<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. )
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [_]
Check the appropriate box:
[_] Preliminary Proxy Statement [_] Confidential, for Use of the
Commission Only (as permitted by
Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[X] Definitive Proxy Statement
[_] Definitive Additional Materials
[_] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Section 240.14a-11(c) or Section 240.14a-12
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
[X] No fee required.
[_] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(4) and 0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which
the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5) Total fee paid:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
[_] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[_] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange
Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee
was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement
number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount Previously Paid:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) Filing Party:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Date Filed:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
<PAGE>
[LOGO OF THE BON-TON STORES, INC. APPEARS HERE]
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
2801 EAST MARKET STREET
YORK, PA 17402
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. (the
"Company") will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 1997, at 9:00 a.m., at the
Holiday Inn, 2600 East Market Street, York, Pennsylvania, for the following
purposes:
1. To elect eight directors to hold office until the 1998 Annual
Meeting of Shareholders.
2. To amend the Company's Amended and Restated 1991 Stock Option and
Restricted Stock Plan to increase the maximum number of shares of Common
Stock for which options or awards of restricted stock may be granted from
an aggregate of 1,350,000 shares of Common Stock to an aggregate of
1,900,000 shares of Common Stock.
3. To approve the Company's Long-Term Incentive Plan for Principals.
4. To approve an amendment to the Company's Management Incentive Plan.
5. To ratify the appointment of Arthur Andersen LLP as the Company's
independent public accountants for the 1997 fiscal year.
6. To transact such other business as may properly come before the
meeting.
Only shareholders of record at the close of business on May 2, 1997 are
entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting and at any adjournment
or postponement thereof.
The enclosed proxy is solicited by the Board of Directors of the Company.
Reference is made to the attached proxy statement for further information with
respect to the business to be transacted at the meeting.
You are cordially invited to attend the meeting in person.
ROBERT E. STERN
Vice President and Secretary
May 14, 1997
WHETHER OR NOT YOU INTEND TO BE AT THE MEETING,
PLEASE COMPLETE THE ENCLOSED PROXY AND RETURN IT
PROMPTLY IN THE ACCOMPANYING ENVELOPE. THIS WILL
NOT PREVENT YOU FROM VOTING AT THE MEETING.
<PAGE>
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
2801 EAST MARKET STREET
YORK, PA 17402
----------------
PROXY STATEMENT
FOR
ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
JUNE 17, 1997
----------------
This proxy statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation of
proxies by the Board of Directors of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. (the "Company")
for use at the Company's Annual Meeting of Shareholders which will be held on
the date, at the time and place, and for the purposes set forth in the
foregoing notice. This proxy statement, the foregoing notice and the enclosed
proxy are first being sent to shareholders on or about May 14, 1997.
The Board of Directors does not intend to bring any matter before the
meeting except as specifically indicated in the notice and does not know of
anyone else who intends to do so. If any other matters properly come before
the meeting, however, the persons named in the enclosed proxy, or their duly
constituted substitutes acting at the meeting, will be authorized to vote or
otherwise act thereon in accordance with their judgment on such matters.
When your proxy card is returned properly signed prior to voting at the
meeting, the shares represented thereby will be voted in accordance with the
instructions marked thereon. If your proxy card is signed and returned without
specifying choices, the shares will be voted "FOR" the nominees of the Board
of Directors in the election of directors, "FOR" amendment of the Company's
Amended and Restated 1991 Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan, "FOR"
approval of the Company's Long-Term Incentive Plan for Principals, "FOR"
approval of the amendment of the Company's Management Incentive Plan and "FOR"
the ratification of the appointment of Arthur Andersen LLP as the Company's
independent public accountants for the 1997 fiscal year.
Any proxy may be revoked at any time prior to its exercise by notifying the
Secretary of the Company in writing, by delivering a duly executed proxy
bearing a later date, or by attending the meeting and voting in person.
VOTING SECURITIES AND SECURITY OWNERSHIP
OUTSTANDING SHARES AND VOTING RIGHTS
At the close of business on May 2, 1997, the record date fixed for the
determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the
meeting, there were 8,348,219 shares of the Company's Common Stock (the
"Common Stock") and 2,989,853 shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock
(the "Class A Stock") outstanding and entitled to vote. On each matter to be
voted on the Common Stock and the Class A Stock will vote together, and
holders of Common Stock and Class A Stock will be entitled to one vote per
share and ten votes per share, respectively. There are no other classes of
voting securities outstanding. In the election of directors, shareholders
entitled to vote will not have cumulative voting rights.
The presence at the meeting, in person or by proxy, of persons entitled to
cast a majority of the votes which shareholders of Common Stock and Class A
Stock (collectively, the "Common Shares"), voting together, are entitled to
cast on each matter will constitute a quorum as to such matter.
