TIMBERLAND CO
10-K405, 1998-03-26
FOOTWEAR, (NO RUBBER)
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<PAGE>   1
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

                                    FORM 10-K

                        FOR ANNUAL AND TRANSITION REPORTS
                         PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D)
                     OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
(Mark One)
[X]  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997

                                       OR

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from               to

                          Commission File Number 1-9548

                             The Timberland Company
             (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

           Delaware                                              02-0312554
(State or Other Jurisdiction                                 (I.R.S. Employer
of Incorporation or Organization)                            Identification No.)

200 Domain Drive, Stratham, New Hampshire                           03885
(Address of Principal Executive Office)                          (Zip Code)

       Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (603) 772-9500

           Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
<TABLE>
             <S>                                   <C>
             Title of each class                   Name of each exchange 
            Class A Common Stock,                   on which registered
           par value $.01 per share               New York Stock Exchange
</TABLE>

        Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

      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 the 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. [X]

      The aggregate market value of Class A Common Stock of the registrant held
by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $659,766,322 on March 3,
1998. For purposes of the foregoing sentence the term "affiliate" includes each
director and executive officer of the registrant. See Item 12 of this Form 10-K.
9,047,096 shares of Class A Common Stock and 2,338,162 shares of Class B Common
Stock of the registrant were outstanding on March 3, 1998.

                      DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

      Portions of the registrant's Annual Report to security holders for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 are incorporated by reference in Part I,
Item 1 regarding foreign and domestic sales and Part II, Items 5, 6, 7 and 8 of
this Form 10-K. Portions of the registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for the
1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A are
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K.
<PAGE>   2
                                     PART I
ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

OVERVIEW

         The Timberland Company was incorporated in Delaware on December 20,
1978, and is the successor to Abington Shoe Company, which was incorporated in
Massachusetts in 1933 (The Timberland Company, together with its subsidiaries,
is referred to herein as "Timberland" or the "Company," unless the context
indicates otherwise). The Company designs, develops, engineers, markets and
distributes, under the Timberland(R) brand, premium-quality footwear, apparel
and accessories products for men, women and children. Timberland(R) products
provide functional performance, classic styling and lasting protection from the
elements. The Company believes that the combination of these features
distinguishes the Timberland brand from competing brands and makes Timberland
products an outstanding value.

         Timberland products are sold primarily through independent retailers,
better-grade department stores and athletic stores which reinforce the high
level of quality, performance and service associated with the Timberland brand.
In addition, Timberland(R) specialty stores and Timberland(R) factory outlet
stores are dedicated exclusively to selling Timberland products.

         The Company's operating strategy is targeted to five specific areas:
product, distribution, marketing, business systems and community. During 1997,
the Company continued to focus its efforts on achieving the goals of profitable
revenue growth, growing earnings faster than revenue, controlling operating and
capital expenditures and generating positive cash flow. The Company introduced
new product lines, including an expanded kids' footwear line, a boys' apparel
line and new enthusiast and recreational hiking performance footwear products.
The Company also continued to shift production of its footwear products to third
party manufacturers.

CURRENT PRODUCTS

         The Company's products fall into two groups - footwear products and
apparel and accessories products (including product care and licensed products).
Revenue from sales of the Company's footwear products represented 75.4%, 74.8%
and 74.9% of total product sales for 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Revenue
attributable to sales of apparel and accessories products represented 24.6%,
25.2% and 25.1% of total product sales for 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

         FOOTWEAR

         In 1973, the Company produced its first pair of waterproof leather
boots under the Timberland brand. The Company currently offers a broad variety
of footwear products for men, women and children, featuring premium materials,
state-of-the-art functional design and components, and advanced construction
methods. The Company's footwear design and development group is organized into
the following teams: men's footwear, women's footwear, performance footwear,
boots and kids' footwear. Each team is responsible for all aspects of the
footwear development process.


                                       1
<PAGE>   3
         Timberland(R) men's and women's footwear products include the Work
Casual, Casual and Rugged Casual collections. Timberland(R) performance footwear
products are designed to meet the demanding needs of the outdoor enthusiast or
recreationalist who engages in a variety of outdoor activities, and include the
Enthusiast Hiking, Recreational Hiking, Multi-Purpose Outdoor, Walking and
Amphibious collections. These products feature advanced technologies such as
Active Comfort Technology(TM) (ACT(TM)), a system developed by the Company that
wicks moisture away from the foot and improves comfort and performance,
Timberland's patent pending Advanced Combination Construction, which is designed
to deliver forefoot flexibility and rear-foot stability, and B.S.F.P.(TM), a
motion efficiency system designed to deliver improved traction, energy-return
and length of wear. Timberland(R) boots include the classic work boots for which
the Company is widely recognized. Timberland(R) kids' footwear products are
scaled-down versions of the same high-quality adult footwear products.

         APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES

         Timberland(R) men's apparel products consist primarily of rugged
outerwear, sweaters, shirts, pants and shorts. These products feature, in
certain models, premium waterproof leathers, waterproof and water resistant
fabric, rust-proof hardware, canvas, denim, high-quality specialty cotton, wool
and other quality performance materials. In 1997, the Company offered a limited
women's apparel line of classic items and performance outerwear, distributed
principally through Timberland(R) specialty stores and through several premium
retailers outside the United States. Timberland's adult apparel product
offerings for the Spring and Fall 1998 seasons will be only for men. The Company
is currently evaluating alternatives for the production and distribution of
women's apparel, including third party licensing.

         Timberland(R) accessories for men, women and children include all
products sold under the Timberland(R) brand other than footwear and apparel
products. Many of these products, including watches, men's belts, day packs and
travel gear, socks and legwear, gloves, eyewear and men's small leather goods,
are designed, manufactured and distributed pursuant to licensing agreements with
third parties. These licensing agreements are intended to expand the Timberland
brand to appropriate and well-defined product categories in a manner designed to
benefit from the expertise of the licensees and to reduce the risks to the
Company associated with pursuing such opportunities. Timberland receives a
royalty on sales of these licensed products. Timberland accessories also include
caps and hats, leather care products and a limited collection of leather goods,
including luggage, briefcases, handbags, wardrobe accessories and small leather
goods.

         Timberland introduced a boys' apparel collection in Timberland
specialty stores in the United States for the Holiday 1997 selling season.
Timberland(R) boys' apparel products are designed in France and manufactured
pursuant to a license agreement with Albert, S.A. In 1998, an expanded
collection of Timberland boys' apparel products will be available, with broader
distribution in both Timberland specialty stores and key wholesale accounts in
Europe and the Middle East.


                                       2
<PAGE>   4
PRODUCT SALES

         WHOLESALE OPERATIONS

         Timberland(R) products are sold in the United States and
internationally primarily through independent retailers, better-grade department
stores and athletic stores which reinforce the high level of quality,
performance and service associated with the Timberland(R) brand.

         United States: The Company's wholesale customer accounts within the
United States range from better-grade department and retail stores to athletic
stores. Many of these wholesale accounts merchandise Timberland products in
selling areas dedicated exclusively to Timberland products, or "concept shops."
These accounts are serviced through a combination of field and corporate-based
sales teams aligned with these channels. The Company also services its wholesale
accounts through its principal showroom in New York City and two regional
showrooms located in Dallas and Seattle. In 1997, 1996 and 1995, 72.6%, 70.4%
and 70.2%, respectively, of the Company's revenue was generated in the United
States.

         International: Timberland products are sold internationally by the
Company through its operating divisions in the United Kingdom, France, Germany,
Italy, Spain and Austria and by distributors, franchisees and commission agents
in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, Central America, South America and
the Asia/Pacific region. The Company's European operating divisions provide
support for the sale of Timberland products to wholesale customers in their
respective countries and, in certain instances, to distributors, franchisees and
commission agents in other countries. In 1997, 1996 and 1995, 27.4%, 29.6% and
29.8%, respectively, of the Company's revenue was generated outside of the
United States.

         RETAIL OPERATIONS

         In addition to the Company's wholesale customers, Timberland(R)
specialty stores and Timberland(R) factory outlet stores are dedicated
exclusively to selling Timberland products. These two types of stores are
operated by the Company in the United States and in parts of Europe, and by
certain of the Company's distributors and franchisees in parts of Europe, the
Middle East, Central America, South America and the Asia/Pacific region. In
1997, 1996 and 1995, revenue from Company-operated specialty and factory outlet
stores accounted for 22.7%, 23.5% and 19.6%, respectively, of the Company's
revenue.

         In addition to providing an environment to showcase the Timberland(R)
brand as an integrated source of footwear, apparel and accessories, Timberland
specialty stores provide sales and consumer-trend information which assists the
Company in developing its marketing strategies, including point-of-purchase
marketing materials. The training and customer service programs established in
the Company's specialty stores also serve as models which may be adopted by the
Company's other retail accounts. At December 31, 1997, the Company operated 30
specialty stores worldwide.

         The Company's factory outlet stores serve as the primary channel for
the sale of factory-second, discontinued and excess products, and are intended
to protect and control the integrity


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<PAGE>   5
of the Timberland brand and to maximize the return associated with the sale of
such products. At December 31, 1997, the Company operated 43 factory outlet
stores worldwide.

DISTRIBUTION

         The Company distributes its products in North America through
Company-managed distribution facilities located in Danville, Kentucky and Grove
City, Ohio and a third party-managed facility located in City of Industry,
California. The Company distributes its products in Europe through a new
facility managed by the Company in Enschede, Holland.

         During 1997, the Company continued to consolidate and centralize its
distribution center operations in North America and Europe. The Company
announced that it will consolidate the apparel and accessories distribution
functions conducted at the Grove City facility into the Danville facility. The
Grove City facility will be closed in 1998 when the lease on that facility
expires. In addition, the Company is constructing a build-to-suit,
Company-managed facility in Ontario, California to replace the City of Industry
facility. The Company also completed in 1997 the consolidation of all of its
European distribution facilities into the Enschede centralized facility. When
the Company completes these consolidation plans, it will have reduced the number
of distribution facilities in the United States from eight to two, and in Europe
from five third-party operated facilities to one Company-managed facility.

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING

         The Company's advertising campaigns are designed to increase brand
awareness among consumers and to emphasize the features that distinguish the
Timberland(R) brand from competing brands and make Timberland(R) products an
outstanding value. Timberland's product and territory licensing arrangements
also require licensees to fund marketing campaigns, over which Timberland
maintains approval rights to ensure consistent and effective brand presentation.

         The Company's national and regional advertising campaigns appeared
mainly in various active-lifestyle, fashion and sports-focused consumer
periodicals and trade press outlets during 1997. The Company reinforced these
advertising campaigns with a variety of in-store promotions, point-of-purchase
marketing materials and cooperative advertising programs with its retailers, as
well as retail sales clerk training and other sales incentive programs and
promotional campaigns. The Company also promoted its products at various
industry trade shows in the United States and internationally. The Company's
advertising campaigns were focused on the second half of 1997, particularly on
the third quarter, when the Company's revenue historically has been highest.

SEASONALITY

         In 1997, as historically has been the case, the Company's revenue was
higher in the last two quarters of the year than in the first two quarters.
Accordingly, the amount of fixed costs related to the Company's retail
operations typically represented a larger percentage of revenue in the first two
quarters of 1997 than in the last two quarters of 1997. The Company expects this
seasonality to continue in 1998.


                                       4
<PAGE>   6
BACKLOG

         At December 31, 1997, Timberland's backlog of orders from its customers
was approximately $186 million, compared to $129 million at December 31, 1996
and $102 million at December 31, 1995. While all orders in the backlog are
subject to cancellation by customers, the Company expects that the majority of
such orders will be filled in 1998. The Company does not believe that its order
backlog at year-end is representative of the orders which will be filled during
1998, due to the risk that such orders could be canceled, the seasonality of the
Company's revenue described above and the portion of the Company's sales
historically made up of "at-once" orders, the planning for which is more
difficult than "future" orders.

MANUFACTURING

         The Company's two manufacturing facilities are located in Puerto Rico
and the Dominican Republic. During 1997, the Company manufactured approximately
28% of its footwear unit volume, compared to approximately 35% during 1996 and
40% during 1995. The remainder of the Company's footwear products and all of its
apparel and accessories (excluding licensed products, the manufacture of which
is the responsibility of the Company's licensees) were produced by independent
manufacturers in Asia, Europe, South America and Mexico. Approximately 27%, 10%
and 6% of the Company's 1997 footwear unit volume was produced by three
independent manufacturers located in China, Thailand and the Czech Republic,
respectively. No other independent manufacturer produced more than 5% of the
Company's footwear unit volume in 1997. The Company currently plans to retain
its internal manufacturing capability in order to continue benefiting from
expertise gained with respect to footwear manufacturing methods conducted at its
manufacturing facilities.

         To the extent the Company manufactures its products outside the United
States or is dependent upon foreign operations with unaffiliated parties, the
Company is subject to the usual risks of doing business abroad. These risks
potentially include, among other risks, foreign exchange rate fluctuations,
import restrictions, anti-dumping investigations, political or labor
disturbances, expropriation and acts of war.

         The Company maintains a quality management group, which develops,
reviews and updates the Company's quality and production standards. To help
ensure such standards are being met, the group also conducts product quality
audits at the Company's and independent manufacturers' factories and
distribution centers. The Company has offices in Bangkok, Thailand and Taichung,
Taiwan, and plans to open an office in Zhu Hai, China, to supervise the
Company's sourcing activities conducted in the Asia/Pacific region.

RAW MATERIALS

         In 1997, four suppliers provided more than 60%, in the aggregate, of
the Company's leather purchases. One of these suppliers provided approximately
30% of the Company's leather purchases in 1997. The Company has no reason to
believe that leather will not continue to be available from these or alternative
sources. The Company has established a central network of suppliers through
which the Company's manufacturing facilities and independent manufacturers can
purchase raw materials. In 1998, the Company expects to increase sourcing of
leather from


                                       5
<PAGE>   7
premier Asian tanneries that process United States hides, including current
suppliers, in an effort to reduce lead times while maintaining the Company's
high quality standards. The Company believes that key strategic alliances with
leading raw material vendors help reduce the cost and provide greater
consistency of raw materials procured to produce Timberland(R) products and
improve compliance with the Company's production standards.

