "Conversion Number") of
duly authorized, validly issued and nonassessable shares of Parent Common Stock
(the "Merger Consideration") determined by dividing $23.09 by the average of the
daily average per share high and low sales prices of one share of Parent Common
Stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market (as reported in the New York
City edition of The Wall Street Journal or, if not reported thereby, another
authoritative source) for each of the 20 trading days ending on the third
trading day prior to the Company Meeting (as defined in Section 5.3, so long as
the Closing Date occurs within five business days of the Company Meeting or, if
the Closing Date is more than five business days after the Company Meeting, the
Closing Date) rounded to the nearest cent (the "Average Parent Price"), provided
that (i) if the Average Parent Price is less than $21.00, the Conversion Number
shall be 1.0995; and (ii) if the Average Parent Price is greater than $28.25,
the Conversion Number shall be 0.8173; provided, however, that, in any event, if
between the date of this Agreement and the Effective Time, the outstanding
shares of Parent Common Stock shall have been changed into a different number of
shares or a different class, by reason of any declared or completed stock
dividend, subdivision, reclassification, recapitalization, split, combination or
exchange of shares, the Conversion Number shall be adjusted correspondingly to
the extent appropriate to reflect such stock dividend, subdivision,
reclassification, recapitalization, split, combination or exchange of shares.
At the Effective Time, all such shares of Company Common Stock (other than
Dissenting Shares) shall no longer be outstanding and automatically shall be
canceled and retired and shall cease to exist, and each holder of a certificate
which immediately prior to the Effective Time represented outstanding shares of
Company Common Stock (other than Dissenting Shares) shall cease to have any
rights with respect thereto, except the right to receive the Merger
Consideration.
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Section 2.4 Exchange of Certificates.
(a) Exchange Agent. Promptly after the Effective Time, Parent shall
deposit, or cause to be deposited, with an exchange agent designated by Parent
and reasonably satisfactory to the Company (the "Exchange Agent"), for the
benefit of the holders of shares of Company Common Stock for exchange in
accordance with this Article II, through the Exchange Agent, certificates
evidencing such number of shares of Parent Common Stock issuable to holders of
Company Common Stock in the Merger pursuant to Section 2.3 and cash in an amount
required to be paid pursuant to Sections 2.4(d) and 2.4(f) (such certificates
for shares of Parent Common Stock, together with any dividends or distributions
with respect thereto and cash, being hereinafter referred to as the "Exchange
Fund"). The Exchange Agent, pursuant to irrevocable instructions, shall deliver,
out of the Exchange Fund, to holders of Company Common Stock the Parent Common
Stock contemplated to be issued pursuant to Section 2.3 (and any dividends or
other distributions to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(d))
and the cash in lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common Stock to which such
holders are entitled to pursuant to Section 2.4(f) hereof out of the Exchange
Fund.
(b) Exchange Procedures. As promptly as practicable after the
Effective Time, Parent shall cause the Exchange Agent to mail to each holder of
record of a certificate or certificates (the "Certificates") which immediately
prior to the Effective Time represented outstanding shares of Company Common
Stock (other than Canceled Shares and Dissenting Shares) (i) a letter of
transmittal (which shall be in customary form and shall specify that delivery
shall be effected, and risk of loss and title to the Certificates shall pass,
only upon proper delivery of the Certificates to the Exchange Agent) and (ii)
instructions for use in effecting the surrender of the Certificates in exchange
for certificates evidencing shares of Parent Common Stock, or cash in lieu of
fractional shares of Parent Common Stock to which such holder is entitled
pursuant to Section 2.4(f) hereof.
(c) Exchange of Certificates. Upon surrender to the Exchange Agent of
a Certificate for cancellation, together with such letter of transmittal, duly
executed and completed in accordance with the instructions thereto, and such
other documents as may be reasonably required pursuant to such instructions, the
holder of such Certificate shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor a
certificate representing that number of whole shares of Parent Common Stock
which such holder's shares of Company Common Stock have been converted into
pursuant to this Article II (and any cash in lieu of any fractional shares of
Parent Common Stock to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(f))
and any dividends or other distributions to which such holder is entitled
pursuant to Section 2.4(d)), and the Certificate so surrendered shall forthwith
be canceled. In the event of a transfer of ownership of shares of Company Common
Stock which is not registered in the transfer records of the Company, shares of
Parent Common Stock, cash in lieu of any fractional shares of Parent Common
Stock to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(f) and any
dividends or other distributions to which such holder is entitled pursuant to
Section 2.4(d) may be issued to a transferee if the Certificate representing
such shares of Company Common Stock is presented to the Exchange Agent,
accompanied by all documents required to evidence and effect such transfer and
by evidence that any applicable stock transfer taxes have been paid. Until
surrendered as contemplated by this Section 2.4, each Certificate shall be
deemed at all times after the Effective Time to represent only the right to
receive upon such surrender the number of whole shares of Parent Common Stock
into which the shares of Company Common Stock formerly represented thereby have
been converted, cash in lieu of any fractional shares of Parent Common Stock to
which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(f) and any dividends or
other distributions to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(d).
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(d) Distributions with Respect to Unexchanged Shares of Parent Common
Stock. No dividends or other distributions declared or made after the Effective
Time with respect to Parent Common Stock with a record date after the Effective
Time shall be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered Certificate with respect
to the shares of Parent Common Stock represented thereby, and no cash payment in
lieu of any fractional shares shall be paid to any such holder pursuant to
Section 2.4(f), until the holder of such Certificate shall surrender such
Certificate. Subject to the effect of escheat, tax or other applicable laws,
following surrender of any such Certificate, there shall be paid to the holder
of the certificates representing whole shares of Parent Common Stock issued in
exchange therefor, without interest, (i) promptly, the amount of any cash
payable with respect to a fractional share of Parent Common Stock to which such
holder is entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(f) and the amount of dividends or
other distributions with a record date after the Effective Time and theretofore
paid with respect to such whole shares of Parent Common Stock, and (ii) at the
appropriate payment date, the amount of dividends or other distributions, with a
record date after the Effective Time but prior to surrender and a payment date
occurring after surrender, payable with respect to such whole shares of Parent
Common Stock.
(e) No Further Rights in Company Common Stock. All shares of Parent
Common Stock issued upon conversion of the shares of Company Common Stock in
accordance with the terms hereof (including any cash paid pursuant to Section
2.4(d) or (f)) shall be deemed to have been issued in full satisfaction of all
rights pertaining to such shares of Company Common Stock.
(f) No Fractional Shares.
(i) No certificates or scrip representing fractional shares of
Parent Common Stock shall be issued upon the surrender for exchange of
Certificates, no dividend or distribution of Parent shall relate to
such fractional share interests and such fractional share interests
will not entitle the owner thereof to vote or to any rights of a
stockholder of Parent.
(ii) In lieu of the issuance of fractional shares, each holder
of Company Common Stock shall be entitled to receive an amount in cash
equal to the product obtained by multiplying (A) the fractional share
interest to which such holder (after taking into account all shares of
Company Common Stock held at the Effective Time by shareholder) would
otherwise be entitled by (B) the last sale price for a share of Parent
Common Stock on the Nasdaq National Market (as reported in The Wall
Street Journal or, if not reported thereby, any other authoritative
source) on the last trading day prior to the Closing Date.
(g) Termination of Exchange Fund. Any portion of the Exchange Fund
(including any shares of Parent Common Stock) which remains undistributed to the
holders of Company Common Stock for 180 days after the Effective Time shall be
delivered to Parent, upon demand, and any holders of Company Common Stock who
have not theretofore complied with this Article II shall thereafter look only to
Parent for, and Parent shall deliver, the applicable Merger Consideration, any
cash in lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common Stock to which they are
entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(f) and any dividends or other distributions
with respect to the Parent Common Stock to which they are entitled pursuant to
Section 2.4(d), upon due surrender of their shares of Company Stock (or
affidavits of loss in lieu thereof), in each case, without any interest thereon.
Any portion of the Exchange Fund remaining unclaimed by holders of shares of
Company Common Stock as of a date which is immediately prior to such time as
such amounts would otherwise escheat to or become property of any government
entity, to
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the extent permitted by applicable law, shall become the property of Parent,
free and clear of any claims or interest of any person previously entitled
thereto.
(h) No Liability. None of the Exchange Agent, Parent nor the Surviving
Corporation shall be liable to any holder of shares of Company Common Stock for
any such shares of Parent Common Stock (or dividends or distributions with
respect thereto) or cash delivered to a public official pursuant to any
abandoned property, escheat or similar law.
(i) Withholding Rights. Each of the Surviving Corporation and the
Exchange Agent shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from the consideration
otherwise payable pursuant to this Agreement to any holder of shares of Company
Common Stock such amounts as it is required to deduct and withhold with respect
to the making of such payment under the Code, or any provision of state, local
or foreign tax law. To the extent that amounts are so withheld by the Surviving
Corporation or the Exchange Agent, as the case may be, such withheld amounts
shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been paid to the
holder of the shares of Company Common Stock in respect of which such deduction
and withholding was made by the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent, as
the case may be.
(j) Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates. If any Certificate shall
have been lost, stolen or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that
fact by the person claiming such Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed
and, if required by the Surviving Corporation, the posting by such person of a
bond, in such reasonable amount as the Surviving Corporation may direct, as
indemnity against any claim that may be made against it with respect to such
Certificate, the Exchange Agent or the Parent, as the case may be, will issue in
exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate the applicable Merger
Consideration, and any cash in lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common Stock
to which the holders thereof are entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(f) and any
dividends or other distributions to which the holders thereof are entitled
pursuant to Section 2(d).
(k) Further Assurances. If, at any time after the Effective Time, the
Surviving Corporation shall consider or be advised that any deeds, bills of
sale, assignments, assurances or any other actions or things are necessary or
desirable to vest, perfect or confirm of record or otherwise in the Surviving
Corporation its right, title or interest in, to or under any of the rights,
properties or assets of either of the Merger Sub or the Company acquired or to
be acquired by the Surviving Corporation as a result of, or in connection with,
the Merger or otherwise to carry out this Agreement, the officers of the
Surviving Corporation shall be authorized to execute and deliver, in the name
and on behalf of each of the Merger Sub and the Company or otherwise, all such
deeds, bills of sale, assignments and assurances and to take and do, in such
names and on such behalves or otherwise, all such other actions and things as
may be necessary or desirable to vest, perfect or confirm any and all right,
title and interest in, to and under such rights, properties or assets in the
Surviving Corporation or otherwise to carry out the purposes of this Agreement.
Section 2.5 Dissenters' Rights. Notwithstanding anything in this
Agreement to the contrary, shares of Company Common Stock outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time and constituting "dissenting shares" (as
defined in Section 1300 of the CGCL) ("Dissenting Shares"), shall not be
converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration, as provided in
Section 2.3 hereof, unless and until such holder fails to perfect or effectively
withdraws or otherwise loses his or her right to appraisal and payment under the
CGCL. If, after the Effective Time, any such holder fails to perfect or
effectively withdraws or loses his or her right to appraisal, such Dissenting
Shares thereupon shall be treated as if they had been converted as of the
Effective Time into the right to receive the Merger
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Consideration to which such holder is entitled, without interest thereon. The
Company shall give Parent (i) prompt written notice of any demands received by
the Company for appraisal of any shares of Company Common Stock, attempted
withdrawals of such demands and any other instruments served, pursuant to
applicable law received by the Company relating to dissenters' rights and (ii)
the opportunity to direct all negotiations with respect to dissenters under the
CGCL. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Parent,
voluntarily make any payment with respect to Dissenting Shares, offer to settle
or settle any such demands or approve any withdrawal of such demands.
Section 2.6 Stock Transfer Books. At the Effective Time, the stock
transfer books of the Company shall be closed and there shall be no further
registration of transfers of shares of Company Common Stock thereafter on the
records of the Company. From and after the Effective Time, the holders of
Certificates representing shares of Company Common Stock outstanding immediately
prior to the Effective Time shall cease to have any rights with respect to such
shares of Company Common Stock, except as otherwise provided herein or by law.
On or after the Effective Time, any Certificates presented to the Exchange Agent
(or Parent for any reason) shall be converted into shares of Parent Common
Stock, any cash in lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common Stock to which the
holders thereof are entitled pursuant to Section 2.4(f) and any dividends or
other distributions to which the holders thereof are entitled pursuant to
Section 2.4(d).
ARTICLE III.
Representations and Warranties of the Company
The Company hereby represents and warrants to Parent and Merger Sub that,
except as set forth in the corresponding sections or subsections of the
disclosure letter delivered by the Company to Parent and Merger Sub on the date
hereof (the "Company Disclosure Letter"):
Section 3.1 Organization, Qualification, Etc. The Company is a
corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws
of the State of California and has all requisite corporate power and authority
to own its properties and assets and to carry on its business as it is now being
conducted and is duly qualified to do business and is in good standing in each
jurisdiction in which the ownership of its properties or the conduct of its
business requires such qualification, except for such jurisdictions in which
such failure to be so qualified or to be in good standing in the aggregate,
would not have a Material Adverse Effect on the Company. The Company Disclosure
Letter lists the locations of all offices of the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries. The copies of the Company's Restated and Amended Articles of
Incorporation and by laws which have been made available to Parent are complete
and correct and in full force and effect on the date hereof. Each of the
Company's Subsidiaries is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in
good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or
organization, has all requisite corporate power and authority to own its
properties and to carry on its business as it is now being conducted, and is
duly qualified to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in
which the ownership of its property or the conduct of its business requires such
qualification, except for such jurisdictions in which such failure to be so
qualified or to be in good standing would not have a Material Adverse Effect on
the Company. All the outstanding shares of capital stock of, or other ownership
interests in, the Company's Subsidiaries are validly issued, fully paid and non-
assessable and are owned by the Company, directly or indirectly, free and clear
of all liens, claims, charges or encumbrances. There are no existing options,
rights of first refusal, preemptive rights, calls or commitments of any
character relating to the issued or unissued capital stock or other securities
of, or other ownership interests in, any Subsidiary of the Company. The Company
has made available to Parent a complete and correct copy of the charter and by
laws or other organizational documents of each
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of the Subsidiaries, each as amended to the date hereof and each such document
is in full force and effect. As used in this Agreement, "Subsidiary" means with
respect to the Company, Parent or Merger Sub, as the case may be, any entity,
whether incorporated or unincorporated, of which at least a majority of the
securities or ownership interests having by their terms ordinary voting power to
elect a majority of the board of directors or other persons performing similar
functions is directly or indirectly owned or controlled by such party or by one
or more of its respective Subsidiaries or by such party and one or more of its
respective Subsidiaries.
Section 3.2 Capital Stock. The authorized capital stock of the Company
consists of 35,000,000 shares of the Company Common Stock. As of September 10,
1999, 4,677,869 shares of the Company Common Stock were issued and outstanding.
All the outstanding shares of the Company Common Stock have been validly issued
and are fully paid and non-assessable. There are no outstanding subscriptions,
options, warrants, rights or other arrangements or commitments obligating the
Company to issue any shares of its stock other than options and other rights to
receive or acquire an aggregate of 509,652 shares of the Company Common Stock
pursuant to the 1987 Employee Share Option Scheme and the 1995 Stock Option Plan
(together, the "Company Stock Plans") and the right to purchase up to 20,000
shares of the Company Common Stock pursuant to the Company's Employee Stock
Purchase Plan (the "Stock Purchase Plan").
Except for the issuance of shares of the Company Common Stock pursuant to
the options and other rights referred to in this Section 3.2, since March 31,
1999, no shares of the Company Common Stock have been issued. The Company
Disclosure Letter contains a list, which is complete and accurate, of each
outstanding option or other right to purchase or acquire shares of the Company
Common Stock under each of the Company Stock Plans and the Stock Purchase Plan,
identifying the plan, the holder, date of grant, exercise or purchase price and
number of shares of Company Common Stock subject thereto.
Section 3.3 Corporate Authority Relative to this Agreement. No Violation.
(a) The Company has full corporate power and authority to enter into
this Agreement and, subject to receipt of the Company Shareholder Approval (as
defined in Section 5.3), to carry out its obligations hereunder. The execution
and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby have been duly and validly authorized by the Board of
Directors of the Company and, except for the Company Shareholder Approval, no
other corporate proceedings on the part of the Company are necessary to
authorize this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby. The Board of
Directors of the Company has determined that the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement are advisable and in the best interest of its shareholders and,
subject to Section 5.10 hereof, to recommend to such shareholders that they vote
in favor thereof. This Agreement has been duly and validly executed and
delivered by the Company and, assuming this Agreement has been duly and validly
executed and delivered by the other parties hereto and subject to obtaining
Company Shareholder Approval, this Agreement constitutes the valid and binding
agreement of the Company, enforceable against the Company in accordance with its
terms (except insofar as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy,
insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors'
rights generally, or by principles governing the availability of equitable
remedies). Other than in connection with or in compliance with the provisions of
the CGCL, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), the
Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the "HSR
Act"), any non-United States competition, antitrust and investment laws and the
securities or blue sky laws of the various states and other jurisdictions, and,
other than the filing of this Agreement and a duly executed
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officers' certificate by each of the Company and the Merger Sub with the
California Secretary of State and any necessary state filings to maintain the
good standing or qualification of the Surviving Corporation (collectively, the
"Company Required Approvals"), no authorization, consent or approval of, or
filing with, any governmental body or authority is necessary on the part of the
Company for the consummation by the Company of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement, except for such authorizations, consents, approvals or filings,
the failure to obtain or make would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse
Effect on the Company; provided that the Company makes no representation with
respect to such of the foregoing as are required by reason of facts specifically
pertaining to Parent or any of its Subsidiaries.
(b) The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the
Company do not, and the consummation by the Company of the Merger and the other
transactions contemplated hereby will not, constitute or result in (i) a breach
or violation of, or a default under, the Amended and Restated Articles of
Incorporation or by laws of the Company or the comparable governing instruments
of any of its Subsidiaries, (ii) a breach or violation of, or a default under,
the acceleration of any obligations or the creation of a lien, pledge, security
interest or other encumbrance on the assets of the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries (with or without notice, lapse of time or both) pursuant to, any
agreement, lease, contract, note, mortgage, indenture, arrangement or other
obligation ("Contracts") binding upon the Company or any of its Subsidiaries,
any law, ordinance, regulation, decree or order of any governmental body or
authority to which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is subject, any
governmental or non-governmental permit or license to which the Company or any
of its Subsidiaries is subject or (iii) any change in the rights or obligations
of any party under any of the Contracts, except, in the case of clause (ii) or
(iii) above, for any breach, violation, default, acceleration, creation or
change that, in the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect on the
Company. The Company Disclosure Letter sets forth, a list of Contracts pursuant
to which consents or waivers are or may be required prior to consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, except for such consents or waivers
the failure to obtain would not have in the aggregate a Material Adverse Effect
on the Company.
Section 3.4 Reports and Financial Statements. The Company has delivered
or made available to Parent true and complete copies of each registration
statement, report, proxy statement or information statement prepared by it since
April 1, 1997, including:
(a) the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") for the years ended March 31, 1998 and 1999;
(b) the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC for
the quarter ended June 30, 1999;
(c) each definitive proxy statement filed by the Company with the SEC
since April 1, 1997;
(d) each final prospectus filed by the Company with the SEC since
April 1, 1997; and
(e) all Current Reports on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the SEC
since April 1, 1997.
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As of their respective dates, such reports, proxy statements, and
prospectuses filed on or prior to the date hereof (collectively, the "Company
SEC Reports") (i) complied as to form in all material respects with the
applicable requirements of the Securities Act, the Exchange Act and the rules
and regulations promulgated thereunder and (ii) did not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they were made, not misleading; provided, that the
foregoing clause (ii) shall not apply to the financial statements included in
the Company SEC Reports (which are covered by the immediately following
sentence). The audited consolidated financial statements and unaudited
consolidated interim financial statements included in the Company SEC Reports
(including any related notes and schedules) fairly present in all material
respects the financial position of the Company and its consolidated Subsidiaries
as of the dates thereof and their results of operations and cash flows for the
periods or as of the dates then ended (subject, where appropriate, to normal
year-end adjustments), in each case in accordance with past practice and
generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP")
consistently applied during the periods involved (except as otherwise disclosed
in the notes thereto and except that the unaudited financial statements therein
do not contain all of the footnote disclosures required by GAAP). Since April
1, 1997, the Company has timely filed all reports, registration statements and
other filings required to be filed by it with the SEC under the rules and
regulations of the SEC.
Section 3.5 No Undisclosed Liabilities. As of the date of this
Agreement, neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries has any liabilities
or obligations of any nature, whether or not accrued, contingent or otherwise,
and there is no existing condition, situation or set of circumstances which
reasonably could be expected to result in such a liability or obligation except
(i) liabilities or obligations reflected in any of the Company SEC Reports and
(ii) liabilities or obligations which would not in the aggregate have a Material
Adverse Effect on the Company.
Section 3.6 No Violation of Law. The businesses of the Company and its
Subsidiaries are not being conducted in violation of any law, ordinance,
regulation, decree or order of any governmental body or authority except (a) as
described in any of the Company SEC Reports and (b) for violations or possible
violations which would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on
the Company. The Company and its Subsidiaries have all permits, licenses and
governmental authorizations necessary or appropriate for ownership or occupancy
of their respective properties and assets and the carrying on of their
respective businesses, except for such permits, licenses and governmental
authorizations the failure of which to have would not have, in the aggregate, a
Material Adverse Effect on the Company.
Section 3.7 Environmental Laws and Regulations. Except as described in
any of the Company SEC Reports, (a) the Company and each of its Subsidiaries is
in compliance with all applicable federal, state, local and foreign laws and
regulations relating to pollution or protection of human health or the
environment (including, without limitation, ambient air, surface water, ground
water, land surface or subsurface strata) (collectively, "Environmental Laws"),
except for non-compliance which would not in the aggregate have a Material
Adverse Effect on the Company, which compliance includes, but is not limited to,
the possession by the Company and its Subsidiaries of permits and other
governmental authorizations required under applicable Environmental Laws, and
compliance with the terms and conditions thereof, (b) neither the Company nor
any of its Subsidiaries (i) has received written notice of, or, to the Knowledge
of the Company, is the subject of, any actions, causes of action, claims,
investigations, demands or notices by any Person alleging liability under or
non-compliance with any Environmental Law or that the Company or any Subsidiary
is a potentially responsible party at any Superfund site or state equivalent
site ("Environmental Claims") which would in the aggregate have a Material
Adverse Effect on the Company, (c) to the Knowledge of the Company, there are no
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circumstances that are likely to prevent or interfere with such compliance in
the future, (d) the Company and its Subsidiaries have not disposed of or
released hazardous materials (at a concentration or level which requires
remedial action under any Environmental Law) at any real property currently
owned or leased by the Company or any Subsidiary or at any other real property,
except for such disposals or releases as would not have in the aggregate a
Material Adverse Effect on the Company, and (e) neither the Company nor its
Subsidiaries have agreed to indemnify any predecessor or other party with
respect to any environmental liability.
Section 3.8 Employees; No Undisclosed Employee Benefit Plan
Liabilities or Severance Arrangements. The Company Disclosure Letter includes a
correct and complete list of all "employee benefit plans," as defined in Section
3(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended
("ERISA") (including any multi-employer plan as defined in Section 3(37) of
ERISA), currently or within the six year period ending on the Closing Date,
maintained or contributed to by the Company or its Subsidiaries and, except as
described in the Company's SEC Reports, such plans have been, during the six
year period ending on the Closing Date, in compliance with all applicable
provisions of ERISA, the Code and any other applicable laws except for
violations that would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on the
Company. None of the Company nor its Subsidiaries with respect to such plans has
engaged in a "prohibited transaction" within the meaning of Section 4975 of the
Code or Title 1, Part 4 of ERISA except for transactions (a) which are exempt
under applicable law, regulations and administrative exemptions or (b) which in
the aggregate would not have a Material Adverse Effect on the Company. The
Company and its Subsidiaries do not have any liabilities or obligations with
respect to any such employee benefit plans, whether or not accrued, contingent
(including any potential material withdrawal liability with respect to any such
multi-employer plans) or otherwise, except (a) as described in any of the
Company SEC Reports or previously disclosed in writing to Parent and (b) for
liabilities or obligations that would not in the aggregate have a Material
Adverse Effect on the Company. No employee of the Company will be entitled to
any additional benefits or any acceleration of the time of payment or vesting of
any benefits under any employee incentive or benefit plan, program or
arrangement as a result of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. The
Company has previously made available to Parent a true and correct copy of the
Company's 401(k) plan as currently in effect, the three most recent Forms 5500,
the related audit reports with respect to the 401(k) plan and the most recent
401(k) summary plan description. The Company, its Subsidiaries and any entity
required to be aggregated with the Company or any of its Subsidiaries under Code
Section 414(b), (c), or (m) do not maintain or contribute to, and have not
within the six-year period ending on the Closing Date, maintained or contributed
to, any employee benefit pension plan which is subject to Section 302 or Title
IV of ERISA. The Company's 401(k) plan is the only plan maintained or
contributed to by the Company or its Subsidiaries that is intended to be
qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code. The Company received a favorable
determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service that the 401(k) plan, as
in effect on October 11, 1995, satisfied the requirements of Section 401(a) of
the Code and, to the Knowledge of the Company, nothing has occurred subsequent
to such date or otherwise with respect to the operation of such plan which could
cause the loss of such qualification or exemption or the imposition of any lien,
penalty, or tax under ERISA or the Code which would in the aggregate have a
Material Adverse Effect on the Company. The Company and its Subsidiaries have
not received any notice from the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of
Labor or the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC") within the four years
preceding the date of this Agreement that the 401(k) plan is not so qualified.
None of the Company nor any Subsidiary has incurred any outstanding liability
under Section 4062 of ERISA to the PBGC, to a trust established under Section
4041 or 4042 of ERISA, or to a trustee appointed under Section 4042 of ERISA.
None of the Company's employee benefit plans contain any provisions which would
prohibit the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Neither the Company
nor any of its Subsidiaries provide (or have made any commitment to provide)
benefits to any employee following
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termination of employment under any "employee welfare benefit plan" as such term
is defined in ERISA Section 3(1), other than continuation coverage required by
ERISA Section 601. No such employee welfare benefit plan is funded through a
"welfare benefit fund," as such term is defined in Code Section 419(e), or other
funding mechanism, and each such plan may be amended or terminated without
material liability to the Company at any time after the Closing Date.
Section 3.9 Absence of Certain Changes or Events. Other than as
disclosed in the Company SEC Reports since March 31, 1999, the businesses of the
Company and its Subsidiaries have been conducted in all material respects in the
ordinary course and there has not been any event, occurrence, development or
state of circumstances or facts that has had a Material Adverse Effect on the
Company. Since March 31, 1999, no dividends or distributions have been declared
or paid on or made with respect to the shares of capital stock or other equity
interests of the Company or its Subsidiaries nor have any such shares been
repurchased or redeemed, other than dividends or distributions paid to the
Company or a Subsidiary.
Section 3.10 Investigations; Litigation. Except as disclosed in any of
the Company SEC Reports:
(a) no investigation or review by any Governmental Entity with
respect to the Company or any of its Subsidiaries which would in the aggregate
have a Material Adverse Effect on the Company is pending nor, to the Knowledge
of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, has any Governmental Entity notified
the Company or any of its Subsidiaries of an intention to conduct the same; and
(b) the Company Disclosure Letter lists all of the pending litigation
of the Company and its Subsidiaries, as of the date of this Agreement, and there
are no actions, suits or proceedings pending or, to the Company's Knowledge,
threatened against or affecting the Company or its Subsidiaries, or any of their
respective properties or before any federal, state, local or foreign
governmental body or authority, which could have in the aggregate a Material
Adverse Effect on the Company.
Section 3.11 Joint Proxy Statement; Registration Statement; Other
Information. None of the information with respect to the Company or its
Subsidiaries to be included in the Joint Proxy Statement (as defined in Section
5.2) or the Registration Statement (as defined in Section 5.2) will, in the case
of the Joint Proxy Statement or any amendments thereof or supplements thereto,
at the time of the mailing of the Joint Proxy Statement or any amendments or
supplements thereto, and at the time of the Company Meeting (as defined in
Section 5.3), or, in the case of the Registration Statement, at the time it
becomes effective or at the time of any post-effective amendment, contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required
to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in
light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, except
that no representation is made by the Company with respect to information
supplied in writing by Parent or any affiliate of Parent specifically for
inclusion in the Joint Proxy Statement. The Joint Proxy Statement will comply as
to form in all material respects with the provisions of the Exchange Act and the
rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
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Section 3.12 Accounting and Tax Matters. Neither the Company nor any of
its Affiliates has taken or agreed to take any action, nor does the Company have
any Knowledge of any fact or circumstance, that would prevent Parent from
accounting for the business combination to be effected by the Merger as a
"pooling-of-interests" or prevent the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement from qualifying as a "reorganization" within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. Company has received written confirmation
from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, a copy of which has been provided to Parent,
that (a) PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP has undertaken a review of the Company and
based upon the work undertaken to the date of such confirmation, and subject to
the qualifications set forth therein, it is not aware of any items or
transactions that would preclude the Company from accounting for the Merger as a
pooling of interests and (b) attaching a draft of the letter (the "Company
Pooling Opinion") that PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP would issue upon consummation
of the Merger.
Section 3.13 Taxes.
(a) All federal, state, local and foreign Tax Returns required to be
filed by or on behalf of the Company, each of its Subsidiaries, and each
affiliated, combined, consolidated or unitary group of which the Company or any
of its Subsidiaries is a member (a "Company Group") have been timely filed or
requests for extensions to file such returns or reports have been timely filed
and granted and have not yet expired, and all Tax Returns filed were complete
and accurate except to the extent any failure to file or any inaccuracies in
filed returns would not, in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on the
Company; all Taxes due and owing by the Company, any Subsidiary of the Company
or any Company Group have been paid, or adequately reserved for, except to the
extent any failure to pay or reserve would not in the aggregate, have a Material
Adverse Effect on the Company; none of the Company, any Subsidiary of the
Company or any Company Group currently is the beneficiary of any extension of
time within which to file any Tax Return; there is no audit examination,
deficiency, refund litigation, proposed adjustment or matter in controversy with
respect to any Taxes due and payable by the Company, any Subsidiary of the
Company or any Company Group nor has the Company or any Subsidiary filed any
waiver of the statute of limitations applicable to the assessment or collection
of any Tax, in each case, which would, individually or in the aggregate, have a
Material Adverse Effect on the Company; all assessments for Taxes due and
payable by the Company, any Subsidiary of the Company or any Company Group with
respect to completed and settled examinations or concluded litigation have been
paid; neither the Company nor any Subsidiary of the Company (i) has been a
member of an affiliated group of corporations within the meaning of Section
1504, other than the affiliated group of which the Company is the common parent
or (ii) has any liability for the Taxes of any Person (other than the Company
and its Subsidiaries) under Treasury Regulation Section 1.1502-6 promulgated
under the Code (or any similar provision of state, local, or foreign law), as a
transferee or successor, by contract, or otherwise; neither the Company nor any
Subsidiary is a party to any tax indemnity agreement, tax sharing agreement or
other agreement under which the Company or any Subsidiary could become liable to
another Person as a result of the imposition of a Tax upon any Person, or the
assessment or collection of a Tax, except for such agreements as would not have
a Material Adverse Effect on the Company; and the Company and each of its
Subsidiaries has complied with all rules and regulations relating to the
withholding of Taxes, except to the extent any such failure to comply would not,
in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on the Company. The Company has
provided Parent with written schedules of (i) the taxable years of the Company
for which the statutes of limitations with respect to federal income Taxes have
not expired, and (ii) with respect to federal income Taxes, those years for
which examinations have been completed, those years for which examinations are
presently being conducted, and those years for which examinations have not yet
been initiated.