Other than the election of directors, which requires a plurality of the
votes cast, each matter to be submitted to the shareholders requires the
affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast at the meeting. For purposes
of
<PAGE>
determining the number of votes cast with respect to any voting matter, only
those cast "for" or "against" are included. Abstentions and broker non-votes
are counted only for purposes of determining whether a quorum is present at
the meeting.
PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS
The following table sets forth certain information as of March 21, 1997
(except as indicated below) regarding holdings of each person who was known to
the Company to be a beneficial owner of more than 5% of Common Stock or Class
A Stock. To the Company's knowledge, each person named below has sole voting
power and sole investment power with respect to the shares indicated as
beneficially owned unless otherwise indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A STOCK COMMON STOCK(1)
-------------------- --------------------
NAME AND ADDRESS NUMBER OF NUMBER OF
OF BENEFICIAL OWNER SHARES PERCENT SHARES PERCENT
------------------- --------- ------- --------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
M. Thomas Grumbacher.................. 2,444,616(2) 81.8% 5,306,361(3) 49.2%
2801 East Market Street
York, PA 17402
David J. Kaufman...................... 545,237(4) 18.2% 1,606,191(5) 18.1%
15th & Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Nancy T. Grumbacher................... -- -- 479,450(6) 5.7%
2801 E. Market Street
York, PA 17402
Mary Jo Grumbacher.................... 545,237(4) 18.2% 1,285,653(7) 14.5%
174 11th Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94118
The Grumbacher Family Foundation...... -- -- 350,000 4.2%
15th & Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Brinson Holdings, Inc................. -- -- 905,781(8) 10.8%
209 S. LaSalle Street
Chicago, IL 60604
</TABLE>
- - --------
(1) Each share of Class A Stock is convertible at any time into one share of
Common Stock. Accordingly, the number of shares of Common Stock for any
person owning Class A Stock includes the number of shares of Common Stock
issuable upon conversion of all shares of Class A Stock beneficially owned
by such person. Also, in accordance with Rule 13d-3(d)(1) under the
Exchange Act, the total number of shares of Common Stock outstanding for
purposes of calculating percentage ownership of a person owning Class A
Stock includes the number of shares of Class A Stock beneficially owned by
such person.
(2) Includes 38,363 shares of Class A Stock held by a trust for the benefit of
a child of Mr. Grumbacher, of which Mr. Grumbacher is a trustee. Does not
include an aggregate of 545,237 shares of Class A Stock held by other
trusts for the benefit of Mr. Grumbacher's three children. Mr. Grumbacher
disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares referred to in this note.
(3) Includes 350,000 shares of Common Stock held by The Grumbacher Family
Foundation, a charitable foundation of which Mr. Grumbacher is a director.
Also includes 40,915 shares of Common Stock held by a trust for the
benefit of a child of Mr. Grumbacher, of which Mr. Grumbacher is a
trustee. Does not include an aggregate of 710,954 shares of Common Stock
held by other trusts for the benefit of Mr. Grumbacher's three children.
Mr. Grumbacher disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares referred to in
this note.
(4) Consists of 545,237 shares of Class A Stock held by trusts for the benefit
of M. Thomas Grumbacher's three children, of which Mr. Kaufman and Mary Jo
Grumbacher are co-trustees. Mr. Kaufman and Mary Jo Grumbacher each
disclaim beneficial ownership of these shares.
2
<PAGE>
(5) Includes 350,000 shares of Common Stock held by The Grumbacher Family
Foundation, a charitable foundation of which Mr. Kaufman is a director,
and an aggregate of 710,954 shares of Common Stock held by trusts for the
benefit of M. Thomas Grumbacher's three children, of which Mr. Kaufman is
a co-trustee. Mr. Kaufman disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares
referred to in this note.
(6) Consists of 129,450 shares of Common Stock held in trusts for the benefit
of M. Thomas Grumbacher's three children, of which Nancy T. Grumbacher is
a co-trustee, and 350,000 shares of Common Stock held by The Grumbacher
Family Foundation, a charitable foundation of which Nancy T. Grumbacher is
a director. Nancy T. Grumbacher disclaims beneficial ownership of the
shares referred to in this note.
(7) Includes an aggregate of 581,504 shares of Common Stock held by trusts for
the benefit of M. Thomas Grumbacher's three children, of which Mary Jo
Grumbacher is a co-trustee. Mary Jo Grumbacher disclaims beneficial
ownership of the shares referred to in this note.
(8) Based solely on a review of a Schedule 13G dated February 12, 1997 filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Shares are held by Brinson
Partners, Inc. and Brinson Trust Company, which are subsidiaries of
Brinson Holdings, Inc.