TRADEMARKS AND TRADE NAMES; PATENTS; RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

         The Company's principal trade name is The Timberland Company and the
Company's principal trademarks are TIMBERLAND and the TREE DESIGN LOGO, which
have been registered in the United States and several foreign countries. Other
Company trademarks or registered trademarks are Active Comfort Technology; ACT;
Aero Balm; B.S.F.P.; Balm Shelter; Black Ridge Mountain; Bootness; Cream Buff;
Euro Rec; Euro TecRec; Fastpacker; Grime Squad; Guaranteed Waterproof
Construction; Hydro Balm; Jackson Mountain; Lockseam; Mill River; More Quality
Than You May Ever Need; Mountain to River; TBL; The Boot Company; This is a
trip; This is not baggage; This is your new best friend; Trail Grip; Treeline;
Waximum; Weathergear; and Wind, Water, Earth, and Sky; as well as the following
design logos:

                                [TIMBERLAND LOGO]
                                    [GRAPHIC]
                                    [GRAPHIC]
                                    [GRAPHIC]
                                    [GRAPHIC]
                                    [GRAPHIC]

The Company regards its trade name and trademarks as valuable assets and
believes that they are important factors in marketing its products. It is the
policy of the Company to protect and defend vigorously its trade name and
trademarks against infringement under the laws of the United States and other
countries. In addition, the Company seeks to protect and defend vigorously its
patents, designs, copyrights and all other proprietary rights under applicable
laws.

         The Company conducts research, design and development efforts for its
products, including field testing of a number of its products to evaluate and
improve product performance. However, the Company's expenses relating to
research, design and development have not represented a material expenditure
relative to its other expenses.

COMPETITION

         The Company's footwear, apparel and accessories products are marketed
in highly competitive environments which are subject to rapid changes in
consumer preference. Although the footwear industry is fragmented to a great
degree, many of the Company's competitors are larger and have substantially
greater resources than the Company, including athletic shoe companies, many of
which compete directly with some of the Company's products. In addition,


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<PAGE>   8
the Company faces competition from retailers that are establishing products
under private labels which compete with the Company's products.

         The Company does not believe that any of its principal competitors
offers a complete line of products that provide the same quality and performance
as the complete line of Timberland(R) footwear, apparel and accessories
products. However, the Company does have a variety of major competitors in each
of its separate product categories.

         The Company has at least nine major competitors in classic work boot
sales, at least seven major competitors in rugged casual footwear sales, at
least twelve major competitors in performance footwear sales, at least thirteen
major competitors in dress casual footwear sales and at least six major
competitors in kids' footwear sales. The Company's major competitors for its
footwear products are located principally in the United States. The Company also
faces competition from many international footwear manufacturers.

         The Company's line of men's apparel faces competition from at least
twelve major apparel companies in the United States and from a variety of major
apparel companies internationally. The Company's lines of footwear and apparel
face competition from at least two direct mail companies in the United States.

         Product quality, performance, design, styling and pricing, as well as
consumer awareness, are all important elements of competition in the footwear,
apparel and accessories markets served by the Company. Although changing fashion
trends generally affect demand for particular products, the Company believes
that, because of the functional performance, classic styling and high quality of
Timberland(R) footwear products, demand for Timberland footwear products (except
for the more fashion-focused models in the Timberland(R) women's casual footwear
line) is less sensitive to changing trends in fashion than other products that
are designed specifically to meet such trends.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

         Compliance with federal, state and local environmental regulations has
not had, nor is it expected to have, any material effect on the capital
expenditures, earnings or competitive position of the Company, based on
information and circumstances known to the Company at this time.

EMPLOYEES

         At December 31, 1997, the Company had approximately 5,100 employees
worldwide. Management considers its employee relations to be good. None of the
Company's employees is represented by a labor union, and the Company has never
suffered a material interruption of business caused by labor disputes.

BUSINESS SEGMENTS AND OPERATIONS BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA

         The Company operates in a single industry segment which includes the
designing, engineering, marketing and distribution of footwear, apparel and
accessories products for men, women and children. Information regarding revenue,
operating income and identifiable assets 


                                       7
<PAGE>   9
attributable to each of the geographic areas in which the Company operates, and
the amount of export sales to unaffiliated customers in the aggregate, is set
forth in Note 12 to the Company's consolidated financial statements, entitled
"Industry Segment and Geographical Area Information," appearing in the Company's
1997 Annual Report to security holders, which information is incorporated herein
by reference.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

         Since April 1994, the Company has leased its worldwide headquarters
located in Stratham, New Hampshire, under a lease which expires in July 1999,
with an option to extend the term for one year. The Company considers its
headquarters facilities adequate and suitable for its current needs.

         The Company leases its manufacturing facilities, which are located in
Isabela, Puerto Rico, and Santiago, Dominican Republic. These manufacturing
facilities are occupied under 11 leasing arrangements, which expire on various
dates through January 2002. The Company owns its distribution facility in
Danville, Kentucky, and leases its facilities in Grove City, Ohio, and Enschede,
Holland. The Company leases all of its specialty and factory outlet stores. The
Company's subsidiaries also lease office and warehouse space to meet their
individual requirements.

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

         The Company is involved in various litigation and legal matters which
have arisen in the ordinary course of business. Management believes that the
ultimate resolution of any existing matter will not have a material adverse
effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

         The Company and two of its officers and directors were named as
defendants in two actions filed in the United States District Court for the
District of New Hampshire, one filed by Jerrold Schaffer on December 12, 1994,
and the other filed by Gershon Kreuser on January 4, 1995. On April 24, 1995,
the District Court granted plaintiffs' motion, assented to by defendants, to
consolidate the two actions. On June 23, 1995, plaintiffs filed a consolidated
amended complaint (the "Amended Complaint") with the District Court. The Amended
Complaint alleged that defendants violated federal securities laws by making
material misstatements and omissions in certain of the Company's public filings
and statements in 1994. On July 9, 1997, the parties filed a Stipulation and
Agreement of Compromise, Settlement and Release (the "Stipulation") with the
District Court for approval. On July 31, 1997, the District Court entered an
order preliminarily approving the Stipulation. On December 29, 1997, the
District Court entered an order granting final approval of the Stipulation.
Under the terms of the Stipulation, the settlement of this litigation was final
and effective on January 29, 1998. The settlement of this litigation did not
have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, results of
operations or cash flows.

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

         During the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997,
no matter was submitted to a vote of security holders through the solicitation
of proxies or otherwise.


                                       8
<PAGE>   10
ITEM 4A. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

      The following information is submitted as to the executive officers of the
Company:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
       NAME              AGE           POSITION
       ----              ---           --------
<S>                      <C>           <C>
Sidney W. Swartz         62            Chairman of the Board, President, Chief Executive
                                       Officer and Director

Jeffrey B. Swartz        38            Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Director

Geoffrey J. Hibner       48            Senior Vice President-Finance and Administration and
                                       Chief Financial Officer

Kenneth P. Pucker        35            Senior Vice President and General Manager-Footwear

Gregory W. VanWormer     42            Senior Vice President-Marketing

Dennis W. Hagele         54            Vice President-Finance and Corporate Controller
                                       (Chief Accounting Officer)

Danette Wineberg         51            Vice President and General Counsel
</TABLE>


      All executive officers serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

      Sidney W. Swartz has served the Company as Chairman of the Board, Chief
Executive Officer and President since June 1986.

      Jeffrey B. Swartz has served the Company as Chief Operating Officer since
May 1991 and as Executive Vice President since March 1990. He is also a Director
of Central Tractor Farm & Country, Inc. Jeffrey Swartz is the son of Sidney W.
Swartz.

      Geoffrey J. Hibner joined the Company in May 1997 as Senior Vice
President-Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer. From August
1995 until joining the Company, Mr. Hibner served as the Chief Financial Officer
of Frontier Technologies Corporation. From July 1988 to January 1995, Mr. Hibner
was the Vice President, Finance for Universal Foods Corporation.

      Kenneth P. Pucker became the Company's Senior Vice President and General
Manager-Footwear effective December 1997. Mr. Pucker joined the Company in June
1992 as Director-Manufacturing Operations. He was promoted to Vice
President-Operations effective February 1993; General Manager-The Outdoor
Footwear Company (a subsidiary of the Company) effective October 1993; Vice
President-Strategic Initiatives effective January 1995; and Vice President and
General Merchandising Manager-Footwear effective April 1996.


                                       9
<PAGE>   11
      Gregory W. VanWormer became the Company's Senior Vice President-Marketing
in September 1997. Mr. VanWormer joined the Company in May 1994 as Senior Vice
President-Retail. Mr. VanWormer was promoted to Senior Vice President and
General Manager-Apparel/Retail effective January 1995 and Senior Vice President
and General Manager-Apparel/Retail/Marketing effective January 1996. From August
1991 to April 1994, Mr. VanWormer was the Vice President-General Merchandise
Manager of G.H. Bass & Co.

      Dennis W. Hagele joined the Company in October 1994 as Vice
President-Finance and Corporate Controller. From July 1993 to September 1994,
Mr. Hagele was an independent financial consultant; and from August 1981 to June
1993, he was Assistant Controller of Sara Lee Corporation.

      Danette Wineberg joined the Company in October 1997 as Vice President and
General Counsel. From November 1993 until joining the Company, Ms. Wineberg was
General Counsel for Little Caesar Enterprises, Inc. From September 1986 to
November 1993, Ms. Wineberg served in a number of corporate counsel positions
for Highland Superstores, Inc., most recently as Vice President-Administration
and Corporate Counsel.

                                     PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

      The information required by this item is included in the registrant's 1997
Annual Report to security holders under the caption "Quarterly Market
Information and Related Matters" and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

      The information required by this item is included in the registrant's 1997
Annual Report to security holders under the caption "Five Year Summary of
Selected Financial Data" and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND 
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

      The information required by this item is included in the registrant's 1997
Annual Report to security holders under the caption "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and is incorporated
herein by reference.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

         Not applicable.

ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

      The information required by this item is included in the registrant's 1997
Annual Report to security holders and is incorporated herein by reference.


                                       10
<PAGE>   12
ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
         FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

         Not applicable.

                                    PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

         Reference is made to the information set forth under the caption
"Executive Officers of the Registrant" in Item 4A of Part I of this report and
to the information under the caption "Information with Respect to Nominees" in
the registrant's definitive proxy statement (the "registrant's 1998 Proxy
Statement") relating to its 1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") within 120 days
after the close of the registrant's fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, which
information is incorporated herein by reference. Reference is also made to the
information set forth in the registrant's 1998 Proxy Statement with respect to
compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
(the "Exchange Act"), which information is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

         Reference is made to the information set forth under the caption
"Executive Compensation" in the registrant's 1998 Proxy Statement, which
information is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

         Reference is made to the information set forth under the caption
"Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" in the
registrant's 1998 Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by
reference. For purposes of calculating the aggregate market value of the Class A
Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant appearing on the cover
page of this report, the shares owned by The Sidney W. Swartz 1982 Family Trust,
The Swartz Foundation and The Sidney and Judith Swartz Charitable Remainder
Unitrust have not been considered owned by an affiliate.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

         Reference is made to the information set forth under the caption
"Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" in the registrant's 1998 Proxy
Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference.


                                       11
<PAGE>   13
                                     PART IV

ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

      (a)(1) Financial Statements. The following financial statements appearing
in the Company's 1997 Annual Report to security holders are incorporated by
reference in this report:

ANNUAL REPORT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         PAGE
                                                                         ----
<S>                                                                      <C>
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997 and 1996              17

For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995:

     Consolidated Statements of Operations                                18

     Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity           19

     Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows                                20

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                                21

Independent Auditors' Report                                              33

     (a)(2) Financial Statement Schedule. The following additional
financial data should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial
Statements in the registrant's 1997 Annual Report to security holders:

                                                                       FORM 10-K
                                                                         PAGE
                                                                         ----

Independent Auditors' Report on Schedule II                              F-1

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts                          F-2
</TABLE>

     All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable
accounting regulations of the Commission are not required under the related
instructions or are inapplicable and have, therefore, been omitted.

     (b) No reports on Form 8-K were filed by the Company during the fourth
quarter of 1997.

     (c) Listed below are all the Exhibits filed as part of this report, some of
which are incorporated by reference from documents previously filed by the
Company with the Commission in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-32 of
the Exchange Act.