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(b) Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary of the Company has
distributed the stock of any corporation in a distribution of stock qualifying
for Tax-free treatment under Section 355 of the Code.
(c) No claim has been made in writing by a Tax authority in a
jurisdiction where neither the Company nor any Subsidiary of the Company files
Tax Returns that the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company is or may be
subject to taxation in that jurisdiction. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary
of the Company is a party to any contract, agreement or other arrangement which
provides for the payment of any amount which would not be deductible by reason
of Section 162(m) or Section 280G of the Code.
(d) The Company and each of its Subsidiaries are not currently and
have not been within the last five years a "United States real property holding
corporation" within the meaning of Section 897(c) of the Code. Neither the
Company nor any Subsidiary of the Company has filed a consent under Section
341(f) of the Code concerning collapsible corporations.
Section 3.14 Opinion of Financial Advisor. The Board of Directors of the
Company has received the opinion of CIBC World Markets Corp. dated the date of
this Agreement, to the effect that, as of such date, the Exchange Ratio (as
defined therein) is fair to the Company's shareholders from a financial point of
view. A copy of the written opinion of CIBC World Markets Corp. will be
delivered to Parent as soon as practicable after the date of this Agreement.
Section 3.15 Required Vote of the Company Shareholders. The affirmative
vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Company
Common Stock is required to approve the Merger. No other vote of the
shareholders of the Company is required by law or the Amended and Restated
Articles of Incorporation or by laws of the Company in order for the Company to
consummate the Merger and the transactions contemplated hereby.
Section 3.16 Insurance. The Company Disclosure Letter sets forth a true
and complete list of the insurance policies or binders insuring the property,
assets or liabilities of Company and its Subsidiaries as of the date of this
Agreement. All such policies or binders are in full force and effect and no
premiums due and payable thereon are delinquent. There are no pending claims
against such insurance by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries as to which the
insurers have denied liability. The Company and its Subsidiaries have complied
with the provisions of such policies, there exist no claims under such insurance
policies or binders with respect to any of the assets of the Company or its
Subsidiaries that have not been properly and timely submitted by the Company or
its Subsidiaries to their respective insurers, and there is no inaccuracy in any
application for such policies or binders which would render such policies or
binders invalid or unenforceable.
Section 3.17 Property.
(a) The Company Disclosure Letter sets forth a correct and complete
list of all real property owned by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries (the
"Real Property"). Except as set forth in the Company Disclosure Schedule, the
Company or its Subsidiaries has good and marketable title to the Real Property,
free and clear of all liens, claims, restrictions and encumbrances
("Encumbrances"), other than Encumbrances that do not and would not have a
Material Adverse Effect.
(b) The Company Disclosure Letter sets forth a correct and complete
list (including the amount of rents called for and a description of the leased
property) of all leases under which the
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Company or any Subsidiary is a lessee. The Company and each of its Subsidiaries
enjoys peaceful and undisturbed possession under all such leases, all of such
leases are valid and subsisting and none of them is in default in any material
respect.
(c) The Company Disclosure Letter sets forth a correct and complete
list (including the location of each) as of the date of this Agreement of all
capital equipment used or leased by the Company or any Subsidiary with book
value exceeding $200,000.
Section 3.18 Personnel; Labor Relations.
(a) The Company Disclosure Letter contains a correct and complete
list, as of the date of this Agreement, of: (i) all employees, including for
each his or her employee identification number or the last four digits of his or
her social security number, such Person's title and the amount and nature of all
compensation and benefits payable by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries to
such Person; (ii) all employment, severance, bonus, profit sharing, incentive
compensation and pension or retirement plans; stock purchase and stock option
plans; all contracts or agreements with present or former directors, officers or
employees; all consulting agreements, to which the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries is a party or by which they are bound as of the date of this
Agreement; (iii) all group insurance programs in effect for employees of the
Company and its Subsidiaries; and (iv) all accrued but unused vacation, holiday
and sick-time on the account of each employee of the Company and its
Subsidiaries. All material government filings, participant disclosure documents,
contracts and operative plan documents related to the above obligations
previously have been provided to Parent. Neither the Company nor any of its
Subsidiaries is in default with respect to any of its obligations listed above.
(b) The Company has made available to Parent all labor or collective
bargaining agreements in effect as of the date of this Agreement which pertain
to the employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries. The Company Disclosure
Letter contains a correct and complete list of all pending complaints, charges
or claims against the Company or any of its Subsidiaries filed as of the date of
this Agreement with any public or Governmental Entity, arbitrator or courts, (x)
based upon the employment or termination by the Company of any individual, (y)
asserting that the Company or any of its Subsidiaries has committed an unfair
labor practice (within the meaning of the National Labor Relations Act or
comparable state law) or (z) seeking to compel the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries to bargain with any labor organization as to wages or conditions of
employment (collectively "Company Labor Matters"). There is not any strike or
other labor dispute involving the Company or any Subsidiary pending or, to the
Knowledge of the Company, threatened nor, to the Knowledge of the Company, is
there any activity involving any of their respective employees seeking to
certify a collective bargaining unit or engaging in any other organization
activity.
Section 3.19 Intellectual Property.
(a) The Company and/or each of its Subsidiaries owns, or is licensed
or otherwise possesses legally enforceable rights to use all patents,
trademarks, trade names, service marks, copyrights and any applications
therefor, technology, know-how, computer software programs or applications, and
tangible or intangible proprietary information or materials that are used in the
business of the Company and its Subsidiaries as currently conducted, except for
any such failures to own, be licensed or possess that would not have in the
aggregate a Material Adverse Effect on the Company, and to the Knowledge of the
Company, all patents, trademarks, trade names, service marks and copyrights held
by the Company and/or its Subsidiaries are valid and subsisting.
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(b) Except as disclosed in Company SEC Reports filed prior to the
date hereof or as would not have, in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect on
the Company:
(i) the Company is not, nor will it be as a result of the execution
and delivery of this Agreement or the performance of its obligations
hereunder, in violation of any licenses, sublicenses and other agreements
as to which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is a party and pursuant
to which the Company is authorized to use any third-party patents,
trademarks, service marks, and copyrights ("Third-Party Intellectual
Property Rights");
(ii) no claims with respect to (I) the patents, registered and
material unregistered trademarks and service marks, registered copyrights,
trade names, and any applications therefor owned by the Company or any of
its Subsidiaries (the "Company Intellectual Property Rights"); (II) any
trade secret material to the Company or any of its Subsidiaries; or (III)
Third-Party Intellectual Property Rights, as of the date of this Agreement,
are pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company, are threatened by any
Person;
(iii) the Company does not Know of any valid grounds for any bona fide
claims (I) to the effect that the sale, licensing or use of any product as
now used, sold or licensed or proposed for use, sale or license by the
Company or any of its Subsidiaries, infringes on any copyright, patent,
trademark, service mark or trade secret; (II) against the use by the
Company or any of its Subsidiaries, of any trademarks, trade names, trade
secrets, copyrights, patents, technology, know-how or computer software
programs and applications used in the business of the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries as currently conducted or as proposed to be conducted; (III)
challenging the ownership, validity or effectiveness of any of the Company
Intellectual Property Rights or other trade secret material to the Company;
or (IV) challenging the license or legally enforceable right to use of the
Third-Party Intellectual Rights by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries;
and
(iv) to the Knowledge of the Company, there is no unauthorized use,
infringement or misappropriation of any of the Company Intellectual
Property Rights by any third party, including any employee or former
employee of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries.
Section 3.20 Material Contracts. All of the material Contracts
of the Company and its Subsidiaries that are required to be described in the
Company SEC Reports or to be filed as exhibits thereto are described in the
Company SEC Reports or filed as exhibits thereto and are in full force and
effect. True and complete copies of all such material Contracts have been
delivered or have been made available by the Company to Parent. Neither the
Company nor any of its Subsidiaries nor, to the Knowledge of the Company, any
other party is in breach of or in default under any such contract, except for
such breaches and defaults as in the aggregate have not had and will not have a
Material Adverse Effect on the Company. Neither the Company nor any of its
Subsidiaries is party to any agreement containing any provision or covenant
limiting in any material respect the ability of the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries to (A) sell any products or services of or to any other person, (B)
engage in any line of business or (C) compete with or to obtain products or
services from any person or limiting the ability of any person to provide
products or services to the Company or any of its Subsidiaries. The Company
Disclosure Letter contains a correct and complete list of each agreement or
commitment providing for the expenditure by the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries pursuant thereto of more than $200,000.
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Section 3.21 Suppliers and Customers. Since April 1, 1998, no material
licensor, vendor, supplier or customer of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries
has canceled or otherwise modified its relationship with the Company or its
Subsidiaries and, to the Knowledge of the Company, no such Person has any
intention to do so. The Company has not received written notice from any such
material licensor, vendor, supplier or customer that consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby will adversely affect such relationships.
Section 3.22 Year 2000 Matters. Any reprogramming required to
permit the proper functioning in and following the year 2000 of computer systems
and other equipment containing embedded microchips, in either case owned or
operated by Company or any of its Subsidiaries or used or relied upon in the
conduct of their respective businesses (including any such systems and other
equipment supplied by others or with which the computer systems of Company or
any of its Subsidiaries interface) has been completed. The testing of all such
systems and other equipment as so reprogrammed has been completed. The costs to
Company and its Subsidiaries that have not been recognized as of or by June 30,
1999 for such reprogramming and testing and for other reasonably foreseeable
consequences to them of any improper functioning of other computer systems and
equipment containing embedded microchips due to the occurrence of the year 2000
will not have a Material Adverse Effect.
ARTICLE IV
Representations And Warranties of Parent And Merger Sub
Parent and Merger Sub hereby jointly and severally represent and
warrant to the Company, that except as set forth in the corresponding sections
or subsections of the Parent Disclosure Letter delivered to the Company on the
date hereof:
Section 4.1 Organization, Qualification, Etc. Each of Parent and Merger
Sub is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under
the laws of its jurisdiction of organization and has all requisite corporate
power and authority to own its properties and assets and to carry on its
business as it is now being conducted and is duly qualified to do business and
is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the ownership of its
properties or the conduct of its business requires such qualification, except
for such jurisdictions in which the failure to be so qualified or to be in good
standing would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent or
Merger Sub. The copies of Parent's certificate of incorporation, as amended, and
by laws, as amended, and Merger Sub's certificate of incorporation and by laws
which have been made available to the Company are complete and correct and in
full force and effect on the date hereof. Each of Parent's Subsidiaries is duly
organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its
jurisdiction of incorporation or organization, has all requisite corporate power
and authority to own its properties and to carry on its business as it is now
being conducted, and is duly qualified to do business and is in good standing in
each jurisdiction in which the ownership of its property or the conduct of its
business requires such qualification, except for jurisdictions in which such
failure to be so qualified or to be in good standing would not in the aggregate
have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent or Merger Sub. All the outstanding
shares of capital stock of, or other ownership interests in, Parent's
Subsidiaries and Merger Sub are validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable
and are owned by Parent, directly or indirectly, free and clear of all liens,
claims, charges or encumbrances, except as set forth in the Parent Disclosure
Letter. Except as disclosed in the Parent SEC Reports, there are no existing
options (except for those set forth in Section 4.2 below), rights of first
refusal, preemptive rights, calls or commitments of any character relating to
the issued or unissued capital stock or other securities of, or other ownership
interests in, any Subsidiary of Parent or Merger Sub.
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Section 4.2 Capital Stock. The authorized capital stock of Parent
consists of 75,000,000 shares of Parent Common Stock, and 2,000,000 shares of
Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share. The shares of Parent Common Stock to
be issued in the Merger or upon the exercise of the Company stock options,
warrants, conversion rights or other rights or upon vesting or payment of other
Company equity-based awards will, when issued, be validly issued fully paid and
non-assessable. As of August 1, 1999, 23,907,120 shares of Parent Common Stock
and no shares of Parent Preferred Stock were issued and outstanding. All the
outstanding shares of Parent Common Stock have been validly issued and are fully
paid and non-assessable. As of August 1, 1999, there were no outstanding
subscriptions, options, warrants, rights or other arrangements or commitments
obligating Parent to issue any shares of its capital stock other than options
and other rights to receive or acquire shares of Parent Common Stock pursuant
to:
(a) employee stock purchase or option plans of Parent;
(b) various other restricted stock awards to officers or employees of
the Parent or the Parent's Subsidiaries; and
(c) Parent's 6.00% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2004,
convertible into Parent Common Stock.
Section 4.3 Corporate Authority Relative to this Agreement. No
Violation.
(a) Each of Parent and Merger Sub has full corporate power and
authority to enter into this Agreement and, subject to receipt of Parent
Shareholder Approval (as defined in Section 5.3), to carry out its obligations
hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby have been duly and validly authorized by
the Boards of Directors of Parent and Merger Sub and by Parent as sole
stockholder of Merger Sub and, except for Parent Shareholder Approval, no other
corporate or stockholder proceedings on the part of Parent or Merger Sub are
necessary to authorize this Agreement, the issuance of the Parent Common Stock
and the other transactions contemplated hereby. This Agreement has been duly and
validly executed and delivered by Parent and Merger Sub and, assuming this
Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by the other parties
hereto, and subject to the Parent Shareholder Approval, this Agreement
constitutes the valid and binding agreements of Parent and Merger Sub,
enforceable against each of them in accordance with its terms (except insofar as
enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency,
reorganization, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors' rights
generally, or by principles governing the availability of equitable remedies).
Other than in connection with or in compliance with the provisions of the CGCL,
the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, the HSR Act, any non-United States
competition, antitrust and investments laws and the securities or blue sky laws
of the various states and other jurisdictions, and, other than the filing of
this Agreement and a duly executed officers' certificate by each of the Company
and the Merger Sub with the California Secretary of State and any necessary
state filings to maintain the good standing or qualification of the Surviving
Corporation (collectively, the "Parent Required Approvals"), no authorization,
consent or approval of, or filing with, any governmental body or authority is
necessary on the part of Parent or Merger Sub for the consummation by Parent or
Merger Sub of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, except for such
authorizations, consents, approvals or filings, the failure to obtain or make
which would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent or
Merger Sub; provided that Parent makes no representation with respect to such of
the foregoing as are required by reason or facts specifically pertaining to
Company or any of its Subsidiaries.
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(b) The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by
Parent and Merger Sub do not, and the consummation by Parent and Merger Sub of
the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby will not, constitute
or result in (i) a breach or violation of, or a default under, the charter or by
laws of Parent and Merger Sub or the comparable governing instruments of any of
Parent's Subsidiaries, (ii) a breach or violation of, or a default under, the
acceleration of any obligations or the creation of a lien, pledge, security
interest or other encumbrance on the assets of Parent or any of its Subsidiaries
(with or without notice, lapse of time or both) pursuant to, any Contracts
binding upon Parent or any of its Subsidiaries or any law, ordinance,
regulation, decree or order of any governmental body or authority to which
Parent or any of its Subsidiaries is subject or governmental or non-governmental
permit or license to which Parent or any of its Subsidiaries is subject or (iii)
any change in the rights or obligations of any party under any of the Contracts,
except, in the case of clause (ii) or (iii) above, for any breach, violation,
default, acceleration, creation or change that, individually or in the
aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent or prevent,
materially delay or materially impair the ability of Parent or Merger Sub to
consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 4.4 Reports and Financial Statements. Parent has delivered or
made available to the Company true and complete copies of:
(a) Parent's Annual Reports on Form 10-K filed with the SEC for each
of the years ended November 2, 1997 and November 1, 1998;
(b) Parent's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC for
the quarters ended January 31, 1999, May 2, 1999 and August 1, 1999;
(c) each definitive proxy statement filed by Parent with the SEC
since November 2, 1997;
(d) each final prospectus filed by Parent with the SEC since November
2, 1997; and
(e) all Current Reports on Form 8-K filed by Parent with the SEC
since November 2, 1997.
As of their respective dates, such reports, proxy statements and
prospectuses filed on or prior to the date hereof (collectively, "Parent SEC
Reports") (i) complied as to form in all material respects with the applicable
requirements of the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, and the rules and
regulations promulgated thereunder and (ii) did not contain any untrue statement
of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they were made, not misleading; provided, that the
foregoing clause (ii) shall not apply to the financial statements included in
the Parent SEC Reports (which are covered by the following sentence). The
audited consolidated financial statements and unaudited consolidated interim
financial statements included in the Parent SEC Reports (including any related
notes and schedules) fairly present in all material respects the financial
position of Parent and its consolidated Subsidiaries as of the dates thereof and
the results of their operations and their cash flows for the periods or as of
the dates then ended (subject, where appropriate, to normal year-end
adjustments), in each case in accordance with GAAP consistently applied during
the periods involved (except as otherwise disclosed in the notes thereto and
except that the unaudited financial statements therein do not contain all of the
footnote disclosures required by GAAP). Since November 2, 1997,
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Parent has timely filed all material reports, registration statements and other
filings required to be filed by it with the SEC under the rules and regulations
of the SEC.
Section 4.5 No Undisclosed Liabilities. As of the date of this
Agreement, neither Parent nor any of its Subsidiaries has any liabilities or
obligations of any nature, whether or not accrued, contingent or otherwise, and
there is no existing condition, situation or set of circumstances which
reasonably could be expected to result in such a liability except (a)
liabilities or obligations reflected in any of the Parent SEC Reports and (b)
liabilities or obligations which would not in the aggregate have a Material
Adverse Effect on Parent.
Section 4.6 No Violation of Law. The businesses of Parent and its
Subsidiaries are not being conducted in violation of any law, ordinance,
regulation, decree or order of any governmental body or authority except (a) as
described in any of the Parent SEC Reports and (b) for violations or possible
violations which would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on
Parent.
Section 4.7 Environmental Laws and Regulations. Except as described in
any of the Parent SEC Reports, (a) Parent and each of its Subsidiaries is in
compliance with all applicable Environmental Laws, except for non-compliance
which would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent, which
compliance includes, but is not limited to, the possession by Parent and its
Subsidiaries of permits and other governmental authorizations required under
applicable Environmental Laws, and compliance with the terms and conditions
thereof, (b) neither Parent nor any of its Subsidiaries has received written
notice of, or, to the Knowledge of Parent, is the subject of, any Environmental
Claims which, in the aggregate, would have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent;
(c) to the Knowledge of Parent, there are no circumstances that are likely to
prevent or interfere with such material compliance in the future; and (d) the
Parent and its Subsidiaries have not disposed of or released hazardous materials
(at a concentration level which requires remedial action under any Environmental
Law) at any real property currently owned or leased by Parent or any Subsidiary
or at any other real property, except for such disposals which, in the
aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent.
Section 4.8 No Undisclosed Employee Benefit Plan Liabilities or
Severance Arrangements. Except as described in any of the Parent SEC Reports,
all "employee benefit plans" as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA, maintained or
contributed to by Parent or its Subsidiaries are in material compliance with all
applicable provisions of ERISA and the Code, and Parent and its Subsidiaries do
not have any liabilities or obligations with respect to any such employee
benefit plans, whether or not accrued, contingent or otherwise, except (a) as
described in any of the Parent SEC Reports and (b) for instances of
noncompliance or liabilities or obligations that would not in the aggregate have
a Material Adverse Effect on Parent. No employee of Parent will be entitled to
any additional benefits or any acceleration of the time of payment or vesting of
any benefits under any employee incentive or benefit plan, program or
arrangement as a result of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 4.9 Absence of Certain Changes or Events. Other than as
disclosed in the Parent SEC Reports, since November 1, 1998, the businesses of
Parent and its Subsidiaries have been conducted in all material respects in the
ordinary course and there has not been any event, occurrence, development or
state of circumstances or facts that has had a Material Adverse Effect on
Parent.
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Section 4.10 Investigations; Litigation. Except as disclosed in any of
the Parent SEC Reports:
(a) no investigation or review by any governmental body or authority
with respect to Parent or any of its Subsidiaries which would in the
aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent is pending, nor to the
Knowledge of Parent, has any governmental body or authority notified Parent
of an intention to conduct the same; and
(b) there are no actions, suits or proceedings pending (or, to
Parent's Knowledge, threatened) against or affecting Parent or its
Subsidiaries, or any of their respective properties or before any federal,
state, local or foreign governmental body or authority which would in the
aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent.
Section 4.11 Joint Proxy Statement; Registration Statement; Other
Information. None of the information with respect to Parent or its Subsidiaries
included in the Joint Proxy Statement (as defined in Section 5.2) or the
Registration Statement (as defined in Section 5.2) will, in the case of the
Joint Proxy Statement or any amendments thereof or supplements thereto, at the
time of the mailing of the Joint Proxy Statement or any amendments or
supplements thereto, and at the time of the Parent Meeting, or, in the case of
the Registration Statement, at the time it becomes effective or at the time of
any post-effective amendment, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or
omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in
order to make the statements therein, with respect to the Joint Proxy Statement
in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, except
that no representation is made by Parent with respect to information supplied in
writing by the Company or any affiliate of the Company specifically for
inclusion in the Joint Proxy Statement or the Registration Statement. Each of
the Joint Proxy Statement and the Registration Statement will comply as to form
in all material respects with the provisions of the Exchange Act and the
Securities Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
Section 4.12 Accounting and Tax Matters. Neither Parent nor any of its
Subsidiaries has taken or agreed to take any action, nor, except as set forth in
the Parent Disclosure Letter, does Parent have any Knowledge of any fact or
circumstance, that would prevent Parent from accounting for the business
combination to be effected by the Merger as a "pooling-of-interests" or prevent
the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by the Agreement from
qualifying as a "Reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the
Code. Parent has received written confirmation from Deloitte & Touche LLP that
it has substantially completed its work, and that, based on the results of its
procedures, subject to the assumptions and qualifications set forth therein,
upon consummation of the Merger, Deloitte & Touche LLP would issue its report
that nothing would preclude the Company from accounting for the Merger as a
pooling-of-interests (the "Parent Pooling Opinion").
Section 4.13 Tax Matters.
(a) Except as disclosed in the Parent Disclosure Letter, all federal,
state, local and foreign Tax Returns required to be filed by or on behalf of
Parent, each of its Subsidiaries, and each affiliated, combined, consolidated or
unitary group of which Parent or any of its Subsidiaries is a member (a "Parent
Group") have been timely filed or requests for extensions to file such returns
or reports have been timely filed and granted and have not yet expired, and all
Tax Returns were complete and accurate except to the extent any failure to file
or any inaccuracies in filed returns would not, in the aggregate, have a
Material Adverse Effect on Parent; all Taxes due and payable by Parent, any
Subsidiary of Parent or any Parent Group have been paid, or adequately reserved
for, except to the extent
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any failure to pay or reserve would not, in the aggregate, have a Material
Adverse Effect on Parent; there is no audit examination, deficiency, refund
litigation, proposed adjustment or matter in controversy with respect to any
Taxes due and payable by Parent, any Subsidiary of Parent or any Parent Group
which would, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on
Parent; all assessments for Taxes due and payable by Parent, any Subsidiary of
Parent or any Parent Group with respect to completed and settled examinations or
concluded litigation have been paid; and neither the Parent nor any Subsidiary
of the Parent (i) has been a member of an affiliated group of corporations
within the meaning of Section 1504, other than the affiliated group of which the
Parent is the common parent or (ii) has any liability for the Taxes of any
person (other than the Parent and its Subsidiaries) under Treasury Regulation
Section 1.1502-6 (or any similar provision of state, local, or foreign law), as
a transferee or successor, by contract, or otherwise. Parent has provided the
Company with written schedules of (i) the taxable years of Parent for which the
statutes of limitations with respect to federal income Taxes have not expired,
and (ii) with respect to federal income Taxes, those years for which
examinations have been completed, those years for which examinations are
presently being conducted, and those years for which examinations have not yet
been initiated.
(b) Each of the Parent, its Subsidiaries and any Parent Group have
withheld and paid Taxes required to have been withheld and paid in connection
with amounts paid or owing to any employee, independent contractor, creditor,
stockholder or other third party, except to the extent any failure to so
withhold would not, in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.
(c) No claim has been made in writing by a Tax authority in a
jurisdiction where neither the Parent nor any Subsidiary of the Parent files Tax
Returns that the Parent or any Subsidiary of the Parent is or may be subject to
taxation in that jurisdiction.
(d) The Parent and each of its Subsidiaries are not currently, have
not been within the last five years, and do not anticipate becoming a "United
States real property holding corporation" within the meaning of Section 897(c)
of the Code. Neither the Parent nor any Subsidiary of the Parent has filed a
consent under Section 341(f) of the Code concerning collapsible corporations.
Section 4.14 Vote of Parent Shareholders. The affirmative vote of the
holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Parent Common Stock actually
present and voting at the Parent Meeting (provided that at least 50% of the
outstanding shares of Parent Common Stock are actually voted) is required to
approve the issuance of Parent Common Stock in the Merger.
Section 4.15 Opinion of Financial Advisor. The Board of Directors of
Parent has received the opinion of Banc of America Securities LLC dated the date
of this Agreement to the effect that, as of such date, the Exchange Ratio (as
defined therein) is fair from a financial point of view to Parent. A copy of the
written opinion of Banc of America Securities LLC will be delivered to the
Company as soon as practicable after the date of this Agreement.
Section 4.16 Material Contracts. All of the material Contracts of Parent
and its Subsidiaries that are required to described in the Parent SEC Reports or
to be filed as exhibits thereto are in the Parent SEC Reports or filed as
exhibits thereto and are in full force and effect. Neither Parent nor any of its
Subsidiaries nor, to the Knowledge of Parent, any other party is in breach of or
in default under any such Contract except for breaches and defaults as in the
aggregate that have not had and will not have a Material Adverse Effect on
Parent.
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ARTICLE V
Covenants
Section 5.1 Conduct of Business by the Company or Parent. Except as
contemplated by this Agreement and in the Company Disclosure Letter or the
Parent Disclosure Letter, or as necessary or appropriate to satisfy the
obligations hereunder, prior to the Effective Time or the date, if any, on which
this Agreement is earlier terminated pursuant to Section 7.1, and except as may
be agreed to by the other parties hereto or as may be permitted pursuant to this
Agreement:
(a) The Company:
(i) shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, conduct its
operations according to their ordinary and usual course of business;
(ii) shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, consistent
with past practice, (A) preserve intact its business organizations and
goodwill, (B) keep available the services of its officers and employees as
a group, subject to changes in the ordinary course, and (C) maintain its
existing relationships with suppliers, distributors, customers and others
having business relationships with them;
(iii) shall notify Parent promptly of (A) any complaints,
investigations or hearings (or communications indicating that the same may
be contemplated) of any governmental body or authority; (B) any actions,
suits or proceeding initiated or threatened against or affecting the
Company or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties or
before any federal, state, local or foreign Governmental Entity which could
have in the aggregate a Material Adverse Effect on the Company; (C) any
complaint, charge or claim against the Company or any of its Subsidiaries
filed with any public or governmental authority, arbitrator or courts with
respect to Company Labor Matters or (D) any claims with respect to Company
Intellectual Property Rights, any trade secret material to the Company or
any of its Subsidiaries or Third Party Intellectual Property Rights which
could have in the aggregate a Material Adverse Effect on the Company;
(iv) shall not authorize or pay any dividends on or make any
distribution with respect to its outstanding shares of capital stock;
(v) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to,
enter into any severance or similar agreements or arrangements (including
by amendment of any existing agreement or arrangement) which would be
triggered by the transactions contemplated hereby;
(vi) shall not, other than in the ordinary course of business
consistent with past practice, enter into any new written employment,
consulting or salary continuation agreements with any officers or directors
or any employees, or, other than increases in the ordinary course of
business, grant any increases in the compensation or benefits to officers,
directors, and employees;
(vii) subject to Section 5.10, shall not, and shall not permit any of
its Subsidiaries to, authorize, propose or announce an intention to
authorize or propose, or enter into an agreement with respect to, any
merger, consolidation or business combination, any
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acquisition of a material amount of assets or securities, any disposition
of assets or securities or any release or relinquishment of any material
contract rights not in the ordinary course of business;
(viii) shall not propose or adopt any amendments to its Amended and
Restated Articles of Incorporation or by laws;
(ix) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to, (A)
issue any shares of their capital stock, except upon exercise of rights
outstanding at the date hereof under the Company Stock Plans or the Stock
Purchase Plan or (B) effect any stock split or (C) otherwise change the
capitalization of the Company as it existed on June 30, 1999 except as
specifically provided herein;
(x) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to,
grant, confer or award any additional, or amend or modify any existing,
options, warrants, conversion rights or other rights, to acquire any shares
of its capital stock;
(xi) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to,
purchase or redeem any shares of its capital stock;
(xii) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to,
amend the terms of their respective employee benefit plans, programs or
arrangements in existence on the date hereof, or adopt any new employee
benefit plans, programs or arrangements except as required by law or to
maintain tax qualified status or as requested by the Internal Revenue
Service in order to receive a determination letter for such employee
benefit plan;
(xiii) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to (A)
incur or assume any long-term debt, or, except in the ordinary course of
business, incur or assume any short-term indebtedness in amounts not
consistent with past practice; (B) amend any existing loan agreement or
enter into any new loan agreement; (C) assume, guarantee, endorse or
otherwise become liable or responsible (whether directly, contingently or
otherwise) for the obligations of any other Person or (D) make any loans,
advances or capital contributions in any other Person;
(xiv) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to,
except with respect to agreements contemplated by or permitted pursuant to
this Agreement, enter into any agreement, commitment or transaction
(including, but not limited to, with respect to capital expenditures or
purchase, sale or lease of assets or real estate) with aggregate
consideration exceeding $250,000;
(xv) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries, to
enter into an agreement with any Affiliate of the Company, any family
member of any Affiliate of the Company or any shareholder who owns more
than 5% of the outstanding capital stock of the Company;
(xvi) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to, (A)
make any material Tax election or settle or compromise any material Tax
liability or (B) make any significant change in any Tax as accounting
methods or system of internal accounting controls, except as may be
appropriate to conform to changes in Tax laws or GAAP;
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(xvii) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to,
enter into, amend, or extend any collective bargaining or other labor
agreement, except as required by law;
(xviii) shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to,
buy, sell or trade any equity security of Parent including, without
limitation, entering into any put, call, option, swap, collar or any other
derivative transaction which has a similar economic effect; and
(xix) shall not agree, or permit any of its Subsidiaries to agree,
in writing or otherwise, to take any of the foregoing actions described in
clauses (iv) through (xviii) or take any action which would make any
representation or warranty in Article III hereof untrue or incorrect.
(b) The Parent:
(i) shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, conduct
its operations according to their ordinary and usual course of business;
provided, however, that nothing contained in this proviso shall limit
Parent's ability to authorize or propose, or enter into, agreements with
respect to any acquisition, incur indebtedness or to issue any debt or
equity securities;
(ii) shall take all action necessary to cause Merger Sub to perform
its obligations under this Agreement and to consummate the Merger on the
terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement;
(iii) shall not agree, or permit any of its Subsidiaries to agree,
in writing or otherwise, to take any of the foregoing actions described in
clauses (i) and (ii) or take any action which would make any representation
or warranty in Article IV hereof untrue or incorrect.