The holders of the Class A Stock have entered into a shareholders' agreement
pursuant to which each such shareholder (other than M. Thomas Grumbacher) has
granted to M. Thomas Grumbacher (or, if applicable, Mr. Grumbacher's personal
representative) a right of first refusal to acquire any shares of Class A
Stock proposed to be transferred.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information as of March 21, 1997
respecting the holdings of each director and nominee for director of the
Company, of Heywood L. Wilansky, the Company's Chief Executive Officer, of
each of the Company's four other most highly compensated executive officers
during fiscal 1996 and of all directors and executive officers of the Company
as a group. Each of the shareholders named below has sole voting power and
sole investment power with respect to the shares indicated as beneficially
owned, unless otherwise indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A STOCK COMMON STOCK(1)
-------------------- -----------------------
NUMBER OF NUMBER OF
NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER SHARES PERCENT SHARES PERCENT
------------------------ --------- ------- --------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
M. Thomas Grumbacher.............. 2,444,616(2) 81.8% 5,306,361(3) 49.2%
Heywood L. Wilansky............... -- -- 333,334(4) 4.0%
Samuel J. Gerson.................. -- -- 1,000 *
Michael L. Gleim.................. -- -- 181,161(5) 2.1%
Roger S. Hillas................... -- -- 3,000 *
Lawrence J. Ring.................. -- -- 1,000 *
Leon D. Starr..................... -- -- 47,580(6) *
Leon F. Winbigler................. -- -- -- --
Theodore C. Johnson, Jr........... -- -- 51,635(7) *
Douglas Lamm...................... -- -- 5,000(8) *
All directors and executive
officers as a group (19 persons). 2,444,616 81.8% 6,096,468(3)(9) 69.5%
</TABLE>
- - --------
* less than 1%
(1) See note (1) to Principal Shareholders table.
(2) See note (2) to Principal Shareholders table.
(3) See note (3) to Principal Shareholders table.
(4) Consists of 250,000 shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to the
Company's Amended and Restated 1991 Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan
that are subject to forfeiture as provided in such Option Plan (the
"Restricted Shares") and options to purchase 83,334 shares of Common
Stock.
(5) Includes options to purchase 118,394 shares of Common Stock and 13,333
Restricted Shares.
(6) Includes options to purchase 36,080 shares of Common Stock.
3
<PAGE>
(7) Includes options to purchase 39,285 shares of Common Stock.
(8) Consists of options to purchase 5,000 shares of Common Stock.
(9) Includes options to purchase 426,038 shares of Common Stock and 263,333
Restricted Shares.
PROPOSAL ONE
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
At the meeting, the shareholders will elect eight directors to hold office
until the 1998 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and until their respective
successors have been duly elected and qualified. The Board of Directors has
nominated M. Thomas Grumbacher, Heywood L. Wilansky, Samuel J. Gerson, Michael
L. Gleim, Roger S. Hillas, Lawrence J. Ring, Leon D. Starr and Leon F.
Winbigler to serve as such directors. Each of the nominees is currently
serving as a director and has indicated a willingness to continue serving as a
director. Should a nominee become unavailable to accept election as a
director, the persons named in the enclosed proxy will vote the shares which
they represent for the election of such other person as the Board of Directors
may recommend, unless the Board of Directors reduces the number of directors.
The nominees for election as directors, together with certain information
about them, are set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DIRECTOR POSITIONS WITH
NAME AGE SINCE THE COMPANY
---- --- -------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
M. Thomas Grumbacher(1)......... 57 1967 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Heywood L. Wilansky(1).......... 49 1995 President, Chief Executive Officer
and Director
Samuel J. Gerson................ 55 1996 Director
Michael L. Gleim(1)............. 54 1991 Vice Chairman, Chief Operating
Officer and Director
Roger S. Hillas(2)(3)........... 70 1991 Director
Lawrence J. Ring................ 48 1997 Director
Leon D. Starr................... 78 1991 Director
Leon F. Winbigler(2)(3)......... 71 1991 Director
</TABLE>
- - --------
(1) On Executive Committee
(2) On Compensation and Stock Option Committee
(3) On Audit Committee
Mr. Grumbacher joined the Company in 1961 and has been Chairman of the Board
since August 1991. From 1989 to 1991, Mr. Grumbacher served as Vice Chairman;
from 1977 to 1989, he was President of the Company; and from 1985 to 1995 he
was Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Wilansky joined the Company in August 1995 as President and Chief
Executive Officer. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Wilansky was employed by
The May Department Stores Company for more than 19 years, serving as President
and Chief Executive Officer of the Foley's division from 1992 to 1995. Mr.
Wilansky is a director of First Washington Realty Trust.
Mr. Gerson has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Filene's
Basement since 1984. Prior to that, he was President and Chief Operating
Officer of The Gap and President and Chief Executive Officer of The Denver, a
division of Associated Dry Goods Co. Mr. Gerson is a director of Filene's
Basement Corp. and ASAHI America, is a trustee associate of Boston College and
is chairman of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts.
Mr. Gleim joined the Company in 1989 as Executive Vice President and Chief
Administrative Officer. He became Senior Executive Vice President in June
1991, and Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer in
4
<PAGE>
December 1995. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Gleim was employed by
Federated Department Stores, Inc. for more than 25 years.