                                       12
<PAGE>   14
EXHIBIT                          DESCRIPTION

(3)  Articles of incorporation and by-laws

     3.1    Restated Certificate of Incorporation (1)

     3.2    By-Laws, as amended May 19, 1993 (5)

(4)  Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures

     (See also Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2)

     4.1    Specimen stock certificate for shares of the Company's Class A
            Common Stock (12)

(10) Material Contracts

     10.1   Agreement dated as of August 29, 1979 between The Timberland
            Company and Sidney W. Swartz (1)

     10.2   (a)   The Company's 1987 Stock Option Plan, as amended (8)

            (b)   The Company's 1997 Stock Option Plan for Non-Executive
                  Employees (13)

            (c)   The Company's 1997 Incentive Plan (13)

     10.3   The Company's 1991 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended (2)

     10.4   The Company's 1991 Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors
            (3)

     10.5   The Timberland Company Long Term Incentive Plan for Senior
            Management (5)

     10.6   The Timberland Company Annual Bonus Plan for Exempt Employees (5)

     10.7   The Timberland Company Retirement Earnings 401(k) Plan and Trust
            Agreements (10)

     10.8   The Timberland Company Profit Sharing Plan and Trust Agreements
            (10)


                                       13
<PAGE>   15
EXHIBIT             DESCRIPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     10.9   (a)   Lease dated March 23, 1987 between The Outdoor Footwear
                  Company and Corporacion Sublistatica, S.A. (1)

            (b)   Lease dated November 21, 1988 between 745 Associates and The
                  Timberland Company (4)

            (c)   Lease dated March 31, 1981 between the Puerto Rico
                  Industrial Development Company and The Timberland Company (4)

            (d)   Lease dated September 7, 1992 between Corporacion Zona
                  Franca Industrial De Santiago, Inc. and The Recreational
                  Footwear Company (4)

            (e)   Lease dated December 2, 1992 between Corporacion Zona Franca
                  Industrial De Santiago, Inc. and The Recreational Footwear
                  Company (4)

            (f)   Lease dated as of June 29, 1993 between Timberland
                  Dominicana, S.A. and Santiago Norte, S.A. (Pisano)
                  Industrial Park (5)

            (g)   Lease dated as of November 30, 1993 between Timberland
                  Dominicana, S.A. and Santiago Norte, S.A. (Pisano)
                  Industrial Park (5)

            (h)   Lease dated as of December 16, 1993 between Timberland
                  Dominicana, S.A. and Santiago Norte, S.A. (Pisano)
                  Industrial Park (5)

            (i)   Sublease dated March 31, 1994 between Hewlett-Packard Company
                  and The Timberland Company (6)

     10.10  (a)   Credit Agreement dated as of June 21, 1996 among The
                  Timberland Company, certain banks listed therein and Morgan
                  Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as Agent (11)

            (b)   Amendment No. 1 dated as of March 21, 1997 to the Credit
                  Agreement dated as of June 21, 1996 among The Timberland
                  Company, certain banks listed therein and Morgan Guaranty
                  Trust Company of New York, as Agent (14)


                                       14
<PAGE>   16
EXHIBIT             DESCRIPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

            (c)   Amendment No. 2 dated as of November 5, 1997 to the Credit
                  Agreement dated as of June 21, 1996 among The Timberland
                  Company, certain banks listed therein and Morgan Guaranty
                  Trust Company of New York, as Agent, filed herewith

     10.11  (a)   Note Agreements dated as of December 15, 1994 regarding
                  $106,000,000 8.94% Senior Notes due December 15, 2001 (7)

            (b)   Amendment No. 1 dated as of April 1, 1995 to Note Agreements
                  (9)

            (c)   Amendment No. 2 dated as of June 28, 1995 to Note Agreements
                  (9)

            (d)   Amendment No. 3 dated as of June 21, 1996 to Amended and
                  Restated Note Agreements (11)

(13) Annual Report to security holders

     13.    Portions of 1997 Annual Report to security holders as
            incorporated herein by reference, filed herewith

(21) Subsidiaries

     21.    List of subsidiaries of the registrant, filed herewith

(23) Consent of experts and counsel

     23.    Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP, filed herewith

(27) Financial Data Schedule

  27.FY97   Financial Data Schedule for the year ended December 31, 1997, filed
            herewith

  27.Q397   Financial Data Schedule for the quarter ended September 26, 1997, 
            filed herewith

  27.Q297   Financial Data Schedule for the quarter ended June 27, 1997, filed
            herewith

  27.Q197   Financial Data Schedule for the quarter ended March 28, 1997, filed
            herewith

  27.FY96   Financial Data Schedule for the year ended December 31, 1996, filed
            herewith

  27.Q396   Financial Data Schedule for the quarter ended September 27, 1996, 
            filed herewith

  27.Q296   Financial Data Schedule for the quarter ended June 28, 1996, filed
            herewith

  27.Q196   Financial Data Schedule for the quarter ended March 29, 1996, filed
            herewith

  27.FY95   Financial Data Schedule for the year ended December 31, 1995, filed
            herewith

(99) Additional Exhibit

     99.    Cautionary Statements for Purposes of the "Safe Harbor" Provisions 
            of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995,
            filed herewith


                                       15
<PAGE>   17
(1)   Filed as an exhibit to Registration Statement on Form S-1, numbered
      33-14319, and incorporated herein by reference.

(2)   Filed on June 21, 1995, as an exhibit to Registration Statement on Form
      S-8, numbered 33-60459, and incorporated herein by reference.

(3)   Filed on August 18, 1992, as an exhibit to Registration Statement on Form
      S-8, numbered 33-50998, and incorporated herein by reference.

(4)   Filed as an exhibit to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
      ended December 31, 1992, and incorporated herein by reference.

(5)   Filed as an exhibit to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
      ended December 31, 1993, and incorporated herein by reference.

(6)   Filed as an exhibit to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal
      period ended July 1, 1994, and incorporated herein by reference.

(7)   Filed as an exhibit to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
      ended December 31, 1994, and incorporated herein by reference.

(8)   Filed on June 21, 1995, as an exhibit to Registration Statement on Form
      S-8, numbered 33-60457, and incorporated herein by reference.

(9)   Filed as an exhibit to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal
      period ended June 30, 1995, and incorporated herein by reference.

(10)  Filed as an exhibit to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
      ended December 31, 1995, and incorporated herein by reference.

(11)  Filed as an exhibit to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal
      period ended June 27, 1996, and incorporated herein by reference.

(12)  Filed as an exhibit to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
      ended December 31, 1996, and incorporated herein by reference.

(13)  Filed on September 9, 1997 as an exhibit to Registration Statement on Form
      S-8, numbered 333-35223, and incorporated herein by reference.

(14)  Filed as an exhibit to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal
      period ended March 28, 1997, and incorporated herein by reference.

Pursuant to paragraph 4(iii) of Item 601(b), Regulation S-K, the registrant has
filed as Exhibits only the instruments defining the rights of holders of
long-term debt of the registrant and its consolidated subsidiaries with respect
to which the total amount of securities authorized thereunder exceeds 10% of the
total assets of the registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. The
registrant agrees to furnish to the Commission upon its request copies of other
instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant
and its subsidiaries, with respect to which the total amount does not exceed 10%
of such assets. The registrant also agrees to furnish to the Commission upon its
request copies of any omitted schedule or exhibit to any Exhibit filed herewith.


                                       16
<PAGE>   18
                                   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.

                                                  THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY

March 23, 1998                                    By:  /s/ Sidney W. Swartz
                                                     ---------------------------
                                                     Sidney W. Swartz, President

      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>
<CAPTION>
     Signature                                   Title                                       Date
     ---------                                   -----                                       ----
<S>                                    <C>                                              <C>
                                       Chairman of the Board, President
                                       and Chief Executive Officer
/s/ Sidney W. Swartz                   (Principal Executive Officer)                    March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(Sidney W. Swartz)

                                       Executive Vice President, Chief
/s/ Jeffrey B. Swartz                  Operating Officer and Director                   March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(Jeffrey B. Swartz)
                                       Senior Vice President-Finance
                                       and Administration and Chief
/s/ Geoffrey J. Hibner                 Financial Officer                                March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(Geoffrey J. Hibner)
                                       Vice President-Finance
                                       and Corporate Controller
/s/ Dennis W. Hagele                   (Chief Accounting Officer)                       March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(Dennis W. Hagele)

/s/ Robert M. Agate                    Director                                         March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(Robert M. Agate)

/s/ John F. Brennan                    Director                                         March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(John F. Brennan)

/s/ Ian W. Diery                       Director                                         March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(Ian W. Diery)

/s/ John A. Fitzsimmons                Director                                         March 23, 1998
- ---------------------------
(John A. Fitzsimmons)

/s/ Abraham Zaleznik                   Director                                         March 23, 1998
- --------------------
(Abraham Zaleznik)
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   19
                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT


To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of The Timberland Company:

     We have audited the consolidated financial statements of The Timberland
Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and for each of the
three years in the period ended December 31, 1997, and have issued our report
thereon dated February 4, 1998; such consolidated financial statements and
report are included in your 1997 Annual Report to security holders and are
incorporated herein by reference. Our audits also included the consolidated
financial statement schedule of The Timberland Company listed in Item 14(a)(2).
This financial statement schedule is the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion based on our audit. In
our opinion, such consolidated financial statement schedule, when considered in
relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole,
presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.



/s/  DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP


Boston, Massachusetts
February 4, 1998






                                      F-1
<PAGE>   20
                                                                   SCHEDULE II


                             THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY

                        VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
                             (Dollars In Thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Additions                   Deductions
                                                -----------------------------------      ----------
                           Balance at                                                    Write-Offs,    Balance at
                           Beginning            Charged to Costs         Charged to        Net of          End
                           of Period              and Expenses        Other Accounts     Recoveries     of Period
                           ---------              ------------        --------------     ----------     ---------
Description
- -----------
<S>                        <C>                  <C>                   <C>                <C>            <C>
Allowance for
  doubtful accounts:

Year ended

    December 31, 1997      $   3,540              $      3,605               -            $   3,403     $   3,742

    December 31, 1996          2,658                     2,046               -                1,164         3,540

    December 31, 1995          2,704                     3,697               -                3,743         2,658





Group insurance
  reserve:

Year ended

    December 31, 1997     $   1,035               $      6,803               -            $   6,738     $   1,100

    December 31, 1996         2,774                      3,402               -                5,141         1,035

    December 31, 1995         1,810                      5,467               -                4,503         2,774
</TABLE>



                                       F-2
<PAGE>   21





















Timberland; [GRAPHIC]; Active Comfort Technology; ACT; Aero Balm;
B.S.F.P.; Balm Shelter; Black Ridge Mountain; Bootness; Cream Buff; Euro Rec;
Euro TecRec; Fastpacker; Grime Squad; Guaranteed Waterproof Construction; Hydro
Balm; Jackson Mountain; Lockseam; Mill River; More Quality Than You May Ever
Need; Mountain to River; TBL; The Boot Company; This is a trip; This is not
baggage; This is your new best friend; Trail Grip; Treeline; Waximum;
Weathergear; and Wind, Water, Earth, and Sky are trademarks or registered
trademarks of The Timberland Company.


                         (C) The Timberland Company 1998
                              All Rights Reserved.

<PAGE>   1
                                                                EXHIBIT 10.10(C)

                      AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO CREDIT AGREEMENT

         AMENDMENT dated as of November 5, 1997 to the Credit Agreement dated as
of June 21, 1996 (as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto dated as of March 21,
1997, the "CREDIT AGREEMENT") among THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY (the "BORROWER"), the
BANKS party thereto (the "BANKS") and MORGAN GUARANTY TRUST COMPANY OF NEW YORK,
as Agent (the "AGENT").

         The parties hereto agree as follows:

         SECTION 1. Definitions; References. Unless otherwise specifically
defined herein, each term used herein which is defined in the Credit Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in the Credit Agreement. Each reference to
"hereof", "hereunder", "herein" and "hereby" and each other similar reference
and each reference to "this Agreement" and each other similar reference
contained in the Credit Agreement shall, after this Amendment becomes effective,
refer to the Credit Agreement as amended hereby.

         SECTION 2. Relaxation of Restrictions on Prepayments of Certain Debt.
Section 5.15 of the Credit Agreement is amended by replacing the reference to
"$55,000,000" that appears in the proviso to subsection (a) thereof with
"$75,000,000".

         SECTION 3. Representations of Borrower. The Borrower represents and
warrants that (i) the representations and warranties of the Borrower set forth
in Article 4 of the Credit Agreement will be true on and as of the Amendment
Effective Date (except in the case of representations and warranties expressly
relating to an earlier date, which were true as of such earlier date) and (ii)
no Default will have occurred and be continuing on such date.

         SECTION 4. Governing Law. This Amendment shall be governed by and
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

         SECTION 5. Counterparts. This Amendment may be signed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be an original, with the same effect as if the
signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument.

         SECTION 6. Effectiveness. This Amendment shall become effective on the
date (the "Amendment Effective Date") when the Agent shall have received from
each of the Borrower and the Required Banks a counterpart hereof signed by such
party or facsimile or other written confirmation (in form satisfactory to the
Agent) that such party has signed a counterpart hereof.
<PAGE>   2
         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be
duly executed as of the date first above written.

                                 THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY

                                 By:  /s/ Carden N. Welsh
                                      -----------------------------------
                                      Title: Treasurer

                                 BANKS

                                 MORGAN GUARANTY TRUST
                                     COMPANY OF NEW YORK

                                 By:  /s/ Robert L. Barrett
                                      -----------------------------------
                                      Title: Vice President


                                 ABN AMRO BANK N.V., BOSTON                    
                                 BRANCH

                                 By:  /s/ Carol A. Levine
                                      -----------------------------------
                                      Title: Senior Vice President

                                 By:  /s/ James E. Davis
                                      -----------------------------------
                                      Title: Group Vice President


                                 BANKBOSTON, N.A. (formerly known as
                                     THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK
                                     OF BOSTON), as a Bank and as Issuing Bank

                                 By:  /s/ Linda H. Thomas
                                      -----------------------------------
                                      Title: Managing Director


                                 THE NORTHERN TRUST
                                   COMPANY

                                 By:  /s/ Dennis F. Baer
                                      -----------------------------------
                                      Title: Vice President


                                 CREDIT LYONNAIS NEW YORK
                                     BRANCH

                                 By:  /s/ Robert Ivosevich
                                      -----------------------------------
                                      Title: Senior Vice President


<PAGE>   1
                                                                      EXHIBIT 13


FIVE YEAR SUMMARY OF SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

SELECTED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years Ended December 31,                     1997           1996            1995             1994            1993
- ------------------------                     ----           ----            ----             ----            ----
<S>                                      <C>            <C>             <C>              <C>             <C>     
Revenue                                  $796,458       $689,973        $655,138         $638,097        $420,062
Net income (loss)                          47,321         20,419         (11,635)          17,710          22,521
Basic earnings (loss) per share              4.20           1.84           (1.06)            1.63            2.08
Diluted earnings (loss) per share            4.03           1.81           (1.06)            1.58            2.01
</TABLE>


SELECTED BALANCE SHEET DATA
(Dollars in Thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 31,                                 1997           1996            1995             1994            1993
- ------------                                 ----           ----            ----             ----            ----
<S>                                     <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>             <C>       
Cash and equivalents                    $  98,771       $ 93,336       $  38,389       $    6,381      $    3,281
Working capital                           242,911        269,603         268,115          266,529         155,660
Total assets                              420,003        449,586         421,408          473,264         290,611
Notes payable                                  -              -               -            22,513          10,061
Total long-term debt                      100,000        189,454         207,187          214,815          91,491
Stockholders' equity                      214,895        165,360         142,221          149,090         128,363
</TABLE>


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS

The following discusses the Company's results of operations and liquidity and
capital resources. The discussion should be read in conjunction with "The Year
in Review" and the consolidated financial statements and related notes.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(Amounts in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years Ended December 31,                            1997                      1996                       1995(1)
- ------------------------                            ----                      ----                       -------
<S>                                       <C>            <C>         <C>            <C>         <C>             <C>   
Revenue                                   $  796,458     100.0%      $689,973       100.0%      $655,138        100.0%
Gross profit                                 311,921      39.2        251,909        36.5        203,397         31.0
Total operating expenses                     228,068      28.6        201,020        29.1        210,330         32.1
Operating income (loss)                       83,853      10.5         50,889         7.4         (6,933)        (1.1)
Interest expense                              14,833       1.9         20,582         3.0         22,861          3.5
Net income (loss)                             47,321       5.9         20,419         3.0        (11,635)        (1.8)
Basic earnings (loss) per share           $     4.20                 $   1.84                   $  (1.06)
   Average shares outstanding                 11,280                   11,092                     11,000
Diluted earnings (loss) per share         $     4.03                 $   1.81                   $  (1.06)
   Average shares outstanding                 11,737                   11,255                     11,000
</TABLE>

(1) Includes a $16.0 million pre-tax restructuring charge in 1995 which reduced
earnings and earnings per share by $9.9 million and $.90, respectively, and a
$12.1 million non-recurring pre-tax gain in 1995 which increased earnings and
earnings per share by $7.5 million and $.68, respectively.