Section 5.2 Proxy Material; Registration Statement.
(a) The Company and the Parent will as promptly as practicable
following the date of this Agreement, prepare and file with the SEC, will use
reasonable efforts to have cleared by the SEC and thereafter mail to their
respective shareholders as promptly as practicable, a joint proxy statement that
will be the same proxy statement/prospectus contained in the Registration
Statement (as hereinafter defined) and a form of proxy, in connection with the
vote of each of the Company's and the Parent's shareholders with respect to the
matters contemplated hereby (such proxy statement/prospectus, together with any
amendments thereof or supplements thereto, in each case in the form or forms
mailed to the Company's and the Parent's shareholders, is herein called the
"Joint Proxy Statement").
(b) Parent will as promptly as practicable following the date of this
Agreement, prepare and file with the SEC a registration statement of the Parent
on Form S-4 (such registration statement together with all and any amendments
and supplements thereto, being herein referred to as the "Registration
Statement"). Such Registration Statement shall be used for the purposes of
registering with the SEC the issuance of Parent Common Stock to holders of
Company Common Stock in connection with the Merger. In addition, each of Parent
and the Company will upon reasonable advance notice provide the other with all
information and other data as may be reasonably requested by Parent or the
Company, as the case may be, in connection with the preparation and filing of
the Registration Statement and the Joint Proxy Statement.
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(c) The Parent shall use its best efforts to cause the Registration
Statement to become effective under the Securities Act and to comply with
applicable state securities laws at the earliest practicable date and to remain
effective until the Effective Time.
Section 5.3 Shareholders' Meeting. Each of the Company and the Parent
shall, in accordance with applicable law and their respective articles of
incorporation and by laws, duly call, give notice of, convene and hold a meeting
(which, as may be duly adjourned, shall be referred to as the "Company Meeting"
or the "Parent Meeting," as the case may be, and together as the "Meetings") of
its respective shareholders as soon as practicable for the purpose of, approving
by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Company Common Stock
this Agreement and the Merger (the "Company Shareholder Approval") and in the
case of Parent, a majority of the outstanding shares of Parent Common Stock
actually present and voting (the "Parent Shareholder Approval"). The Company and
Parent agree to use their reasonable best efforts to cause the Meetings to occur
within forty-five (45) days after the date on which the Registration Statement
becomes effective. Each of the Company and Parent shall include in the Joint
Proxy Statement the recommendation of its Board of Directors that shareholders
vote in favor of the Company Shareholder Approval or the Parent Shareholder
Approval, as the case may be; in each case subject to the duties of the
respective Boards of Directors to make any further disclosure to the
shareholders (which shall not, unless expressly stated, constitute a withdrawal
or adverse modification of such recommendation) and, in the case of the Company,
to the right to change such recommendation or terminate this Agreement following
receipt of a Superior Proposal (as defined in Section 5.10).
Section 5.4 Approvals and Consents; Cooperation.
(a) The Company and Parent shall together, or pursuant to an
allocation of responsibility to be agreed upon between them:
(i) as soon as is reasonably practicable take all such action as may
be required under state blue sky or securities laws in connection with the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
(ii) promptly prepare and file with the Nasdaq National Market such
listing applications or other notices covering the shares of Parent Common
Stock issuable in the Merger or upon exercise of the Company stock options,
warrants, conversion rights or other rights or vesting or payment of other
Company equity-based awards and use its reasonable best efforts to obtain,
prior to the Effective Time, approval for the listing of such Parent Common
Stock;
(iii) cooperate with one another in order to lift any injunctions or
remove any other impediment to the consummation of the transactions
contemplated herein; and
(iv) cooperate with one another in obtaining the opinions described
in Section 6.1(e) of this Agreement.
(b) Subject to the limitations contained herein, the Company and
Parent shall each furnish to one another and to one another's counsel all such
information as may be required in order to effect the foregoing actions.
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Section 5.5 Access to Information; Confidentiality.
(a) From the date hereof to the Effective Time, the Company and
Parent each shall (and shall cause its Subsidiaries to), upon reasonable notice
to an executive officer (as defined in the Confidentiality Agreements (which
such term is defined in this Section 5.5)) of the other, afford to the other,
and the other's officers, employees, accountants, counsel, financial advisors
and other representatives, reasonable access during normal business hours, in a
manner so as not to interfere with its normal operations or of its Subsidiaries,
to all its personnel, properties, books, contracts, commitments and records and
of its Subsidiaries; provided that Company shall not be required to provide
customer specific pricing information (other than any commitment for specific
pricing for more than 360 days) and performance data.
(b) During such period, the Company shall furnish promptly to the
Parent (i) a copy of each report, schedule, registration statement and other
document filed by it or its Subsidiaries pursuant to the requirements of
applicable federal or state securities laws, (ii) a copy of all internally
prepared interim financial statements, reports or memoranda and (iii) all other
information concerning Company's business, financial results and conditions,
properties and personnel as the Parent may reasonably request.
(c) No investigation or information furnished pursuant to this
Section 5.5 shall affect any representations or warranties made by the Company
or the Parent herein or the conditions to the obligations of the Parent or the
Company to consummate the Merger.
(d) Parent and Company will keep all such information provided to it
confidential in accordance with the terms of each of the Confidentiality
Agreements, dated July 16, 1999, between the Parent and the Company (the
"Confidentiality Agreements") the terms of which are incorporated herein by
reference, as if such information were Evaluation Material (as such term is
defined in each of the Confidentiality Agreements).
Section 5.6 Affiliates. At least 45 days prior to the Effective
Time, the Company shall deliver to Parent a list, setting forth the names and
addresses of all persons who are, at the time of the Company Meeting, in the
Company's reasonable judgment, "affiliates" of the Company for purposes of Rule
145 under the Securities Act and for purposes of applicable interpretations
regarding the pooling-of-interests method of accounting. The Company shall
exercise its best efforts to deliver or cause to be delivered to Parent, at
least 30 days prior to the Effective Time, from each affiliate of the Company
identified in the foregoing list, a letter in the form attached as Exhibit A-1.
The certificates representing Parent Common Stock received by such affiliates
shall bear a customary legend. The Company shall furnish such information and
documents as Parent may reasonably request for the purpose of reviewing such
list.
Section 5.7 Rights Under Stock Plans.
(a) Stock Options. Each outstanding option to purchase shares of
Company Common Stock ("Option") granted under the Company's Stock Plans shall be
assumed by Parent and deemed to constitute an option to acquire, on the same
terms and conditions (including, without limitation, adjustments for any stock
dividend, subdivision, reclassification, recapitalization, split, combination,
exchange of shares or similar transaction), as were applicable under such Option
prior to the Effective Time, the number of shares of Parent Common Stock as the
holder of such Option would have been entitled to receive pursuant to the Merger
had such holder exercised such Option in full immediately prior to the Effective
Time (not taking into account whether or not such Option was in fact
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exercisable) at a price per share equal to (x) the aggregate exercise price for
Company Common Stock purchasable pursuant to such Option divided by (y) the
number of shares of Parent Common Stock deemed purchasable pursuant to such
assumed Option, provided that the number of shares of Parent Common Stock that
may be purchased upon exercise of any such assumed Option shall not include any
fractional share and, upon exercise of such assumed Option, a cash payment shall
be made for any fractional share based upon the last sale price per share of
Parent Common Stock on the trading day immediately preceding the date of
exercise. From and after the Effective Time, Parent and the Surviving
Corporation shall comply with the terms of the Company Stock Plans and the Stock
Purchase Plan, as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time, with
respect to Options outstanding at the Effective Time. The adjustments provided
herein with respect to any Options that are "incentive stock options" (as
defined in Section 422 of the Code) or granted pursuant to the Stock Purchase
Plan shall be in a manner consistent with Sections 422, 423 and 424 of the Code,
as applicable.
(b) Reservation and Registration of Shares. Parent shall cause to be
taken all corporate action necessary to reserve for issuance a sufficient number
of shares of Parent Common Stock for delivery upon exercise of Options in
accordance with this Section 5.7. As soon as practicable, but in any event
within ten Business Days after the Effective Time, Parent shall file a
registration statement on Form S-8 (or any successor or other appropriate forms)
or shall cause such Options to be deemed to be issued pursuant to a Parent stock
option plan for which shares of Parent Common Stock previously have been
registered, and shall use its best efforts to cause the effectiveness of such
registration statement (and the current status of the prospectus or prospectuses
contained therein) to be maintained for so long as such Options remain
outstanding.
Section 5.8 Filings; Other Action.
(a) Subject to the terms and conditions herein provided, the Company
and Parent shall (i) promptly make their respective filings and thereafter make
any other required submissions under the HSR Act, (ii) use reasonable efforts to
cooperate with one another in (A) determining whether any filings are required
to be made with, or consents, permits, authorizations or approvals are required
to be obtained from, any third party, the United States government or any
agencies, departments or instrumentalities thereof or other governmental or
regulatory bodies or authorities of federal, state, local and foreign
jurisdictions in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement
and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and (B) timely
making all such filings and timely seeking all such consents, permits,
authorizations or approvals, and (iii) take, or cause to be taken, all other
actions and do, or cause to be done, all other things necessary, proper or
advisable to consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated hereby,
including, without limitation, taking or undertaking all such further action as
may be necessary to resolve such objections, if any, as the Federal Trade
Commission, the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice, state antitrust
enforcement authorities or competition authorities of any other nation or other
jurisdiction or any other person may assert under relevant antitrust,
competition or communications laws with respect to the transactions contemplated
hereby.
(b) Without limiting the generality of the undertakings pursuant to
Section 5.8 (a): (i) each of Parent and the Company shall provide promptly to
the Governmental Entities with regulatory jurisdiction over enforcement of any
applicable antitrust laws ("Government Antitrust Entity") information and
documents requested by such Government Antitrust Entity or necessary, proper or
advisable to permit consummation of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement; (ii) without in any way limiting the provisions of Section 5.8 (a)
(i) above, each of Parent and the Company shall file any Notification and Report
Form and related material required under the HSR Act as soon as
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practicable after the date hereof, and thereafter use its best efforts to
certify as soon as practicable its substantial compliance with any requests for
additional information or documentary material that may be made under the HSR
Act; (iii) each of the Company and Parent will keep the other informed of any
material communication, and provide to the other copies of all correspondence,
between it (or its advisors) and any Government Antitrust Entity relating to
this Agreement or any of the matters described in this Section 5.8 (b); and (iv)
each of the Company and Parent shall permit the other to review any material
communication to be given by it to, and shall consult with each other in advance
of any telephonic calls, meeting or conference with, any Government Antitrust
Entity and, to the extent permitted, give the other party the opportunity to
attend and participate in such telephonic calls, meetings and conferences.
Section 5.9 Further Assurances. In case at any time after the
Effective Time any further action is necessary or desirable to carry out the
purposes of this Agreement, the proper officers of the Company and Parent shall
take all such necessary action.
Section 5.10 Company Acquisition Proposals. In light of the
consideration given by the Board of Directors of the Company prior to the
execution of this Agreement and in light of the Company's representations
contained in Section 3.14, the Company agrees that it shall not, nor shall it
permit any of its Subsidiaries to, nor shall it authorize or permit any officer,
director or employee of, or any investment banker, attorney or other advisor or
representative of, the Company or any of its Subsidiaries to, directly or
indirectly, solicit or initiate, or encourage the submission of, any Acquisition
Proposal, or participate in any negotiations regarding, or furnish to any person
any information with respect to, or take any other action to facilitate any
inquiries or the making of any proposal that constitutes, or may reasonably be
expected to lead to, any Acquisition Proposal; provided, however, that nothing
contained in this Agreement shall prevent the Board of Directors from, at any
time prior to the Company Shareholder Approval, (A) providing information in
response to a request therefor by a Person who has made an unsolicited bona fide
written Acquisition Proposal if the Board of Directors receives from the Person
so requesting such information an executed confidentiality agreement the terms
of which are (without regard to the terms of the Acquisition Proposal) (x) no
less favorable to the Company and (y) no less restrictive on the Person
requesting such information than those contained in the Confidentiality
Agreement from the Company to Parent; (B) engaging in any negotiations or
discussions with any Person who has made an unsolicited bona fide written
Acquisition Proposal; or (C) recommending such an Acquisition Proposal to the
shareholders of the Company, if and only to the extent that, (i) in each such
case referred to in clause (A), (B) or (C) above, the Board of Directors of the
Company determines in good faith after consultation with outside legal counsel
that failure to take such action would create a reasonable possibility of a
breach of their respective fiduciary duties under applicable law and (ii) in
each case referred to in clause (B) or (C) above, the Board of Directors of the
Company determines in good faith (after consultation with its financial advisor)
that such Acquisition Proposal, if accepted, is likely to be consummated, taking
into account all legal, financial and regulatory aspects of the proposal and the
Person making the proposal and would, if consummated, result in a transaction
more favorable to the Company's shareholders from a financial point of view than
the transaction contemplated by this Agreement (any such more favorable
Acquisition Proposal being referred to in this Agreement as a "Superior
Proposal"), provided further that prior to initially furnishing such information
to, or entering into discussions or negotiations with, such Person, the Company
shall provide two (2) business days' advance written notice to Parent to the
effect that it is furnishing information to, or entering into negotiations with,
a Person. The Company shall notify Parent orally and in writing of the fact that
it received inquiries, offers or proposals with respect to an Acquisition
Proposal, within 24 hours after the Company obtains Knowledge of the receipt
thereof, and shall give Parent five (5) business days' advance notice (which
notice shall include the terms and conditions of
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such proposal) of the Company's intent to enter into a definitive agreement with
respect to a Superior Proposal. Nothing contained herein shall prohibit the
Company from disclosing to its shareholders the statement required by Rule
14e-2(a) under the Exchange Act with respect to an Acquisition Proposal by means
of a tender offer. The Company will immediately cease and cause to be terminated
any existing activities, discussions or negotiations with any other person that
have been conducted heretofore with respect to a potential Acquisition Proposal.
Except in connection with a Superior Proposal, the Company agrees to enforce and
not to waive or release any confidentiality agreements which any persons have
entered into with the Company.
Section 5.11 Director and Officer Liability.
(a) Parent, Merger Sub and the Company agree that all rights to
indemnification and all limitations on liability existing in favor of any
Indemnitee (as defined below) as provided in the Company Amended and Restated
Articles of Incorporation or by laws shall survive the Merger and continue in
full force and effect.
(b) For a period of six (6) years after the Effective Time, Parent
shall, or shall cause the Surviving Corporation to, maintain officers' and
directors' liability insurance and fiduciary liability insurance covering the
Indemnitees who, at the Effective Date, are covered by the Company's officers'
and directors' or fiduciary liability insurance policies on terms no less
advantageous to such indemnified parties than such existing insurance; provided,
however, that neither Parent nor the Surviving Corporation will be required in
order to maintain such policies to pay an annual premium in excess of 200% of
the last annual premium paid by the Company prior to the date of this Agreement
(the "Cap") and provided, further, that, if equivalent coverage cannot be
obtained, or can be obtained only by paying an annual premium in excess of the
Cap, then Parent shall, or shall cause the Surviving Corporation to, maintain
policies that, in Parent's good faith judgment, provide the maximum coverage
available at an annual premium equal to the Cap.
(c) In addition to the other rights provided for in this Section 5.11
and not in limitation thereof, for six years from and after the Effective Time,
Parent shall, and shall cause the Surviving Corporation to, to the fullest
extent permitted by applicable law, (i) indemnify and hold harmless the
individuals who on or prior to the Effective Time were officers, directors or
employees of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, and the heirs, executors,
trustees, fiduciaries and administrators of such officers, directors or
employees (collectively, the "Indemnitees") against all losses, expenses
(including reasonable attorneys' fees), claims, damages, liabilities, judgments,
or amounts paid in settlement (collectively, "Costs") in respect to any
threatened, pending or completed claim, action, suit or proceeding, whether
criminal, civil, administrative or investigative based on, or arising out of or
relating to the fact that such person is or was a director, officer or employee
of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries and arising out of acts or omissions
occurring on or prior to the Effective Time (including, without limitation, in
respect of acts or omissions in connection with this Agreement and the
transactions contemplated hereby) (an "Indemnifiable Claim") and (ii) advance to
such Indemnitees all expenses incurred in connection with any Indemnifiable
Claim promptly after receipt of reasonably detailed statements therefor;
provided, that the person to whom expenses are to be advanced provides an
undertaking to repay such advances if it is ultimately determined that such
person is not entitled to indemnification from Parent or the Surviving
Corporation; provided, however, that Parent shall not be liable for any
settlement effected without its written consent.
(d) Notwithstanding any other provisions hereof, the obligations of
the Company, the Surviving Corporation and Parent contained in this Section 5.11
shall be binding upon the successors
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and assigns of Parent and the Surviving Corporation. In the event the Company or
the Surviving Corporation or any of their respective successors or assigns (i)
consolidates with or merges into any other Person or (ii) transfers all or
substantially all of its properties or assets to any Person, then, and in each
case, proper provision shall be made so that successors and assigns of the
Company or the Surviving Corporation, as the case may be, honor the
indemnification obligations set forth in this Section 5.11.
Section 5.12 Accountants' "Comfort" Letters. The Company and Parent will
each use reasonable best efforts to cause to be delivered to each other letters
from their respective independent accountants, dated a date within two business
days before the effective date of the Registration Statement, in form reasonably
satisfactory to the recipient and customary in scope for comfort letters
delivered by independent accountants in connection with registration statements
on Form S-4 under the Securities Act.
Section 5.13 Additional Reports. The Company and Parent shall each
furnish to the other copies of any reports of the type referred to in Sections
3.4 and 4.4 which it files with the SEC on or after the date hereof, and the
Company and Parent, as the case may be, represents and warrants that as of the
respective dates thereof, such reports will not contain any untrue statement of
a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statement therein, in light of the circumstances under
which they were made, not misleading; provided, that the foregoing shall not
apply to the financial statements contained therein (which are covered by the
following sentence). Any consolidated financial statements included in such
reports (including any related notes and schedules) will fairly present, in all
material respects, the financial position of the Company and its consolidated
Subsidiaries or Parent and its consolidated Subsidiaries, as the case may be, as
of the dates thereof and their results of operations and changes in financial
position or other information included therein for the periods or as of the date
then ended (subject, where appropriate, to normal year-end adjustments), in each
case in accordance with GAAP consistently applied during the periods involved
(except as otherwise disclosed in the notes thereto and except that such
financial statements will not include all of the notes required by GAAP).
Section 5.14 Tax Treatment; Plan of Reorganization. Parent and the
Company agree to treat the Merger as a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code. This Agreement is intended to constitute a "plan of
reorganization" within the meaning of Section 1.368-2(g) of the income tax
regulations promulgated under the Code. During the period from the date of this
Agreement through the Effective Time, unless the parties shall otherwise agree
in writing, none of Parent, the Company or any of their respective Subsidiaries
shall knowingly take or fail to take any action which action or failure to act
would jeopardize qualification of the Merger as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. Parent and the Company shall use their
respective reasonable efforts to cause one or more of their responsible officers
to execute and deliver certificates to confirm the accuracy of certain relevant
facts as may be reasonably requested by counsel in connection with the
preparation and delivery of the tax opinions described in Sections 6.2(f) and
6.3(d) hereof.
Section 5.15 Public Announcements. The initial press release relating to
this Agreement shall be a joint press release mutually agreed upon by Parent and
the Company. Unless otherwise required by applicable law or the requirements of
any listing agreement with the Nasdaq Stock Market, Parent and the Company shall
each use their reasonable efforts to consult with each other before issuing any
press release or otherwise making any public statements with respect to this
Agreement or any transaction contemplated by this Agreement and shall not issue
any such press release or make any such public statement prior to such
consultation.
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Section 5.16 Employee Plans and Benefits.
(a) From and after the Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation and
its Subsidiaries will honor in accordance with their terms all existing
employment, severance, consulting and salary continuation agreements between the
Company or any of its Subsidiaries and any current or former officer, director,
employee or consultant of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or group of
such officers, directors, employees or consultants.
(b) On or after the Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation and its
Subsidiaries shall provide benefits, plans and programs to its employees which
are no less favorable in the aggregate than those generally available to
similarly situated employees in the same jurisdiction of Parent and its
Subsidiaries. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as restricting the
ability of Parent, the Surviving Corporation and Parent's Subsidiaries to
establish such types and levels of compensation as they or any of them determine
to be appropriate from time to time.
(c) To the extent permitted under applicable law, each employee of
the Company or its Subsidiaries shall be given credit for all service with the
Company or its Subsidiaries (or service credited by the Company or its
Subsidiaries) under all employee benefit plans, programs, policies and
arrangements maintained by the Surviving Corporation in which they participate
or in which they become participants for purposes of eligibility and vesting
including, without limitation, for purposes of determining (i) short-term and
long-term disability benefits; (ii) severance benefits; (iii) vacation benefits;
and (iv) benefits under any retirement plan.
Section 5.17 Sale of Shares by Parent. Parent, prior to the Effective
Date, will sell shares of Parent Common Stock acquired by it within the two
years preceding the Effective Date so that the accounting by the Parent of the
business combination to be effected by the Merger as a "pooling of interests"
will not be adversely affected.
ARTICLE VI.
Conditions to the Merger
Section 6.1 Conditions to the Obligations of Each Party. The
obligations of the Company, Parent and Merger Sub to consummate the Merger are
subject to the satisfaction or waiver on or prior to the Closing Date of the
following conditions:
(a) The Registration Statement shall have become effective under the
Securities Act, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement shall have been issued by the SEC and no proceeding
for that purpose shall have been initiated by the SEC;
(b) The Company Shareholder Approval and the Parent Shareholder
Approval shall have been obtained;
(c) No statute, rule, regulation, executive order, decree,
preliminary or permanent injunction or restraining order shall have been
enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any Governmental Entity which
prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. No
action or proceeding by any Governmental Entity shall have been commenced
(and be pending), or, to the Knowledge of the parties hereto, threatened,
against the Company or Parent
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or any of their respective affiliates, associates, officers or directors
seeking to prevent or delay the transactions contemplated hereby or
challenging any of the terms of provisions of this Agreement or seeking
material damages in connection therewith;
(d) Any waiting period (and any extension thereof) applicable to the
consummation of the Merger under the HSR Act shall have expired or been
terminated. All other consents and approvals (including any other consent
or approval required pursuant to or in connection with the Antitrust Laws)
of Governmental Entities necessary for consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby shall have been obtained, other than those which, if
not obtained, would not in the aggregate have a Material Adverse Effect;
and
(e) The shares of Parent Common Stock to be issued pursuant to this
Agreement and pursuant to the Company Stock Plans shall have been
authorized for trading in the NASDAQ National Market.
Section 6.2 Conditions to the Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub. The
obligations of Parent and Merger Sub to consummate the Merger are subject to the
satisfaction or waiver by Parent on or prior to the Closing Date of the
following further conditions:
(a) The representations and warranties of the Company contained
herein shall be true and correct in all respects as of the Effective Time
with the same effect as though made as of the Effective Time (except (i)
for changes specifically permitted by the terms of this Agreement and (ii)
that the accuracy of representations and warranties that by their terms
speak as of the date of this Agreement or some other date will be
determined as of such date) and there shall not be any Material Adverse
Change with respect to the Company which is not primarily the result of
facts, circumstances or events affecting the photomask industry generally;
(b) The Company shall have performed all obligations and complied
with all agreements and covenants required by this Agreement to be
performed or complied with by it prior to the Effective Time in all
material respects;
(c) The Company shall have delivered to Parent a certificate, dated
the Effective Time and signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Chief
Financial Officer or a Senior Vice President, certifying to the effects set
forth in subsections (a) and (b) above;
(d) Parent shall have received, dated as of the Closing Date, the
Company Pooling Opinion from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and the Company
Pooling Opinion from Deloitte & Touche LLP;
(e) Effective demands for payment of dissenters' rights by
shareholders of the Company shall not equal or exceed five percent of the
outstanding shares of the Company Common Stock; and
(f) Parent shall have received a written opinion of its tax counsel,
Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP, reasonably acceptable to Parent and
dated the Closing Date, to the effect that, on the basis of the facts,
representations and assumptions set forth in such opinion which are
consistent with the state of facts existing at the Closing Date, the Merger
will qualify for federal income tax purposes as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code.
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Section 6.3 Conditions to the Obligations of the Company. The
obligations of the Company to consummate the Merger are subject to the
satisfaction or waiver by the Company on or prior to the Closing Date of the
following further conditions:
(a) The representations and warranties of Parent and Merger Sub
contained herein shall be true and correct in all respects as of the
Effective Time with the same effect as though made as of the Effective Time
except (i) for changes specifically permitted by the terms of this
Agreement and (ii) that the accuracy of representations and warranties that
by their terms speak as of the date of this Agreement or some other date
will be determined as of such date;
(b) Parent shall have performed all obligations and complied with all
agreements and covenants required by this Agreement to be performed or
complied with by it prior to the Effective Time in all material respects;
(c) Parent shall have delivered to the Company a certificate, dated
the Effective Time and signed by its President, any member of the office of
Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer or an Executive Vice
President, certifying to the effects set forth in subsections (a) and (b)
above; and
(d) The Company shall have received a written opinion of its tax
counsel, O'Melveny & Myers LLP, reasonably acceptable to the Company and
dated the Closing Date, to the effect that, on the basis of the facts,
representations and assumptions set forth in such opinions which are
consistent with the state of facts existing at the Closing Date, the Merger
will qualify for federal income tax purposes as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code and that the exchange in the Merger
of the Parent Common Stock for Company Common Stock will not give rise to
gain or loss to the shareholders of the Company with respect to such
exchange (except to the extent of any cash paid in lieu of fractional
shares or Dissenting Shares).
ARTICLE VII.
Termination, Amendment and Waiver
Section 7.1 Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time
prior to the Effective Time, whether before or after approval by the
shareholders of the Company or of Parent:
(a) by mutual written consent of Parent and the Company;
(b) by Parent (provided that Parent is not then in material breach of
any representation, warranty, covenant or other agreement contained
herein), upon a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or
agreement on the part of the Company set forth in this Agreement, or if any
representation or warranty of the Company shall have become untrue, in
either case continuing ten (10) days following notice to the Company of
such breach or untruth and of a nature such that the conditions set forth
in Section 6.2(a) or Section 6.2(b), as the case may be, would be incapable
of being satisfied by February 25, 2000;
(c) by the Company (provided that the Company is not then in material
breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or other agreement
contained herein), upon a breach of
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any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of Parent
or Merger Sub set forth in this Agreement, or if any representation or
warranty of Parent or Merger Sub shall have become untrue, in either case
continuing ten (10) days following notice to Parent of such breach or
untruth and of a nature such that the conditions set forth in Section
6.3(a) or Section 6.3(b), as the case may be, would be incapable of being
satisfied by February 25, 2000;
(d) by either Parent or the Company (provided that the party seeking
to so terminate this Agreement is not then in material breach of Section
5.4 (a) (iii) or 5.8) if any Governmental Entity shall have issued an
order, decree or ruling or taken any other action permanently enjoining,
restraining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the Merger and
such order, decree or filing or other action shall have become final and
nonappealable;
(e) by either Parent or the Company, if the Merger shall not have
occurred by February 25, 2000, unless the failure to consummate the Merger
is the result of a breach of covenant set forth in this Agreement or breach
of any representation or warranty set forth in this Agreement by the party
seeking to terminate this Agreement;
(f) by either Parent or the Company (provided that if the terminating
party is the Company, the Company shall not be in material breach of any of
its obligations hereunder) if any approval of the shareholders of the
Company required for the consummation of the Merger shall not have been
obtained by reason of the failure to obtain the required vote at the
Company Meeting or at any adjournment or postponement thereof;
(g) by either Parent or the Company (provided that if the terminating
party is Parent, Parent shall not be in material breach of any of its
obligations hereunder) if any approval of the shareholders of Parent
required for the consummation of the merger shall not have been obtained by
reason of the failure to obtain the required vote at the Parent Meeting or
at any adjournment or postponement thereof;
(h) by the Company, if, prior to approval of the Merger by its
shareholders, a Superior Proposal has been made; provided, however, that
before the Company may terminate this Agreement pursuant to this subsection
7.1 (h), the Company shall give notice to Parent of the proposed
termination under subsection 7.1 (h) (which notice may be the notice
provided under Section 5.10) and Parent, within five (5) business days of
receipt of such notice, shall have the right, in its sole discretion, to
offer to amend this Agreement to provide for terms substantially similar to
those of the Superior Proposal and the Company shall negotiate in good
faith with Parent with respect to such proposed amendment; provided,
further, that if Parent and the Company are unable to reach an agreement
with respect to the Parent's proposed amendment within such five (5)
business day period, the Company may terminate this Agreement pursuant to
this subsection 7.1 (h);
(i) by Parent, if the Board of Directors of the Company (i) withdraws
or modifies adversely its recommendation of the Merger, (ii) recommends an
Acquisition Proposal to Company shareholders or (iii) fails to call or hold
the Company Meeting by reason of the receipt by the Company of an
Acquisition Proposal; provided, that the parties agree that disclosure made
by the Company regarding an Acquisition Proposal shall not, unless
expressly stated, be treated as or deemed to be a withdrawal or adverse
modification of any favorable recommendation of the Merger by the Board of
Directors of the Company; or
35
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(j) by the Company if the Average Parent Price is less than $16.00.
Section 7.2 Effect of Termination. In the event of termination of this
Agreement by either the Company or Parent as provided in Section 7.1, this
Agreement shall forthwith become void and have no effect, without any liability
or obligation on the part of Parent, Merger Sub or the Company or their
respective officers or directors, except as set forth in Section 5.5(d), Section
7.5 and Article VIII which shall survive termination and except to the extent
that such termination results from the breach by a party of any of its
representations, warranties, covenants or agreements set forth in this
Agreement.
Section 7.3 Amendment. This Agreement may be amended by the parties at
any time before or after approval hereof by the shareholders of the Company or
Parent; provided, however, that after such shareholder approval there shall not
be made any amendment that by law requires approval by the shareholders of the
Company or Parent without the approval of such shareholders. This Agreement may
not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of
the parties.
Section 7.4 Extension; Waiver. At any time prior to the Effective Time,
the parties may (a) extend the time for the performance of any of the
obligations or other acts of the other parties, (b) waive any inaccuracies in
the representations and warranties contained in this Agreement or in any
document delivered pursuant to this Agreement or (c) subject to the provision of
Section 7.3, waive compliance with any of the agreements or conditions contained
in this Agreement. Any agreement on the part of a party to any such extension or
waiver shall be valid only if set forth in an instrument in writing, signed on
behalf of such party. The failure of any party to this Agreement to assert any
of its rights under this Agreement or otherwise shall not constitute a waiver of
those rights.
Section 7.5 Termination Fee.
(a) In the event (i) the Company terminates this Agreement pursuant
to Section 7.1(h) or (ii) Parent terminates this Agreement pursuant to Section
7.1(b) or (i), then the Company shall pay Parent an amount equal to $3,640,000
(the "Termination Fee") by wire transfer of immediately available funds upon the
occurrence of such event, and as a condition to termination in the case of
termination pursuant to Section 7.1(h). The Termination Fee shall be the sole
remedy of Parent for any breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or
agreement on the part of the Company set forth in this Agreement or of any
representation or warranty of the Company that shall have become untrue.