Mr. Hillas was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Meritor Savings Bank
from 1988 until December 1992, when Meritor Savings Bank was taken over by the
Secretary of Banking of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Mr. Hillas has been
retired since such time. He served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
Provident National Bank from 1974 to 1988 and Chairman of PNC Financial Corp.
from 1985 to 1988. Mr. Hillas is a director of Consolidated Rail Corporation,
P.H. Glatfelter Company, VF Corporation and Toll Brothers, Inc.
Dr. Ring has been Professor of Business Administration at The College of
William and Mary's Graduate School of Business Administration in Williamsburg,
Virginia for more than five years, and conducts an international consulting
and executive education practice. Dr. Ring is a director of Sportmart, Inc.
Mr. Starr has been a management consultant to department and specialty
stores since 1984. Prior thereto, he held various positions with Allied Stores
Corporation for over 35 years.
Mr. Winbigler served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mercantile
Stores Company, Inc. for 15 years before retiring in 1989. He is a member of
the advisory board of Liberty Mutual Insurance Company.
MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
During fiscal 1996, the Board of Directors held ten meetings. The Board has
an Executive Committee, an Audit Committee and a Compensation and Stock Option
Committee (the "Compensation Committee") but does not have a Nominating
Committee. The Executive Committee, which held one meeting during fiscal 1996,
has the authority to act in place of the Board on certain specified matters.
The Audit Committee, which held two meetings during fiscal 1996, reviews the
Company's internal controls and handles matters relating to the Company's
independent auditors. The Compensation Committee, which held four meetings
during fiscal 1996, considers and determines compensation issues involving the
Company's Chairman of the Board, the President and Chief Executive Officer,
and the Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, and oversees the
compensation of other employees of the Company. The Compensation Committee
also administers the Company's Amended and Restated 1991 Stock Option and
Restricted Stock Plan (the "Option Plan").
No member of the Board of Directors attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate
of the total number of meetings of the Board of Directors during his tenure as
a member of the Board of Directors, and the total number of meetings held by
all committees of the Board of Directors on which he served.
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS
The Company compensates each of its directors who is neither an employee nor
consultant to the Company at an annual rate of $20,000, plus $2,000 for
attendance at each Board of Directors meeting ($400 for participation in a
meeting held via teleconference) and $1,000 for attendance at each meeting of
a committee of the Board of Directors ($400 for participation in a meeting
held via teleconference). In addition, each such director shall receive in
each fiscal year an annual grant of options to purchase 1,000 shares of Common
Stock on the date of the first regular meeting of the Compensation Committee.
Such options shall be granted under the Company's 1991 Stock Option and
Restricted Stock Plan, shall have an exercise price equal to the market price
of the Common Stock on the date of the grant, shall be exercisable six months
after the grant date and shall have a term of ten years. The Company
compensates each non-employee director who is a consultant to the Company at
one-half of the compensation of a non-employee director who is not serving as
a consultant, and each such director shall receive an annual grant of options
to purchase 500 shares of Common Stock. Mr. Starr is a non-employee director
who provides consulting services to the Company.
Mr. Starr has rendered consulting services to the Company since 1984 and
received approximately $65,000 in consulting fees from the Company in fiscal
1996.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS VOTING
"FOR" EACH OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTORS.
5
<PAGE>
PROPOSAL TWO
AMENDMENT OF THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
AMENDED AND RESTATED 1991
STOCK OPTION AND RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN
The Option Plan was initially adopted by the Board of Directors and approved
by the Company's shareholders in September 1991. In 1992, 1994 and 1996,
amendments to the Option Plan were approved by the Company's shareholders. The
purpose of the Option Plan is to recognize the contributions made to the
Company by its employees, consultants and advisors, to provide these
individuals with additional incentives to devote themselves to the future
success of the Company and to improve the ability of the Company to attract,
retain and motivate individuals upon whom the sustained growth and financial
success of the Company depends.
The Option Plan provides for the grant of options ("Options") to purchase
shares of Common Stock and awards ("Awards") of Common Stock subject to
substantial risks of forfeiture ("Restricted Shares"). Under the Option Plan,
Options and Awards presently can be granted for up to an aggregate of
1,350,000 shares of Common Stock (exclusive of shares granted thereunder and
thereafter cancelled). The Board of Directors, at the recommendation of the
Compensation Committee, has amended the Option Plan, subject to shareholder
approval, to increase by 550,000 the number of shares of Common Stock
available for the exercise of Options and for Awards to an aggregate of
1,900,000 shares of Common Stock (the "Option Plan Amendment").
The key provisions of the Option Plan, as proposed to be amended, are as
follows:
Number of Shares. The maximum number of shares that may be issued under the
Option Plan is 1,900,000 shares of Common Stock. The maximum number of shares
will be adjusted to reflect certain changes in the Company's capitalization.