                                                    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY    13
<PAGE>   2
FINANCIAL REVIEW

Revenue increased 15.4% to $796.5 million in 1997 from $690.0 million in 1996
and $655.1 million in 1995. The increases in 1997 and 1996 were the result of
unit volume growth in footwear and apparel. Footwear revenue was $593.0 million
in 1997, $511.3 million in 1996 and $483.1 million in 1995. This represents an
increase of 16.0% in 1997 and an increase of 5.8% in 1996 each compared to the
prior year. Revenue attributable to apparel and accessories was $193.8 million
in 1997, $172.4 million in 1996 and $162.3 million in 1995. This represents an
increase of 12.5% in 1997 and an increase of 6.2% in 1996 each compared to the
prior year. Domestic revenue amounted to $578.4 million in 1997, $485.4 million
in 1996 and $459.8 million in 1995, or 72.6%, 70.4% and 70.2% of total revenue
for each of the three years, respectively.

    The gross profit margin was 39.2% in 1997, 36.5% in 1996 and 31.0% in 1995.
The increase in the margin percent in 1997 from 1996 was due primarily to the
introduction of higher margin products and lower unit costs in footwear
manufacturing and sourcing. The increase in the gross margin percent in 1996
from 1995 was due primarily to improved manufacturing efficiencies, an expanded
and enhanced sourcing effort, improvements in sales returns and allowances and
fewer off-price sales.

    During the second quarter of 1995, the Company closed its manufacturing
facilities in Boone, North Carolina and Mountain City, Tennessee, reduced its
manufacturing operations in the Dominican Republic and downsized its corporate
work force due to a reorganized management structure. These actions resulted in
a one-time pre-tax charge of $16.0 million and the elimination of approximately
1,800 positions. Of the total charge for restructuring in 1995, $9.9 million
related to anticipated losses associated with the disposal of assets and was a
non-cash item; $3.9 million related to payments for contractual lease
obligations and anticipated expenditures to close idle facilities; and $2.2
million related to payments for severance and other employee liabilities. The
Company has completed the restructuring.

    Operating expense was $228.1 million or 28.6% of revenue in 1997, $201.0
million or 29.1% of revenue in 1996 and $210.3 million or 32.1% of revenue in
1995. Operating expense increased $27.1 million in 1997 from 1996 principally
due to higher sales volume and higher expenditures for marketing and product
development. Operating expense in 1996 increased $6.7 million from 1995,
excluding the restructuring charge. This increase in operating expense in 1996
was principally a result of increased selling expense attributable to increased
sales volume in both footwear and apparel and accessories.

    Operating income, which is pre-tax earnings before interest and other
expense, was $83.9 million in 1997, $50.9 million in 1996 and $9.1 million in
1995 (excluding the restructuring charge). As a percentage of revenue, operating
income was 10.5% in 1997, 7.4% in 1996 and 1.4% in 1995 (excluding the
restructuring charge).

    Interest expense was $14.8 million in 1997 compared to $20.6 million in 1996
and $22.9 million in 1995. The decrease in the successive years was due to lower
levels of borrowings.

    In January 1995, the Company appointed Inchcape plc ("Inchcape") as the
exclusive distributor of Timberland(R) products throughout most of the
Asia/Pacific region. The agreement with Inchcape also included Inchcape's
acquisition of the Company's Australian and New Zealand subsidiaries for a total
sum of $24.0 million. The agreement, as amended, resulted in a non-recurring
pre-tax gain of approximately $12.1 million in 1995. The gain is included in
"Other expense (income)" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

    The effective income tax rate was 30.0% in 1997, 34.0% in 1996 and 38.0% in
1995. For an analysis of the changes in the effective tax rate, see the "Income
Taxes" note (Note 8) to the Company's consolidated financial statements.

    The Company believes that inflation has not had a significant impact on the
Company's operations over the past three years.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash generated by operations amounted to $113.8 million in 1997, $85.7 million
in 1996 and $48.1 million in 1995. Higher profitability and lower working
capital requirements were primarily responsible for the improvements in
operating cash flow in 1997 and 1996. The improvement in inventory levels
experienced in 1997 and 1996 was due to strengthening supply chain management,
which enhanced reliability and the Company's ability to react faster to market
place change. Inventory turns were 2.9 times in 1997 compared to 2.3 times in
1996 and 1.9 times in 1995. Days sales outstanding at December 31, 1997 were 29
days compared to 41 days at 


14     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   3
December 31, 1996 and 49 days at December 31, 1995. Domestic wholesale days
sales outstanding were 36 days, 52 days and 63 days at the end of 1997, 1996 and
1995, respectively.

    Net cash used by investing activities amounted to $25.2 million in 1997,
$25.7 million of which was for capital expenditures. Net cash used by investing
activities amounted to $15.4 million in 1996, $15.1 million of which was for
capital expenditures. Cash provided by investing activities amounted to $11.7
million in 1995, due primarily to the $24.0 million cash proceeds received from
the agreement with Inchcape partially offset by capital expenditures of $13.5
million. A significant portion of capital expenditures during the three years
ended December 31, 1997 was for distribution and transportation equipment,
manufacturing machinery and equipment, retail store improvements and information
systems improvements.

    During 1997, 1996 and 1995, net cash used in financing activities amounted
to $82.7 million, $15.6 million and $28.2 million, respectively. In 1997, $89.5
million was used to repay long-term debt, including prepayments totaling $82.0
million. The 1996 amount reflects the repayment of $17.7 million in long-term
debt, including a prepayment of $10.0 million. During 1995, $22.5 million in
short-term debt and $8.1 million in long-term debt were repaid.

    The Company uses funds from operations and unsecured revolving and committed
lines of credit as the primary sources of financing for its seasonal and other
working capital requirements. On June 21, 1996, the Company entered into a
revolving credit agreement to provide for up to $80.0 million in letters of
credit under an overall $100.0 million committed facility. The agreement expires
on June 21, 1998. 

    The Company's debt to capital ratio was 31.8% at December 31, 1997, 53.4% at
December 31, 1996 and 59.3% at December 31, 1995.

    Management believes that the Company's capital needs for 1998 will be met
through its existing credit facilities and cash flow from operations without the
need for additional permanent financing. However, the Company's ability to
obtain any replacement credit facilities will depend upon prevailing market
conditions and the terms and conditions of such replacement facilities.


NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

A discussion of new accounting pronouncements is included in the "Summary of
Significant Accounting Policies" note (Note 1) to the consolidated financial
statements.


YEAR 2000

The Company utilizes and is dependent upon its financial, operational and
planning information systems in all phases of its business functions. Most of
these systems were purchased as packaged applications from external vendors. In
1996, the Company made a preliminary assessment of the capabilities of its
systems to recognize and process dates properly in the year 2000 and beyond.
Based on the findings of this assessment, the Company determined that, while
some of its systems are year 2000 compliant, modifications will be required to
others. The Company has developed and is implementing a plan to render its
enterprise business systems year 2000 compliant by the end of 1998. The Company
is also seeking to obtain commitments of year 2000 compliance from external
vendors and to develop alternative solutions to minimize the impact on the
Company in the event such vendors do not meet their year 2000 commitments.
Management believes that the cost of completing this plan will not have a
material adverse effect on the Company's current financial position, liquidity
or results of operations.


                                                    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY    15

<PAGE>   4
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Management is unaware of any trends or conditions that could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, future results
of operations or capital or liquidity needs. However, as discussed in an exhibit
to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997, entitled
"Cautionary Statements for Purposes of the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995", investors should be aware of factors
that could affect the Company's actual results and could cause such results to
differ from those contained in forward-looking statements made by or on behalf
of the Company. These factors include political, economic or other factors such
as currency exchange rates, inflation rates, recessionary or expansive trends,
taxes and regulations and laws affecting the business in each of the Company's
markets; competitive product, advertising, promotional and pricing activity;
dependence on the rate of development and degree of acceptance of new product
introductions in the marketplace; and the difficulty of forecasting sales at
certain times in certain markets.


QUARTERLY MARKET INFORMATION AND RELATED MATTERS

The Company's Class A Common Stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange
under the symbol TBL. There is no market for shares of the Company's Class B
Common Stock; however, shares of Class B Common Stock may be converted into
shares of Class A Common Stock on a one-for-one basis and will automatically be
converted upon any transfer (except for estate planning transfers and any
transfer approved by the Board of Directors).

    The following table presents the high and low closing sales prices of the
Company's Class A Common Stock for the past two years as reported by the New
York Stock Exchange.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               1997                                     1996
                                               ----                                     ----
                                        HIGH             LOW                    High               Low
                                        ----             ---                    ----               ---
<S>                                   <C>             <C>                      <C>              <C>  
First Quarter                         $47             $37 3/4                   $22              $18 1/4
Second Quarter                         67 1/8          43 1/8                   24 3/4            21 1/8
Third Quarter                          79              61                       23                17
Fourth Quarter                         82 7/8          51 3/4                   40 1/8            20 1/2
</TABLE>

As of March 3, 1998, the number of record holders of the Company's Class A
Common Stock was approximately 700 and the number of record holders of the
Company's Class B Common Stock was 8. The closing sales price of the Company's
Class A Common Stock on March 3, 1998 was $73 7/8 per share.

    No cash dividends have ever been declared on either the Company's Class A or
Class B Common Stock and none are contemplated in the foreseeable future. In
addition, the Company's ability to pay cash dividends is limited pursuant to
various loan agreements (See notes to the consolidated financial statements).

FINANCIAL REVIEW

16     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   5
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 31, 1997 and 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)                                                     1997             1996
<S>                                                                                           <C>               <C>     
ASSETS
Current assets
    Cash and equivalents                                                                      $ 98,771          $ 93,336
    Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
        of $3,742 in 1997 and $3,540 in 1996                                                    75,793           100,556
    Inventory                                                                                  142,613           159,058
    Prepaid expense                                                                             12,856             9,351
    Deferred income taxes                                                                       11,973             9,167
                                                                                              --------          --------
        Total current assets                                                                   342,006           371,468
                                                                                              --------          --------
Property, plant and equipment                                                                  116,503           103,650
    Less accumulated depreciation and amortization                                             (63,593)          (54,666)
                                                                                              --------          --------
        Net property, plant and equipment                                                       52,910            48,984
                                                                                              --------          --------
Excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired, net                                      20,902            22,587
Other assets, net                                                                                4,185             6,547
                                                                                              --------          --------
Total assets                                                                                  $420,003          $449,586
                                                                                              --------          --------

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities
    Current maturities of long-term debt                                                      $    --           $ 17,778
    Accounts payable                                                                            20,390            21,348
    Accrued expense
        Payroll and related                                                                     28,233            15,173
        Interest and other                                                                      32,786            35,753
        Income taxes payable                                                                    17,686            11,813
                                                                                              --------          --------
        Total current liabilities                                                               99,095           101,865
                                                                                              --------          --------
Long-term debt, less current maturities                                                        100,000           171,676
Deferred income taxes                                                                            6,013            10,685
Stockholders' equity
    Preferred stock, $.01 par value; 2,000,000 shares authorized; none issued                      --                --
    Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value (1 vote per share); 30,000,000
        shares authorized; 8,765,013 shares issued at December 31, 1997
        and 8,430,998 shares at December 31, 1996                                                   88                84
    Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value (10 votes per share); convertible
        into Class A shares on a one-for-one basis; 15,000,000 shares
        authorized; 2,605,432 shares issued at December 31, 1997 and 2,734,301
        shares at December 31, 1996                                                                 26                27
    Additional paid-in capital                                                                  68,568            61,806
    Retained earnings                                                                          147,921           100,600
    Cumulative translation adjustment                                                           (1,595)            2,963
    Less treasury stock at cost; 17,369 shares at December 31, 1997 and
        18,369 shares at December 31, 1996                                                        (113)             (120)
                                                                                              --------          --------
        Total stockholders' equity                                                             214,895           165,360
                                                                                              --------          --------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity                                                    $420,003          $449,586
                                                                                              --------          --------
</TABLE>


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.