(b) In the event (i) Company Shareholder Approval is not received,
(ii) prior to the Company Meeting there shall have been an Acquisition Proposal
made and (iii) within six (6) months from the termination of the Agreement, the
Company shall have entered into an agreement for, and within eighteen (18)
months from such termination shall have consummated, a transaction substantially
in the form proposed in such Acquisition Proposal with the party that made such
Acquisition Proposal, then the Company shall pay Parent an amount equal to the
Termination Fee by wire transfer of immediately available funds, payable upon
consummation of such transaction.
(c) The Company agrees that the agreements contained in this Section
7.5 are an integral part of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
36
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ARTICLE VIII.
General Provisions
Section 8.1 Nonsurvival of Representations. None of the representations
and warranties in this Agreement or in any instrument delivered pursuant to this
Agreement shall survive the Effective Time. This Section 8.1 shall not limit
any covenant or agreement of the parties which by its terms contemplates
performance after the Effective Time.
Section 8.2 Notices. All notices, requests, claims, demands and other
communications under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed
given if delivered personally or sent by facsimile transmission or overnight
courier (providing proof of delivery) to the parties at the following addresses
(or at such address for a party as shall be specified by like notice):
(a) if to the Company, to:
Align-Rite International Holdings, Inc.
2428 Ontario Street
Burbank, California 91504
Attention: Mr. James L. McDonald
with a copy to:
O'Melveny & Myers LLP
400 South Hope Street
Los Angeles, California 90071
Attention: Richard A. Boehmer, Esq.
(b) if to Parent or Merger Sub, to:
PHOTRONICS, INC.
1061 East Indiantown Road
Jupiter, Florida 33477
Attention: Mr. Jeffrey P. Moonan
with a copy to:
Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP
399 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10022
Attention: Steven L. Wasserman, Esq.
Section 8.3 Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement:
(a) "Acquisition Proposal" means any proposal (whether or not in
writing and whether or not delivered to the Company's shareholders generally)
for a merger, consolidation, liquidation, reorganization, tender offer or other
business combination involving the Company or any proposal or offer to acquire
in any manner, directly or indirectly, at least 50% of the voting securities of,
37
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or all or substantially all of the assets of, the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries, other than the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(b) "Affiliate" of any person means another person that directly or
indirectly, through one or more intermediaries controls, is controlled by, or is
under common control with, such first person.
(c) "Antitrust Laws" mean and include the Sherman Act, as amended,
the Clayton Act, as amended, the HSR Act, the Federal Trade Commission Act, as
amended, and all other federal, state or foreign statutes, rules, regulations,
orders, decrees, administrative and judicial doctrines and other laws that are
designed or intended to prohibit, restrict or regulate actions having the
purpose or effect of monopolization or restraint of trade.
(d) "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
(e) "Control" (including the terms "controlled by" and "under common
control with") means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to
direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a person,
whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.
(f) "Governmental Entity" means any government or any agency, bureau,
board, commission, court, department, official, political subdivision, tribunal
or other instrumentality of any government, whether federal, state or local,
domestic or foreign.
(g) "Knowledge", "Know" or "Known" means, with respect to the matter
in question, if any of the executive officers of the Company or its Subsidiaries
listed on the Company Disclosure Letter, with respect to the Company and its
Subsidiaries, or the executive officers of the Parent listed on the Parent
Disclosure Letter, with respect to Parent and its Subsidiaries, has actual
knowledge of such matter.
(h) "Material Adverse Change" or "Material Adverse Effect" means, (i)
any adverse change in or effect on the business, financial condition or results
of operations of the Company or Parent, as the case may be, or its respective
Subsidiaries that is material to the Company or Parent, as the case may be, and
its respective Subsidiaries taken as a whole or (ii) any change or effect that
has a material adverse effect on the ability of the Company, Merger Sub or
Parent, as the case may be, to perform its obligations under this Agreement or
to consummate the Merger or the other transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.
(i) "Person" means any natural person, firm, individual, business
trust, trust, association, corporation, partnership, joint venture, company,
unincorporated entity or Governmental Entity.
(j) "Tax" means any and all federal, state, local, foreign or other
tax of any kind (together with any and all interest, penalties, additions to tax
and additional amounts imposed with respect thereto) imposed by any taxing
authority, including, without limitation, tax or other charges on or with
respect to income, franchises, windfall or other profits, gross receipts, real
property, personal property, sales, use, transfer, capital stock, payroll,
employment, social security, workers' compensation, unemployment compensation,
or net worth, and taxes or other charges in the nature of excise, withholding,
alternative or add-on minimum, ad valorem or value added.
38
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(k) "Tax Return" means any return, report or similar statement
(including the attached schedules) required to be filed with respect to any Tax,
including, without limitation, any information return, claim for refund, amended
return or declaration of estimated Tax.
(l) The following additional terms are all defined in the following
sections of this Agreement.
SECTION
-------
Agreement........................................................ Recitals
Average Parent Price............................................. 2.3
Canceled Shares.................................................. 2.3
Cap.............................................................. 5.11(b)
Certificate of Merger............................................ 1.3
Certificates..................................................... 2.4(b)
CGCL............................................................. 1.1
Closing.......................................................... 1.2
Closing Date..................................................... 1.2
Company.......................................................... Recitals
Company Common Stock............................................. Recitals
Company Disclosure Letter........................................ Article III
Company Group.................................................... 3.13(a)
Company Intellectual Property Rights............................. 3.19(a)(ii)
Company Labor Matters............................................ 3.18(b)
Company Pooling Opinion.......................................... 3.12
Company Required Approvals....................................... 3.3(a)
Company SEC Reports.............................................. 3.4
Company Shareholder Approval..................................... 5.3
Company Stock Plans.............................................. 3.2
Company Meeting.................................................. 5.3
Confidentiality Agreements....................................... 5.5
Contracts........................................................ 3.3(b)
Conversion Number................................................ 2.3
Conveyance Taxes................................................. 5.15
Costs............................................................ 5.11(c)
Dissenting Shares................................................ 2.5
Effective Time................................................... 1.3
Encumbrances..................................................... 3.17(a)
Environmental Claims............................................. 3.7
Environmental Laws............................................... 3.7
ERISA............................................................ 3.8
Exchange Act..................................................... 3.3(a)
Exchange Agent................................................... 2.4(a)
Exchange Fund.................................................... 2.4(a)
GAAP............................................................. 3.4
Government Antitrust Entity...................................... 5.8(b)
HSR Act.......................................................... 3.3(a)
Indemnifiable Claim.............................................. 5.11(c)
Indemnitees...................................................... 5.11(c)
39
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Joint Proxy Statement............................................ 5.2(a)
Meetings......................................................... 5.3
Merger........................................................... Recitals
Merger Consideration............................................. 2.3
Merger Sub....................................................... Recitals
Option........................................................... 5.7(a)
Parent........................................................... Recitals
Parent Common Stock.............................................. Recitals
Parent Disclosure Letter......................................... Article IV
Parent Group..................................................... 4.13(a)
Parent Meeting................................................... 5.3
Parent Pooling Opinion........................................... 4.12
Parent Required Approvals........................................ 4.3(a)
Parent SEC Reports............................................... 4.4
Parent Shareholder Approval...................................... 4.12
PBGC............................................................. 3.8
Person........................................................... 8.3(j)
Real Property.................................................... 3.17(a)
Registration Statement........................................... 5.2(b)
SEC.............................................................. 3.4(a)
Securities Act................................................... 3.3(a)
Stock Purchase Plan.............................................. 3.2
Subsidiary....................................................... 3.1
Superior Proposal................................................ 5.10
Surviving Corporation............................................ 1.1
Termination Fee.................................................. 7.5(a)
Third-Party Intellectual Property Rights......................... 3.19(b)(i)
Voting Agreement................................................. Recitals
Voting Shareholders.............................................. Recitals
Section 8.4 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and
shall become effective when one or more counterparts have been signed by each of
the parties and delivered to the other parties, it being understood that all
parties need not sign the same counterpart.
Section 8.5 Entire Agreement, No Third-Party Beneficiaries. This
Agreement constitutes the entire agreement, and supersedes all prior agreements
and understandings, both written and oral, among the parties with respect to the
subject matter of this Agreement (provided, however, that the provisions of the
Confidentiality Agreements shall remain valid and in effect) and, except for the
provisions of Article II and Sections 5.7, 5.11 and 5.16, is not intended to
confer upon any person other than the parties any rights or remedies hereunder.
Section 8.6 Assignment. Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights,
interests or obligations under this Agreement shall be assigned, in whole or in
part, by operation of law or otherwise by any of the parties hereto without the
prior written consent of the other parties, except that Merger Sub may assign,
in its sole discretion, any or all of its rights, interests and obligations
under this Agreement to Parent or to any direct or indirect wholly owned
subsidiary of Parent, but no such assignment shall relieve Merger Sub of any of
its obligations under this Agreement. Subject to the preceding sentence,
40
<PAGE>
this Agreement will be binding upon, inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable
by, the parties and their respective successors and assigns.
Section 8.7 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by, and
construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of California, without
regard to any applicable conflicts of law.
Section 8.8 Enforcement. The parties agree that irreparable damage
would occur in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not
performed in accordance with their specific terms or were otherwise breached. It
is accordingly agreed that the parties shall be entitled to an injunction or
injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically
the terms and provisions of this Agreement in any court of the United States
located in Los Angeles County in the State of California or in Los Angeles
County in California state court, this being in addition to any other remedy to
which they are entitled at law or in equity. In addition, each of the parties
hereto (a) consents to submit itself to the personal jurisdiction of any such
federal court or state court in the event any dispute arises out of this
Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, (b) agrees
that it will not attempt to deny or defeat such personal jurisdiction by motion
or other request for leave from any such court and (c) agrees that it will not
bring any action relating to this Agreement or any of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement in any court other than such federal or state
courts.
Section 8.9 Severability. Any term or provision of this Agreement which
is invalid or unenforceable shall be ineffective to the extent of such
invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the
remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement. If any provision of this
Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, such provision shall be
interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.
Section 8.10 Interpretation. Headings of the Articles and Sections of
this Agreement are for convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no
substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever. The disclosure of any matter in
any section of a Disclosure Letter hereto shall not be deemed to constitute an
admission by any party or to otherwise imply that any such matter is material or
may have a Material Adverse Effect for purposes of this Agreement.
Section 8.11 Finders or Brokers. Except for CIBC World Markets Corp.,
with respect to the Company, and Banc of America Securities LLC, with respect to
Parent, a copy of whose engagement agreements have been provided by the Company
and Parent to the other, neither the Company nor Parent nor any of their
respective Subsidiaries has employed any investment banker, broker, finder or
intermediary in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby who might
be entitled to any fee or any commission in connection with or upon consummation
of the Merger.
41
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Parent, Merger Sub and the Company have caused
this Agreement to be signed by their respective officers thereunto duly
authorized, all as of the date first written above.
PHOTRONICS, INC.
By: /s/ Michael J. Yomazzo
--------------------------------
Name: Michael J. Yomazzo
Title: Vice Chairman
By: /s/ Jeffrey P. Moonan
--------------------------------
Name: Jeffrey P. Moonan
Title: Executive Vice President
Finance and Administration
AL ACQUISITION CORP.
By: /s/ Michael J. Yomazzo
--------------------------------
Name: Michael J. Yomazzo
Title: Vice Chairman
By: /s/ Jeffrey P. Moonan
--------------------------------
Name: Jeffrey P. Moonan
Title: Vice President
ALIGN-RIGHT INTERNATIONAL, INC.
By: /s/ James L. McDonald
--------------------------------
Name: James L. McDonald
Title: Chairman of the Board,
Chief Executive Officer
and President
By: /s/ Peter N. Katurich
--------------------------------
Name: Peter N. Katurich
Title: Vice President of Finance,
Chief Financial Officer
42
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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<S> <C>
ARTICLE I
The Merger
Section 1.1 The Merger................................................................ 2
Section 1.2 Closing................................................................... 2
Section 1.3 Effective Time............................................................ 2
Section 1.4 Effects of the Merger..................................................... 2
Section 1.5 Articles of Incorporation and By Laws of the Surviving Corporation........ 2
Section 1.6 Directors................................................................. 2
Section 1.7 Officers.................................................................. 2
ARTICLE II
Effect of the Merger on the Capital Stock of the
Constituent Corporations; Exchange of Certificates
Section 2.1 Capital Stock of Merger Sub............................................... 3
Section 2.2 Cancellation of Parent Owned Stock........................................ 3
Section 2.3 Conversion of Company Common Stock........................................ 3
Section 2.4 Exchange of Certificates.................................................. 4
Section 2.5 Dissenters' Rights........................................................ 6
Section 2.6 Stock Transfer Books...................................................... 7
ARTICLE III
Representations and Warranties of the Company
Section 3.1 Organization, Qualification, Etc.......................................... 7
Section 3.2 Capital Stock............................................................. 8
Section 3.3 Corporate Authority Relative to this Agreement. No Violation............. 8
Section 3.4 Reports and Financial Statements.......................................... 9
Section 3.5 No Undisclosed Liabilities................................................ 10
Section 3.6 No Violation of Law....................................................... 10
Section 3.7 Environmental Laws and Regulations........................................ 10
Section 3.8 Employees; No Undisclosed Employee Benefit Plan Liabilities or
Severance Arrangements.................................................... 11
Section 3.9 Absence of Certain Changes or Events...................................... 12
Section 3.10 Investigations; Litigation................................................ 12
Section 3.11 Joint Proxy Statement; Registration Statement; Other Information.......... 12
Section 3.12 Accounting and Tax Matters................................................ 13
Section 3.13 Taxes..................................................................... 13
Section 3.14 Opinion of Financial Advisor.............................................. 14
Section 3.15 Required Vote of the Company Shareholders................................. 14
Section 3.16 Insurance................................................................. 14
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Section 3.17 Property........................................................................ 15
Section 3.18 Personnel; Labor Relations...................................................... 15
Section 3.19 Intellectual Property........................................................... 16
Section 3.20 Material Contracts.............................................................. 16
Section 3.21 Suppliers and Customers......................................................... 17
Section 3.22 Year 2000 Matters............................................................... 17
ARTICLE IV
Representations And Warranties of Parent And Merger Sub
Section 4.1 Organization, Qualification, Etc................................................ 17
Section 4.2 Capital Stock................................................................... 18
Section 4.3 Corporate Authority Relative to this Agreement. No Violation.................... 18
Section 4.4 Reports and Financial Statements................................................ 19
Section 4.5 No Undisclosed Liabilities...................................................... 20
Section 4.6 No Violation of Law............................................................. 20
Section 4.7 Environmental Laws and Regulations.............................................. 20
Section 4.8 No Undisclosed Employee Benefit Plan Liabilities or Severance Arrangements...... 20
Section 4.9 Absence of Certain Changes or Events............................................ 21
Section 4.10 Investigations; Litigation...................................................... 21
Section 4.11 Joint Proxy Statement; Registration Statement; Other Information................ 21
Section 4.12 Accounting and Tax Matters...................................................... 21
Section 4.13 Tax Matters..................................................................... 22
Section 4.14 Vote of Parent Shareholders..................................................... 22
Section 4.15 Opinion of Financial Advisor.................................................... 23
Section 4.16 Material Contracts.............................................................. 23
ARTICLE V
Covenants
Section 5.1 Conduct of Business by the Company or Parent.................................... 23
Section 5.2 Proxy Material; Registration Statement.......................................... 26
Section 5.3 Shareholders' Meeting........................................................... 26
Section 5.4 Approvals and Consents; Cooperation............................................. 26
Section 5.5 Access to Information; Confidentiality.......................................... 27
Section 5.6 Affiliates...................................................................... 28
Section 5.7 Rights Under Stock Plans........................................................ 28
Section 5.8 Filings; Other Action........................................................... 29
Section 5.9 Further Assurances.............................................................. 29
Section 5.10 Company Acquisition Proposals................................................... 29
Section 5.11 Director and Officer Liability.................................................. 30
Section 5.12 Accountants' "Comfort" Letters.................................................. 31
Section 5.13 Additional Reports.............................................................. 31
Section 5.14 Tax Treatment; Plan of Reorganization........................................... 32
Section 5.15 Public Announcements............................................................ 32
Section 5.16 Employee Plans and Benefits..................................................... 32
Section 5.17 Sale of Shares by Parent........................................................ 33
</TABLE>
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Page
<S> <C>
ARTICLE VI
Conditions to the Merger
Section 6.1 Conditions to the Obligations of Each Party................. 33
Section 6.2 Conditions to the Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub...... 34
Section 6.3 Conditions to the Obligations of the Company................ 34
ARTICLE VII
Termination, Amendment and Waiver
Section 7.1 Termination................................................. 35
Section 7.2 Effect of Termination....................................... 36
Section 7.3 Amendment................................................... 37
Section 7.4 Extension; Waiver........................................... 37
Section 7.5 Termination Fee............................................. 37
ARTICLE VIII
General Provisions
Section 8.1 Nonsurvival of Representations.............................. 37
Section 8.2 Notices..................................................... 38
Section 8.3 Definitions................................................. 38
Section 8.4 Counterparts................................................ 41
Section 8.5 Entire Agreement, No Third-Party Beneficiaries.............. 41
Section 8.6 Assignment.................................................. 42
Section 8.7 Governing Law............................................... 42
Section 8.8 Enforcement................................................. 42
Section 8.9 Severability................................................ 42
Section 8.10 Interpretation.............................................. 42
Section 8.11 Finders or Brokers.......................................... 42
</TABLE>
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ANNEX B
[LETTERHEAD OF BANC OF AMERICA SECURITIES LLC]
September 15, 1999
Board of Directors
Photronics, Inc.
15 Secor Rd.
Brookfield, CT 06804
Members of the Board:
You have requested our opinion as to the fairness from a financial point of view
to Photronics, Inc. (the "Purchaser") of the Conversion Number (as defined
below) proposed in connection with the proposed merger (the "Merger") of Align-
Rite International, Inc. (the "Company") with ABC Merger Sub, Inc. ("Acquisition
Sub"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Purchaser. Pursuant to the terms of the
draft Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of September 10, 1999 (the
"Agreement"), among the Company, the Purchaser and Acquisition Sub, the Company
will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Purchaser, and shareholders of the
Company will receive for each share of issued and outstanding common stock, par
value $0.01 per share, of the Company (the "Company Common Stock") held by them,
other than shares held in treasury or held by the Purchaser or any affiliate of
the Purchaser or as to which dissenters' rights have been perfected, a number
(the "Conversion Number") of shares of common stock of the Purchaser, par value
$0.01 per share (the "Purchaser Common Stock"), equal to one share of Purchaser
Common Stock multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is $23.09 and the
denominator of which shall be the Average Parent Price (all terms not defined
herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Agreement), with the Average
Parent Price subject to recalculation if the Closing Date is more than five
business days after the Company Meeting. If the Average Parent Price is less
than $21.00, the Conversion Number shall be 1.0995; and if the Average Parent
Price is greater than $28.25, the Conversion Number shall be 0.8173. The
Conversion Number shall be further subject to adjustments for stock splits,
dividends and the like. The terms and conditions of the Merger are more fully
set out in the Agreement.
You have informed us, and we have assumed, that the Merger will be accounted for
as a pooling of interests in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting
Principles and that the transaction will be treated as a tax-free re-
organization and/or exchange, each pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended.
For purposes of the opinion set forth herein, we have:
B-1
<PAGE>
(i) reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and other business
and financial information of the Company and the Purchaser, respectively;
(ii) reviewed certain internal financial statements and other financial and
operating data concerning the Company and the Purchaser, respectively;
(iii) analyzed certain financial forecasts prepared by the management of the
Company with respect to the Company and certain financial forecasts for the
Purchaser prepared by the management of the Purchaser;
(iv) reviewed information relating to certain potential strategic, financial and
operational benefits anticipated from the transactions contemplated by the
Agreement (the "Transactions"), prepared by the managements of the Company
and the Purchaser, respectively;
(v) discussed the past and current operations, financial condition and
prospects of the Company with senior executives of the Company and
discussed the past and current operations, financial condition and
prospects of the Purchaser with senior executives of the Purchaser;
(vi) reviewed and discussed with senior executives of the Purchaser and the
Company information relating to certain potential strategic, financial and
operational benefits anticipated from the Transactions;
(vii) reviewed the pro forma impact of the Transactions on the Purchaser's
earnings per share, cash flow, consolidated capitalization and financial
ratios;
(viii) reviewed and considered in the analysis, information prepared by members
of senior management of the Company and the Purchaser relating to the
relative contributions of the Company and the Purchaser to the combined
company;
(ix) reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for the Company Common
Stock and the Purchaser Common Stock;
(x) compared the financial performance of the Company and the Purchaser and the
prices and trading activity of the Company Common Stock and the Purchaser
Common Stock with that of certain other publicly traded companies we deemed
relevant;
(xi) reviewed the financial terms, including premiums paid, to the extent
publicly available, of certain other business combination transactions we
deemed relevant;
(xii) participated in discussions with representatives of the Company and the
Purchaser and their financial and legal advisors;
(xiii) reviewed the Agreement; and,
B-2
<PAGE>
(xiv) performed such other analyses and considered such other factors as we
have deemed appropriate.
We have assumed and relied upon, without independent verification, the
accuracy and completeness of the financial and other information reviewed by us
for the purposes of this opinion. In arriving at our opinion, we have relied
upon the estimates of the Purchaser and the Company relating to certain
potential strategic, financial, and operational benefits anticipated from the
Merger. With respect to the financial forecasts, including information relating
to certain potential strategic, financial and operational benefits anticipated
from the Transactions, we have assumed that they have been reasonably prepared
on bases reflecting the best currently available estimates and good faith
judgments of the future financial performance of the Company and the Purchaser.
We have not made any independent valuation or appraisal of the assets or
liabilities of the Company, nor have we been furnished with any such appraisals.
We have acted as sole financial advisor to the Board of Directors of the
Purchaser in connection with this transaction and will receive a fee for our
services, a portion of which is contingent upon the consummation of the
Transactions. In addition, the Purchaser has agreed to offer to retain us, for a
fee, as its exclusive private placement agent for certain shares.
It is understood that this letter is for the benefit and use of the Board
of Directors of the Purchaser, except that this opinion may be included in its
entirety in any filing made by the Purchaser in respect of the Transactions with
the Securities and Exchange Commission, so long as this opinion is reproduced in
such filing in full and any description of or reference to us or summary of this
opinion and the related analysis in such filing is in a form acceptable to us
and our counsel. In furnishing this opinion, we do not admit that we are experts
within the meaning of the term "experts" as used in the Securities Act of 1933,
as amended (the "Securities Act") and the rules and regulations promulgated
thereunder, nor do we admit that this opinion constitutes a report or valuation
within the meaning of Section 11 of the Securities Act. Our opinion is
necessarily based on economic, market and other conditions as in effect on, and
the information made available to us as of, the date hereof. It should be
understood that subsequent developments may affect this opinion and we do not
have any obligation to update, revise or reaffirm this opinion. This opinion
does not in any manner address the prices at which the Purchaser Common Stock
will trade following consummation of the Merger. In addition, Banc of America
Securities LLC expresses no opinion or recommendation as to how the shareholders
of the Purchaser and the Company should vote at the shareholders meetings held
in connection with the Merger.
B-3
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Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion on the date
hereof that the Conversion Number under the terms of the Agreement is fair from
a financial point of view to the Purchaser.
Very truly yours,
BANC OF AMERICA SECURITIES LLC
/s/ Donna M. Hitscherich
---------------------------------------
Name: Donna M. Hitscherich
Title: Managing Director
B-4
<PAGE>
[Letterhead of CIBC World
Markets Corp.]
ANNEX C
Personal and Confidential
- -------------------------
September 15, 1999
Align-Rite International
2438 Ontario Street
Burbank, California 91504
Gentlemen:
You have asked CIBC World Markets Corp. ("CIBC World Markets") to render a
written opinion (the "Fairness Opinion") to the Board of the Directors of Align-
Rite International ("Align-Rite"), from a financial point of view, of the
exchange ratio (the "Exchange Ratio") used to calculate the number of shares of
Photronics Inc. ("Photronics") Common Stock that the shareholders of Align-Rite
will receive pursuant to the merger, as provided in the Agreement and Plan of
Merger (the "Merger Agreement"), by and among Align-Rite, Photronics and a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Photronics. The Exchange Ratio is subject to a lower
collar of 1.0995 and an upper collar of 0.8173.
In arriving at our Fairness Opinion, we:
(a) reviewed the form of the Merger Agreement dated September 15, 1999;
(b) reviewed the audited financial statements of Align-Rite for the fiscal
years ended March 31, 1998 and 1999, and the unaudited financial statements
of Align-Rite for the three months ended June 30, 1998 and 1999;
(c) reviewed the audited financial statements of Photronics for the fiscal
years ended November 2, 1997 and November 1, 1998, and the unaudited
financial statements of Photronics for the nine months ended August 1,
1999;
(d) reviewed financial projections for Align-Rite, prepared and supplied by
Align-Rite's management, for the periods ending March 31, 2000 and 2001;
(e) reviewed financial projections for Photronics, prepared and supplied by
Photronics' management, for the periods ending October 31, 1999, 2000 and
2001;
(f) held discussions with senior management of Align-Rite and Photronics with
respect to the business and prospects for future growth of Align-Rite and
Photronics;
(g) reviewed and analyzed certain publicly available financial data and
historical trading price information for certain companies we deemed
comparable to Align-Rite and Photronics;
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(h) reviewed and analyzed certain publicly available information for
transactions that we deemed comparable to the Merger;
(i) performed discounted cash flow analyses of Align-Rite using certain
assumptions of future performance provided to us by the management of
Align-Rite;
(j) performed discounted cash flow analyses of Photronics using certain
assumptions of future performance provided to us by the management of
Photronics;
(k) reviewed certain publicly available research analyst reports on Align-Rite
and Photronics;
(l) reviewed historical market prices, trading volume and relative price
performance for shares of Align-Rite common stock and Photronics common
stock;
(m) utilized estimates for the future financial performance of Align-Rite and
Photronics, provided by the managements of Align-Rite and Photronics, to
calculate the relative contributions of Align-Rite and Photronics to the
pro forma combined company, and reviewed the pro forma stock ownership and
pro forma enterprise value of the combined company;
(n) analyzed the pro forma impact of the merger on Photronics' earnings per
share for the fiscal years ending October 31, 2000 and October 31, 2001,
based on financial projections provided by the managements of Align-Rite
and Photronics;
(o) reviewed publicly available information concerning Align-Rite and
Photronics that we deemed relevant; and
(p) performed such other analyses and reviewed such other information as we
deemed appropriate.
In rendering our Fairness Opinion we, at the direction of Align-Rite, relied
upon and assumed, without independent verification or investigation, the
accuracy and completeness of all of the financial and other information reviewed
by us, as well as all of the financial and other information provided to or
discussed with us by Align-Rite and Photronics and their employees,
representatives and affiliates. With respect to forecasts of future financial
condition and operating results, and certain assumptions for the future
performance, of Align-Rite and Photronics provided to us or discussed with us,
we assumed, at the direction of Align-Rite's management, without independent
verification or investigation, that such forecasts were reasonably prepared on
bases reflecting the best available information, estimates and judgments of
Align-Rite's or Photronics' management, as the case may be, and provided a
reasonable basis upon which we could form an opinion. We further relied upon
the assurance of management of Align-Rite and Photronics that they are unaware
of any facts that would make the information provided to us incomplete in any
meaningful respect or misleading in any respect. We assume no responsibility
for and express no view as to any forecasts or the information or assumptions on
which they are based. We have neither made nor obtained any independent
evaluations or
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appraisals of the assets or the liabilities of Align-Rite or Photronics or their
affiliated entities. We are not expressing any opinion as to the underlying
valuation, future performance or long term viability of Photronics' or
Align-Rite's operations following the Merger, or the price at which Photronics
Common Stock will trade subsequent to the Merger. We have assumed that the
Merger will be completed in accordance with the terms of the Merger Agreement.
Our opinion is necessarily based on the information available to us and general
economic, financial and stock market conditions and circumstances as they exist
and can be evaluated by us on the date hereof. It should be understood that,
although subsequent developments may affect this opinion, we do not have any
obligation to update, revise or reaffirm the opinion.
As part of our investment banking business, we are regularly engaged in
valuations of businesses and securities in connection with acquisitions and
mergers, underwritings, secondary distributions of securities, private
placements and valuations for other purposes.
We have acted as financial advisor to Align-Rite in connection with the Merger
and to the Board of Directors of Align-Rite in rendering this opinion and will
receive a fee for our services. CIBC World Markets may in the future provide
investment banking or other financial advisory services to Align-Rite or
Photronics.
In the ordinary course of business, CIBC World Markets acts as a market maker
and broker in publicly traded securities of Align-Rite and Photronics, and also
provides research coverage for Align-Rite and Photronics. In the ordinary
course of business, CIBC World Markets and its affiliates may also actively
trade securities of Align-Rite and Photronics for their own account and for the
accounts of customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short
position in such securities.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, it is our opinion that, as of the
date hereof, the Exchange Ratio is fair to the shareholders of Align-Rite from a
financial point of view. This Fairness Opinion is for the exclusive use of the
Board of Directors of Align-Rite. Neither this Fairness Opinion nor the
services provided by CIBC World Markets in connection herewith may be publicly
disclosed or referred to in any manner by Align-Rite without the prior written
approval of CIBC World Markets. CIBC World Markets consents to the inclusion of
this opinion in its entirety and any reference to this opinion, subject to the
approval of CIBC World Markets of references to it or this opinion therein, in
any prospectus, proxy statement or solicitation/recommendation statement, as the
case may be, filed by Align-Rite or Photronics in connection with the Merger.
Very truly yours,
/s/ CIBC World Markets Corp
---------------------------
CIBC World Markets Corp.
C-3
<PAGE>
ANNEX D
CHAPTER 13 OF THE CALIFORNIA GENERAL CORPORATION LAW
SECTION 1300.
REORGANIZATION OR SHORT-FORM MERGER; DISSENTING SHARES; CORPORATE PURCHASE AT
FAIR MARKET VALUE; DEFINITIONS.
(a) If the approval of the outstanding shares (Section 152) of a corporation
is required for a reorganization under subdivisions (a) and (b) or subdivision
(e) or (f) of Section 1201, each shareholder of the corporation entitled to vote
on the transaction and each shareholder of a subsidiary corporation in a short-
form merger may, by complying with this chapter, require the corporation in
which the shareholder holds shares to purchase for cash at their fair market
value the shares owned by the shareholder which are dissenting shares as defined
in subdivision (b). The fair market value shall be determined as of the day
before the first announcement of the terms of the proposed reorganization or
short-form merger, excluding any appreciation or depreciation in consequence of
the proposed action, but adjusted for any stock split, reverse stock split, or
share dividend which becomes effective thereafter.