If any shares subject to any Option or Award are forfeited, or an Option is
terminated without the issuance of shares, the shares subject to such Option
or Award will again be available for grant pursuant to the Option Plan. The
closing sales price for a share of Common Stock on May 2, 1997 was 6.25 as
reported by the Nasdaq National Market.
Administration. The Option Plan is administered by the Board of Directors,
or, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, by a committee composed of
two or more members of the Board of Directors (for purposes of this Proposal
Two, the "Committee"). To the extent possible, and to the extent the Board of
Directors deems it necessary or appropriate, each member of the Committee
shall be a "Non-Employee Director" (as such term is defined in Rule 16b-3
promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) and an
"Outside Director" (as such term is defined in Treasury Regulations Section
1.162-27 promulgated under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended);
however, the Board may designate two committees to operate and administer the
Option Plan in its stead. The Option Plan presently is administered by the
Compensation Committee.
Eligibility. All employees, directors, consultants and advisors of the
Company or its subsidiaries and affiliates are eligible to receive Options or
Awards under the Option Plan.
Term of the Option Plan. The Option Plan became effective September 16, 1991
and provides that no Options or Awards may be granted thereunder after
September 15, 2001.
Options and Awards. From time to time, at its discretion, the Committee may
select eligible recipients to whom Options or Awards will be granted,
determine when each Option or Award will be granted, determine the number of
shares subject to such Option or Award and, pursuant to the provisions of the
Option Plan, determine the terms and conditions of each Option or Award.
6
<PAGE>
Options. Options granted under the Option Plan may be either incentive stock
options ("ISOs") or non-qualified stock options. ISOs are intended to qualify
as "incentive stock options" within the meaning of Section 422 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). Unless an Option is
specifically designated at the time of grant as an ISO, Options granted under
the Option Plan are non-qualified options. Options are not transferrable by
the optionee except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. No
Option granted under the Option Plan may be exercised unless a period of at
least six months has elapsed since the date of the grant.
The exercise price of the Options is determined by the Committee, provided
that the exercise price of an ISO is at least 100% of the fair market value of
a share of Common Stock on the date the Option is granted, or at least 110% of
the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date an ISO is granted
if the recipient owns, directly or by attribution under Section 424(d) of the
Code, shares possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of
all classes of stock of the Company. The term of each Option is fixed by the
Committee. The aggregate fair market value, determined as of the time of
grant, of the shares of Common Stock with respect to which an ISO is
exercisable for the first time by the recipient during any calendar year
(under all incentive stock option plans of the Company) may not exceed
$100,000.
Maximum Grants. The Option Plan provides that the maximum number of shares
of Common Stock for which options may be granted to any single optionee in any
fiscal year is 500,000 shares.
Termination of Options. All Options terminate on the earliest of:
(a) The expiration of the term specified in the Option, which shall not
exceed ten years from the date of grant or five years from date of grant of
an ISO if the recipient on the date of grant owns, directly or by
attribution under Section 424(d) of the Code, shares possessing more than
10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the
Company or of an affiliate;
(b) The expiration of 90 days from the date the optionee's employment or
service with the Company or its affiliates terminates for any reason other
than disability (as defined in the Code) or death or as otherwise specified
in subparagraphs (d) or (e) below;
(c) The expiration of one year from the date the optionee's employment or
service with the Company or its affiliates terminates due to the optionee's
death or disability;
(d) A finding by the Committee that the optionee has breached his
employment contract with the Company or an affiliate or has been engaged in
disloyalty to the Company or an affiliate; or
(e) Such time as the Committee may determine in the event there is a
Change of Control of the Company as defined in the Option Plan.
Payment for Options. An optionee may pay for shares of Common Stock in cash,
certified check or such other mode of payment as the Committee may approve,
including payment in shares of Common Stock held by the optionee for at least
six months.
Awards. The Committee will determine the period, which generally will extend
for at least six months from the date of grant, during which the recipient may
not sell, transfer, pledge or assign Restricted Shares (the "Restrictions").
Restrictions may lapse in installments, as determined by the Committee. The
Committee may, at its sole discretion, waive any Restrictions in whole or in
part. The Committee will determine the rights that recipients will have with
respect to Restricted Shares, including the right to vote Restricted Shares
and the right to receive dividends paid with respect to Restricted Shares. A
certificate will be issued with respect to the Restricted Shares granted. The
certificates will bear appropriate legends until such time as all restrictions
applicable to the Restricted Shares lapse. In the event a grantee terminates
employment with the Company or its affiliates for any reason other than death
or disability, all Restricted Shares remaining subject to Restrictions will be
forfeited by the grantee and canceled by the Company.
7
<PAGE>
Provisions Relating to a Change of Control of the Company. Notwithstanding
any other provision of the Option Plan, in the event of a Change of Control of
the Company, the Committee may take whatever action with respect to Options
and Awards outstanding as it deems necessary or desirable, including
acceleration of the expiration or termination date or the date of
exercisability of an Option or removing any restrictions from or imposing any
additional restrictions on any outstanding Awards.