                                                     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY   17
<PAGE>   6
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS 
For the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Amounts in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)                 1997              1996                1995
<S>                                                      <C>               <C>                 <C>      
Revenue                                                  $ 796,458         $ 689,973           $ 655,138
Cost of goods sold                                         484,537           438,064             451,741
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
    Gross profit                                           311,921           251,909             203,397
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Operating expense
    Selling                                                174,729           152,834             145,924
    General and administrative                              51,654            46,502              46,721
    Amortization of goodwill                                 1,685             1,684               1,685
    Restructuring charge                                        -                 -               16,000
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
    Total operating expense                                228,068           201,020             210,330
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Operating income (loss)                                     83,853            50,889              (6,933)
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Other expense (income)
    Interest expense                                        14,833            20,582              22,861
    Other, net                                               1,419              (631)           (11,028)
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
    Total other expense                                     16,252            19,951              11,833
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Income (loss) before income taxes                           67,601            30,938             (18,766)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes                        20,280            10,519              (7,131)
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Net income (loss)                                        $  47,321         $  20,419           $ (11,635)
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Basic earnings (loss) per share                          $    4.20         $    1.84           $   (1.06)
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Average shares outstanding                                  11,280            11,092              11,000
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Diluted earnings (loss) per share                        $    4.03         $    1.81               (1.06)
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
Average shares outstanding                                  11,737            11,255              11,000
                                                         ---------         ---------           ---------
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.

FINANCIAL REVIEW
18 THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   7
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 
For the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        Class A    Class B    Additional                   Cumulative                 Consolidated
                                         Common     Common       Paid-in     Retained     Translation     Treasury    Stockholders'
(Dollars in Thousands)                   Stock      Stock       Capital      Earnings      Adjustment      Stock         Equity
- ----------------------                   -----      -----       -------      --------      ----------      -----         ------
<S>                                     <C>        <C>        <C>           <C>           <C>             <C>         <C>      
Balance, January 1, 1995                  $82       $ 27        $57,756     $  91,816       $  (471)       $(120)       $ 149,090
                                          ---       ----        -------     ---------       -------        -----        ---------
Issuance of shares under employee
    stock option and stock purchase
    plans and other transactions            1        --           1,534          --            --           --              1,535
Tax benefit from stock option plans        --        --             426          --            --           --                426
Net loss                                   --        --            --         (11,635)         --           --            (11,635)
Translation adjustment                     --        --            --            --           2,805         --              2,805
                                          ---       ----        -------     ---------       -------        -----        ---------
Balance, December 31, 1995                 83         27         59,716        80,181         2,334         (120)         142,221
                                          ---       ----        -------     ---------       -------        -----        ---------
Issuance of shares under employee
    stock option and stock purchase
    plans and other transactions            1        --           1,587          --            --           --              1,588
Tax benefit from stock option plans        --        --             503          --            --           --                503
Net income                                 --        --            --          20,419          --           --             20,419
Translation adjustment                     --        --            --            --             629         --                629
                                          ---       ----        -------     ---------       -------        -----        ---------
Balance, December 31, 1996                 84         27         61,806       100,600         2,963         (120)         165,360
                                          ---       ----        -------     ---------       -------        -----        ---------
Issuance of shares under employee
    stock option and stock purchase
    plans and other transactions            4         (1)         4,362          --            --              7            4,372
Tax benefit from stock option plans        --        --           2,400          --            --           --              2,400
Net income                                 --        --            --          47,321          --           --             47,321
Translation adjustment                     --        --            --            --          (4,558)        --             (4,558)
                                          ---       ----        -------     ---------       -------        -----        ---------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 1997                $88       $ 26        $68,568     $ 147,921       $(1,595)       $(113)       $ 214,895
                                          ---       ----        -------     ---------       -------        -----        ---------
</TABLE>


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.



                                                     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY   19
<PAGE>   8
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 
For the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Dollars in Thousands)                                                                   1997            1996            1995
<S>                                                                                  <C>              <C>             <C>      
Cash flows from operating activities:
    Net income (loss)                                                                $  47,321        $ 20,419        $(11,635)
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net
        cash provided by operating activities:
        Deferred income taxes                                                           (7,478)            905          (2,560)
        Depreciation and amortization                                                   20,292          21,370          19,138
        Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment                                1,564            --              --
        Gain on distributorship transaction                                               --              --           (12,107)
        Restructuring charge                                                              --              --             9,914
        Increase (decrease) in cash from changes in working capital items, net
            of effects of distributorship transaction:
                Accounts receivable                                                     24,799          (5,541)         29,186
                Inventory                                                               14,270          22,475          31,834
                Prepaid expense                                                         (3,707)          3,747             884
                Accounts payable                                                          (454)         (4,000)        (11,967)
                Accrued expense                                                         11,165          14,692           4,427
                Income taxes                                                             6,001          11,608          (8,999)
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
            Net cash provided by operating activities                                  113,773          85,675          48,115
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
Cash flows from investing activities:
    Proceeds from distributorship transaction                                             --              --            24,000
    Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment                                  3,772           1,268           1,756
    Additions to property, plant and equipment                                         (25,704)        (15,090)        (13,508)
    Other, net                                                                          (3,250)         (1,605)           (567)
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
            Net cash provided (used) by investing activities                           (25,182)        (15,427)         11,681
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
Cash flows from financing activities:
    Net payments under short-term credit facilities                                       --              --           (22,513)
    Proceeds from long-term obligations                                                   --              --               525
    Payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations                           (89,454)        (17,733)         (8,137)
    Issuance of common stock                                                             4,372           1,588           1,535
    Tax benefit from stock option plans                                                  2,400             503             426
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
            Net cash used by financing activities                                      (82,682)        (15,642)        (28,164)
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash                                                   (474)            341             376
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
Net increase in cash and equivalents                                                     5,435          54,947          32,008
Cash and equivalents at beginning of year                                               93,336          38,389           6,381
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
Cash and equivalents at end of year                                                  $  98,771        $ 93,336        $ 38,389
                                                                                     ---------        --------        --------
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
    Interest paid                                                                    $  15,650        $ 18,916        $ 22,194
    Income taxes paid (refunded)                                                        21,885          (2,671)          4,428
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

20   THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   9
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Timberland
Company and its subsidiaries (the "Company"). All material intercompany
transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

RECOGNITION OF REVENUE
Revenue consists of sales to customers, license fees and royalties. Sales are
recognized upon shipment of product to customers. License fees and royalties are
recognized when earned.

TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN CURRENCIES
The Company translates financial statements denominated in foreign currency by
translating balance sheet accounts at the end of period exchange rate and
statement of operations accounts at the average exchange rate for the period.
Translation gains and losses are recorded in stockholders' equity and
transaction gains and losses are reflected in income.

DERIVATIVES
The Company is exposed to foreign exchange risk when the Company sells goods in
local currencies through its foreign subsidiaries. It is the Company's policy to
hedge a portion of this risk through forward sales of foreign currencies,
thereby locking in the future exchange rates. Gains and losses on the underlying
contracts are accounted for using hedge accounting. Accordingly, the change in
the fair value of the contracts that hedge firm commitments is deferred and
recognized as part of the related foreign currency transaction upon occurrence.

CASH AND EQUIVALENTS
Cash equivalents consist of short-term, highly liquid investments which have
original maturities to the Company of three months or less.

INVENTORIES
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated using the
straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or over the
terms of the related leases, if such periods are shorter. The principal
estimated useful lives are: building and improvements, 4 to 30 years; machinery
and equipment, 3 to 12 years; lasts, patterns and dies, 5 years.

EXCESS OF COST OVER FAIR VALUE OF NET ASSETS ACQUIRED
The excess of cost over the fair value of net assets acquired is being amortized
on a straight-line basis over periods of 10, 15 and 40 years. Accumulated
amortization amounted to $10,872 and $9,187 at December 31, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.

ACCRUED INSURANCE COSTS
The Company is self-insured for workers' compensation, healthcare, dental and
short-term disability up to certain specified limits. Expenses associated with
such self-insurance programs are accrued based upon estimates of the amounts
required to cover incurred incidents.

INCOME TAXES
Income taxes are determined based on the income reported in the Company's
financial statements, regardless of when such taxes are payable. In addition,
tax assets and liabilities are adjusted to reflect changes in U.S. and
applicable foreign income tax laws when enacted. Future tax benefits, such as
net operating loss carry forwards, are recognized to the extent realization of
such benefits is more likely to occur than not.


                                                     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY   21
<PAGE>   10
ACCOUNTING FOR ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles requires the Company to make assumptions that affect the
estimates reported in these consolidated financial statements. Actual results
may differ from these estimates.

EARNINGS PER SHARE
In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128, "Earnings Per
Share", which became effective for the Company in the fourth quarter of 1997.
Previously reported earnings per share ("EPS") have been restated to conform
with SFAS No. 128. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net
income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the
periods presented. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that would occur
if securities such as stock options were exercised. Dilutive securities (Note
14) included in the calculation of diluted weighted average shares were 457,050
in 1997 and 162,477 in 1996. Dilutive securities were not included in 1995 due
to their anti-dilutive effect.

LONG-LIVED ASSETS
The Company continually evaluates the carrying values and estimated useful lives
of its long-lived assets, primarily property, plant and equipment and intangible
assets. When factors indicate that such assets should be evaluated for possible
impairment, the Company uses estimates of future operating results and cash
flows to determine whether the assets are economically recoverable.

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company accounts for stock options using the method prescribed by Accounting
Principles Board Opinion No. 25 and related interpretations.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
During 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 130 "Reporting Comprehensive Income" and
SFAS No. 131 "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related
Information". In February 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132, "Employers'
Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits". These statements
may require additional disclosures in future financial statements. The Company
will adopt these statements in 1998.


2. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK

The following table illustrates the U.S. dollar equivalent, including offsetting
positions, of foreign exchange contracts at December 31, 1997 and 1996, along
with maturity dates, net unrealized gain (loss) and net unrealized gain (loss)
deferred.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        Contract                   Unrealized       Unrealized               Net    Net Unrealized
                                          Amount     Maturity           Gross            Gross        Unrealized        Gain (Loss)
                             (U.S. $ Equivalent)          Date           Gain            (Loss)       Gain (Loss)          Deferred
<S>                          <C>                     <C>           <C>              <C>              <C>            <C>
December 31, 1997
Pounds Sterling                          $ 2,527          1998         $    1         $   (197)            $(196)           $ (122)
Deutsche Marks                             4,285          1998            254              (15)             239                254
French Francs                              3,039          1998            253              (48)             205                253
Italian Lire                              10,814          1998            322              --               322                278
                                         -------          ----         ------         --------           ------             ------
Total                                    $20,665                       $  830         $   (260)          $  570             $  663
                                         -------          ----         ------         --------           ------             ------

December 31, 1996
Pounds Sterling                          $ 8,104          1997          $  71         $   (872)          $ (801)            $ (534)
Deutsche Marks                             4,836          1997            209              --               209                168
French Francs                              2,379          1997            202              --               202                174
Italian Lire                              19,153          1997             18             (292)            (274)              (147)
Spanish Pesetas                            1,928          1997            --               (15)             (15)               --
                                         -------          ----         ------         --------           ------             ------
Total                                    $36,400                         $500         $ (1,179)          $ (679)            $ (339)
                                         -------          ----         ------         --------           ------             ------
</TABLE>


22    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   11
The unrealized net gain (loss) deferred on such contracts as of December 31,
1997 and 1996 was $663 and $(339), respectively. Unrealized gains or losses are
determined based on the difference between the settlement and the year-end
rates.

    Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to
concentrations of credit risk consist principally of temporary cash investments
and trade receivables. The Company places its temporary cash investments with
high credit quality financial institutions, thereby minimizing exposure to
concentrations of credit risk. Credit risk with respect to trade receivables is
limited, due to the large number of customers included in the Company's customer
base. The Company had an allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable of
$3,742 and $3,540 at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.


3. RESTRUCTURING CHARGE

During the second quarter of 1995, the Company closed its manufacturing
facilities in Boone, North Carolina and Mountain City, Tennessee, reduced its
manufacturing operations in the Dominican Republic and downsized its corporate
office workforce due to a reorganized management structure. These actions
resulted in a one-time pre-tax charge of $16,000.

    Of the total charge for restructuring, $9,914 related to anticipated losses
associated with the disposal of assets and was a non-cash item; $3,891 related
to payments for contractual lease obligations and expenditures to close idle
facilities; and $2,195 related to payments for severance and other employee
liabilities. The Company has completed the restructuring.


4. OTHER INCOME

On January 26, 1995, the Company appointed Inchcape plc ("Inchcape") as the
exclusive distributor of Timberland(R) products throughout most of the
Asia/Pacific region. The agreement with Inchcape included Inchcape's acquisition
of the Company's Australian and New Zealand subsidiaries and future
consideration provided to Inchcape for the total sum of $24,000. The agreement,
as amended, resulted in a pre-tax gain of approximately $12,107.


5. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 31,                                                   1997                                     1996
                                                               ----                                     ----
                                                CARRYING OR                                Carrying or
                                            CONTRACT AMOUNT          FAIR VALUE        Contract Amount          Fair Value
<S>                                         <C>                      <C>               <C>                      <C>     
Cash and equivalents(1)                           $ 98,771            $ 98,771               $ 93,336            $ 93,336
Long-term debt(2)                                  100,000             108,610                189,454             199,011
Foreign currency contracts(3)                       20,665              20,095                 36,400              37,079
</TABLE>

1 The carrying amounts of cash and equivalents approximate their fair values.
2 The fair value of the Company's long-term debt is estimated based on current
  rates available to the Company as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 for debt of 
  the same remaining maturities. 
3 The fair value of foreign currency contracts is estimated by obtaining the
  appropriate year-end rates as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.