(b) As used in this chapter, "dissenting shares" means shares which come
within all of the following descriptions:
(1) Which were not immediately prior to the reorganization or short-form
merger either (A) listed on any national securities exchange certified by the
Commissioner of Corporations under subdivision (o) of Section 25100 or (B)
listed on the list of OTC margin stocks issued by the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System, and the notice of meeting of shareholders to act upon
the reorganization summarizes this section and Sections 1301, 1302, 1303 and
1304; provided, however, that this provision does not apply to any shares with
respect to which there exists any restriction on transfer imposed by the
corporation or by any law or regulation; and provided, further, that this
provision does not apply to any class of shares described in subparagraph (A) or
(B) if demands for payment are filed with respect to 5% or more of the
outstanding shares of that class.
(2) Which were outstanding on the date for the determination of
shareholders entitled to vote on the reorganization and (A) were not voted in
favor of the reorganization or, (B) if described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of
paragraph (1) (without regard to the provisos in that paragraph), were voted
against the reorganization, or which were held of record on the effective date
of a short-form merger; provided, however, that subparagraph (A) rather than
subparagraph (B) of this paragraph applies in any case where the approval
required by Section 1201 is sought by written consent rather than at a meeting.
(3) Which the dissenting shareholder has demanded that the corporation
purchase at their fair market value, in accordance with Section 1301.
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(4) Which the dissenting shareholder has submitted for endorsement, in
accordance with Section 1302.
(c) As used in this chapter, "dissenting shareholder" means the recordholder
of dissenting shares and includes a transferee of record.
SECTION 1301. NOTICE TO HOLDERS OF DISSENTING SHARES IN REORGANIZATIONS; DEMAND
FOR PURCHASE; TIME; CONTENTS.
(a) If, in the case of a reorganization, any shareholders of a corporation
have a right under Section 1300, subject to compliance with paragraphs (3) and
(4) of subdivision (b) thereof, to require the corporation to purchase their
shares for cash, such corporation shall mail to each such shareholder a notice
of the approval of the reorganization by its outstanding shares (Section 152)
within 10 days after the date of such approval, accompanied by a copy of
Sections 1300, 1302, 1303, 1304 and this section, a statement of the price
determined by the corporation to represent the fair market value of the
dissenting shares, and a brief description of the procedure to be followed if
the shareholder desires to exercise the shareholder's right under such sections.
The statement of price constitutes an offer by the corporation to purchase at
the price stated any dissenting shares as defined in subdivision (b) of Section
1300, unless they lose their status as dissenting shares under Section 1309.
(b) Any shareholder who has a right to require the corporation to purchase
the shareholder's shares for cash under Section 1300, subject to compliance with
paragraphs (3) and (4) of subdivision (b) thereof, and who desires the
corporation to purchase such shares shall make written demand upon the
corporation for the purchase of such shares and payment to the shareholder in
cash of their fair market value. The demand is not effective for any purpose
unless it is received by the corporation or any transfer agent thereof (1) in
the case of shares described in clause (i) or (ii) of paragraph (1) of
subdivision (b) of Section 1300 (without regard to the provisos in that
paragraph), not later than the date of the shareholders meeting to vote upon the
reorganization, or (2) in any other case within 30 days after the date on which
the notice of the approval by the outstanding shares pursuant to subdivision (a)
or the notice pursuant to subdivision (i) of Section 1110 was mailed to the
shareholder.
(c) The demand shall state the number and class of the shares held of record
by the shareholder which the shareholder demands that the corporation purchase
and shall contain a statement of what such shareholder claims to be the fair
market value of those shares as of the day before the announcement of the
proposed reorganization or short-form merger. The statement of fair market value
constitutes an offer by the shareholder to sell the shares at such price.
SECTION 1302. SUBMISSION OF SHARE CERTIFICATES FOR ENDORSEMENT; UNCERTIFICATED
SECURITIES. Within 30 days after the date on which notice of the approval by the
outstanding shares or the notice pursuant to subdivision (i) of Section 1110 was
mailed to the shareholder, the shareholder shall submit to the corporation at
its principal office or at the office of any transfer agent thereof, (a) if the
shares are certificated securities, the shareholder's certificates representing
any shares which the shareholder demands that the
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corporation purchase, to be stamped or endorsed with a statement that the shares
are dissenting shares or to be exchanged for certificates of appropriate
denomination so stamped or endorsed or (b) if the shares are uncertificated
securities, written notice of the number of shares which the shareholder demands
that the corporation purchase. Upon subsequent transfers of the dissenting
shares on the books of the corporation, the new certificates, initial
transaction statement, and other written statements issued therefor shall bear a
like statement, together with the name of the original dissenting holder of the
shares.
SECTION 1303. PAYMENT OF AGREED PRICE WITH INTEREST; AGREEMENT FIXING FAIR
MARKET VALUE; FILING; TIME OF PAYMENT.
(a) If the corporation and the shareholder agree that the shares are
dissenting shares and agree upon the price of the shares, the dissenting
shareholder is entitled to the agreed price with interest thereon at the legal
rate on judgments from the date of the agreement. Any agreements fixing the fair
market value of any dissenting shares as between the corporation and the holders
thereof shall be filed with the secretary of the corporation.
(b) Subject to the provisions of Section 1306, payment of the fair market
value of dissenting shares shall be made within 30 days after the amount thereof
has been agreed or within 30 days after any statutory or contractual conditions
to the reorganization are satisfied, whichever is later, and in the case of
certificated securities, subject to surrender of the certificates therefor,
unless provided otherwise by agreement.
SECTION 1304. ACTION TO DETERMINE WHETHER SHARES ARE DISSENTING SHARES OR FAIR
MARKET VALUE; LIMITATION; JOINDER; CONSOLIDATION; DETERMINATION OF ISSUES;
APPOINTMENT OF APPRAISERS.
(a) If the corporation denies that the shares are dissenting shares, or the
corporation and the shareholder fail to agree upon the fair market value of the
shares, then the shareholder demanding purchase of such shares as dissenting
shares or any interested corporation, within six months after the date on which
notice of the approval by the outstanding shares (Section 152) or notice
pursuant to subdivision (i) of Section 1110 was mailed to the shareholder, but
not thereafter, may file a complaint in the superior court of the proper county
praying the court to determine whether the shares are dissenting shares or the
fair market value of the dissenting shares or both or may intervene in any
action pending on such a complaint.
(b) Two or more dissenting shareholders may join as plaintiffs or be joined
as defendants in any such action and two or more such actions may be
consolidated.
(c) On the trial of the action, the court shall determine the issues. If the
status of the shares as dissenting shares is in issue, the court shall first
determine that issue. If the fair market value of the dissenting shares is in
issue, the court shall determine, or shall appoint one or more impartial
appraisers to determine, the fair market value of the shares.
D-3
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SECTION 1305. REPORT OF APPRAISERS; CONFIRMATION; DETERMINATION BY COURT;
JUDGMENT; PAYMENT; APPEAL; COSTS.
(a) If the court appoints an appraiser or appraisers, they shall proceed
forthwith to determine the fair market value per share. Within the time fixed by
the court, the appraisers, or a majority of them, shall make and file a report
in the office of the clerk of the court. Thereupon, on the motion of any party,
the report shall be submitted to the court and considered on such evidence as
the court considers relevant. If the court finds the report reasonable, the
court may confirm it.
(b) If a majority of the appraisers appointed fail to make and file a report
within 10 days from the date of their appointment or within such further time as
may be allowed by the court or the report is not confirmed by the court, the
court shall determine the fair market value of the dissenting shares.
(c) Subject to the provisions of Section 1306, judgment shall be rendered
against the corporation for payment of an amount equal to the fair market value
of each dissenting share multiplied by the number of dissenting shares which any
dissenting shareholder who is a party, or who has intervened, is entitled to
require the corporation to purchase, with interest thereon at the legal rate
from the date on which judgment was entered.
(d) Any such judgment shall be payable forthwith with respect to
uncertificated securities and, with respect to certificated securities, only
upon the endorsement and delivery to the corporation of the certificates for the
shares described in the judgment. Any party may appeal from the judgment.
(e) The costs of the action, including reasonable compensation to the
appraisers to be fixed by the court, shall be assessed or apportioned as the
court considers equitable, but, if the appraisal exceeds the price offered by
the corporation, the corporation shall pay the costs (including in the
discretion of the court attorneys' fees, fees of expert witnesses and interest
at the legal rate on judgments from the date of compliance with Sections 1300,
1301, 1302 if the value awarded by the court for the shares is more than 125
percent of the price offered by the corporation under subdivision (a) of Section
1301).
SECTION 1306. PREVENTION OF IMMEDIATE PAYMENT; STATUS AS CREDITORS; INTEREST. To
the extent that the provisions of Chapter 5 prevent the payment to any holders
of dissenting shares of their fair market value, they shall become creditors of
the corporation for the amount thereof together with interest at the legal rate
on judgments until the date of payment, but subordinate to all other creditors
in any liquidation proceeding, such debt to be payable when permissible under
the provisions of Chapter 5.
SECTION 1307. DIVIDENDS ON DISSENTING SHARES. Cash dividends declared and paid
by the corporation upon the dissenting shares after the date of approval of the
reorganization by the outstanding shares (Section 152) and prior to payment for
the shares by the corporation shall be credited against the total amount to be
paid by the corporation therefor.
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SECTION 1308. RIGHTS OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS PENDING VALUATION; WITHDRAWAL
OF DEMAND FOR PAYMENT. Except as expressly limited in this chapter, holders of
dissenting shares continue to have all the rights and privileges incident to
their shares, until the fair market value of their shares is agreed upon or
determined. A dissenting shareholder may not withdraw a demand for payment
unless the corporation consents thereto.
SECTION 1309. TERMINATION OF DISSENTING SHARE AND SHAREHOLDER STATUS.
Dissenting shares lose their status as dissenting shares and the holders thereof
cease to be dissenting shareholders and cease to be entitled to require the
corporation to purchase their shares upon the happening of any of the following:
(a) The corporation abandons the reorganization. Upon abandonment of the
reorganization, the corporation shall pay on demand to any dissenting
shareholder who has initiated proceedings in good faith under this chapter all
necessary expenses incurred in such proceedings and reasonable attorneys' fees.
(b) The shares are transferred prior to their submission for endorsement in
accordance with Section 1302 or are surrendered for conversion into shares of
another class in accordance with the articles.
(c) The dissenting shareholder and the corporation do not agree upon the
status of the shares as dissenting shares or upon the purchase price of the
shares, and neither files a complaint or intervenes in a pending action as
provided in Section 1304, within six months after the date on which notice of
the approval by the outstanding shares or notice pursuant to subdivision (i) of
Section 1110 was mailed to the shareholder.
(d) The dissenting shareholder, with the consent of the corporation,
withdraws the shareholder's demand for purchase of the dissenting shares.
SECTION 1310. SUSPENSION OF RIGHT TO COMPENSATION OR VALUATION PROCEEDINGS;
LITIGATION OF SHAREHOLDERS' APPROVAL. If litigation is instituted to test the
sufficiency or regularity of the votes of the shareholders in authorizing a
reorganization, any proceedings under Sections 1304 and 1305 shall be suspended
until final determination of such litigation.
SECTION 1311. EXEMPT SHARES. This chapter, except Section 1312, does not apply
to classes of shares whose terms and provisions specifically set forth the
amount to be paid in respect to such shares in the event of a reorganization or
merger.
SECTION 1312. RIGHT OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDER TO ATTACK, SET ASIDE OR RESCIND
MERGER OR REORGANIZATION; RESTRAINING ORDER OR INJUNCTION; CONDITIONS.
(a) No shareholder of a corporation who has a right under this chapter to
demand payment of cash for the shares held by the shareholder shall have any
right at law or in equity to
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attack the validity of the reorganization or short- form merger, or to have the
reorganization or short-form merger set aside or rescinded, except in an action
to test whether the number of shares required to authorize or approve the
reorganization have been legally voted in favor thereof; but any holder of
shares of a class whose terms and provisions specifically set forth the amount
to be paid in respect to them in the event of a reorganization or short-form
merger is entitled to payment in accordance with those terms and provisions or,
if the principal terms of the reorganization are approved pursuant to
subdivision (b) of Section 1202, is entitled to payment in accordance with the
terms and provisions of the approved reorganization.
(b) If one of the parties to a reorganization or short-form merger is
directly or indirectly controlled by, or under common control with, another
party to the reorganization or short-form merger, subdivision (a) shall not
apply to any shareholder of such party who has not demanded payment of cash for
such shareholder's shares pursuant to this chapter; but if the shareholder
institutes any action to attack the validity of the reorganization or short-form
merger or to have the reorganization or short-form merger set aside or
rescinded, the shareholder shall not thereafter have any right to demand payment
of cash for the shareholder's shares pursuant to this chapter. The court in any
action attacking the validity of the reorganization or short-form merger or to
have the reorganization or short-form merger set aside or rescinded shall not
restrain or enjoin the consummation of the transaction except upon 10 days'
prior notice to the corporation and upon a determination by the court that
clearly no other remedy will adequately protect the complaining shareholder or
the class of shareholders of which such shareholder is a member.
(c) If one of the parties to a reorganization or short-form merger is directly
or indirectly controlled by, or under common control with, another party to the
reorganization or short-form merger, in any action to attack the validity of the
reorganization or short-form merger or to have the reorganization or short-form
merger set aside or rescinded, (1) a party to a reorganization or short-form
merger which controls another party to the reorganization or short-form merger
shall have the burden of proving that the transaction is just and reasonable as
to the shareholders of the controlled party, and (2) a person who controls two
or more parties to a reorganization shall have the burden of proving that the
transaction is just and reasonable as to the shareholders of any party so
controlled.
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ANNEX E
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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
------------------------
FORM 10-K
------------------------
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1999
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 026240
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
CALIFORNIA 954528353
(STATE OF OTHER JURISDICTION OF (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION) IDENTIFICATION NO.)
</TABLE>
2428 ONTARIO STREET, BURBANK, CA 91504
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER) (ZIP CODE)
REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (818) 843-7220
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT: None
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT: Common Stock, $.01
par value
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. Yes [X] No [ ]
As of May 28, 1999, the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by
non-affiliates of the Registrant was approximately $58,542,354 based upon the
average bid and ask prices of the Common Stock as reported on the Nasdaq
National Market on such date. Shares of Common Stock held by officers, directors
and holders of more than ten percent of the outstanding Common Stock have been
excluded from this calculation because such persons may be deemed to be
affiliates. The determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a
conclusive determination for other purposes.
As of May 28, 1999, the Registrant had outstanding 4,546,979 shares of
Common Stock.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
Portions of the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after March
31, 1999 are incorporated by reference under Part III.
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<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM NUMBER AND CAPTION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
NUMBER
------
<C> <S> <C>
PART I
1. Business.................................................... 3
2. Properties.................................................. 7
3. Legal Proceedings........................................... 7
4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders......... 8
PART II
5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related
Shareholder Matters......................................... 9
6. Selected Financial Data..................................... 10
7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations................................... 11
7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market
Risk........................................................ 16
8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data................. 17
9. Changes in and Disagreements with Auditors on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure........................................ 38
PART III
10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.......... 38
11. Executive Compensation and Related Matters.................. 38
12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and
Management.................................................. 38
13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.............. 38
PART IV
14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form
8K.......................................................... 38
</TABLE>
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PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL
Align-Rite International Inc., a California corporation ("ARII") together
with its wholly-owned subsidiaries, the ("Company"), manufactures and markets
quality photomasks for the global semiconductor industry. Photomasks are
required for the manufacture of virtually all integrated circuits, which are
essential components in consumer and industrial electronic products. Photomasks
are precision photographic quartz or glass plates containing microscopic images
of integrated circuits. The Company images integrated circuit patterns onto
photomasks using electron beam, laser beam and optical microlithography methods
at its manufacturing facilities in Burbank, California, Bridgend, Wales and
Heilbronn, Germany.
The Company is comprised of ARII, incorporated on April 27, 1995, and its
wholly-owned subsidiaries Align-Rite International Limited ("ARI"), Align-Rite
Corporation ("ARC"), Align-Rite Limited ("ARL"), Align-Rite B.V. ("ARBV"), and
Align-Rite GmbH ("ARGmbH"). ARII and its subsidiaries are collectively referred
to herein as the "Company". All significant intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated.
ARII, ARI and ARBV are primarily holding companies into which their
respective subsidiaries are consolidated. On July 21, 1995, ARII completed an
initial public offering of Common Stock, as part of which all of the outstanding
Ordinary Shares of ARI were exchanged for the Common Stock of ARII.
The Company's principle executive offices are located at 2428 Ontario
Street, Burbank, California, 91504. The Company's telephone number is (818)
843-7220.
INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
Photomasks are a key element in the manufacture of semiconductors.
Photomasks are used as master images to transfer integrated circuit patterns
onto semiconductor wafers during the fabrication of integrated circuits and, to
a lesser extent, other types of electronic components, such as thin film
magnetic recording heads, advanced printed circuit boards and flat panel
displays. Each circuit design normally consists of a series of eight to
twenty-five separate circuit patterns, each of which is imaged onto a separate
photomask. The completed series of photomasks are then used to successively
image each separate circuit pattern onto a single semiconductor wafer.
Photomasks are primarily manufactured by independent manufacturers, with
some production by captive manufacturers. Captive manufacturers are considered
the internal photomask manufacturing operations of semiconductor businesses
which produce photomasks almost exclusively for their own use in the fabrication
of integrated circuits. Since 1987, there has been an industry trend to divest
or close captive photomask operations of semiconductor manufacturers in the
United States and Europe. The Company believes this trend is attributable to:
(i) substantial ongoing capital investment requirements; (ii) significant
operating and maintenance costs; (iii) the presence of reliable, independent
manufacturers of photomasks in the United States and Europe; and (iv) a trend by
semiconductor manufacturers to focus on the core components of their businesses.
As a result, the Company believes that the share of the market served by
independent manufacturers of photomasks has successively increased each year
since 1987.
The purchasers of photomasks consist primarily of semiconductor
manufacturers and integrated circuit design businesses in the United States,
Europe and the Pacific Rim. The semiconductor industry has been in a downturn
for the last eighteen months, but despite this applications for integrated
circuits such as cellular telephones, pagers, automotive control systems,
medical products, computers and printers, electronically controlled industrial
equipment, satellites, security systems and consumer appliances have continued
to proliferate. The demand for Photomasks is driven largely by increases in the
number of semiconductor designs and the complexity of integrated circuits.
According to VLSI Research, the worldwide demand for
3
<PAGE>
photomasks will exceed $2.0 billion in 1999 with growing demand in both units
and dollars forecast for the next three years at a CAGR in excess of 15%.
The number of significant independent photomask manufacturers (companies
with estimated annual photomask sales in excess of $5.0 million) in the United
States and Europe has decreased as a result of industry consolidation, closing
of operations and competitive pressures on photomask manufacturers. These
competitive pressures were mainly the result of the implementation of
sophisticated software programs used to reduce errors in integrated circuit
design, which had the effect of reducing the number of photomask iterations
normally required to create a working integrated circuit, as well as shortening
photomask delivery cycles. The shortened photomask delivery cycles also reduced
the need for backup photomask sets.
The Company believes that the following trends are increasing the demand
for photomasks and the photomask industry's importance in the semiconductor
manufacturing process:
Customization of Semiconductor Designs. Growing demand for semiconductors,
including application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application specific
standard products (ASPs), embedded microcontrollers and a growing variety of
memory products, has generated increasing demand for photomasks as each new type
of semiconductor device requires additional new and often more advanced
photomasks.
Increasing Device Complexity. As the complexity of semiconductor devices
has increased in response to continued efforts to improve the performance and
functionality of these devices through greater transistor densities and smaller
feature sizes, the number of successive layers of patterns required to
manufacture an integrated circuit has increased, resulting in an increase in the
number of photomasks used to manufacture to microprocessors in 1991 was 14 as
compared to 25 photomasks now required for the most advanced generation of
microprocessors.
Decreasing Size of Semiconductor Designs. The semiconductor industry's
growth is driven by its ability to produce smaller and more powerful
semiconductor chips at lower costs. As semiconductor line widths become as small
as the wavelength of the illumination sources in optical lithography, the
semiconductor manufacturing process becomes increasingly dependent upon high
precision photomasks to deliver process results to more demanding specifications
and tolerances. Future generations of wafer lithography equipment are expected
to increase the need for high precision photomasks, thereby further increasing
demand for advanced photomasks with tighter specifications. Development of
increasingly small design features is likely to generate increased demand for
advanced photomasks that can accurately and reliably replicate intricate design
features.
Proliferation of Semiconductor Applications. Semiconductor devices of all
types are continuing to proliferate into new products, including cellular
telephones, pagers, automobiles, medical products, household appliances and
other consumer electronic products. In addition, the demand for semiconductor
devices from traditional markets such as personal computers is growing
significantly as semiconductor content in electronic systems increases and as
personal computers expand further into homes and other new market segments. The
Company believes that the proliferation of semiconductor applications will leads
to an increase in semiconductor design activity and resulting demand for
photomasks.
The Company believes that all of these changes in the semiconductor
industry are increasing the demand for photomasks and increasing the already
important role of photomasks in the semiconductor manufacturing process.
SALES AND MARKETING
Because each photomask is unique, the Company works closely with each
customer to define and communicate precisely the specification required by the
customer. The Company endeavors to develop long-term customer relationships
primarily with semiconductor manufacturers and other electronics companies whose
annual independent photomask expenditures range from $250,000 to $10,000,000. An
important market segment for the Company is custom integrated circuit
manufacturers, as they typically require a higher volume of photomasks and use
integrated circuit pattern sizes, which are now, and are expected to remain for
several years, within the Company's current technological capabilities. In
addition, the Company focuses its marketing efforts on analog, linear and mixed
signal integrated circuit manufacturers, and to a lesser degree
4
<PAGE>
with manufacturers of other electronic components such as thin-film magnetic
recording heads and advanced printed circuit boards. The Company believes these
segments, which require a substantial volume of photomasks, represent growing
markets within the semiconductor and electronics industry.
The Company targets various aspects of customer businesses including second
sourcing opportunities. Second sourcing is the standard practice in the
semiconductor industry of maintaining at least two, and sometimes three, sources
for critical materials used in the manufacturing process, including photomasks.
Initially, the Company seeks to become a qualified supplier. After demonstrating
its reliability, the Company then pursues a greater percentage of the customer's
business.
The Company also targets corporate outsourcing opportunities. These
opportunities are presented by: (i) semiconductor manufacturers which operate
captive photomask manufacturing operations and which outsource a portion of
their photomask requirements in order to have a reliable second source of
supplies, (ii) captive manufacturers which outsource during peak demand periods
rather than invest in additional manufacturing capacity; and (iii) semiconductor
manufacturers concentrating on the core components of their business which have
closed or reduced the scale of their internal photomask manufacturing
operations.
The Company primarily conducts its strategic sales and marketing activities
at its facilities in Burbank, California, Bridgend, Wales, and in Heilbronn,
Germany. The Company maintains sales and technical service centers in
California, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, France and The Netherlands. The
Company may expand its international presence by opening additional sales and
technical service centers in other strategic international locations.
STRATEGIC ALLIANCE PARTNERS
The Company has formed three (3) strategic alliances: 1.) Harris Advanced
Imaging Group, a captive photomask manufacturer located in Florida, 2.) Innova,
Inc. a photomask manufacturer in Hsinchu, Taiwan, and 3.) Telefunken
Microelectronic Group based in Heilbronn, Germany. These alliances allow each
partner to: (i) exploit economies of scale for raw material purchases through
the use of collective bargaining with photomask raw material suppliers; (ii)
provide additional manufacturing resources by allowing for mutual use of each
other's photomask manufacturing resources; (iii) share advancements in process
technology; and (iv) in the case of Innova, Inc., positions the Company to sell
its products into the Pacific Rim.
The Company announced in May 1999 that it had signed a non-binding letter
of intent to purchase Harris Corporation's Imaging Technology Group (ITG)
semiconductor business unit, a photomask manufacturer located in Melbourne,
Florida. The acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including the
preparation, negotiation and approval of a definitive agreement satisfactory
completion of due diligence obtaining required regulatory and other approvals,
and final agreement on the financial terms of the transaction.
PRODUCTS AND MANUFACTURING PROCESS
Photomasks are manufactured by the Company in accordance with the
integrated circuit design patterns provided on a confidential basis by its
customers. These proprietary circuit design patterns are typically developed
using sophisticated computer-aided design systems. The final design of each
integrated circuit results in a series or set of precise individual circuit
patterns to be imaged onto a series of typically eight to twenty-five separate
photomasks. The series or set of patterned photomasks replicates the customer's
integrated circuit design. The photomasks are then used to successively image a
unique pattern from each photomask in the set onto a semiconductor wafer. This
imaging is typically accomplished on a wafer imaging system by transferring
light throughout the photomask onto a micron-thick photosensitive polymer or
"photoresist" that is spread over the surface of the semiconductor wafer.
Chemicals are then used to wash away either the light-exposed or the unexposed
areas of the photoresist on the wafer depending upon the needs of the
semiconductor manufacturer. The imaged integrated circuit pattern on the
photoresist is then transferred to the surface of the wafer by a chemical
etching process.
The Company currently images photomasks using electron beam, laser beam,
and optical microlithography methods.
5
<PAGE>
LASER BEAM IMAGING
Laser beam photomask imaging systems typically utilize eight laser beams,
which simultaneously image the circuit design patterns onto a photomask. The
primary benefit of these systems is shorter imaging and processing times, and it
requires a less complex chemical process as compared to electron beam photomask
imaging systems. Laser beam photomask imaging systems permit photomask
manufacturers to address a segment of the market that frequently require
response times of approximately twenty-four hours or less between order
placement and shipment of the finished photomasks. The Company currently
operates three Core 2564 laser beam imaging systems, two in the United States
and one in Europe.
The Company currently has one ETEC Alta 3500 System installed in Europe
with another system presently being installed in the U.S., which now give the
Company advanced lithography capability. These systems will allow the Company to
meet the challenging requirements for placement, critical dimension, butting and
alignment control imposed by .25 micron photomask production.
ELECTRON BEAM IMAGING
When utilizing the electron beam photomask imaging process, the photomask
patterns are produced from the customer's integrated circuit design data
following the conversion of this data into compatible electron beam system
language. The electron beam photomask imaging system uses a single electron beam
scanning system to write the integrated circuit pattern onto the photomask in an
environmentally controlled vacuum chamber. The electron beam photomask imaging
process makes it possible to achieve extremely small patterns, finer line
resolution, and precise pattern size and pattern placement tolerances. The
Company currently operates seven electron beam photomask imaging systems, four
in the United States and three in Europe.
OPTICAL IMAGING
In addition to electron beam and laser beam lithography manufacturing
methods, the Company uses, to a lesser degree, optical microlithography methods.
In the optical photomask imaging process, magnetic tapes containing the
integrated circuit design patterns are used to "drive" a microlithographic
imaging system, known as a pattern generator, which "writes" the pattern onto a
reticle using a columnated mercury exposure system. The reticle is typically a
single image of the integrated circuit pattern five times larger than the actual
size of the finished circuit. The reticle image is then photographically reduced
to the final size of the circuit and printed as many as several hundred times on
a master photomask by an optical photorepeater. The master photomask may be used
to project the circuit patterns onto semiconductor wafers or may be used to make
reprints which are used to contact print the circuit patterns onto the wafer.
Photomasks manufactured using optical processes are typically less expensive but
are also less precise and have lower resolution than electron beam or laser
imaged photomasks. The Company has a number of pattern generators and
photorepeaters at each of its manufacturing facilities.
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES
The raw materials utilized by the Company include photoblanks, which are
high precision quartz or glass plates, pellicles, which are transparent
cellulose membranes that protect the surface of the photomask, and electronic
grade chemicals which are used during the manufacturing process.
The Company does not currently have long-term supply agreements with any of
its raw material suppliers. As a relatively small number of quality quartz or
glass producers exist, there can be no assurance that the Company will not
experience difficulties in the future in obtaining the timely or necessary
supply of raw materials. Any difficulty or delay in obtaining an adequate supply
of raw materials or any significant increase in the price of raw materials could
have a material adverse effect on the Company's operations. In addition,
fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates could have a material adverse
effect on the price of raw materials purchased outside of the United States.
6
<PAGE>
COMPETITION
The photomask industry is highly competitive. In the United States, the
Company competes with Dupont Photomasks, Inc. ("DuPont") and Photronics, Inc.,
and to a lesser extent, with other significantly smaller independent
manufacturers. In Europe, the Company primarily competes with Compugraphics
International Limited, DuPont, and Photronics, Inc. The Company also competes,
to a lesser extent, with certain semiconductor companies who manufacture
photomasks primarily for their own internal needs.
The Company's ability to compete primarily depends upon its technical
capabilities, the capacity of its manufacturing facilities, the consistency of
product quality, customer service and technical support, product pricing and the
timeliness of product delivery. The Company also believes that its proximity to
customers is an important competitive factor in certain market segments.
EMPLOYEES
As of March 31, 1999, the Company employed approximately 171 people in the
United States and 123 in Europe on a full time basis. None of the Company's
employees except for its employees in Germany are currently represented by a
labor union. The Company's German subsidiary is subject to German law, which
binds it as a member of a selected industry group to agreements reached by
industry management and employee representatives. The Company believes that its
employee relations are good.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company's main executive, administrative and manufacturing offices are
located in a 33,000 square foot facility in Burbank, California under several
leases, all of which expire in the year 2000. The Company maintains the right to
renew these leases for additional five-year terms. In addition, the Company
currently operates its foreign operations from a 26,000 square foot facility,
located in Bridgend, Wales under a lease which expires in 2006 and a 15,000
square foot facility located in Heilbronn, Germany which expires in 2007.
The Company also has approximately 20,000 square feet of office space under
various leases and rental agreements in multiple locations throughout the United
States and Europe in support of its sales force and technical support staff.
The Company believes that its existing and planned facility additions are
adequate for its current and short-term manufacturing needs. The Company also
believes additional space would be readily available at commercially reasonable
terms, should the Company find a need to expand its operations.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is not currently a party to any legal proceedings the adverse
outcome of which would have a material adverse effect on the financial condition
or results of operations of the Company.
7
<PAGE>
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The executive officers of the Company as of March 31, 1999 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AGE POSITION
---- --- --------
<S> <C> <C>
James L. Mac Donald..... 52 Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer
Petar N. Katurich....... 36 Vice President of Finance, Chief Financial Officer, and
Secretary
</TABLE>
JAMES L. MAC DONALD founded the Company in 1970 and since then has served
as its Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Mac
Donald is a Director of the British American Chamber of Commerce and a Fellow of
the Institute of Directors.
PETAR N. KATURICH has served as Chief Financial Officer of the Company
since October 1992 and Vice President of Finance since April 1998. From 1991 to
1992, Mr. Katurich was employed by a division of Cooke Media Group. From 1985 to
1990, Mr. Katurich was employed at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Mr. Katurich is a
Certified Public Accountant.
8
<PAGE>
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER
MATTERS
The Company's Common Stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market under
the trading symbol "MASK". The Company's Common Stock began trading on July 21,
1995 upon completion of an initial public offering of the Company's Common
Stock. The range of daily closing prices on a per share basis for the Company's
Common Stock for the twelve months ended March 31, 1999 was:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HIGH LOW
------ ------
<S> <C> <C>
Year Ended March 31, 1999:
Fourth quarter............................................ $14.13 $11.56
Third quarter............................................. $14.50 $ 8.69
Second quarter............................................ $15.06 $ 9.88
First quarter............................................. $17.25 $13.25
Year Ended March 31, 1998:
Fourth quarter............................................ $17.13 $13.00
Third quarter............................................. $24.00 $12.75
Second quarter............................................ $23.88 $12.00
First quarter............................................. $14.75 $ 9.94
</TABLE>
The reported closing sales price of the Company's Common Stock on the
Nasdaq National Market on March 31, 1999 was $11.56. As of March 31, 1999 there
were 87 holders of record of the Company's Common Stock.