A "Change of Control" will be deemed to have occurred if: (a) the Company's
shareholders (or the Board of Directors, if shareholder action is not
required) approve a plan or other arrangement pursuant to which the Company
will be dissolved or liquidated; (b) the Company's shareholders (or the Board
of Directors, if shareholder action is not required) approve a definitive
agreement to sell or otherwise dispose of substantially all of the assets of
the Company; (c) subject to certain exceptions, the Company's shareholders (or
the Board of Directors, if shareholder action is not required) and the other
constituent corporation's shareholders (or its board of directors if
shareholder action is not required) have approved a definitive agreement to
merge or consolidate the Company with or into such other corporation; (d) any
entity, person or group (within the meaning of certain provisions of the
Exchange Act), other than M. Thomas Grumbacher, members of his family, his
lineal descendants or entities of which such persons are the beneficial owners
of at least 50% of the voting interests, the Company or any of its
subsidiaries or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or
maintained by the Company or any subsidiary of the Company, becomes the
beneficial owner or has obtained voting control over securities of the Company
representing more than 50% of the voting power of the Company's outstanding
voting stock; or (e) directors constituting a majority of the Board of
Directors have been members of the Board of Directors for less than 12 months,
unless the nomination for election of each new director who was not a director
at the beginning of such 12-month period was approved by a vote of at least
two-thirds of the directors then still in office who were the directors at the
beginning of such period.
Amendment and Termination. The Board of Directors may amend the Option Plan
at any time in such manner as it may deem advisable, provided that the Board
may not (a) change the class of individuals eligible to receive an ISO, (b)
increase the maximum number of shares as to which Options and Awards may be
granted or (c) make any other change or amendment as to which shareholder
approval is required in order to satisfy the conditions set forth in Rule 16b-
3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, in each case without obtaining
shareholder approval within 12 months before or after such action. No Option
or Award will be adversely affected by any such amendment without the consent
of the optionee or grantee.
Federal Income Tax Consequences. The following discussion is a summary of
certain federal income tax consequences of the issuance of Options and the
acquisition of shares of Common Stock by exercising Options or receiving
Awards of Restricted Shares under the Option Plan and does not present a
complete analysis of all tax consequences which may be relevant to any
particular recipient. It does not purport to discuss state or local income tax
laws.
(a) Options. With respect to ISOs, for federal income tax purposes, an
optionee will not have taxable income upon grant or exercise. However, upon
exercise of an ISO, an optionee will generally recognize income for
alternative minimum tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference
between the exercise price of the ISO and the fair market value of the
shares received and, as a result, may be subject to the alternative minimum
tax for the year of exercise. Any gain realized at the time of sale of the
shares acquired upon exercise of an ISO will be treated as long-term
capital gain, provided the optionee does not dispose of the option shares
for at least two years after the date of grant or within one year after the
date of exercise. No gain or loss will generally be recognized by an
optionee upon, nor will any deduction be allowed to the Company as a result
of, the grant or exercise of ISOs.
In general, in the case of non-qualified stock options or ISOs with
respect to which the foregoing holding period limitations have not been
satisfied, an optionee will have taxable income at ordinary income rates
upon exercise (or at the time of a sale of ISO stock which does not satisfy
the holding periods) for the difference between the exercise price and the
fair market value of the Common Stock at the date of exercise
8
<PAGE>
(or, if the optionee is subject to certain restrictions imposed by federal
securities laws, upon the lapse of those restrictions, unless the optionee
elects under Section 83(b) of the Code within 30 days after exercise to be
taxed upon exercise). The amount of that difference will generally be a
deductible expense to the Company.
The ability of the Company to deduct compensation expense is generally
subject to limitations under Section 162(m) of the Code (applicable to
compensation in excess of $1,000,000 paid to certain "covered" employees).
Any income recognized as ordinary compensation income on the exercise of a
non-qualified stock option should, however, be exempt from these Code
limitations as "performance-based" compensation provided the option grant
meets certain requirements. Specifically, it is the Company's intention to
administer the Plan in accordance with all applicable "performance-based"
compensation requirements, including administration of the Plan with
respect to "covered" employees by a committee of two or more "outside"
directors (as that term is used in applicable IRS regulations) and to make
Option grants to such employees with an exercise price that is at least
equal to the fair market value of the shares subject to the Option on the
date of grant. Under these circumstances, such Options should, on exercise,
result in a deductible compensation expense that is exempt from Section
162(m) of the Code as "performance-based" compensation.