                                                     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY   23
<PAGE>   12
6. INVENTORY

Inventory consists of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 31,                                        1997               1996
                                                    ----               ----
<S>                                             <C>                <C>      
Raw materials                                   $  8,010           $  9,770
Work-in-process                                    4,103              3,979
Finished goods                                   130,500            145,309
                                                --------           --------
Total                                           $142,613           $159,058
                                                --------           --------
</TABLE>


7. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 31,                                        1997               1996
                                                    ----               ----
<S>                                             <C>                <C>      
Land and improvements                           $    501           $  1,149
Building and improvements                         29,089             34,263
Machinery and equipment                           76,655             59,000
Lasts, patterns and dies                          10,258             9,238
                                                --------           --------
Total                                           $116,503           $103,650
                                                --------           --------
</TABLE>


8. INCOME TAXES

The components of the provision (benefit) for income taxes are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years Ended December 31,                      1997                       1996                         1995
                                              ----                       ----                         ----
                                      CURRENT      DEFERRED      Current       Deferred      Current         Deferred
<S>                                   <C>          <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>             <C>     
Federal                               $21,368       $(5,956)      $5,357           $637      $(5,255)         $(3,920)
State                                   3,958        (2,078)       1,411             36         (228)           1,046
Puerto Rico                               828           556          468            232          195              314
Foreign                                 1,604           --         2,378            --           717              --
                                      -------       -------       ------           ----       -------         ------- 
Total                                 $27,758       $(7,478)      $9,614           $905       $(4,571)        $(2,560)
                                      -------       -------       ------           ----       -------         ------- 
</TABLE>


The provision (benefit) for income taxes differs from the amount computed using
the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% due to the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years Ended December 31,                           1997                       1996                    1995
                                                   ----                       ----                    ----
<S>                                       <C>             <C>        <C>           <C>       <C>           <C>    
Federal income tax at
   statutory rate                         $23,660         35.0%      $10,828       35.0%     $(6,568)      (35.0)%
Federal tax exempt operations
   in Puerto Rico                          (5,261)        (7.8)       (2,973)      (9.6)      (1,242)       (6.6)
State taxes, net of applicable
   federal benefit                          2,294          3.4         1,232        4.0         (207)       (1.1)
Other, net                                   (413)        (0.6)        1,432        4.6          886         4.7
                                          -------         ----       -------       ----      -------       -----  
Total                                     $20,280         30.0%      $10,519       34.0%     $(7,131)      (38.0)%
                                          -------         ----       -------       ----      -------       -----  
</TABLE>

FINANCIAL REVIEW

24     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   13
The tax effects of temporary differences and carryforwards that give rise to
significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 1997
and 1996 consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    1997                           1996
                                                    ----                           ----
                                             ASSETS       LIABILITIES       Assets      Liabilities
<S>                                        <C>            <C>              <C>          <C>   
Current:
    Inventory                              $  5,111        $   --          $ 2,812        $   --
    Receivable allowances                     5,069            --            3,505            --
    Intercompany profit elimination             163            --              713            --
    Other                                     1,630            --            2,137            --
                                           --------        --------        -------        --------  
Total                                      $ 11,973        $   --          $ 9,167        $   --
                                           --------        --------        -------        --------  
Non-current:
    Accelerated depreciation
       and amortization                    $  3,853        $   --          $  --          $   (187)
    Puerto Rico tollgate taxes                 --            (2,453)          --            (1,897)
    Undistributed foreign earnings             --            (8,308)          --            (8,601)
    Other                                       895            --             --              --
    Net operating loss carryforwards          1,095            --            1,066            --
    Less-valuation allowance                 (1,095)           --           (1,066)           --
                                           --------        --------        -------        --------  
Total                                      $  4,748        $(10,761)       $  --          $(10,685)
                                           --------        --------        -------        --------  
</TABLE>

The valuation allowance at December 31, 1997 of $1,095 includes $357 which arose
during 1997. The valuation allowance relates to foreign net operating loss
carryforwards that may not be realized.

    The Company's consolidated income (loss) before taxes included earnings from
its subsidiary in Puerto Rico, which are substantially exempt from Puerto Rico
and federal income taxes under an exemption which expires in 2002. However, if
the earnings were remitted to the Company, they would be subject to a Puerto
Rico tollgate tax not to exceed 10%. Deferred tollgate taxes have been provided
on all of the accumulated earnings of the subsidiary in Puerto Rico. Deferred
income taxes are also provided on the undistributed earnings of the Company's
foreign subsidiaries.

    Losses before income taxes from foreign operations were $(1,190), $(100) and
$(3,063) for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. At
December 31, 1997, the Company had $3,649 of foreign operating loss
carryforwards available to offset future foreign taxable income. Of these
operating loss carry-forwards, $642 will expire in 1998, $548 in 1999, $458 in
2000, $82 in 2001 and $1,919 thereafter.


9. NOTES PAYABLE

On June 21, 1996, the Company entered into an unsecured committed revolving
credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") with a group of banks. The Credit
Agreement provides for up to $80,000 in letters of credit under an overall
$100,000 committed facility expiring on June 21, 1998. Under the terms of the
Credit Agreement, the Company may borrow at interest rates based upon the
lenders' cost of funds plus an applicable spread (6.45% at December 31, 1997).
Further, the Credit Agreement provides for a facility fee of 3/8% per annum on
the full commitment, places limitations on the payment of dividends and the
incurrence of additional debt, and contains certain other financial and
operating covenants.

    Additionally, the Company had uncommitted lines of credit available from
certain banks totaling $16,000 at December 31, 1997. There were no outstanding
balances at year end. Borrowings under these lines are at prevailing money
market rates (6.15% at December 31, 1997). These arrangements may be terminated
at any time at the option of the banks or the Company.

    There were no outstanding balances under short-term borrowing arrangements
at December 31, 1997 or 1996 or at any month end during 1997 and 1996.


                                                     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY   25
<PAGE>   14
10. LONG-TERM DEBT

 Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 1997 and 1996:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Interest           Year of
                                                   Rate           Maturity          1997           1996
                                                   ----           --------          ----           ----
<S>                                            <C>             <C>              <C>            <C>     
Senior Notes                                       8.94%              2001      $100,000       $106,000
Senior Notes                                       7.16               2000            -          55,000
Senior Notes                                       9.70        1997 - 1999            -          21,000
Industrial revenue bonds                           6.20               2014            -           5,345
Other                                              6.00               1999            -           2,109
                                                   ----               ----      --------       --------
                                                                                 100,000        189,454
Less-current maturities                                                               -         (17,778)
                                                   ----               ----      --------       --------
Total                                                                           $100,000       $171,676
                                                   ----               ----      --------       --------
</TABLE>

In both November 1996 and February 1997, the Company prepaid $10,000 of the
unsecured notes maturing in the year 2000. The prepayment in February 1997 was
classified in current maturities as of December 31, 1996. In addition to the
$10,000 prepayment in February 1997, the remaining $45,000 of these notes was
prepaid during 1997 -- $15,000 in April, $10,000 in June and $20,000 in
November. In December 1997, a prepayment of $6,000 of the notes maturing in 2001
and $14,000 of the 9.70% notes maturing in 1998 and 1999 was made. This was in
addition to the scheduled December payment of $7,000 of the 9.70% notes. In
April 1997, the Company prepaid the Industrial Revenue Bond and in October 1997
prepaid the remainder of the other 6.00% debt outstanding.

    The 8.94% notes place limitations on the payment of dividends and the
incurrence of additional debt, and also require maintenance of certain
operational and financial covenants. These notes mature on December 15, 2001.


11. LEASE COMMITMENTS


The Company leases its corporate headquarters facility, manufacturing
facilities, retail stores, showrooms and certain equipment under noncancellable
operating leases expiring at various dates through the year 2014. The
approximate minimum rental commitments under all noncancellable leases as of
December 31, 1997 are as follows:

<TABLE>
<S>                                                                 <C>    
1998                                                                $16,151
1999                                                                 14,556
2000                                                                 13,134
2001                                                                 11,732
2002                                                                  9,944
Thereafter                                                           28,989
                                                                    -------
Total                                                               $94,506
                                                                    -------
</TABLE>

Most of the leases for retail space provide for renewal options, contain normal
escalation clauses and require the Company to pay real estate taxes, maintenance
and other expenses. The aggregate base rent obligation for a lease is expensed
on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Rental expense for all
operating leases was $18,487, $17,189 and $16,196 for the years ended December
31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

26    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   15
12. INDUSTRY SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL AREA INFORMATION

The Company operates in a single industry segment which includes the designing,
engineering, marketing and distribution of footwear, apparel and accessories
products for men, women and children. These products are sold worldwide,
primarily through independent retailers, better-grade department stores and
athletic stores. Timberland(R) products are also sold through Timberland(R)
specialty stores and factory outlet stores devoted exclusively to Timberland
products. The following summarizes the Company's operations in different
geographical areas for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                   Adjustments
                                                United                               Other                 and
1997                                            States             Europe          Foreign        Eliminations    Consolidated
                                                ------             ------          -------        ------------    ------------
<S>                                          <C>                 <C>              <C>             <C>             <C>      
Revenue from unaffiliated customers           $610,105           $186,353         $    --          $      --         $ 796,458
Transfers between geographic areas               6,896                --            19,417             (26,313)            --
                                             ---------           --------         --------         -----------       ---------
Geographic revenue                             617,001            186,353           19,417             (26,313)        796,458
Operating income (loss)                         73,724             10,488           (2,718)              2,359          83,853
Identifiable assets at December 31, 1997       374,909            141,620           11,344            (107,870)        420,003
                                             ---------           --------         --------         -----------       ---------

1996
Revenue from unaffiliated customers          $ 517,781           $172,192         $    --          $      --         $ 689,973
Transfers between geographic areas              65,850                --            19,588             (85,438)            --
                                             ---------           --------         --------         -----------       ---------
Geographic revenue                             583,631            172,192           19,588             (85,438)        689,973
Operating income (loss)                         43,375              8,311           (1,665)               868           50,889
Identifiable assets at December 31, 1996       383,512            144,509           11,935             (90,370)        449,586
                                             ---------           --------         --------         -----------       ---------

1995
Revenue from unaffiliated customers          $ 498,144           $156,098         $    896         $      --         $ 655,138
Transfers between geographic areas              56,149                --            25,865             (82,014)            --
                                             ---------           --------         --------         -----------       ---------
Geographic revenue                             554,293            156,098           26,761             (82,014)        655,138
Operating income (loss)                        (16,207)             6,314              220              2,740           (6,933)
Identifiable assets at December 31, 1995       397,643             91,822            7,095             (75,152)        421,408
                                             ---------           --------         --------         -----------       ---------
</TABLE>


Export sales from the United States to unaffiliated customers, principally
distributors, amounted to 4.3% in 1997, 5.0% in 1996 and 6.1% in 1995 of
consolidated revenue.


                                                     THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY   27
<PAGE>   16
13. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

The Company's Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock are identical in all
respects, except that shares of Class A Common Stock carry one vote per share
while the shares of Class B Common Stock carry ten votes per share. In addition,
holders of Class A Common Stock have the right, voting separately as a class, to
elect 25% of the directors of the Company, and to vote together with the holders
of Class B Common Stock for the remaining directors. On February 14, 1997, 469
shares of Class B Common Stock were converted to Class A Common Stock and on
July 24, 1997, 128,400 shares of Class B Common Stock were converted to Class A
Common Stock.


14. STOCK AND EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

On May 16, 1997, the 1997 Incentive Plan (the "1997 Plan") was approved by the
Company's stockholders. Under the 1997 Plan, 1,000,000 shares of Class A Common
Stock have been reserved for issuance. In addition to stock options, any of the
following incentives may be awarded to participants under the 1997 Plan: stock
appreciation rights ("SARs"), restricted stock, unrestricted stock, awards
entitling the recipient to delivery in the future of Class A Common Stock or
other securities, securities which are convertible into or exchangeable for
shares of Class A Common Stock and cash bonuses. The 1997 Plan replaced the
Company's 1987 Stock Option Plan (the "1987 Plan"), under which 2,100,000 shares
of Class A Common Stock had been authorized for issuance. On February 4, 1997,
the Company's ability to grant stock options under the 1987 Plan expired,
leaving 1,052,400 authorized shares unissued thereunder. On February 27, 1997,
the Company granted stock options to purchase an aggregate of 134,750 shares of
Class A Common Stock under the 1997 Stock Option Plan for Non-Executive
Employees (collectively with the 1997 Incentive Plan, the "1997 Plans"). The
option price per share and vesting periods of stock options are determined by
the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. All awards granted under
the 1987 and 1997 Plans have been at fair market value.

    All stock options which have been granted under the 1987 and 1997 Plans and
are currently outstanding become exercisable in equal installments over four
years beginning one year after the grant date and expire ten years after the
date of grant. In addition to the 1987 and 1997 Plans, the Company has, on
occasion, granted "non-qualified" stock options at fair market value to
non-employees to purchase Class A Common Stock.

    On December 19, 1995, the Board of Directors approved a plan to reprice
outstanding options which had been granted under the 1987 Plan. Under the
repricing plan, employees could have elected to exchange some or all of their
stock options issued under the 1987 Plan for new stock options repriced at an
exercise price of $20.50, the fair market value on December 19, 1995, covering a
reduced number of shares based on a formula. Repriced stock options expire on
the same date as the original stock options and have an extended vesting period
of one year. Stock options to purchase up to 609,050 shares (when originally
granted) at per share exercise prices ranging from $21.38 to $83.25 were
repriced, resulting in stock options to purchase up to 322,120 shares being
granted.

    Under its 1991 Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors (the "1991
Plan"), the Company has reserved 100,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for the
granting of stock options to eligible non-employee directors of the Company.
Under the terms of the 1991 Plan, stock option grants are awarded on a
predetermined formula basis, and no grant can be made after November 15, 2001.
The exercise price of options granted under the 1991 Plan is the fair market
value of the stock on the date of grant. Stock options granted under the 1991
Plan become exercisable in equal installments over four years beginning one year
after the grant date and expire ten years after the grant date.

    Options to purchase an aggregate of 283,072, 297,202 and 379,881 shares were
exercisable under all option arrangements at December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Under the existing stock option plans, there were 927,314 and
1,112,283 shares available for future grants at December 31, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.