ARII has 35,000,000 shares of authorized Common Stock of $.01 par value, of
which 4,539,579 were outstanding as of March 31, 1999.
ARII has not issued any Preferred Stock. ARII has elected not to pay any
cash dividends on its Common Stock as it currently intends to retain its
earnings to fund the development and growth of its business. In addition, the
Company's bank lines of credit includes certain restrictions and requirements
relating to the prohibition of dividend declarations or payments. The Company,
at this time, does not anticipate declaring or paying any cash dividends in the
foreseeable future.
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<PAGE>
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected consolidated financial data set forth below at March
31, 1999, and 1998 and for each of the three years in the period ended March 31,
1999, are derived from the audited financial statements of the Company included
herein. The selected consolidated financial data as of March 31, 1997 and 1996
and for the periods ended March 31, 1996 and 1995 are derived from the audited
consolidated financial statements of the Company, which are not included herein.
The information set forth below should be read in conjunction with the
Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto and "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included
elsewhere herein.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 31,
---------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
(THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Consolidated Statement of Operations
Data:
Net sales.............................. $52,443 $46,721 $38,001 $33,290 $25,404
Cost of sales.......................... 34,410 29,236 23,530 20,491 15,887
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Gross profit........................ 18,033 17,485 14,471 12,799 9,517
Selling, general and administrative
expenses............................ 8,610 7,442 6,072 5,571 4,515
Research and Development............... 926 509 333 198 --
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Income from operations................. 8,497 9,534 8,066 7,030 5,002
Interest (income) expense, net......... 107 (122) (308) (345) 151
Other expense (income), net............ 17 (132) (7) 20 49
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Income before income tax provision,
minority interest, cumulative
effect of change in accounting
principle and extraordinary
item.............................. 8,373 9,788 8,381 7,355 4,802
Income tax provision..................... 3,069 3,688 3,056 2,219 1,216
Minority interest........................ -- -- -- 172 162
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net income............................... $ 5,304 $ 6,100 $ 5,325 $ 4,964 $ 3,424
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Basic earnings per share................. $ 1.18 $ 1.37 $ 1.21 $ 1.46 $ 3.05
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Shares used in per share computation..... 4,495 4,439 4,386 3,393 1,123
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Diluted earnings per share............... $ 1.09 $ 1.25 $ 1.11 $ 1.12 $ 1.17
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Shares used in per share computation..... 4,869 4,865 4,799 4,446 2,933
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and cash equivalents.............. $ 6,328 $ 5,523 $ 6,734 $12,707 $ 3,861
Working capital........................ 2,130 6,636 10,727 17,254 3,849
Property and equipment, net............ 61,333 33,575 22,089 8,517 6,506
Total assets........................... 80,292 51,158 38,781 30,422 17,261
Long-term debt, less current
portion(1).......................... 15,208 -- -- -- 1,905
Total shareholders' equity............. 43,302 37,766 31,373 25,285 5,977
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) As of March 31, 1999, includes $10,008,000 of equipment payables to be
refinanced. See Note 6 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
10
<PAGE>
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
All references in this section to 1999, 1998 and 1997 relate to the fiscal
years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain items
from the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations as a percentage of net
sales for the periods indicated:
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 31,
-----------------------------
1999 1998 1997
------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales........................................... 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Cost of sales....................................... 65.6 62.6 61.9
----- ----- -----
Gross profit........................................ 34.4 37.4 38.1
Selling, general & administrative expenses.......... 16.4 15.9 16.0
Research and development............................ 1.8 1.1 0.9
----- ----- -----
Income from operations.............................. 16.2 20.4 21.2
Interest (income) expense, net...................... .2 (.3) (0.8)
Other (income) expense, net......................... -- (.3) --
----- ----- -----
Income before provision for income taxes............ 16.0 21.0 22.0
Provision for income taxes.......................... 5.9 7.9 8.0
----- ----- -----
Net income.......................................... 10.1% 13.1% 14.0%
===== ===== =====
</TABLE>
1999 Compared with 1998
Net Sales -- Net sales were $52.4 million during 1999, an increase of 12.2%
compared to net sales of $46.7 million during 1998. The year was marked by
significant photomask product pricing pressures throughout the semiconductor
sector. This was primarily caused by the general slowdown in chip sales
throughout the semiconductor industry.
Net Sales of U.S. operations were $29.6 million or 8% higher compared to
the prior year's net sales of $27.5 million. The U.S. operations overall
customer base increased as compared to the prior year. Net sales of European
operations were $22.8 million or 18.1% higher compared to prior year net sales
of $19.3 million. The 18% increase in European sales was effected by several
factors including photomask product pricing pressures and a slow down in the
release of new designs from its customers during the second half of 1999. Second
half sales were down 19% from the first half of the year. Despite the slowdown,
the Company moved aggressively forward with the ordering and installation of
several new high end pieces of equipment. Late in the third quarter, the Company
installed an ALTA 3500 laser imaging tool in Europe in order to facilitate the
Company's move to manufacture higher end product including photomask products
which meet .25 micron semiconductor design rules and manufacturing standards.
Gross Profit -- Gross profit increased to $18.0 million during 1999, an
increase of 3.1% as compared to $17.5 million during 1998, resulting primarily
from increased sales. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit decreased to
34.4% in 1999, compared to 37.4% in 1998. The primary costs that affect gross
profit are materials, labor, depreciation, and overhead. The decrease was
primarily attributable to higher costs associated with depreciation, which
increased 39.9% in 1999 to $6.0 million up from $4.3 million in the prior year.
The Company anticipates that current and planned capital expenditures will cause
fixed costs to be higher in the future.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses -- Selling, general and
administrative expenses include salaries of sales personnel, marketing expense,
general and administrative expense and product distribution expense. Selling,
general and administrative expenses increased to $8.6 million during 1999, an
increase of
11
<PAGE>
15.7% compared to $7.4 million in 1998. As a percentage of net sales, selling,
general and administrative expenses increased to 16.4% in 1999 compared with
15.9% in 1998. The increase in selling, general and administrative costs was
primarily attributable to increased sales expense due to the Company addition of
sales personnel which will position the Company to address its program to
penetrate the high end photomask product sector of the market. The Company
anticipates that selling, general and administrative costs will continue to
grow, however, they are expected to remain consistent as a percentage of sales.
Research and Development -- Research and development ("R&D") expense is
comprised primarily of personnel costs, material consumption, depreciation and
engineering costs. The Company spent $926,000 or 1.8% of sales in 1999 as
compared with $509,000 or 1.1% in the prior year. The Company believes it will
continue to spend approximately 2% of sales on R&D projects primarily relating
to establishing new technologies including .25 micron, Optical Proximity
Correction and Phase Shift product manufacturing capabilities. The Company
anticipates that R&D expense will continue to increase in absolute dollar terms
in the future reflecting its strategy of advancing technology.
Interest Income -- Interest income was $134,000 in 1999, compared to
$122,000 in 1998. The amounts for interest income are consistent from year to
year as the Company maintained approximately an equivalent amount of cash
throughout the year.
Interest Expense -- Interest expense increased from zero in 1998 to
$241,000 in 1999. This was entirely attributable to the Company drawing down its
line of credit throughout the year. The Company anticipates that it will
continue to expand upon the utilization of its line of credit and consequently
interest expense is anticipated to increase significantly during the next fiscal
year.
Provision for Income Taxes -- The effective income tax rate decreased to
36.7% in 1999 from 37.7% in 1998. The slight decrease in the effective income
tax rate is attributable to lower state taxes paid due to application of
available credits from capital expenditure purchases.
1998 Compared with 1997
Net Sales -- Net sales were $46.7 million during 1998, an increase of 23%
compared to net sales of $38.0 million during 1997. The increase in net sales is
attributable to increased demand from the Company's customers, the acquisition
of the photomask business unit of Temic and the utilization of increased
capacity through the addition of several key pieces of manufacturing equipment.
Net Sales of U.S. operations were $27.5 million or 7% higher compared to
the prior year's net sales of $25.8 million. The U.S. operations overall
customer base increased as compared to the prior year, but sales volume was
affected by a drop in demand from thin-film head customers by 19%. Net sales of
European operations were $19.3 million or 58% higher compared to prior year net
sales of $12.2 million. The 58% increase in European sales was driven by an
increase in the overall demand from the customer base and an increase in sales
volume. European sales also include the new manufacturing facility in Heilbronn,
Germany, which began operations under the Company's control beginning June 1,
1997.
The Company, in anticipation of future sales growth, continues to invest in
capital equipment to accommodate its customers who are continually enhancing
their product designs to smaller and more sophisticated geometries which the
Company believes helps drive the demand for photomasks. The Company intends to
install additional laser core imaging systems in both the U.S. and Europe to
address the demand for more advanced photomask products.
Gross Profit -- Gross profit increased to $17.0 million during 1998, an
increase of 20.6% as compared to $14.1 million during 1997, resulting primarily
from higher costs associated with increased sales. As a percentage of net sales,
gross profit decreased slightly to 35.9% in 1998, compared to 37.2% in 1997. The
primary costs that affect gross profit are materials, labor, depreciation, and
overhead. The slight decrease was primarily attributable to higher costs
associated with depreciation, which increased 54.8% in 1998 to $4.3 million from
$2.8 million in the prior year. The Company anticipates that with the capital
expenditures planned and those already purchased fixed costs will be higher in
the future.
12
<PAGE>
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses -- Selling, general and
administrative expenses include salaries of sales personnel, marketing expense,
general and administrative expense and product distribution expense. Selling,
general and administrative expenses increased to $7.4 million during 1998, an
increase of 22.6% compared to $6.1 million in 1997. As a percentage of net
sales, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased slightly to 15.9%
in 1998 compared with 16.0% in 1997. The increase in selling, general and
administrative costs was primarily attributable to the purchase of the photomask
division of Temic in June 1997. The Company anticipates that selling, general
and administrative costs will continue to grow, however as a percentage of sales
they will be consistent.
Interest Income -- Interest Income decreased to $122,000 in 1998, compared
to $308,000 in 1997. The decrease was attributable to lower cash balances on
deposit as a result of a large capital expenditure program taking place
throughout the year.
Provision for Income Taxes -- The effective income tax rate increased to
37.5% in 1998 from 36.4% in 1997. The slight increase in the effective income
tax rate is attributable to a higher income tax rate from the ARGmbH's
operations compared to other manufacturing locations.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As compared to March 1998, total assets at March 31, 1999 grew 56.9% to
$80.3 million and shareholders' equity grew 14.7% to $43.3 million. The
Company's cash and cash equivalents increased $800,000 to $6.3 million at March
31, 1999. The increase was primarily a result of the Company drawing down $6.2
million of its available credit line to finance capital expenditures related to
the construction of cleanrooms and equipment purchases in connection with the
Company's expansion of manufacturing capacity in its U.S. and European
manufacturing sites.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $19.1 million in 1999,
compared to $15.3 million in 1998. Operating cash flows in 1999 reflect lower
net income and higher non-cash charges related to depreciation and higher
accrued expense balances coupled with unpaid equipment payables at year end.
Accounts receivable decreased slightly to $7.2 million at the end of 1999,
from $7.4 million at the end of 1998. During 1999, inventories remained
relatively consistent at $2.9 million at the end of 1999, compared to $2.8
million at the end of 1998. Inventory levels which consist primarily of raw
materials, chemicals and supplies were adequate to support the sales growth and
the expected continued increases in sales demand for the Company's products in
2000.
Accounts payable decrease slightly to $4.2 million from $4.4 million in the
prior year. The Company incurred over $33.9 million in capital expenditures
throughout the year and as a consequence equipment payable of $17.6 million
remain unpaid as of year end compared to $1.2 million in the prior year. The
Company will utilize a combination of its existing line of credit and cash flow
to pay down the equipment payable balances throughout fiscal 2000.
In 1999, cash used in investing activities totaled $23.9 million compared
to $16.8 million in 1998. The Company's capital expenditures during 1999 were
the highest in the Company's history and primarily related to the construction
of cleanrooms and the purchase of equipment which will support and complement
new process development and higher-end products and will increase revenue
generating capacity of each of its manufacturing sites located in the United
States and Europe. Investments in capital equipment have been, and are
anticipated to continue to be, a significant use of the Company's capital
resources.
In 1999, cash from financing activities was $5.6 million. Cash from
financing activities included the net draw down of $5.2 million from its $25
million lines of credit. Obligations for equipment payables which the Company
has the ability and intent to further draw down on its available lines of credit
during fiscal year 2000 have been classified as long-term at March 31, 1999.
Furthermore, cash from financing activities was provided by the sale of 68,592
shares of ARII's Common Stock through the exercise of stock options, which
generated net proceeds of $162,989. In addition, 7,007 shares of Common Stock
were issued through the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan which generated
net proceeds of $69,229. The Company also received $149,511 of grant income from
a government source in Europe.
13
<PAGE>
During the year ended March 31, 1999, the Company increased its available
lines of credit from $20.0 million to $25.0 million. The lines of credit bear
interest at 1.25% above LIBOR. Under the terms of these lines of credit, the
Company would not be able to enter into certain transactions or declare
dividends without receiving prior written consent from the bank and would be
required to comply with certain financial covenants as well as maintain certain
financial ratios. The above lines of credit expire on September 30, 2000, if not
renewed.
Management believes that funds generated from operations together with its
cash and cash equivalents will be sufficient to meet its normal operating
requirements during the coming year. If these funds prove to be insufficient, or
if new opportunities require the Company to supplement its financial resources,
the Company may use established credit lines with its corporate banker and or
seek additional financing or pursue other sources of financing; however, there
can be no assurance other sources of financing will be available at commercially
viable terms, if at all.
The Company announced in May 1999 that it had signed a non-binding letter
of intent to purchase Harris Corporation's Imaging Technology Group (ITG)
semiconductor business unit, a photomask manufacturer located in Melbourne,
Florida. The acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including the
preparation, negotiation and approval of a definitive agreement, satisfactory
completion of due diligence, obtaining required regulatory and other approvals,
and final agreement on the financial terms of the transaction.
READINESS FOR YEAR 2000
Background. As the year 2000 approaches, a critical issue has emerged
regarding how existing application software programs, operating systems and
embedded computer chips can accommodate the year 2000 date value. The Company
has a year 2000 project team in place with overall responsibility for the
Company's year 2000 compliance programs. In addition, executive management
regularly monitors the status of the Company's year 2000 remediation plans.
Project. The Company has identified potential year 2000 risks in four
categories: Software Information Systems Manufacturing Engineering facilities;
internal business software and information technology systems; systems other
than information technology systems ("Non-IT systems"); and third-party
suppliers to the Company. The Company's year 2000 project includes the following
phases for the first three categories above: (1) identifying year 2000 risks;
(2) assigning priorities to identified risks; (3) testing year 2000 compliance
for risks determined to be material to the Company; (4) correcting problems
determined to be material and not year 2000 compliant; (5) retesting corrections
that have been implemented; and (6) developing contingency plans. With respect
to the Company's third-party suppliers, the Company's year 2000 project consists
of the following phases: (1) contacting critical suppliers for information
concerning their year 2000 readiness; (2) prioritizing suppliers as to relative
importance; (3) validating supplier responses regarding year 2000 compliance.
Assessment. The product that the Company sells to customers consist of no
date related issues; therefore, the Company believes that its current product
offerings are year 2000 compliant.
Internal business software and systems consist primarily of the Company's
business information systems in the United States and Europe. The Company has
completed its initial year 2000 project phases with respect to its business
systems, and is in the process of developing, implementing and testing the
necessary modifications. The Company believes that its internal business
software and systems will be year 2000 compliant. However, if the Company's
business systems are not year 2000 compliant, the Company could experience
interruptions to its production process, development programs and general
business operations. The Company has been advised by the suppliers of its
manufacturing equipment, which consist primarily of micro-lithography writing
tools, process and inspection tools in the various buildings the Company
occupies, that such systems are year 2000 compliant.
Third-party suppliers provide raw materials and in some case manufacturing
services incorporated by the Company into the products and systems it sells. The
Company is requiring that each of its key suppliers certify whether they are
year 2000 compliant. The Company has also prioritized its suppliers as critical
or non-critical
14
<PAGE>
to the Company's business. Based on information received from these suppliers,
the Company estimates that approximately 80% of its critical suppliers are
presently year 2000 compliant. The Company plans to monitor its critical
suppliers and either develop alternate sources or increase inventory levels
prior to the year 2000 for those suppliers considered to be at risk of not
achieving year 2000 compliance. However, there can be no assurance that such
alternate sources will be available or that adequate inventory levels will be
attainable if necessary, and the Company could experience raw materials and or
parts shortages and production interruptions if one or more key third-party
suppliers experience year 2000 problems.
Costs. Incremental costs of the Company's year 2000 project have primarily
consisted of upgrades to the Company's existing manufacturing and inspection
equipment. Such costs in the aggregate have not been material to the Company's
financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The balance of the
effort for the Company's year 2000 project has been by employees of the Company
whose costs for this project are not tracked separately. The Company currently
believes that costs for the remainder of the year 2000 compliance project will
not be material to the Company's financial position, results of operations or
cash flows.
Risks. The Company's results of operations, financial condition and cash
flows could be materially and adversely affected if the Company or any of its
critical suppliers or customers do not achieve year 2000 compliance. Although
the Company's year 2000 compliance project is expected to minimize the Company's
risks of experiencing a year 2000 problem, inherent risks and uncertainties
exist despite the Company's efforts. There can be no assurance that a failure on
the part of the Company, its products, its suppliers or its customers will not
be disruptive to the Company's business. As a result of these uncertainties the
Company is unable to determine at this time whether the consequences of year
2000 failures will have a material effect on the Company's results of
operations, financial condition or cash flows.
FOREIGN OPERATIONS AND INFLATION
Foreign operations are subject to certain risks inherent to conducting
business abroad, including product prices and currency exchange controls,
fluctuation in the relative value of currencies and restrictive governmental
actions. Changes in the relative value of currencies occur from time to time and
may, in certain instances, have a material adverse effect on the Company's
results of operations and cash flows. The Company does not hedge foreign
currency risks, and the effects of these risks are difficult to predict. The
risks associated with foreign operations have not, to date, had a material
adverse impact on the Company's results of operations and cash flows. There can,
however, be no assurance that such risks will not have a material adverse impact
on the Company's financial position, results of operations, and cash flows in
the future. See Note 14 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for
segment information concerning the Company's operations.
The effects of inflation are experienced by the Company through increases
in the cost of labor, services and raw materials. In general, these costs have
been anticipated and were offset to some degree by periodic increases in the
prices of its products and or higher manufacturing capacity utilization rates.
The Company does not believe, however, that inflation has had a material effect
on the results of operations in the past. There can be no assurance that the
Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows will not be
materially affected by the effects of inflation any trends in the future.
EURO CONVERSION
A single currency called the euro was introduced in Europe in January 1,
1999. Eleven of the fifteen member countries of the European Union ("EU")
adopted the euro as their common legal currency as of that date. Fixed
conversion rates between these participating countries' existing currencies (the
"legacy currencies") and the euro were established as of that date. The legacy
currencies will remain legal tender as denominations of the euro until at least
2002 (but not later than July 1, 2002). During this transition period, parties
may settle transactions using either the euro or participating country's legal
currency.
The Company is still in the process of evaluating the effect, if any, of
the euro on its pricing of products in the eleven participating countries. The
Company does not expect a material impact on its results of operations from
foreign currency gains or losses as a result of its transition to the euro as
the functional currency for its subsidiaries based in EU countries.
15
<PAGE>
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
The preceding "Business" section and this "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations" section contain
various "forward looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities and
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which represent the Company's reasonable
judgment concerning the future and are subject to risks and uncertainties that
could cause the Company's actual operating results and financial position and
cash flows to differ materially, including the following: the Company's belief
that total photomask production in the United States and Europe will continue to
expand in 1999; the Company's belief that the custom integrated circuit
manufacturing segment of the market represents a growing market; the Company's
belief that outsourcing of photomask manufacturing will continue in the future;
the Company's belief that European demand will continue to be strong going
forward; the Company's potential expansion in certain international markets and
any corresponding increase in manufacturing capacity; the Company's expectation
that it will be able to finance such capital expenditures and, any other
expansion, with existing funds and funds generated from operations and its
available lines of credit; the Company's intention to expand its laser beam
imaging capabilities by installing two Etec Alta 3500 systems and the belief
that such systems will allow the Company to meet the requirements imposed by .25
micron photomask production, and the Company's intention to assess and modify
its computer software systems to ensure that they are Year 2000 compliant; and
the Company's belief that it anticipates selling, general and administrative
costs as a percentage of net sales to remain consistent.
The Company cautions that the above statements are further qualified by
important factors that could cause the Company's actual operating results to
differ materially from those in the forward looking statements, including,
without limitation, the following: a change in economic conditions in the
Company's markets which could adversely affect the level of demand for the
Company's products; failure of the Company to anticipate, respond to or utilize
changing technologies used in the production of photomasks; greater than
anticipated competition; manufacturing difficulties or capacity limitations;
shortage of raw materials; delays in the delivery of recently purchased
manufacturing equipment to the Company; greater than anticipated capital
investment requirements; and currency fluctuations or changes in political
conditions with respect to the Company's foreign operations.
ITEM 7A -- QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company's operations include manufacturing and sales activities in the
U.S. and Europe. As a result, the Company's financial results could be affected
by factors such as change in foreign currency exchange rates or weak economic
conditions in the foreign markets in which the Company operates. The Company's
operating results are exposed to changes in exchange rates between the U.S.
dollar and various foreign currencies, including the British pound and the
German mark. When the U.S. dollar strengthens against these currencies, the
value of the nonfunctional currency sales decrease. When the U.S. dollar
weakens, the functional currency amount of sales increases.
INTEREST RATE RISK
The Company does not hold financial instruments for trading or speculative
purposes. The financial assets of the Company are not subject to significant
interest rate risk due to their short duration. The financial liabilities of the
Company that are subject to interest rate risk are its long-term debt
(principally its lines of credit expiring in September 2000). The Company does
not use any derivatives or similar instruments to manage its interest rate risk.
A 90 basis-point increase in interest rates affecting the Company's financial
instruments would have an immaterial effect on the Company's 1998 and 1997
pretax earnings.
16
<PAGE>
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE NO.
--------
<S> <C>
Report of Independent Accountants........................... 18
Financial Statements:
Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 1999 and 1998.... 19
For the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998, and 1997:
Consolidated Statements of Operations.................. 20
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income........ 21
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity........ 22
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.................. 23
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.................. 24
Supporting Consolidated Financial Statement Schedule:
Report of Independent Accountants on Financial
Statement Schedule.................................... 36
Schedule II. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts......... 37
</TABLE>
Schedules other than those listed above have been omitted since they are
not required, are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the
consolidated financial statements or related notes.
17
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Align-Rite International, Inc.
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the
related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity, cash flows
and comprehensive income present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Align-Rite International, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the "Company)
at March 31, 1999 and 1998 and the results of their operations and their cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 1999 in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management; our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards which 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,
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed
above.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Los Angeles, California
May 28, 1999
18
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AT MARCH 31,
--------------------------
1999 1998
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents................................. $ 6,328,191 $ 5,523,416
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts
of $458,157 and $278,495 at March 31, 1999 and 1998,
respectively........................................... 7,171,122 7,395,086
Inventories............................................... 2,882,010 2,783,070
Prepaid and other current assets.......................... 141,918 212,395
Deferred taxes............................................ 1,176,152 622,219
----------- -----------
Total current assets.............................. 17,699,393 16,536,186
Property and equipment, net............................... 61,332,883 33,574,694
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization of
$106,456 and $50,211 at March 31, 1999 and 1998,
respectively........................................... 808,840 915,296
Other assets.............................................. 355,251 131,986
Deferred tax asset, non-current........................... 95,271 --
----------- -----------
Total assets...................................... $80,291,638 $51,158,162
=========== ===========
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Trade accounts payable.................................... $ 4,181,964 $ 4,371,569
Equipment payables, current portion....................... 7,636,000 1,200,000
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities............ 3,328,260 2,927,039
Taxes payable............................................. 422,678 1,401,983
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities......................... 15,568,902 9,900,591
Equipment payables, long-term portion..................... 10,008,000 --
Deferred taxes............................................ 5,355,680 2,792,938
Other liabilities......................................... 856,804 698,301
Long-term debt............................................ 5,200,000 --
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock -- $.01 par value
Authorized -- 35,000,000 shares; 4,539,579 and
4,463,980 shares issued and outstanding at March 31,
1999 and 1998, respectively........................... 45,396 44,640
Additional paid-in-capital................................ 19,045,282 18,589,170
Retained earnings......................................... 24,098,121 18,794,209
Accumulated other comprehensive income.................... 113,453 338,313
----------- -----------
Total shareholders' equity........................ 43,302,252 37,766,332
----------- -----------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity........ $80,291,638 $51,158,162
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
19
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31,
-----------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales........................................... $52,442,520 $46,721,054 $38,000,597
Cost of sales....................................... 34,410,436 29,235,531 23,530,297
----------- ----------- -----------
Gross profit.............................. 18,032,084 17,485,523 14,470,300
Selling, general and administrative expenses........ 8,609,775 7,442,474 6,072,166
Research and development............................ 926,000 509,000 333,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Income from operations.................... 8,496,309 9,534,049 8,065,134
Interest expense.................................... 240,602 -- --
Interest income..................................... (133,614) (121,776) (308,531)
Other expense (income), net......................... 16,742 (132,239) (7,562)
----------- ----------- -----------
Income before provision for income taxes.......... 8,372,579 9,788,064 8,381,227
Income tax provision................................ 3,068,667 3,687,563 3,056,440
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income.......................................... $ 5,303,912 $ 6,100,501 $ 5,324,787
=========== =========== ===========
Basic earnings per share............................ $ 1.18 $ 1.37 $ 1.21
=========== =========== ===========
Shares used in per share computation................ 4,495,200 4,439,147 4,386,387
=========== =========== ===========
Diluted earnings per share.......................... $ 1.09 $ 1.25 $ 1.11
=========== =========== ===========
Shares used in per share computation................ 4,869,419 4,865,176 4,798,753
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
20
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31,
---------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
----------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net income............................................ $ 5,303,912 $6,100,501 $5,324,787
Other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments............ (224,860) (9,686) 304,740
----------- ---------- ----------
Comprehensive income.................................. $ 5,079,052 $6,090,815 $5,629,527
=========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
21
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 1999, 1998 AND 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ACCUMULATED
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL OTHER TOTAL
------------------- PAID-IN- RETAINED COMPREHENSIVE SHAREHOLDERS'
SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL EARNINGS INCOME EQUITY
--------- ------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at March 31, 1996.......... 4,346,415 $43,464 $17,828,915 $ 7,368,921 $ 43,259 $25,284,559
Net income....................... -- -- -- 5,324,787 -- 5,324,787
Exercise of stock options........ 64,257 643 83,578 -- -- 84,221
Issuance of Common Stock in
connection with employee stock
purchase plan purchases....... 5,116 51 47,784 -- -- 47,835
Compensation related to stock
options granted............... -- -- 110,616 -- -- 110,616
Tax benefit resulting from
exercise of options........... -- -- 215,747 -- -- 215,747
Translation adjustments.......... -- -- -- -- 304,740 304,740
--------- ------- ----------- ----------- -------- -----------
Balance at March 31, 1997.......... 4,415,788 44,158 18,286,640 12,693,708 347,999 31,372,505
Net income....................... -- -- -- 6,100,501 -- 6,100,501
Exercise of stock options........ 41,172 412 82,745 -- -- 83,157
Issuance of Common Stock in
connection with employee stock
plan purchases................ 7,020 70 67,813 -- -- 67,883
Compensation related to stock
options granted............... -- -- 110,616 -- -- 110,616
Tax benefit resulting from
exercise of options........... -- -- 41,356 -- -- 41,356
Translation adjustments.......... -- -- -- -- (9,686) (9,686)
--------- ------- ----------- ----------- -------- -----------
Balance at March 31, 1998.......... 4,463,980 44,640 18,589,170 18,794,209 338,313 37,766,332
Net income....................... 5,303,912 5,303,912
Exercise of stock options........ 68,592 686 162,303 -- -- 162,989
Issuance of Common Stock in
connection with employee stock
plan purchases................ 7,007 70 69,159 -- -- 69,229
Compensation related to stock
options granted............... -- -- 110,616 -- -- 110,616
Tax benefit resulting from
exercise of options........... -- -- 114,034 -- -- 114,034
Translation adjustments.......... -- -- -- -- (224,860) (224,860)
--------- ------- ----------- ----------- -------- -----------
Balance at March 31, 1999.......... 4,539,579 $45,396 $19,045,282 $24,098,121 $113,453 $43,302,252
========= ======= =========== =========== ======== ===========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
22
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31,
--------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income..................................... $ 5,303,912 $ 6,100,501 $ 5,324,787
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization............... 5,989,157 4,280,554 2,773,946
Deferred tax provision...................... 1,913,538 1,203,388 860,328
Bad debt expense............................ 179,662 7,002 --
Gain on sale of property and equipment...... -- -- (9,543)
Compensation related to stock options
granted................................... 110,616 110,616 110,616
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable trade and other............ 18,306 (1,283,994) (21,197)
Inventories.................................... (108,184) (604,130) (312,192)
Prepaids and other assets...................... (153,929) 883,354 (59,128)
Trade accounts payable......................... (136,068) 702,438 230,377
Equipment payables............................. 6,435,000 1,200,000 --
Accrued expenses and other current
liabilities................................. (420,961) 2,689,525 1,197,086
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by operating
activities........................... 19,131,049 15,289,254 10,095,080
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment............. (23,886,405) (14,300,383) (16,001,528)
Payments for business acquisition, net of cash
received.................................... -- (2,467,000) --
Proceeds from the sale of property and
equipment................................... -- -- 12,000
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in investing
activities........................... (23,886,405) (16,767,383) (15,989,528)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from line of credit................... 6,200,000 -- --
Principal payments on line of credit........... (1,000,000) -- --
Proceeds from stock options exercised.......... 162,989 83,157 84,221
Proceeds from sale of stock under employee
stock purchase plan......................... 69,229 67,883 47,835
Grant income received.......................... 149,511 119,731 --
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by financing
activities........................... 5,581,729 270,771 132,056
------------ ------------ ------------
Effect of exchange rate on cash.................. (21,598) (2,956) (210,835)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash.................. 804,775 (1,210,314) (5,973,227)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year..... 5,523,416 6,733,730 12,706,957
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year........... $ 6,328,191 $ 5,523,416 $ 6,733,730
============ ============ ============
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow
information:
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest....................................... $ 211,111 -- --
Income taxes................................... $ 1,819,397 $ 1,970,600 $ 1,876,000
Non-cash activities:
Tax benefit related to stock options........... $ 114,034 $ 41,356 $ 215,747
Equipment purchases to be refinanced under
available lines of credit................... $ 10,008,000 -- --
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
23
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. BUSINESS AND BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION:
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Align-Rite
International, Inc. ("ARII"), a California corporation, incorporated on April
27, 1995, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Align-Rite International Limited
("ARI"), Align-Rite Corporation ("ARC"), and Align-Rite Limited ("ARL"),
Align-Rite B.V. ("ARBV") and Align-Rite GmbH ("ARGmbH"). The principal activity
of ARII, ARI and ARBV is that of holding companies into which their respective
subsidiaries are consolidated. ARII and its subsidiaries are collectively
referred to as the "Company". All significant intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated.