(b) Restricted Shares. For federal income tax purposes, the recipient of
an Award will not recognize income and the Company will not be entitled to
a deduction at the time of the Award because the Restricted Shares are
subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture and are not transferable. When
the risk of forfeiture and non-transferability restrictions lapse upon
vesting of the Awards, the recipient will recognize compensation income and
the Company will be entitled to a deduction (subject generally to a
$1,000,000 limitation on deductible compensation of certain employees of
the Company as provided under Section 162(m) of the Code) in an amount
equal to the then fair market value of the Restricted Shares. Except as
provided below, an Award recipient may nevertheless elect pursuant to
Section 83(b) of the Code to include the Restricted Shares in his income at
their fair market value at the time of award, in which event the Company
would be entitled to a corresponding deduction. Such election must be made
within 30 days after the Award. In the event dividends on the Restricted
Shares are applied to purchase additional Restricted Shares pursuant to the
terms of an Award, the election with respect to such additional Restricted
Shares must be made within 30 days of the payment of such dividend. If this
election is made, any appreciation in value recognized by the Award
recipient on a subsequent disposition of the Restricted Shares will in
general be taxed at capital gains rates and not as ordinary income. If,
however, an Award recipient who makes a Section 83(b) election forfeits the
Restricted Shares back to the Company, the recipient will not recognize a
loss on such forfeiture. In some cases, the particular restrictions with
respect to an Award may be such that an Award recipient will not be
entitled to make the Section 83(b) election.
The Board of Directors approved the Option Plan Amendment on March 7, 1997.
Approval of the Option Plan Amendment requires the affirmative vote of a
majority of the votes cast by holders of Common Stock and Class A Common
Stock.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS
VOTING "FOR" AMENDMENT OF THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
1991 AMENDED AND RESTATED STOCK OPTION
AND RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN
9
<PAGE>
PROPOSAL THREE
APPROVAL OF
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
FOR PRINCIPALS
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan for Principals (the "LTI
Plan") is a performance-based compensation plan established by the Board of
Directors of the Company. The LTI Plan provides for grants of "Performance
Awards" to certain eligible employees, as discussed below, based on the
performance of the Company during three to five year performance cycles which
commence on an annual basis. The LTI Plan is a part of the Company's
integrated compensation program which is intended to assist the Company in
motivating and retaining employees of superior ability, industry and loyalty.
The LTI Plan is designed to achieve the following objectives: to provide a
competitive component of executive income linked to the increase in the
Company's shareholder value; to reward executives for stock price
appreciation; to reward executives for achieving long-term performance
objectives; and to provide executives with a capital accumulation opportunity
that is consistent with their individual attitudes toward risk and the stock
market and their personal considerations regarding their investment
portfolios. The LTI Plan is currently administered by the Compensation
Committee. As noted below, another committee may be designated to administer
the LTI Plan. Any such committee that is charged with administration of the
LTI Plan is referred to in this Proposal Three as the "Committee".
Under the LTI Plan, performance-based compensation is paid to certain
principal employees of the Company as designated by the Committee from time to
time. Effective with respect to the performance cycle that commenced as of
February 4, 1996, and all performance cycles commencing thereafter, all
payments of compensation under the LTI Plan are subject to certain rules and
requirements applicable to "performance-based" compensation as that term is
used for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code which otherwise limit the
deductibility of compensation in excess of $1,000,000. As noted below,
compensation under the LTI Plan will only be payable if the LTI Plan is
approved by the shareholders of the Company and all of the other requirements
for payment of compensation as set forth in the LTI Plan are met. The
provisions of the LTI Plan are generally described below.
The participants under the LTI Plan are the principal employees of the
Company as designated by the Committee from time to time. With respect to the
performance cycles that commenced as of February 4, 1996 and February 2, 1997,
the participants are: Heywood L. Wilansky, M. Thomas Grumbacher and Michael L.
Gleim.
Shareholder Approval and Term of the LTI Plan:
The Compensation Committee has determined that, with respect to the
performance cycle that commenced as of February 4, 1996, and all subsequent
performance cycles, the LTI Plan will be subject to the approval of the
shareholders. As a consequence, no payments may be made under the LTI Plan
with respect to such performance cycles unless the LTI Plan is approved by the
shareholders of the Company. Assuming the LTI Plan is approved by the
shareholders of the Company, the LTI Plan will continue until it is terminated
by the Board of Directors. The material terms of the LTI Plan must, however,
be disclosed to and reapproved by the shareholders of the Company no later
than the shareholders' meeting that occurs in the year 2002 or the LTI Plan
will terminate as of that date.
Award Entitlement:
A participant in the LTI Plan is eligible to receive a Performance Award
with respect to each performance cycle. A performance cycle commences every
year as of the beginning of the Company's fiscal year. Each performance cycle
can extend up to five years. If the performance goals established for a
performance cycle are met within the initial three years of the performance
cycle, each participant will be entitled to and will vest in his Performance
Award granted with respect to that performance cycle under the LTI Plan. If
the performance goals are not met within the initial three years of the
performance cycle, but are met within five years of the
10
<PAGE>
beginning of the performance cycle, the Committee has the authority to reduce
or eliminate altogether the Performance Award which would otherwise vest on
achievement of the performance goal. The Committee makes the determination to
reduce or eliminate a Performance Award under such circumstances taking into
account such facts and circumstances as it deems relevant.