28    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   17
The following summarizes transactions under all stock option arrangements for
the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  Number                    Range of       Weighted-Average
                                of Shares            Exercise Prices         Exercise Price
                                ---------            ---------------         --------------
<S>                             <C>                  <C>                   <C>   
January 1, 1995                 1,260,639             $ 6.38 - 83.25                 $34.17
                                ---------             --------------                 ------
Granted                           531,105              19.50 - 31.13                  22.37
Exercised                         (59,784)              6.38 - 26.00                  13.85
Canceled                         (830,524)              8.75 - 83.25                  41.41
                                ---------             --------------                 ------
December 31, 1995                 901,436               6.38 - 83.25                  21.86
                                ---------             --------------                 ------
Granted                           194,900              17.38 - 39.00                  22.43
Exercised                         (89,557)              6.38 - 26.00                  11.39
Canceled                         (254,152)              6.38 - 83.25                  30.76
                                ---------             --------------                 ------
December 31, 1996                 752,627               6.38 - 83.25                  20.25
                                ---------             --------------                 ------
Granted                           314,500              40.63 - 77.63                  50.26
Exercised                        (190,130)              6.38 - 40.63                  19.39
Canceled                          (68,312)             15.00 - 50.13                  30.92
                                ---------             --------------                 ------
DECEMBER 31, 1997                 808,685               6.38 - 83.25                  31.24
                                ---------             --------------                 ------
</TABLE>

The following summarizes information about all stock options outstanding at
December 31, 1997:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      Options Outstanding                                 Options Exercisable
                                                      -------------------                                 -------------------
                                    Number        Weighted-Average                                      Number
Range of                       Outstanding               Remaining       Weighted-Average          Exercisable     Weighted-Average
Exercise Prices                at 12/31/97        Contractual Life         Exercise Price          at 12/31/97       Exercise Price
<S>                            <C>                <C>                    <C>                       <C>             <C>   
$   6.38 -  17.38                  119,382             5.52 years                  $13.30               84,491               $11.61
   17.50 -  19.50                   35,352             8.02                         17.77               11,172                18.23
            20.50                  204,993             6.50                         20.50               99,005                20.50
   21.00 -  21.38                   90,626             7.50                         21.21               46,562                21.31
   21.75 -  39.00                   72,082             7.17                         30.14               39,092                29.42
            40.63                  104,750             9.16                         40.63                  --                   --
            50.13                  119,500             9.37                         50.13                  --                   --
   50.38 -  76.50                   38,750             9.65                         69.41                  500                56.00
            77.63                   21,000             9.85                         77.63                  --                   --
            83.25                    2,250             5.86                         83.25                2,250                83.25
                                   -------             ----                         -----              -------                -----
    6.38 -  83.25                  808,685             7.60                         31.24              283,072                19.68
                                   -------             ----                         -----              -------                -----
</TABLE>


                                                    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY    29
<PAGE>   18
Pursuant to the terms of its 1991 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended on
May 18, 1995 (the "ESPP Plan"), the Company is authorized to issue up to an
aggregate of 200,000 shares of its Class A Common Stock to eligible employees
electing to participate in the ESPP Plan. Eligible employees may contribute,
through payroll withholdings, from 2% to 10% of their regular base compensation
during six month participation periods beginning January 1 and July 1 of each
year. At the end of each participation period, the accumulated deductions are
applied toward the purchase of Class A Common Stock at a price equal to 85% of
the market price at the beginning or end of the participation period, whichever
is lower. Employee purchases amounted to 15,016 shares in 1997, 23,807 shares in
1996 and 33,030 shares in 1995 at prices ranging from $17.11 to $49.35. At
December 31, 1997, a total of 46,630 shares were available for future purchases.
Compensation cost is recognized for the fair value of the employee's purchase
rights. The weighted-average fair value of those purchase rights granted in
1997, 1996 and 1995 were $12.87, $6.08 and $5.96, respectively.

    The Company applies APB Opinion No. 25 and related interpretations in
accounting for its stock plans and provides certain pro-forma disclosures
regarding the Company plans as required by SFAS No. 123 "Accounting for Stock
Based Compensation". Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for
stock option grants issued under any of the Company's stock option plans. Had
compensation cost for stock option grants issued been determined under the
provisions of SFAS No. 123, the Company's net income (loss) and diluted earnings
(loss) per share in 1997, 1996 and 1995 would have been, respectively: $45,078
and $3.84, $19,378 and $1.72 and $(12,498) and $(1.14). The pro forma effect on
net income (loss) and earnings (loss) per share for 1997, 1996 and 1995 is not
representative of the pro forma effect on net income in future years, because it
does not take into consideration pro forma compensation expense related to
grants made prior to 1995.

    The fair value of each stock option granted in 1997, 1996 and 1995 under the
Company's plans was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes
option pricing model. The following weighted-average assumptions were used to
value grants issued under the plans in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively:
expected volatility of 43.9%, 55.9% and 52.6%; risk-free interest rates of 6.2%,
6.1% and 5.9%; expected lives of 4.9, 4.4 and 3.3 years; no dividend payments.
The weighted-average fair values per share of stock options granted during 1997,
1996 and 1995 was $22.46, $11.04 and $8.13, respectively.

    The Company maintains a contributory 401(k) Retirement Earnings Plan (the
"401(k) Plan") for eligible salaried and hourly employees who are at least 18
years of age with six or more months of service. Under the provisions of the
401(k) Plan, employees may contribute between 2% and 16% of their base salary up
to certain limits. The 401(k) Plan provides for Company matching contributions
not to exceed 3% of the employee's compensation (the increase from 2% to 3% was
implemented in the fourth quarter of 1997) or, if less, 50% of the employee's
contribution. Vesting of the Company contribution begins at 25% after one year
of service and increases by 25% each year until full vesting occurs. The
Company's contribution expense was $692 in 1997, $542 in 1996 and $499 in 1995.

    The Company maintains two contributory 165(e) Retirement Earnings Plans (the
"165(e) Plans") for eligible salaried and hourly employees of its manufacturing
facilities and a non-contributory profit sharing plan for eligible hourly
employees not covered by the 401(k) or 165(e) Plans. The Company's contribution
expense was $81 in 1997, $285 in 1996 and $178 in 1995.



30    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   19
15. LITIGATION

The Company is involved in various litigation and legal matters which have
arisen in the ordinary course of business. Management believes that the ultimate
resolution of any existing matter will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's consolidated financial statements.

    The Company and two of its officers and directors were named as defendants
in two actions filed in the United States District Court for the District of New
Hampshire, one filed by Jerrold Schaffer on December 12, 1994 and the other
filed by Gershon Kreuser on January 4, 1995. On April 24, 1995, the District
Court granted plaintiffs' motion, assented to by defendants, to consolidate the
two actions. On June 23, 1995, plaintiffs filed a consolidated amended complaint
(the "Amended Complaint") with the District Court. The Amended Complaint alleged
that defendants violated federal securities laws by making material
misstatements and omissions in certain of the Company's public filings and
statements in 1994. On July 9, 1997, the parties filed a Stipulation and
Agreement of Compromise, Settlement and Release (the "Stipulation") with the
District Court for approval. On July 31, 1997, the District Court entered an
order preliminarily approving the Stipulation. On December 29, 1997, the
District Court entered an order granting final approval of the Stipulation.
Under the terms of the Stipulation, the settlement of this litigation was final
and effective on January 29, 1998. The settlement of this litigation did not
have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, results of
operations or cash flows.


                                                   THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY     31
<PAGE>   20
 16. QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

The following is a tabulation of the quarterly results of operations for the
years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 QUARTER ENDED                       MARCH 28             JUNE 27          SEPTEMBER 26         DECEMBER 31
- ------------------                       --------             -------          ------------         -----------
<S>                                      <C>                 <C>               <C>                  <C>     
Revenue                                  $150,684            $132,180              $274,699            $238,895
Gross profit                               61,614              51,855               106,641              91,811
Net income                                  4,296                 557                24,957              17,511
Basic earnings per share                      .38                 .05                  2.20                1.54
Diluted earnings per share                    .37                 .05                  2.11                1.48
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 Quarter Ended                       March 29             June 28          September 27         December 31
- ------------------                       --------             -------          ------------         -----------
<S>                                     <C>                 <C>                <C>                  <C>     
Revenue                                 $ 127,684           $ 113,648             $ 227,547           $ 221,094
Gross profit                               46,025              40,081                83,301              82,502
Net income (loss)                            (975)             (6,880)               16,901              11,373
Basic earnings (loss) per share              (.09)               (.62)                 1.52                1.02
Diluted earnings (loss) per share            (.09)               (.62)                 1.51                 .99
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1995 Quarter Ended                    March 31(1)           June 30(2)      September 29(1)         December 31
- ------------------                    -----------          ----------       ---------------         -----------
<S>                                   <C>                  <C>              <C>                     <C>      
Revenue                                 $ 141,583           $ 125,143             $ 212,597           $ 175,815
Gross profit                               44,972              36,079                63,556              58,790
Net income (loss)                             919             (20,381)                7,068                 759
Basic earnings (loss) per share              .08                (1.86)                 .64                  .07
Diluted earnings (loss) per share             .08               (1.86)                  .63                 .07
</TABLE>

1 Includes non-recurring pre-tax gains of $7.4 million and $4.7 million in the
  first and third quarters of 1995, respectively. 
2 Includes a $16.0 million pre-tax restructuring charge in the second quarter of
  1995.


32    THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY
<PAGE>   21

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT


To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of The Timberland Company:

WE HAVE AUDITED the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Timberland
Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and the related
consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997. 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 in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

    In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the
companies at December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of their operations and
their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31,
1997 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.



DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Boston, Massachusetts

February 4, 1998


                                                   THE TIMBERLAND COMPANY    33

<PAGE>   1
                                                                      EXHIBIT 21

NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                                 JURISDICTION OF INCORPORATION

THE OUTDOOR FOOTWEAR COMPANY                                DELAWARE

THE TIMBERLAND FINANCE COMPANY                              DELAWARE

THE TIMBERLAND WORLD TRADING COMPANY                        DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND EUROPE, INC.                                     DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND INTERNATIONAL SALES CORPORATION                  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

TIMBERLAND DIRECT SALES, INC.                               DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND RETAIL, INC.                                     DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND MANUFACTURING COMPANY                            DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND AVIATION, INC.                                   DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND NETHERLANDS, INC.
(Formerly Timberland Scandinavia, Inc.)                     DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND INTERNATIONAL, INC.                              DELAWARE

TIMBERLAND SAS                                              FRANCE

THE TIMBERLAND WORLD TRADING GMBH                           GERMANY

TIMBERLAND (UK) LIMITED                                     UNITED KINGDOM

TIMBERLAND GMBH                                             AUSTRIA

TIMBERLAND ESPANA, S.A.                                     SPAIN

THE RECREATIONAL FOOTWEAR COMPANY
(DOMINICANA), S.A.                                          DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

COMPONENT FOOTWEAR DOMINICANA, S.A.                         DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

TIMBERLAND FOOTWEAR & CLOTHING COMPANY INC.
LES VETEMENTS & CHAUSSURES TIMBERLAND INC.                  CANADA

THE RECREATIONAL FOOTWEAR COMPANY                           CAYMAN ISLANDS

TIMBERLAND NETHERLANDS HOLDING B.V.                         THE NETHERLANDS

<PAGE>   1
                                                                      EXHIBIT 23






INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT


We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos.
333-35223, 33-60459, 33-67128, 33-56913, 33-17552, 33-41660, 33-19183, and
33-50998 of The Timberland Company on Forms S-8 and Registration Statement No.
33-56921 on Form S-3 of our reports dated February 4, 1998, appearing in and
incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of The Timberland
Company for the year ended December 31, 1997.



Deloitte & Touche LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
March 23, 1998


<PAGE>   1
                                                                      Exhibit 99

  Filed as exhibit 99 to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997

                       CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS FOR PURPOSES
                       OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" PROVISIONS OF
              THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

         The Timberland Company (the "Company") wishes to take advantage of The
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which provides a "safe harbor"
for forward-looking statements to encourage companies to provide prospective
information. Prospective information is based on management's then current
expectations or forecasts. Such information is subject to the risk that such
expectations or forecasts, or the assumptions used in making such estimates or
forecasts, may become inaccurate. The following discussion identifies important
factors that could affect the Company's actual results and could cause such
results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements
made by or on behalf of the Company:

         DEPENDENCE ON SALES FORECASTS. The Company's investments in
infrastructure and product are based on sales forecasts and are necessarily made
in advance of actual sales. The markets in which the Company does business are
highly competitive, and the Company's business is affected by a variety of
factors, including brand awareness, changing consumer preferences, product
innovations, fashion trends, retail market conditions, weather conditions and
economic and other factors. One of management's principal challenges is to
improve its ability to predict these factors, in order to enable the Company to
better match production of its products with demand. In addition, the Company's
growth over the years has created the need to increase these investments in
infrastructure and product and to enhance the Company's operational systems. To
the extent sales forecasts are not achieved, these investments would represent a
higher percentage of revenue, and the Company would experience higher inventory
levels and associated carrying costs, all of which would adversely affect the
Company's financial performance.

         CONSUMER ACCEPTANCE OF PRODUCTS. The success of the Company's products
and marketing strategy will depend on a favorable reception by the Company's
wholesale customers and consumers at retail. The Company believes that its more
fashion-focused women's footwear product line and men's collection apparel
products are also more susceptible to changing fashion trends and consumer
preferences than are the Company's other products. In addition, any delays in
production or delivery of such new products could affect the sales of such
products.

         CONSUMER TRENDS AND RETAIL MARKET CONDITIONS. Sales of the Company's
products are subject to consumer trends and economic and other factors affecting
the retail market. For example, decreased consumer spending, a shift towards
discount retailers and softness in the retail market could adversely affect the
Company's sales. In addition, warmer than anticipated weather conditions have,
in past fall/winter selling seasons, reduced sales as a result of decreased
consumer demand at retail for the Company's higher margin products. Such
conditions could adversely affect the
<PAGE>   2
Company's financial performance in the future, especially if a greater
proportion of the Company's revenue were to be made up of "at-once" orders.

         RETAIL ORGANIZATION. In 1986, the Company opened the first
Timberland(R) store dedicated exclusively to Timberland(R) products. At the end
of 1997, the Company operated 30 Timberland(R) specialty stores and 43
Timberland(R) factory outlet stores worldwide, and revenue from these stores
represented 22.7% of the Company's revenue for 1997. The Company has made
significant capital investments in opening these stores and incurs significant
expenditures in operating these stores. The higher level of fixed costs related
to the Company's retail organization adversely affects profitability,
particularly in the first half of the year, as the Company's revenue
historically has been more heavily weighted to the second half of the year.