The Company manufactures quality photomasks in the United States and
Europe. Photomasks are required for the manufacture of virtually all integrated
circuits, which are essential components in consumer and industrial electronic
products. Photomasks are precision photographic quartz or glass plates
containing microscopic images of integrated circuits. The Company images
integrated circuit patterns onto photomasks using electron beam, laser beam and
optical microlithography methods at its manufacturing facilities in Burbank,
California, Bridgend, Wales and Heilbronn, Germany.
The Company maintains a policy and practice of restricting ARC from paying
dividends or making certain other distributions in order to minimize tax
consequences resulting from its current corporate structure.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the
date of the Consolidated Financial Statements and the reported amounts of
revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an
initial maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Inventories
Inventories consist primarily of raw materials and are valued at the lower
of cost or market. Cost is determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Management
periodically reviews the composition of inventory in order to identify obsolete,
slow moving or otherwise unsaleable items. If such items are observed and there
are no alternative uses of the inventory, the Company will take a write-down to
net realizable value in the period that the units are identified as impaired.
Historically, inventory write-downs have been insignificant and consistently
within management's expectations.
The Company purchases a majority of its raw materials from a foreign
supplier. The Company does not hedge foreign currency risks.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and
amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based upon
the estimated useful lives of the assets, ranging from three to ten years.
Useful lives are evaluated regularly by management in order to determine
recoverability in light of current technological conditions. Leasehold
improvements are amortized over the shorter of the life of the lease or the
improvement. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred while
renewals and
24
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
improvements are capitalized. Upon the sale or retirement of property and
equipment, the accounts are relieved of the cost and the related accumulated
depreciation or amortization with any resulting gain or loss included in the
Statement of Operations.
Intangible and Other Long-lived Assets
Intangible assets consist primarily of goodwill, and are amortized on a
straight-line basis over 15 years.
The carrying values of intangible and other long-lived assets are reviewed
quarterly to determine if any impairment indicators are present. If it is
determined that such indicators are present and the review indicates that the
assets will not be recoverable, in whole or in part, based on undiscounted
estimated cash flows over the remaining amortization period, their carrying
values are reduced to estimated fair market value. Impairment indicators
include, among other conditions, cash flow deficits, an historic or anticipated
decline in revenues or operating profit, adverse legal or regulatory
developments, and a material decrease in the fair value of some or all of the
assets.
Research and Development
Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.
Income Taxes
The Company utilizes the liability method of accounting for income taxes.
Under this method, deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on
the difference between the financial statement and the tax bases of assets and
liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the period in which the
differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established, when
necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue when the title to goods passes to the
customer, generally upon shipment. The Company provides an accrual for estimated
volume discounts for certain customers at the time of shipment and adjusts this
accrual as needed based upon actual results.
Net Income Per Common Share
Net income per common share ("basic EPS") is computed by dividing net
income available to common shareholders (the numerator) by the weighted average
number of common shares outstanding (the denominator) during the period. The
computation of net income per common share -- assuming dilution ("diluted EPS")
is similar to the computation of basic EPS except that the denominator is
increased to include the number of additional common shares that would have been
outstanding if the dilutive potential common shares had been issued.
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock-based employee compensation arrangements in
accordance with the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25
("APB No. 25"), "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and complies with the
disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation." Under APB No. 25, compensation cost, if any, is recognized over
the respective vesting period based on the difference, at the date of grant,
between the fair value of the Company's Common Stock and the exercise price.
Pursuant to the provision of APB No. 25 and its related interpretations, the
Company treats all members of the Board of Directors as functionally equivalent
employees and, accordingly, no
25
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
compensation expense is recorded for stock option awards to such individuals if
the exercise price of the stock option equals the market value of the underlying
stock on the date of grant.
Translation of Foreign Currencies
Translation of foreign currencies is accounted for using the local currency
as the functional currency of the Company's foreign subsidiaries. All assets and
liabilities are translated at exchange rates in effect on the balance sheet
dates while revenues and expenses are translated at average rates in effect for
the period. The resulting gains and losses are included in a separate component
of shareholders' equity. Realized gains (losses) on foreign currency
transactions are reflected in net income and were not significant for 1999, 1998
and 1997.
Comprehensive Income
In 1998, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
(SFAS) No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income," and accordingly has included a
separate Statement of Comprehensive Income. Comprehensive income generally
represents all changes in shareholders' equity during the period except those
resulting from investments by, or distributions to, shareholders.
Segment Information
In 1999, the Company adopted SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of a
Business Enterprise and Related Information. "SFAS No. 131 supersedes SFAS No.
14, "Financial Reporting for Segments of a Business Enterprise," replacing the
"industry segment" approach with the "management" approach. The management
approach designates the internal organization that is used by management for
making operating decisions and assessing performance as the source of the
Company's reportable segments. SFAS No. 131 did not affect results of operations
or financial position but did affect the disclosure of segment information. See
Note 15.
Reclassifications
Certain amounts in the prior year financial statements have been
reclassified to conform with the current year classifications.
3. INVENTORIES:
Inventories, by component, consist of the following at March 31:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
Raw materials............................................... $2,700,400 $2,531,358
Work-in-process............................................. 91,465 123,873
Supplies.................................................... 90,145 127,839
---------- ----------
$2,882,010 $2,783,070
========== ==========
</TABLE>
26
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
4. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
Property and equipment consist of the following at March 31:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Plant and machinery....................................... $69,943,388 $49,678,066
Leasehold improvements.................................... 1,628,692 1,453,590
Furniture and fixtures.................................... 2,712,634 4,038,457
----------- -----------
74,284,714 55,170,113
Less, accumulated depreciation and amortization........... (27,669,910) (22,235,256)
----------- -----------
46,614,804 32,934,857
Construction in progress.................................. 14,718,079 639,837
----------- -----------
$61,332,883 $33,574,694
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
At March 31, 1999 and 1998, the Company had approximately $15,300,000 and
$13,700,000, respectively, of fully depreciated assets still in use.
5. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accrued and other current liabilities consists of the following at March
31:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
Volume discounts............................................ $ 766,455 $ 450,250
Bonuses..................................................... 81,995 362,657
Vacation and payroll........................................ 1,191,395 1,068,987
Deferred revenue............................................ 50,982 178,176
Audit and legal fees........................................ 245,717 221,516
Sales tax payable........................................... 673,134 116,903
Other....................................................... 318,582 528,550
---------- ----------
$3,328,260 $2,927,039
========== ==========
</TABLE>
6. LONG-TERM DEBT:
ARC maintains a line of credit agreement with a bank to obtain financing of
up to $15,000,000 at a variable interest rate, equal to 1.25% above the bank's
LIBOR rate (4.97% at March 31, 1999), per annum, expiring on September 30, 2000,
if not extended. The line of credit is guaranteed by ARII and ARI and has
certain restrictions and requirements relating to, among other things:
prohibition of dividend declarations or payments, prohibition of the repurchase
of the Company's common stock, maintenance of properties and insurance, the
maintenance of certain financial ratios, and the limitations on additional
borrowings, additional loans, liens and encumbrances assumed, and the transfer
of assets. During the year ended March 31, 1999, the Company borrowed
$6,200,000, of which $5,200,000 remained outstanding at March 31, 1999. All
borrowings plus accrued interest, if any, are due upon expiration of this line
of credit.
Additionally, ARII maintains a line of credit agreement with a bank to
obtain financing of up to $10,000,000 at a variable interest rate, equal to
1.25% above the bank's LIBOR rate, per annum, expiring on September 30, 2000, if
not extended. The line of credit is guaranteed by ARC and ARI. This agreement
contains similar restrictive covenants to those described in the ARC line of
credit agreement above. At March 31, 1999, no amounts were outstanding under
this agreement.
27
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The Company intends to refinance equipment payables of $10,008,000 that
were outstanding as of March 31, 1999 utilizing the above lines of credit.
Accordingly, this amount has been classified as a non-current liability at March
31, 1999.
7. INCOME TAXES:
The components of the United States and foreign income before provision for
income taxes and minority interest and the components of the provisions for
income taxes are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31,
--------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
---------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income before provision for income taxes and
minority interest:
United States............................. $4,458,235 $5,231,768 $5,054,202
Foreign................................... 3,914,344 4,556,296 3,327,025
---------- ---------- ----------
Total................................ $8,372,579 $9,788,064 $8,381,227
========== ========== ==========
Provision for income taxes:
Current
Federal................................... $ 262,523 $ 881,122 $1,467,145
State..................................... 1,600 1,600 1,600
Foreign................................... 891,006 1,601,453 727,367
---------- ---------- ----------
1,155,129 2,484,175 2,196,112
Deferred
Federal................................... 1,136,708 972,350 724,177
State..................................... 312,054 (30,704) (152,593)
Foreign................................... 464,776 261,742 288,744
---------- ---------- ----------
1,913,538 1,203,388 860,328
---------- ---------- ----------
Total................................ $3,068,667 $3,687,563 $3,056,440
========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
The difference between the Company's effective income tax rate and the
United States federal statutory rate are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE YEARS ENDED
MARCH 31,
------------------------
1999 1998 1997
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Federal statutory rate..................................... 34.0% 34.0% 34.0%
State taxes, net of federal benefit........................ 2.5% (0.2)% --
Other...................................................... 0.2% 3.9% 2.5%
---- ---- ----
Total............................................ 36.7% 37.7% 36.5%
==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
28
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The components of temporary differences which give rise to the Company's
net deferred taxes at March 31, 1999 and 1998 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Deferred tax assets:
State tax credits....................................... $ 621,648 $ 426,991
Inventory capitalization................................ 225,369 --
AMT credit.............................................. 233,000 --
Foreign accrued interest................................ 497,583 462,514
Deferred revenue........................................ 212,114 --
Net operating losses.................................... 164,854 29,372
Other................................................... 430,021 307,131
----------- -----------
2,384,589 1,226,008
Valuation allowance..................................... -- (29,372)
----------- -----------
Gross deferred tax assets............................... 2,384,589 1,196,636
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization........................... (6,409,606) (3,306,394)
Other................................................... (59,240) (60,961)
----------- -----------
Gross deferred tax liabilities.......................... (6,468,846) (3,367,355)
----------- -----------
Net deferred taxes...................................... $(4,084,257) $(2,170,719)
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
As a result of the Company's earnings history, management believes that a
valuation allowance for the Company's gross deferred tax assets was not required
at March 31, 1999. A valuation allowance of $29,372 was provided at March 31,
1998 based primarily on carryforward amounts which were not expected to be
utilized by the foreign entity relating to capital leases and net operating loss
carryforwards.
At March 31, 1999, the Company had a federal operating loss carryforward of
approximately $165,000 which begins to expire in 2019. For State Franchise Tax
purposes in 1999 and 1998, the Company generated excess California prior year
manufacturers' investment credits of approximately $622,000 and $430,000,
respectively; these credits begin expiring in 2005.
8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
The Company leases its facilities and certain equipment under noncancelable
operating leases expiring through March 2006. The facility leases require the
Company to maintain and repair the leased premises and pay its pro rata share of
increases in real property taxes over the base year. All leases provide for
renewal options and are subject to consumer price index adjustments at various
times during the lease or renewal periods.
29
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Future minimum lease payments related to noncancelable operating leases at
March 31, 1999 are summarized below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPERATING
LEASES
----------
<S> <C>
2000........................................................ $ 873,545
2001........................................................ 675,203
2002........................................................ 648,511
2003........................................................ 667,713
2004........................................................ 668,863
Thereafter.................................................. 2,050,369
----------
$5,584,204
==========
</TABLE>
Rent expense for the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 was
$1,013,571, $847,254 and $489,991, respectively.
9. NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE
In 1998, the Company adopted SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share." This
statement requires dual presentation of newly defined basic and diluted earnings
per shares ("EPS") on the face of the income statement for all entities with
complex capital structures. The following table provides a reconciliation of the
numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations for
the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME SHARES PER SHARE
(NUMERATOR) (DENOMINATOR) AMOUNT
----------- ------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Year Ended March 31, 1999:
Basic EPS.................................... $5,303,912 4,495,200 $1.18
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock Options............................. -- 374,219
---------- ---------
Diluted EPS.................................. $5,303,912 4,869,419 $1.09
========== =========
Year Ended March 31, 1998:
Basic EPS.................................... $6,100,501 4,439,147 $1.37
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock Options............................. -- 426,029
---------- ---------
Diluted EPS.................................. $6,100,501 4,865,176 $1.25
========== =========
Year Ended March 31, 1997:
Basic EPS.................................... $5,324,787 4,386,387 $1.21
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock Options............................. -- 412,366
---------- ---------
Diluted EPS.................................. $5,324,787 4,798,753 $1.11
========== =========
</TABLE>
The computation of Diluted EPS excludes the effect of unexercised
anti-dilutive securities. The numbers of such securities excluded were
approximately 189,000, 138,000 and 136,000 for the years ended March 31, 1999,
1998 and 1997, respectively.
10. RETIREMENT PLANS:
Effective October 1, 1994, ARC established a qualified 401(k) Profit
Sharing Plan (the "Plan") available to all employees who meet the Plan's
eligibility requirements. Employees can elect to contribute from 1% to 15% of
their earnings to the Plan. This Plan, which is a defined contribution plan,
provides that ARC will, at its discretion, make contributions to the Plan on a
periodic basis. Additionally, the employer will
30
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
match 25% of the first 6% of the employees contribution, which amounts vest over
five years. Terminations and forfeitures from the Plan are used to reduce the
employer's contribution. ARC made contributions to the Plan of $80,241, $68,380
and $48,241 in 1999, 1998, and 1997.
In the United Kingdom, two defined contribution plans exist: the Standard
Life Pension Scheme and the Standard Life Executive Pension Scheme (the
"Plans"). The Plans are Inland Revenue approved plans. ARL contributes between
4% and 10% of the employees current salary for all member employees and
contributes 8% for one employee in regards to the Executive Scheme. Membership
in the Plans is subject to a qualifying period to be specified for each
individual. Employer contributions to the Plans in 1999, 1998 and 1997 were
$88,310, $66,438 and $22,423, respectively.
11. EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN
The Company has an Employee Stock Purchase Plan which enables substantially
all employees to purchase shares of Common Stock on annual offering dates at a
purchase price of 85% of the fair market value of the shares on the grant date
or, if lower, 85% of the fair market value of the shares on the exercise date. A
maximum of 75,000 shares are authorized for subscription, of which 7,007, 7,020
and 5,116 shares were purchased in the fourth quarter of 1999, 1998 and 1997 at
$9.88, $9.67 and $9.35 per share, respectively.
12. STOCK OPTION PLANS:
ARI adopted an Employee Share Option Scheme in 1987 (the "1987 Plan"), in
which share options were granted to executives and key employees to purchase
ARI's Ordinary Shares. After giving effect to the Company's initial public
offering, 354,625 options were outstanding and exercisable. As of March 31,
1999, the Company had 166,165 shares outstanding under the 1987 Plan. Upon
exercise, these shares are exchangeable on a one-for-one basis with the Common
Stock of the Company. No future grants of options under the 1987 Plan will be
made. Options granted prior to August 31, 1994 expire ten years from the date of
grant. Options granted subsequent to August 31, 1994 expire five years from the
date of grant. Options automatically expire thirty days after termination of
employment.
In April 1995, the Company and its shareholders adopted a Stock Option Plan
(the "1995 Plan"). Under the 1995 Plan, awards of any combination of incentive
stock options, nonqualified stock options, restricted stock, stock appreciation
rights and performance shares may be granted to executives and key employees to
purchase 415,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock. An additional 150,000
awards were authorized for grant in September of 1998.
Incentive stock options shall be no less than 100% of the fair market value
of the Company's Common Stock on the date of grant (110% if granted to an
employee who owns 10% or more of the Common Stock). No incentive stock option
may be granted to anyone other than a full-time employee of the Company. Options
expire ten years after the date of grant and automatically expire ninety days
after termination of employment.
31
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
A summary of the status of the Company's stock options as of March 31,
1999, 1998 and 1997, and the changes during the years ended on those dates, are
presented below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998 1997
-------------------- -------------------- --------------------
WEIGHTED WEIGHTED WEIGHTED
NUMBER AVERAGE NUMBER AVERAGE NUMBER AVERAGE
OF PRICE PER OF PRICE PER OF PRICE PER
SHARES SHARE SHARES SHARE SHARES SHARE
------- --------- ------- --------- ------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance, beginning............. 564,075 $ 4.21 547,762 $ 2.83 596,521 $ 2.43
Options granted................ 87,295 $12.71 58,500 $15.56 18,500 $11.30
Options canceled............... (20,051) $15.26 (1,015) $ 2.20 (3,002) $ 8.25
Options exercised.............. (68,592) $ 2.38 (41,172) $ 2.06 (64,257) $ 1.31
------- ------- -------
Balance, end................... 562,727 $ 5.33 564,075 $ 4.21 547,762 $ 2.83
======= ======= =======
Options exercisable at
year-end..................... 402,087 $ 4.13 417,307 $ 2.97 414,652 $ 2.11
======= ======= =======
Weighted average fair value of
options granted during the
year......................... $ 9.86 $ 9.02 $ 4.32
====== ====== ======
Options available for grant.... 156,927
=======
</TABLE>
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding
at March 31, 1999:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OUTSTANDING EXERCISABLE
-------------------------------- ------------------
WEIGHTED
AVERAGE WEIGHTED WEIGHTED
REMAINING AVERAGE AVERAGE
CONTRACTUAL EXERCISE EXERCISE
EXERCISE PRICE RANGE SHARES LIFE PRICE SHARES PRICE
-------------------- ------- ----------- -------- ------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$0 to $5.00..................................... 392,561 4.0 $ 2.22 314,583 $ 1.94
$5.01 to $10.00................................. 27,171 7.0 $ 8.31 26,671 $ 8.29
$10.01 to $15.00................................ 108,995 9.0 $12.45 43,165 $12.56
$15.01 to $20.00................................ 34,000 8.5 $16.14 17,668 $16.18
------- -------
$0 to $20.00.................................. 562,727 5.4 $ 5.33 402,087 $ 4.13
======= =======
</TABLE>
The fair value of options granted during 1999, 1998 and 1997 approximated
$861,000, $323,000 and $196,000, respectively, on the dates of grants using the
Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions: (i) divided
yield of 0%, (ii) expected volatility of 62%, 61% and 40% for 1999, 1998 and
1997, respectively, (iii) weighted average risk-free interest rates of 5.25%, a
range between 6.1% to 6.6% and 6.5% for 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively, (iv)
weighted average expected life of 10.0, 5.0 and 5.0 years for 1999, 1998 and
1997, respectively and (v) assumed forfeiture rate of 0%, 1% and 1% for 1999,
1998 and 1997, respectively.
32
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Had compensation costs for the Company's stock option and purchase plans
been determined based upon the methodology prescribed under SFAS No. 123, the
Company's net income and earnings per share would have been adjusted to the pro
forma amounts below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNAUDITED
PRO FORMA
----------
<S> <C>
Year Ended March 31, 1999
Net income................................................ $4,434,457
Basic earnings per share.................................. 0.99
Diluted earnings per share................................ 0.91
Year Ended March 31, 1998
Net income................................................ $5,636,065
Basic earnings per share.................................. 1.27
Diluted earnings per share................................ 1.16
Year Ended March 31, 1997
Net income................................................ $5,128,821
Basic earnings per share.................................. 1.17
Diluted earnings per share................................ 1.07
</TABLE>
The effects of applying SFAS No. 123 in this pro forma disclosure are not
indicative of future amounts, and additional awards in future years are
anticipated.
Options granted in connection with the 1987 Plan and 1995 Plan were at
exercise prices denominated in British pounds and U.S. dollars, respectively.
The price per share for options issued prior to April 1, 1995, in terms of U.S.
dollars, using the March 31, 1997 exchange rate, ranged from $.82 to $2.82.
On July 25, 1995, the Company granted 111,396 options at an exercise price
of $3.32 per share to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer which vest at a
rate of 10% per year except the last installment which vests 60 days prior to
the tenth anniversary of the grant. Additionally, any unvested options will
automatically vest in the event of death, disability, termination without cause,
or if a change-in-control occurs. The difference between the option grant price
and the fair market value of the Common Stock at the date of grant (total of
$1,106,160) will be charged to operations at a rate of 10% per year.
The Company has reserved 719,654 shares of Common Stock for issuance upon
the exercise of options.
13. CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK:
Financial instruments which subject the Company to concentrations of credit
risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and trade accounts
receivable.
The Company maintains cash and cash equivalents with various domestic and
foreign financial institutions. The Company performs periodic evaluations of the
relative credit standing of these institutions. From time to time, United States
cash balances may exceed Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits.
No such deposit insurance is provided for deposits with foreign institutions.
33
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The Company's customers are concentrated in the United States and Europe,
primarily within the high technology industry. The Company establishes an
allowance for doubtful accounts based upon factors surrounding the credit risk
of customers, historical trends and other information and, to date, such losses
have been within management's expectations. During the years ended March 31,
1999, 1998 and 1997, net sales, as a percentage of consolidated net sales, of
its largest customers is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998 1997
-------------------------- -------------------------- --------------------------
PERCENTAGE OF PERCENTAGE OF PERCENTAGE OF
AMOUNT NET SALES AMOUNT NET SALES AMOUNT NET SALES
---------- ------------- ---------- ------------- ---------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Customer A............... $4,951,045 9.4% $4,159,612 8.9% $5,253,000 13.8%
Customer B............... 3,743,562 7.1% 3,748,399 8.0% 2,458,000 6.5%
Customer C............... 3,669,631 7.0% 3,650,696 7.8% 2,382,000 6.3%
----- ---- ----
23.5% 24.7% 26.6%
===== ==== ====
</TABLE>
14. SEGMENT INFORMATION
As described in Note 2, the Company adopted SFAS No. 131 in fiscal year
1999. The Company has two reportable business segments: the United States and
Europe.
The Company conducts operations worldwide and is managed on a geographical
basis, with those geographic segments being the United States and Europe. The
United States segment, which is based in Burbank, California, covers the U.S.,
Canada and Latin America. The European segment, which is based in Bridgend,
Wales and Heilbronn, Germany, covers all European countries. Sales to Asia
Pacific from both segments are immaterial to the group and therefore, not deemed
a separate segment. The Company's operations are primarily concentrated in the
United States and Europe.
The accounting policies of the geographic segments are the same as those
described in the summary of significant accounting policies. The Company
allocates resources to and evaluates performance of its geographic segments
based on operating income. Transfers between geographic areas have not been
significant and are recorded using internal transfer prices set by the Company.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR FISCAL YEAR MARCH 31, 1999
-------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES EUROPE TOTAL
------------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenue from unaffiliated customers..... $29,649,805 $22,792,715 $52,442,520
=========== =========== ===========
Income from operations...................... $ 3,820,662 $ 4,675,647 $ 8,496,309
=========== =========== ===========
Depreciation and amortization............... $ 2,955,000 $ 3,034,157 $ 5,989,157
=========== =========== ===========
Long-lived assets........................... $33,238,531 $28,903,192 $62,141,723
=========== =========== ===========
Identifiable assets......................... $42,039,081 $38,252,557 $80,291,638
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR FISCAL YEAR MARCH 31, 1998
-------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES EUROPE TOTAL
------------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenue from unaffiliated customers..... $27,467,497 $19,253,557 $46,721,054
=========== =========== ===========
Income from operations...................... $ 4,378,444 $ 5,155,605 $ 9,534,049
=========== =========== ===========
Depreciation and amortization............... $ 2,525,601 $ 1,754,953 $ 4,280,554
=========== =========== ===========
Long-lived assets........................... $20,972,311 $13,517,679 $34,489,990
=========== =========== ===========
Identifiable assets......................... $28,697,454 $22,430,708 $51,128,162
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
34
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR FISCAL YEAR MARCH 31, 1997
-------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES EUROPE TOTAL
------------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenue from unaffiliated customers..... $25,868,264 $12,132,333 $38,000,597
=========== =========== ===========
Income from operations...................... $ 4,930,530 $ 3,134,604 $ 8,065,134
=========== =========== ===========
Depreciation and amortization............... $ 1,765,281 $ 1,008,665 $ 2,773,946
=========== =========== ===========
Long-lived assets........................... $13,522,995 $ 8,566,077 $22,089,072
=========== =========== ===========
Identifiable assets......................... $24,867,768 $13,912,904 $38,780,672
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
15. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL SUMMARY -- UNAUDITED
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTERS
----------------------------------------
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, FIRST SECOND THIRD FOURTH
----------------------------- ------- ------- ------- -------
(THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1999
Revenues.......................................... $13,690 $13,993 $12,082 $12,677
Gross profit...................................... 5,138 5,360 3,612 3,923
Income before provision for income taxes.......... 2,870 2,907 1,185 1,410
Net income 1,785 1,811 805 903
Earnings per share:
Basic........................................... $ 0.40 $ 0.40 $ 0.18 $ 0.20
Diluted......................................... 0.36 0.37 0.17 0.19
1998
Revenues.......................................... $10,616 $11,424 $11,689 $12,992
Gross profit...................................... 4,130 4,293 4,349 4,713
Income before provision for income taxes.......... 2,340 2,390 2,377 2,681
Net income........................................ 1,448 1,491 1,480 1,682
Earnings per share:
Basic........................................... $ 0.33 $ 0.34 $ 0.34 $ 0.38
Diluted......................................... 0.33 0.31 0.30 0.34
</TABLE>
16. SUBSEQUENT EVENT -- UNAUDITED
On May 24, 1999, the Company signed a non-binding letter of intent to
purchase Harris Corporation's Imaging Technology Group (ITG) semiconductor
business unit, a photomask manufacturer located in Melbourne, Florida. The
acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including the preparation,
negotiation and approval of a definitive agreement, satisfactory completion of
due diligence, obtaining required regulatory and other approvals, and final
agreement on the financial terms of the transaction terms of the agreement have
not been disclosed.
35
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS ON FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Align-Rite International, Inc.
Our report on the consolidated financial statements of Align-Rite
International, Inc. and its subsidiaries is included on page 18 of this Form
10-K. In connection with our audits of such financial statements, we have
audited the related financial statement schedule as of March 31, 1999, 1998 and
1997 and for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 1999, as
included on page 17 of this Form 10-K.
In our opinion, the financial statement schedule referred to above, when
considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole,
presents fairly, in all material respects, the information required to be
included therein.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Los Angeles, California
May 28, 1999
36
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
BALANCE AT CHARGED CREDITED TO DEDUCTIONS BALANCE AT
BEGINNING OF COSTS AND OTHER FROM END OF
PERIOD EXPENSES ACCOUNTS RESERVES PERIOD
------------ --------- ----------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Year ended March 31, 1999
Allowance for doubtful receivables....... $278,495 $179,662 -- -- $458,157
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance... $ 29,372 -- -- $29,372 $ --
Year ended March 31, 1998
Allowance for doubtful receivables....... $271,493 $ 7,002 -- -- $278,495
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance... $ 26,000 $ 3,372 -- -- $ 29,372
Year ended March 31, 1997
Allowance for doubtful receivables....... $152,633 -- $118,860 -- $271,493
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance... $ 26,000 -- -- -- $ 26,000
</TABLE>
37
<PAGE>
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH AUDITORS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL
DISCLOSURE
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference from the
Company's definitive Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the
Company's 1999 annual meeting of shareholders. Reference is made to that portion
of the Proxy Statement entitled "Election of Directors." In addition,
information regarding executive officers of the Company is set forth under the
caption "Executive Officers of the Registrant" in Part I hereof.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND RELATED MATTERS
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference from the
Company's definitive Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the
Company's 1999 annual meeting of shareholders. Reference is made to that portion
of the Proxy Statement entitled "Executive Compensation and Other Information."
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference from the
Company's definitive Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the
Company's 1999 annual meeting of shareholders. Reference is made to that portion
of the Proxy Statement entitled "Security Ownership of Principal Shareholders
and Management."
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference from the
Company's definitive Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the
Company's 1999 annual meeting of shareholders. Reference is made to that portion
of the Proxy Statement entitled "Executive Compensation and Other Information"
and "Certain Transactions."
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORT ON FORM 8-K
1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Financial Statements of the Registrant are listed in the index to
Consolidated Financial Statements and filed under Item 8, "Financial Statements
and Supplementary Data," included elsewhere in the Form 10-K.
2. FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Financial Statement Schedule of the Registrant is listed in the index to
Consolidated Financial Statements and filed under Item 8, "Financial Statements
and Supplementary Data," included elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
3. REPORT ON FORM 8-K
None.
38
<PAGE>
4. EXHIBITS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT
------- ----------------------
<C> <S>
3.1 Articles of Incorporation of the Company, previously filed
as Exhibit 3.1 to Registration Statement No. 33-91978, on
Form S-1, which is incorporated herein by reference.
3.2 Form of Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of
the Company filed as Exhibit 3.2 to Registration Statement
No. 33-91978, on Form S-1, which is incorporated herein by
reference.
3.3 Bylaws of the Company filed as Exhibit 3.3 to Registration
Statement No. 33-91978, on Form S-1, which is incorporated
herein by reference.
10.1 Forms of Indemnity Agreement between the Company and each of
its executive officers and directors filed as Exhibit 10.1
to Registration Statement No. 33-91978, on Form S-1, which
is incorporated herein by reference.
10.2 Align-Rite International, Inc. Stock Option Plan filed as
Exhibit 10.2 to Registration Statement No. 33-91978, on Form
S-1, which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.3 Letter of Advice of Borrowing Terms dated April 20, 1995,
between National Westminster Bank and ARL, Letter of Credit
dated September 15, 1994 between National Westminster Bank
and ARL and Mortgage Debenture dated February 10, 1992
between National Westminster Bank and ARL filed as Exhibit
10.4 to Registration Statement No. 33-91978, on Form S-1,
which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.4 Lease dated January 18, 1980 between Walton Emmick and Form
of Lease between ARC and Denise McLaughlan, Sharyn Schrick,
and Sandra Bowman, for ARC's corporate headquarters located
at 2428 Ontario Street, Burbank, California filed as Exhibit
10.5 to Registration Statement No. 33-91978 on Form S-1,
which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.5 Lease dated April 12, 1995 between Shire Family Trusts and
ARC, for part of ARC's corporate headquarters located at
2504 Ontario Street, Burbank, California filed as Exhibit
10.6 to Registration Statement No. 33-91978 on Form S-1,
which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.6 Agreement dated May 30, 1984 between MGC and ARL under Lease
dated May 30, 1984 between MGC and ARL and Agreement
relating to the Leasehold Property dated March 24, 1992, for
headquarters located at 1 Technology Drive, Bridgend, Wales,
U.K. filed as Exhibit 10.7 to Registration Statement No.
33-91978 on Form S-1, which is incorporated herein by
reference.