         The performance of the Company's retail organization is subject to the
same retail market conditions as the Company's wholesale customers described
above. The Company's ability to recover the investment in and expenditures of
its retail organization, particularly its specialty stores, would be adversely
affected if sales at its retail stores are lower than anticipated.

         Although the Company believes its factory outlet stores enable the
Company to control the sale of factory-second and close-out products, and
maximize the return associated with such sales, the Company's gross margin could
be adversely affected if off-price sales increase as a percentage of revenue.

         YEAR 2000. The Company utilizes and is dependent upon its financial,
operational and planning information systems in all phases of its business
functions. Most of these systems were purchased as packaged applications from
external vendors. In 1996, the Company made a preliminary assessment of the
capabilities of its systems to recognize and process dates properly in the year
2000 and beyond. Based on the findings of this assessment, the Company
determined that, while some of its systems are year 2000 compliant,
modifications will be required to others. The Company has developed and is
implementing a plan to render its enterprise business systems year 2000
compliant by the end of 1998. The Company is also seeking to obtain commitments
of year 2000 compliance from external vendors, and to develop alternative
solutions to minimize the impact on the Company in the event such vendors do not
meet their year 2000 commitments. Management believes that the cost of
completing this plan will not have a material effect on the Company's current
financial position, liquidity or results of operations.

         COMPETITION. The Company markets its products in highly competitive
environments. Many of the Company's competitors are larger and have
substantially greater resources than the Company for marketing, research and
development, and other purposes. These competitors include athletic footwear
companies, branded apparel companies and private labels established by
retailers. Furthermore, efforts by the Company's footwear competitors to dispose
of their excess inventory could put


                                      -2-
<PAGE>   3
downward pressure on retail prices and could cause the Company's wholesale
customers to redirect some of their purchases away from the Company's products.

         INTERNATIONAL. The Company manufactures and sources a majority of its
products outside the United States and sells its products in more than 90
countries worldwide through its stores, operating divisions, distributors,
commission agents, franchisees and licensees. Accordingly, the Company is
subject to the risks of doing business abroad, including, among other risks,
import restrictions, anti-dumping investigations, political or labor
disturbances, expropriation and acts of war. In addition, although the Company
pays for the purchase and manufacture of its products primarily in U.S. dollars,
it does sell its products in markets where the local currency is not the U.S.
dollar. Therefore, the Company is subject to fluctuations in foreign exchange
rates.

         The recent downturn in the economic conditions in the Asia/Pacific
region has received much public attention. These events did not reduce the
revenue the Company received in 1997 from its authorized distributor in that
region. However, the Company has been advised that sales through Timberland(R)
specialty stores operated by that distributor, particularly in Japan, have been
adversely impacted. While revenue from this distributor comprised less than 2%
of the Company's total revenue for 1997, a prolonged downturn could adversely
impact such distributor's future sales and, hence, the Company's revenue. In
addition, while the Company believes it has chosen third party manufacturers
with sufficient financial strength to weather the economic downturn, there is a
risk that the Company's suppliers could fail to make and ship orders placed by
the Company. The Company could utilize its own factories and sourced
manufacturers in other countries in such an event to cover any resulting
shortfall; however, delivery of these products would be delayed from the
original production schedule.

         RAW MATERIALS. The Company depends on a few key sources for leather,
its principal raw material, and other proprietary materials used in its
products. The Company would be adversely affected by unanticipated price
increases or shortages of such materials.

         DEPENDENCE UPON INDEPENDENT MANUFACTURERS. In 1997, approximately 72%
of the unit volume of the Company's footwear products and all of its apparel and
accessories were produced by independent manufacturers in Asia, Europe, Mexico
and South America. (See the "International" paragraph above for a discussion of
the risks of doing business abroad to which the Company may be subject.) The
Company believes that the shift towards sourcing product from independent
manufacturers will continue to reduce manufacturing overhead and product costs,
increase product quality and increase the Company's flexibility to meet changing
consumer demand for particular product lines. However, the success of these
measures depends on the ability of the Company's independent manufacturers to
provide high quality product at lower cost and to do so with rapid turn-around
times. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to maintain
current relationships or locate additional manufacturers who can meet the
Company's requirements.


                                      -3-
<PAGE>   4
         MANUFACTURING. The Company currently plans to retain its internal
manufacturing capability in order to continue benefiting from expertise the
Company has gained with respect to footwear manufacturing methods conducted at
its manufacturing facilities. The Company continues to evaluate its
manufacturing facilities and independent manufacturing alternatives in order to
determine the appropriate size and scope of its manufacturing facilities. There
can be no assurance that the costs of products that continue to be manufactured
by the Company can remain competitive with sourced products.

         LICENSING. Since late 1994, the Company has entered into several
licensing agreements which enable the Company to expand the Timberland(R) brand
to product categories and geographic territories in which the Company has not
had an appreciable presence. The rights granted under these agreements are
typically exclusive, and the Company may not terminate these agreements at will,
although the Company has reserved its right to terminate these agreements for
cause. The success of the Timberland brand in these products or territories
will, therefore, largely depend on the efforts of its licensees. Many of the
products to be manufactured under the Company's existing product licensing
agreements were not available at retail until late 1996 or early 1997.
Accordingly, the long-term performance of the licensees under these agreements
has not yet been tested. In addition, although the Company is pursuing
additional licensing opportunities, including women's apparel, there can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to locate licensees and negotiate
acceptable terms with licensees for additional products and territories.

         PRICING OF PRODUCTS. The prices the Company is able to obtain for its
new and expanded product offerings, and the Company's ability to increase prices
of its other products, will depend upon consumer acceptance of such prices, as
well as competitive and other market factors.

         MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL. Sidney W. Swartz, the Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and various trusts established for the
benefit of his family or for charitable purposes, hold over 80% of the combined
voting power of the Company's capital stock in the aggregate, enabling Sidney
Swartz to control the Company's affairs and to influence the election of the two
directors entitled to be elected by the holders of Class A Common Stock voting
separately as a class. Jeffrey B. Swartz, Executive Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer of the Company, is the son of Sidney Swartz. The loss or
retirement of these and other key executives could adversely affect the Company.

         LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES. Management believes that the Company's
capital needs for 1998 can be met through its existing credit facilities and
cash flow from operations, without the need for additional long-term financing.
However, the Company may need to raise additional capital in the future in order
to finance its anticipated growth and capital requirements beyond 1998. Further,
the Company's revolving credit facility


                                      -4-
<PAGE>   5
expires in June 1998. The terms and availability of any such additional or
replacement financing will be subject to prevailing market conditions and other
factors at that time.

         In addition, the Company's revolving credit facility and senior notes
place limitations on the payment of cash dividends and contain other financial
and operational covenants with which the Company must comply. If the Company
does not comply with such covenants, the Company's ability to use such credit
facilities or to obtain other financing could be adversely affected.

         LITIGATION. The Company is involved in various litigation and legal
matters which have arisen and will arise in the ordinary course of business. The
costs of prosecuting or defending these matters or an unfavorable outcome in
these matters could adversely affect the Company's operating results.

         INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY. The Company has spent, and may be required in
the future to spend, significant amounts to protect and defend its trade name,
trademarks, patents, designs and other proprietary rights. The Company is also
susceptible to injury from parallel trade and counterfeiting of its products.

         ACCOUNTING STANDARDS. Changes in the accounting standards promulgated
by the Financial Accounting Standards Board or other authoritative bodies could
have an adverse affect on the Company's future reported operating results.

         ENVIRONMENTAL AND OTHER REGULATION. The Company is subject to various
environmental and other laws and regulations, which may change periodically.
Compliance with such laws or changes therein could have a negative impact on the
Company's future reported operating results.


                                      -5-

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the
Company's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 1997 and the
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 1997 and is
qualified in its entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1997
<CASH>                                          98,771
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   79,535
<ALLOWANCES>                                     3,742
<INVENTORY>                                    142,613
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               342,006
<PP&E>                                         116,503
<DEPRECIATION>                                  63,593
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 420,003
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           99,095
<BONDS>                                        100,000
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           114
<OTHER-SE>                                     214,781
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   420,003
<SALES>                                        796,458
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               796,458
<CGS>                                          484,537
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  484,537
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                 1,685
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 3,605
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              14,833
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 67,601
<INCOME-TAX>                                    20,280
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             47,321
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    47,321
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     4.20
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     4.03
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the
Company's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 26, 1997 and the
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the nine months ended
September 26, 1997 and is qualified in its entirety by reference to such
financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-26-1997
<CASH>                                          37,485
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                  171,005
<ALLOWANCES>                                     5,416
<INVENTORY>                                    168,790
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               396,615
<PP&E>                                         112,342
<DEPRECIATION>                                  63,860
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 470,690
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          147,497
<BONDS>                                        120,000
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           113
<OTHER-SE>                                     194,516
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   470,690
<SALES>                                        557,563
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               557,563
<CGS>                                          337,453
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  337,453
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                 1,264
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 2,510
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              11,568
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 42,586
<INCOME-TAX>                                    12,776
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             29,810
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    29,810
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     2.63
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     2.53
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the
Company's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of June 27, 1997 and the
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the six months ended June 27,
1997 and is qualified in its entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   6-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               JUN-27-1997
<CASH>                                          31,052
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   90,843
<ALLOWANCES>                                     3,807
<INVENTORY>                                    198,347
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               336,971
<PP&E>                                         108,986
<DEPRECIATION>                                  60,225
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 412,946
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          113,998
<BONDS>                                        120,924
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           113
<OTHER-SE>                                     169,152
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   412,946
<SALES>                                        282,864
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               282,864
<CGS>                                          169,395
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  169,395
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                   842
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                   807
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               8,130
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                  6,933
<INCOME-TAX>                                     2,080
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              4,853
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     4,853
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .43
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .42
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS OF MARCH 28, 1997 AND THE
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH
28, 1997 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   3-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               MAR-28-1997
<CASH>                                          95,894
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   95,218
<ALLOWANCES>                                     3,669
<INVENTORY>                                    158,843
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               366,056
<PP&E>                                         105,009
<DEPRECIATION>                                  57,474
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 441,082
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          127,364
<BONDS>                                        136,129
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           112
<OTHER-SE>                                     167,124
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   441,082
<SALES>                                        150,684
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               150,684
<CGS>                                           89,070
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                   89,070
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                   421
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                   387
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               4,577
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                  6,137
<INCOME-TAX>                                     1,841
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              4,296
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     4,296
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .38
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .37
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND THE
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                          93,336
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                  104,096
<ALLOWANCES>                                     3,540
<INVENTORY>                                    159,058
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               371,468
<PP&E>                                         103,650
<DEPRECIATION>                                  54,665
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 449,586
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          101,865
<BONDS>                                        171,676
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           111
<OTHER-SE>                                     165,249
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   449,586
<SALES>                                        689,973
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               689,973
<CGS>                                          438,064
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  438,064
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                 1,684
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 2,046
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              20,582
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 30,938
<INCOME-TAX>                                    10,519
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             20,419
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    20,419
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     1.84
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     1.81
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS OF SEPTEMBER 27, 1996 AND THE
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 27,
1996 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-27-1996
<CASH>                                          18,676
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                  156,528
<ALLOWANCES>                                     3,870
<INVENTORY>                                    192,753
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               383,958
<PP&E>                                         103,930
<DEPRECIATION>                                  56,312
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 459,988
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           99,184
<BONDS>                                        198,875
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           111
<OTHER-SE>                                     151,799
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   459,988
<SALES>                                        468,879
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               468,879
<CGS>                                          299,472
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  299,472
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                 1,263
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 1,785
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              15,143
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 13,706
<INCOME-TAX>                                     4,660
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              9,046
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     9,046
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .81
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .80
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS OF JUNE 28, 1996 AND THE
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 28, 1996 AND
IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   6-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               JUN-28-1996
<CASH>                                          19,937
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   90,850
<ALLOWANCES>                                     3,599
<INVENTORY>                                    209,018
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               339,236
<PP&E>                                          99,523
<DEPRECIATION>                                  49,560
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 418,073
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           74,268
<BONDS>                                        199,071
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           111
<OTHER-SE>                                     134,604
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   418,073
<SALES>                                        241,332
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               241,332
<CGS>                                          155,226
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  155,226
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                   842
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                   968
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              10,287
<INCOME-PRETAX>                               (12,468)
<INCOME-TAX>                                   (4,613)
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                            (7,855)
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                   (7,855)
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                    (.70)
<EPS-DILUTED>                                    (.70)
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS OF MARCH 29, 1996 AND THE
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH
29, 1996 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   3-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               MAR-29-1996
<CASH>                                          32,811
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   99,495
<ALLOWANCES>                                     3,066
<INVENTORY>                                    183,067
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               336,382
<PP&E>                                          99,207
<DEPRECIATION>                                  47,181
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 418,586
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           68,208
<BONDS>                                        199,264
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           110
<OTHER-SE>                                     140,985
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   418,586
<SALES>                                        127,684
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               127,684
<CGS>                                           81,659
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                   81,659
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                   421
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                   281
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               4,798
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                (1,573)
<INCOME-TAX>                                     (598)
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              (975)
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     (975)
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                    (.09)
<EPS-DILUTED>                                    (.09)
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND THE
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED> 
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<CURRENCY> U.S. DOLLARS
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1995
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1995
<EXCHANGE-RATE>                                      1
<CASH>                                          38,389
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   98,444
<ALLOWANCES>                                     2,658
<INVENTORY>                                    180,636
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               337,830
<PP&E>                                          95,937
<DEPRECIATION>                                  43,533
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 421,408
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           69,715
<BONDS>                                        199,454
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           110
<OTHER-SE>                                     142,111
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   421,408
<SALES>                                        665,138
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               665,138
<CGS>                                          451,741
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  451,741
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                17,685
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 3,697
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              22,861
<INCOME-PRETAX>                               (18,766)
<INCOME-TAX>                                   (7,131)
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                           (11,635)
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                  (11,635)
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                   (1.06)
<EPS-DILUTED>                                   (1.06)
        

</TABLE>


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