10.7 Master Equipment Sub-Lease Agreement dated May 30, 1984
between MGC and ARL, Agreement dated March 24, 1992 between
MGC, ARL and ARI and Lease Payment Restructuring Agreement
dated January 27, 1994 between MGC, ARL and ARI filed as
Exhibit 10.8 to Registration Statement No. 33-91978 on Form
S-1, which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.8 Shareholders Agreement dated May 30, 1984 between MGC, the
several persons listed on Schedule 1 attached thereto and
ARC and Supplemental Shareholders Agreement dated March 26,
1986 between MGC and ARI filed as Exhibit 10.9 to
Registration Statement No. 33-91978 on Form S-1, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
</TABLE>
39
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT
------- ----------------------
<C> <S>
10.9 Form of Debenture dated March 16, 1988 between ARI and each
of WGTC Nominees Limited, Prutec Limited, F&C Enterprise
Trust PLC, H&Q Ventures IV, H&Q Ventures International IV
and Hamquist (the "Loan Parties"), and Form of Deed of
Amendment dated December 24, 1990 between ARI and each of
the Loan Parties, with a Schedule attached hereto listing
debenture amounts for each of the Loan Parties filed as
Exhibit 10.10 to Registration Statement No. 33-91978 on Form
S-1, which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.10 Letters dated October 12, 1993 and October 18, 1994 from the
Secretary of State for Wales ("Wales") to ARL for Grants to
ARL, Notification Letter dated April 21, 1995 from
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to Wales and Consent Letter dated
April 24, 1995 from Wales to ARL filed as Exhibit 10.11 to
Registration Statement No. 33-91978 on Form S-1, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
10.11 Employment Agreement dated March 31, 1995 between James L.
Mac Donald and the Company filed as Exhibit 10.12 to
Registration Statement No. 33-91978 on Form S-1, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
10.13 The Rules and Ancillary Documentation for Align-Rite
International, Plc Employee Share Option Scheme, as amended,
filed as Exhibit 10.14 to Registration Statement No.
33-91978, on Form S-1, which is incorporated herein by
reference.
10.14 Strategic Relationship Agreement, dated April 1, 1993, among
Harris and ARI, ARC and ARL filed as Exhibit 10.15 to
Registration Statement No. 33-91978, on Form S-1, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
10.15 ETEC Core System Purchase Agreement between Etec Systems,
Inc. and filed as Exhibit 10.16 to Registration Statement
No. 33-91978, on Form S-1, which is incorporated herein by
reference.
10.16 Align-Rite International, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan
filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Registration Statement No. 33-00232
on Form S-8, which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.17 1998 Credit Agreement -- Align-Rite
Corporation -- Align-Rite Corporation 1998 Credit Agreement
filed as Exhibit 10.17 to Align-Rite International, Inc.
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31,
1998, which is incorporated herein by reference.
10.18 Amendment of Commercial Credit Agreements -- Align-Rite
International, Inc. -- Align-Rite International, Inc.
Amendment of Commercial Credit Agreements filed as Exhibit
10.18 to Align-Rite International, Inc. Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 1998, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
21 Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
23 Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
27 Financial Data Schedule
</TABLE>
40
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Date: June 29, 1999 By: /s/ JAMES L. MAC DONALD
------------------------------------
James L. Mac Donald
Chairman of the Board, President
and Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<C> <S>
/s/ JAMES L. MAC DONALD Date: June 29, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------
James L. Mac Donald
Chairman of the Board, President and
Chief Executive Officer
/s/ PETAR N. KATURICH Date: June 29, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------
Petar N. Katurich
Vice President Finance,
Chief Financial Officer,
Secretary and Director
/s/ GEORGE WELLS Date: June 29, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------
George Wells
Director
/s/ WILLIAM ELDER Date: June 28, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------
William Elder
Director
/s/ ALAN DUNCAN Date: June 29, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------
Alan Duncan
Director
</TABLE>
41
<PAGE>
ANNEX F
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
------------------------
FORM 10-Q
------------------------
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 1999
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM ____________ TO ____________ .
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 026240
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
CALIFORNIA 95-4528353
(STATE OF OTHER JURISDICTION OF (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION) IDENTIFICATION NO.)
2428 ONTARIO ST. BURBANK, CA 91504
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES) (ZIP CODE)
(818) 843-7220
(REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes
of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
CLASS OUTSTANDING AT JULY 9, 1999
----- ---------------------------
Common Stock, $.01 par value 4,547,279 Shares
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
INDEX
PAGE
----
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements (unaudited)
Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 1999 and March 31,
1999........................................................ 3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months
ended June 30, 1999 and 1998................................ 4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the
Three Months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998................... 5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months
ended June 30, 1999 and 1998................................ 6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.................. 7
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of
Item 2. Operations and Financial Condition.......................... 9
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market
Item 3. Risk........................................................ 12
PART II. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K............................ 13
Signatures.................................................. 14
Statement Regarding Computation of Earnings Per Share....... 15
2
<PAGE>
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(UNAUDITED -- 000'S OMITTED)
ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AT JUNE 30, AT MARCH 31,
1999 1999
----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents................................. $ 4,550 $ 6,328
Accounts receivable, net.................................. 8,250 7,171
Inventories, primary raw materials........................ 2,941 2,882
Prepaid and other current assets.......................... 1,403 1,318
------- -------
Total current assets.............................. 17,144 17,699
Property and equipment, net................................. 60,223 61,333
Other assets................................................ 1,508 1,259
------- -------
Total assets...................................... $78,875 $80,291
======= =======
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Trade accounts payable.................................... $ 3,939 $ 4,182
Equipment payables, current portion....................... 2,908 7,636
Accrued expenses and other................................ 2,754 3,328
Taxes payable............................................. 930 423
------- -------
Total current liabilities......................... 10,531 15,569
Equipment payables, long-term portion....................... 10,760 10,008
Long-Term Debt.............................................. 7,200 5,200
Deferred taxes.............................................. 5,355 5,355
Other liabilities........................................... 774 857
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock:
Authorized -- 35,000 shares $.01 par value;
Issued -- 4,548 and 4,540 shares, respectively......... 45 45
Additional paid-in capital.................................. 19,107 19,045
Retained earnings........................................... 25,206 24,098
Accumulated other comprehensive income...................... (103) 114
------- -------
Total shareholders' equity........................ 44,255 43,302
------- -------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity........ $78,875 $80,291
======= =======
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
3
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,
(UNAUDITED -- 000'S OMITTED, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
1999 1998
------- -------
Net sales................................................... $13,361 $13,690
Cost of sales............................................... 9,066 8,552
------- -------
Gross profit.............................................. 4,295 5,138
Selling, general and administrative expenses................ 2,238 2,102
Research and development.................................... 259 202
------- -------
Income from operations.................................... 1,798 2,834
Interest income (expense) and other, net.................... (70) 36
------- -------
Income before provision for income taxes.................... 1,728 2,870
Provision for income taxes.................................. 620 1,085
------- -------
Net income.................................................. $ 1,108 $ 1,785
======= =======
Per share information:
Basic earnings per share.................................. $ .24 $ .40
Shares used in per share computation...................... 4,547 4,468
Diluted earnings per share................................ $ .23 $ .36
Shares used in per share computation...................... 4,882 4,893
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
4
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,
(UNAUDITED -- 000'S OMITTED)
1999 1998
------ ------
Net income.................................................. $1,108 $1,785
Other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments.................. (217) 25
------ ------
Comprehensive income........................................ $ 891 $1,810
====== ======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
5
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,
(UNAUDITED -- 000'S OMITTED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income:................................................. $ 1,108 $ 1,785
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in)
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization............................. 1,795 1,368
Bad debt expense.......................................... 2 --
Compensation related to stock options granted............. 27 27
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable....................................... (1,107) (560)
Inventories............................................... (68) (21)
Prepaids and other assets................................. (387) 104
Trade accounts payable.................................... (195) 2,202
Equipment Payables........................................ (4,728) --
Accrued expenses and other liabilities.................... (100) (83)
------- -------
Net cash (used in) provided by operating
activities.......................................... (3,653) 4,822
------- -------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment........................ (109) (6,503)
------- -------
Net cash used in investing activities................ (109) (6,503)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from line of credit.............................. 2,000 --
Stock options exercised................................... 14 9
------- -------
Net cash provided by financing activities............ 2,014 9
------- -------
Effect of exchange rate on cash............................. (30) 8
Net decrease in cash........................................ (1,778) (1,664)
------- -------
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year................ 6,328 5,523
------- -------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year...................... $ 4,550 $ 3,859
======= =======
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the three months ended June 30 for:
Income taxes......................................... $ -- $ 275
Non-cash activities:
Equipment purchases to be refinanced under available lines
of credit.............................................. $ 752 $ --
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
6
<PAGE>
ALIGN-RITE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999
(UNAUDITED)
1. BUSINESS AND BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Align-Rite
International, Inc. ("ARII"), a California corporation, incorporated on April
27, 1995, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Align-Rite International Limited
("ARI"), Align-Rite Corporation ("ARC"), Align-Rite Limited ("ARL"), Align-Rite
BV ("ARBV"), and Align-Rite GmbH ("ARGMBH"). ARII and its subsidiaries are
collectively referred to as the "Company". All significant intercompany accounts
and transactions have been eliminated.
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim
financial information and with instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of
Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and
footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete
financial statement presentation. In the opinion of management, the accompanying
consolidated balance sheets and related interim consolidated statements of
operations and cash flows include all adjustments (consisting only of normal
recurring items) considered necessary for their fair presentation. The
preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses.
Actual results could differ from those estimates. The consolidated results of
operations for the three months ended June 30, 1999 are not necessarily
indicative of results to be expected for the year ended March 31, 2000. The
information included in this Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the
Company's audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto as of
March 31, 1999 and 1998 and for the three years in the period ended March 31,
1999 as filed on Form 10K. Certain items shown in the prior financial statements
have been reclassified to conform with the presentation of the current period.
The principal activity of ARII, ARI and ARBV is that of holding companies
into which their respective subsidiaries are consolidated. ARC, ARL and ARGMBH
manufacture and market quality photomasks in the United States and Europe.
Photomasks, which are precision photographic quartz or glass plates, contain
microscopic images of integrated circuits. These are used primarily by
semiconductor manufacturers as master images to transfer circuit patterns onto
silicon wafers during the fabrication of integrated circuits.
The Company maintains a policy and practice of restricting ARC from paying
dividends or making certain other distributions in order to minimize tax
consequences resulting from its current corporate structure.
2. SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company adopted SFAS No. 131 in fiscal year 1999. The Company has two
reportable business segments: the United States and Europe.
The Company conducts operations worldwide and is managed on a geographical
basis, with those geographic segments being the United States and Europe. The
United States segment, which is based in Burbank, California, covers the U.S.,
Canada and Latin America. The European segment, which is based in Bridgend,
Wales and Heilbronn, Germany, covers all European countries. Sales to Asia
Pacific from both segments are immaterial to the group and therefore, not deemed
a separate segment. The Company's operations are primarily concentrated in the
United States and Europe.
The accounting policies of the geographic segments are the same as those
described in the summary of significant accounting policies. The Company
allocates resources to and evaluates performance of its geographic segments
based on operating income. Transfers between geographic areas have not been
significant and are recorded using internal transfer prices set by the Company.
7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999
------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES EUROPE TOTAL
------------- ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenue from unaffiliated customers.............. $7,748,000 $5,613,000 $13,361,000
========== ========== ===========
Income from operations............................... $ 635,000 $1,163,000 $ 1,798,000
========== ========== ===========
Deprecation and amortization......................... $ 850,000 $ 894,000 $ 1,795,000
========== ========== ===========
<CAPTION>
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1998
------------------------------------------
UNITED STATES EUROPE TOTAL
------------- ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenue from unaffiliated customers.............. $7,502,000 $6,188,000 $13,690,000
========== ========== ===========
Income from operations............................... $1,135,000 $1,699,000 $ 2,834,000
========== ========== ===========
Deprecation and amortization......................... $ 780,000 $ 588,000 $ 1,368,000
========== ========== ===========
</TABLE>
3. ACQUISITION
On July 2, 1999, the Company completed the acquisition of Harris Imaging
Technology Group (ITG), a photomask manufacturer located in Melbourne, Florida
for approximately $13,250,000. The acquisition will be accounted for as a
purchase and is not material to the financial position or results of operations
of the Company.
8
<PAGE>
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSIONS AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND
FINANCIAL CONDITION
Net sales for the three months ended June 30, 1999, decreased 2% to
$13,361,000, compared to $13,690,000 in the same period in the prior fiscal
year. The decrease in net sales for the quarter of 2% is primarily due to a
decrease in customer demand as a result of the prevailing lackluster rate of new
design activity throughout the semiconductor industry. The Company continues to
experience strong competitive conditions including product-pricing pressures in
most sectors of the photomask market. Average selling prices have declined
compared to the prior year. However, the Company achieved a 5% sequential
increase as pricing pressures, while not improving dramatically, have stabilized
throughout the industry.
European net sales for the three months ended June 30, 1999 decreased 9% to
$5,613,000, compared with $6,188,000 for the same period in the prior year.
United States net sales for the three months ended June 30, 1999 increased 3% to
$7,748,000, compared with $7,502,000 in the same period of the prior year.
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the three months ended June
30, 1999, decreased to 32.1%, compared to 37.5% in the same period in the prior
year. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the three
months ended June 30, 1999 is primarily attributable to higher operating costs,
lower capacity utilization and product pricing pressures. Depreciation expense
for June 30, 1999 increased 28% to $1,744,000, compared to $1,368,000 in the
prior fiscal year. As the Company continues to invest in capital equipment to
keep pace with increased demand, the Company anticipates that its gross profit
will fluctuate slightly based on the timing of equipment purchases and related
increases in depreciation expense.
Selling, general and administrative expenses include salaries of sales
personnel, marketing expense, general and administrative expense and product
distribution expense. Selling, general and administration expenses for the three
months ended June 30, 1999 increased slightly to $2,238,000, compared with
$2,102,000, in the prior fiscal year. Selling general and administrative
expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 16.8%, compared with 15.4% in
the same period in the prior year. The Company believes selling, general and
administrative, as a percentage of sales will remain at approximately 16%.
Research and development ("R&D") expense is comprised primarily of
personnel costs, material consumption, depreciation and engineering costs. The
Company spent $259,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1999, compared to
$202,000 in the related prior period. The Company believes it will continue to
spend approximately 2% to 3% of sales on R&D related projects. The Company
anticipates that R&D expense will continue to increase in absolute terms and as
a percentage of sales in the future, reflecting its strategy of advancing their
technology.
Interest income was $28,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1999, as
compared to $36,000 for the same period in the prior year. The amounts for
interest income are relatively consistent as the Company maintained a slightly
lower cash balance throughout the quarter as compared to the prior year.
Interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 1999 was effected by
the Company's $7.2 million draw down on its available line-of-credit. Interest
expense associated with this draw down was $92,000 for the quarter and as the
Company draws down further on its line, interest expense will continue to
increase in the future.
For the three months ended June 30, 1999, the Company's effective income
tax rate decreased to 35.9% from 37.8% in the prior year's quarter. The decrease
in the effective income tax rate is attributable to lower state taxes due to
application of available credits from capital expenditure purchases.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's cash and cash equivalents were $4,550,000 at June 30, 1999.
Net cash used in operating activities amounted to $3,653,000 for the three
months ended June 30, 1999, compared to $4,822,000 provided by operations for
the same period in the prior year. Operating cash flows for the three months
ended June 30, 1999 reflect lower net income, increased non-cash charges related
to depreciation and amortization expenses and a significant decrease in
equipment payables primarily related to fixed assets purchased that were paid
down during the three months ended June 30, 1999.
9
<PAGE>
For the three months ended June 30, 1999, cash used in investing activities
totaled $109,000, compared to $6,503,000 in the related prior year period. The
Company's investing activities during the three months ended June 30, 1999 were
minimal. Cash from financing activities included a $2,000,000 draw down from its
$25 million lines-of-credit. As of June 30, 1999, the Company had borrowed $7.2
million from its available lines. Equipment payables for which the Company has
the ability and intent to refinance utilizing its available lines-of-credit
during fiscal year 2000 have been classified as long-term at June 30, 1999.
Management believes that funds generated from operations together with its
cash and cash equivalents will be sufficient to meet the Company's normal
operating requirements for the next 12 months. If these funds prove to be
insufficient, or if new opportunities require the Company to supplement its
financial resources, the Company may use established credit lines with its
corporate bankers or pursue other sources of financing; however, there can be no
assurance other sources of financing will be available at commercially viable
terms, if at all.
On July 2, 1999, the Company completed the acquisition of Harris Imaging
Technology Group (ITG), a photomask manufacturer located in Melbourne, Florida.
Under the terms of the asset purchase agreement, the purchase price paid by the
Company was $13,250,000. The Company has borrowed $13,250,000 from its existing
lines-of-credit and has received a commitment from the related bank to increase
the lines-of-credit from $25 million to $35 million.
Readiness for Year 2000
Background. As the year 2000 approaches, a critical issue has emerged
regarding how existing applications software programs, operating systems and
embedded computer chips can accommodate the year 2000 date value. The Company
has a year 2000 project team in place with overall responsibility for the
company's year 2000 compliance programs. In addition, executive management
regularly monitors the status of the Company's year 2000 remediation plans.
Project. The Company has identified potential year 2000 risks in four
categories; Software Information Systems Manufacturing Engineering facilities;
internal business software and information technology systems; systems other
than information technology systems ("Not-IT systems"); and third-party
suppliers to the Company. The Company's year 2000 project includes the following
phases for the first three categories above: (1) identifying year 2000 risks;
(2) assigning priorities to identified risks; (3) testing year 2000 compliance
for risks determined to be material to the Company; (4) correcting problems
determined to be material and not year 2000 compliant; (5) retesting corrections
that have been implemented; and (6) developing contingency plans. With respect
to the Company's third-party suppliers, the Company's year 2000 project consists
of the following phases: (1) contacting critical suppliers for information
concerning their year 2000 readiness; (2) prioritizing suppliers as to relative
importance; (3) validating supplier responses regarding year 2000 compliance.
Assessment. The product that the Company sells to customers consists of no
date related issues; therefore, the Company believes that its current product
offerings are year 2000 compliant.
Internal business software and systems consist primarily of the Company's
business information systems in the United States and Europe. The Company has
completed its initial year 2000 project phases with respect to its business
systems, and is in the process of developing, implementing and testing the
necessary modifications. The Company believes that its internal business
software and systems will be year 2000 compliant. However, if the Company's
business systems are not year 2000 compliant, the Company could experience
interruptions to its production process, development programs and general
business operations. The Company has been advised by the suppliers of its
manufacturing equipment, which consist primarily of microlithography writing
tools, process and inspection tools in the various building the Company
occupies, that such systems are year 2000 compliant.
Third-party suppliers provide raw materials and in some cases,
manufacturing services incorporated by the Company into the products and systems
it sells. The Company is requiring that each of its key suppliers certify
whether they are year 2000 compliant. The Company has also prioritized its
suppliers as critical or non-
10
<PAGE>
critical to the Company's business. Based on information received from these
suppliers, the Company estimates that approximately 85% of its critical
suppliers are presently year 2000 compliant. The Company plans to monitor its
critical suppliers and either develop alternate sources or increase inventory
levels prior to the year 2000 for those suppliers considered to be at risk of
not achieving year 2000 compliance. However, there can be no assurance that such
alternate sources will be available or that adequate inventory levels will be
attainable if necessary, and the Company could experience raw materials and or
parts shortages and production interruptions if one or more key third-party
suppliers experience year 2000 problems.
Costs. Incremental costs of the Company's year 2000 project have primarily
consisted of upgrades to the Company's existing manufacturing and inspection
equipment. Such costs in the aggregate have not been material to the Company's
financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The balance of the
effort for the Company's year 2000 project has been by employees of the Company
whose costs for this project are not tracked separately. The Company currently
believes that costs for the remainder of the year 2000 compliance project will
not be material to the Company's financial position, results of operations or
cash flows.
Risks. The Company's results of operations, financial condition and cash
flows could be materially and adversely affected if the Company or any of its
critical suppliers or customers do not achieve year 2000 compliance. Although
the Company's year 2000 compliance project is expected to minimize the Company's
risks of experiencing a year 2000 problem, inherent risks and uncertainties
exist despite the Company's efforts. There can be no assurance that a failure on
the part of the Company, it products, its suppliers or its customers will not be
disruptive to the Company's business. As a result of these uncertainties the
Company is unable to determine at this time whether the consequences of year
2000 failures will have a material effect on the Company's results of
operations, financial condition or cash flows.
Foreign Operations and Inflation
Foreign operations are subject to certain risks inherent to conducting
business abroad, including product prices and currency exchange controls,
fluctuation in the relative value of currencies and restrictive governmental
actions. Changes in the relative value of currencies occur from time to time and
may, in certain instances, have a material adverse effect on the Company's
results of operations and cash flows. The Company does not hedge foreign
currency risks, and the effects of these risks are difficult to predict. The
risks associated with foreign operations have not, to date, had a material
adverse impact on the Company's results of operations and cash flows. There can,
however, be no assurance that such risks will not have a material adverse effect
on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows in the
future.
The effects of inflation are experienced by the Company through increases
in cost of labor, services and raw materials. In general, these costs have been
anticipated and were offset by some degree by periodic increases in the prices
of its products or higher manufacturing capacity utilization rates. The Company
does not believe, however, that inflation has had a material effect on its
results of operations in the past. There can be no assurance that the Company's
financial positions, results of operations and cash flows will not be materially
affected by inflationary trends in the future.
Euro Conversion. A single currency called the euro was introduced in Europe
on January 1, 1999. Eleven of the fifteen member countries of the European Union
("EU") adopted the euro as their common legal currency as of that date. Fixed
conversion rates between these participating countries' existing currencies (the
"legacy currencies") and the euro were established as of that date. The legacy
currencies will remain legal tender as denominations of the euro until at least
2002 (but not later than July 1, 2002). During this transition period, parties
may settle transaction using either the euro or participating country's legal
currency.
The Company is still in the process of evaluating the effect, if any, of
the euro on its pricing of products in the eleven participating countries. The
Company does not expect a material impact on its results of operations from
foreign currency gains or losses as a result of its transition to the euro as
the functional currency for its subsidiaries based in EU countries.
11
<PAGE>
SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF
1995.
In addition to historical information, this report includes certain
forward-looking statements regarding events and financial and industry trends
which may affect the Company's future operating results and financial position.
Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements as to: (i) the
Company's belief that its gross profit will fluctuate based upon the timing of
equipment purchases; (ii) the Company's belief that selling, general and
administrative costs as a percentage of sales should remain consistent; (iii)
the Company's belief that R&D expenses will continue to increase as a percentage
of sales; (iv) the sufficiency of funds to meet the Company's normal operating
requirements over the next 12 months; and (v) the Company's belief regarding
year 2000 compliance of its internal business software and systems and its
current product offerings. Such statements represent the Company's reasonable
judgment concerning the future and are subject to risks and uncertainties that
could cause the Company's actual operating results and financial position to
differ materially. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to:
adverse economic conditions in the Company's markets which could adversely
affect the level of demand for the Company's products, failure of the Company to
anticipate, respond to or utilize changing technologies used in production of
photomasks; greater than anticipated levels of competition and competitive
pricing, manufacturing difficulties or capacity limitations; shortage of raw
materials; delays in delivery of recently purchased manufacturing equipment to
the Company; greater than anticipated capital investment requirements; and
currency fluctuations or changes in political conditions with respect to the
Company's foreign operations.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Reference is made to "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market
Risk" section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
March 31, 1999.
12
<PAGE>
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
None
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES
None
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS OF FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits
11.1 Statement regarding computation of Net Income per common
share.
27 Financial Data Schedule
(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the quarter ended June 30, 1999,
however, a report on Form 8-K was filed on July 16, 1999 relating to the
acquisition of certain assets from Harris Corporation on July 2, 1999.
13
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Date: August 13, 1999 Align-Rite International, Inc.
James Mac Donald
Chairman of the Board, President &
Chief Executive Director
Petar Katurich
Vice President of Finance,
Chief Financial Officer & Secretary
14
<PAGE>
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 20. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.
The Connecticut Stock Corporation Act (the "Act") provides for indemnification
of directors, officers, shareholders, employees and agents of a corporation.
Under the Act, a corporation is required to indemnify a director against
judgments and other expenses of litigation when he is sued by reason of his
being a director in any proceeding brought, other than on behalf of the
corporation, if a director is successful on the merits in defense, or acted in
good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in the best interests of
the corporation, or in a criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause
to believe his conduct was unlawful. In a proceeding brought on behalf of a
corporation (a derivative action), a director is entitled to be indemnified by
the corporation for reasonable expenses of litigation, if the director is
finally adjudged not to have breached his duty to the corporation. In addition,
a director is entitled to indemnification for both derivative and non-derivative
actions, if a court determines, upon application, that the director is fairly
and reasonably entitled to be indemnified.
Article Ninth of the Company's Certificate of Incorporation limits directors'
monetary liability for actions or omissions made in good faith, which are later
determined to be a breach of their duty as directors of the Company.Article
Ninth does not eliminate or limit a director's liability for breaches of
fiduciary duty for actions or omissions which (i) involved a knowing and
culpable violation of law; (ii) enabled a director or an associate (as defined
in the Act) to receive an improper personal economic gain; (iii) showed a lack
of good faith and conscious disregard for his duty as a director under
circumstances where the director was aware that his actions created an
unjustifiable risk of serious injury to the Company; (iv) constituted a
sustained and unexcused pattern of inattention that amounted to an abdication of
his duty; or (v) involved the improper distribution of Company assets to its
shareholders or an improper loan to an officer, director or 5% shareholder.
Article Ninth also does not preclude suits for equitable relief, such as an
injunction, nor would it shield directors from liability for violations of the
federal securities laws. Moreover, Article Ninth does not limit the liability
of directors for any act or omission that occurred prior to the date the Article
became effective and does not limit the potential liability of officer-directors
in their capacity as officers.
Item 21. Exhibits.
2.1 - Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of September 15, 1999 among
Photronics, Inc., AL Acquisition Corp. and Align-Rite International,
Inc. (Included as Annex A to the joint proxy statement/prospectus)
5.1 - Opinion of Paul, Hastings, Janofsky and Walker LLP*
8.1 - Opinion of O'Melveny & Myers LLP*
23.1 - Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
23.2 - Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP
24.1 - Power of Attorney (See Part II, page 4)
99.1 - Voting Agreement dated as of September 15, 1999 among Photronics, Inc.
and certain shareholders of Align-Rite International, Inc.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Photronics, Inc.'s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed September 24, 1999)
- -----------------------
* To be filed by amendment
II-1
<PAGE>
99.2 - Voting Agreement dated as of September 15, 1999 between Align-Rite
International, Inc. and a certain shareholder of Photronics, Inc.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Photronics, Inc.'s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed September 24, 1999)
Item 22. Undertakings.
(a)(1) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of
the registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (and where applicable, each filing of an
employee benefit plan's annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that is incorporated by reference in the
registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement
relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide
offering thereof.
(2) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes as follows: that prior to any
public reoffering of the securities registered hereunder through use of a
prospectus which is a part of this registration statement, by any person
or party who is deemed to be an underwriter within the meaning of Rule
145(c), the issuer undertakes that such reoffering prospectus will contain
the information called for by the applicable registration form with
respect to reofferings by persons who may be deemed underwriters, in
addition to the information called for by the other Items of the
applicable form.
(3) The registrant undertakes that every prospectus (i) that is filed pursuant
to paragraph (1) immediately preceding, or (ii) that purports to meet the
requirements of section 10(a)(3) of the Act and is used in connection with
an offering of securities subject to Rule 415 ((S)230.415 of this
chapter), will be filed as a part of an amendment to the registration
statement and will not be used until such amendment is effective, and
that, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act
of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new
registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial
bona fide offering thereof.
(4) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or
otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the
Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and is, thereof, unenforceable. In the
event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other
than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a
director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the
successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities
being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its
counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a
court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such
indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and
will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
(b) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to respond to requests for
information that is incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant
to Item 4, 10 (b), 11, or 13 of this Form, within one business day of
receipt of such request, and to send the incorporated documents by first
class mail or other equally prompt means.This includes information contained
in documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the registration
statement through the date of responding to the request.
II-2
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant
certifies that it has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the Town of
Brookfield, State of Connecticut, on the 7th day of October, 1999.
PHOTRONICS, INC.
By: /s/ Constantine S. Macricostas
-------------------------------
Constantine S. Macricostas,
Chairman of the Board
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS that each person whose signature appears
below constitutes and appoints Michael J. Yomazzo and Jeffrey P. Moonan, and
each of them, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of
substitution and resubstitution, to act, without the other, for him and in his
name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any or all amendments
(including post-effective amendments) to this Registration Statement, including
any subsequent registration statement for the same offering that may be filed
under Rule 462(b), and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other
documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission,
granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do
and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in
and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-
fact and agents, or any of them, their substitute or substitutes may lawfully do
or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signature Title Date
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Constantine S. Macricostas Chairman of the Board of October 7, 1999
- --------------------------------- Directors and Director
Constantine S. Macricostas Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Michael J. Yomazzo Vice Chairman of the Board October 7, 1999
- --------------------------------- and Director
Michael J. Yomazzo
/s/ Robert J. Bollo Vice President/Finance October 7, 1999
- --------------------------------- Chief Financial Officer
Robert J. Bollo (Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)
/s/ Walter M. Fiederowicz Director October 7, 1999
- ---------------------------------
Walter M. Fiederowicz
/s/ Joseph A. Fiorita, Jr. Director October 7, 1999
- ---------------------------------
Joseph A. Fiorita, Jr.
</TABLE>
II-4
<PAGE>
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit
Number Exhibit
<S> <C>
2.1 - Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of September 15, 1999 among
Photronics, Inc., AL Acquisition Corp. and Align-Rite International,
Inc. (Included as Annex A to the joint proxy statement/prospectus)
5.1 - Opinion of Paul, Hastings, Janofsky and Walker LLP*
8.1 - Opinion of O'Melveny & Myers LLP*
23.1 - Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
23.2 - Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP
24.1 Power of Attorney (See Part II, page 4)
99.1 - Voting Agreement dated as of September 15, 1999 among Photronics, Inc.
and certain shareholders of Align-Rite International, Inc.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Photronics, Inc.'s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed September 24, 1999)
99.2 - Voting Agreement dated as of September 15, 1999 between Align-Rite
International, Inc. and a certain shareholder of Photronics, Inc.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Photronics, Inc.'s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed September 24, 1999)
</TABLE>
- --------------------
* To be filed by amendment
II-5
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the use in this Registration Statement on Form S-4 of
Photronics Inc. of our reports dated May 28, 1999 relating to the financial
statements and financial statement schedule of Align-Rite International, Inc.,
which appears in Align-Rite International, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for
the year ended March 31, 1999 included as Annex E of such Registration
Statement. We also consent to the reference to us under the heading "Experts".
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Newport Beach, CA
October 4, 1999
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.2
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of
Photronics, Inc. on Form S-4 of our report dated December 9, 1998, appearing in
the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Photronics, Inc. for the year ended November
1, 1998 and to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in the
Prospectus, which is part of this Registration Statement.
/s/Deloitte & Touche LLP
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Hartford, Connecticut
October 4, 1999