No Performance Award will become vested or be paid unless the Committee
certifies in writing that the performance goal for the performance cycle has
been met or exceeded.
Amount and Nature of Award:
The Committee establishes annually, at the beginning of each performance
cycle, a separate "Target Present Value" for each participant in the LTI Plan.
The Target Present Value for each participant is equal to a percentage of the
participant's base salary. The Committee has the authority to designate any
percentage it deems appropriate with respect to each participant but may not
designate a percentage in excess of 40% of the participant's base salary as of
the beginning of the performance cycle nor may it establish a Target Present
Value in excess of $480,000.
Once a Target Present Value is established for a participant, the Committee
may, at its discretion, award stock options (the "Stock Options") which the
Committee determines have a value equal to a portion of the participant's
Target Present Value. The manner in which the Committee values the Stock
Options for these purposes is identical to the calculation applicable to
"Performance Stock Options" as discussed below.
The Stock Options are granted under the terms of the Option Plan and are
evidenced by Option Documents setting forth the terms and conditions of each
grant. Generally, the Stock Options are "incentive stock options" ("ISOs") (as
such term is used in Section 422 of the Code) to the extent permissible,
unless otherwise decided by the Committee. To the extent the Stock Options
exceed the amount that may be granted as ISOs or the Committee determines not
to grant ISOs, the Stock Options will be "nonqualified stock options". The
Stock Options generally have a ten year term and become exercisable in four
equal annual installments beginning with the first anniversary of the date of
grant. The Committee may, however, at its discretion, vary this vesting
schedule from grant to grant. The options will terminate at the end of their
term or earlier in the event the participant terminates employment. In the
event the participant terminates his employment for any reason other than
death, disability or as a consequence of retirement with the agreement of the
Company, any Stock Options that have not vested are forfeited and vested
options may be exercised only during the 90 day period following the
participant's termination of employment. If the participant terminates his
employment on account of death or disability, the Stock Options become fully
vested and are exercisable for one year from the date of the participant's
death or disability. If the participant retires with the consent of the
Company, the Stock Options that are vested may be exercised for up to a year
from the date of the participant's retirement. Any Stock Options that are not
vested at the time of the participant's retirement will vest in accordance
with the otherwise applicable vesting schedule or provisions of the LTI Plan,
and may be exercised up to one year from the date they vest. Under the terms
of the Option Plan, the Stock Options may also fully vest if there is a
"Change of Control" of the Company, as defined in the Option Plan. The
exercise price of the Stock Options is the fair market value of the shares at
the time the Stock Options are granted.
Each participant must elect an "Award Vehicle" with respect to that portion
of his Target Present Value for the performance cycle that has not been
allocated to the grant of Stock Options. The participant may choose to receive
"Performance Units", "Performance Shares" or "Performance Stock Options". As
noted above, the vesting of any of these Performance Awards is contingent on
the achievement of the performance goals established by the Committee for the
relevant performance cycle. If such goals are not met, the Performance Awards
are forfeited.
An election to receive a Performance Award in the form of Performance Units
constitutes an election to receive the Performance Award as a cash payment.
The amount of the payment that will be made under this
11
<PAGE>
election will be equal to the portion of the Target Present Value to which the
election applies, increased to reflect the "Assumed Interest Rate" (discussed
below) applicable over a three year period. The use of the three year period
for purposes of this calculation is based on the presumption that the
performance goal will be achieved, and therefore the Performance Award will be
paid, after only three years. The amount of the payment is not, however,
further increased if the performance goal is not achieved until more than
three years from the beginning of the performance cycle. The maximum amount of
the Performance Award under this election is, therefore, the Target Present
Value as fixed at the beginning of the performance cycle plus accrued
interest, compounded annually at a rate that is fixed at 15% or less and
determined over a presumed three year waiting period.
If an election is made to receive a Performance Award in the form of
Performance Shares, the participant is granted a number of restricted shares
of Common Stock which will vest only if the performance goal for the
performance cycle is achieved. The maximum value of this Performance Award may
be determined by multiplying the number of Performance Shares by the value of
the shares as of the date the award vests. The number of Performance Shares
granted with respect to a participant for any performance cycle may be
determined, as discussed below, by taking into account the portion of the
participant's Target Present Value that is subject to the election and the
assumed growth and interest rates used in determining the present value of the
Award Vehicle elected.
If an election is made to receive a Performance Award in the form of
Performance Stock Options, the participant will receive options to acquire
shares of Common Stock by paying an exercise price equal to the fair market
value of such shares as of the date the Performance Stock Options are granted.
The maximum value of the award that may be received under this election is
determined by multiplying the number of shares of Common Stock that are the
subject of the option by the increase in value of the shares from the date of
grant until the date the award vests. The maximum value of the award under
this election, therefore, as is the case where an election is made to receive
Performance Shares, may be determined by multiplying the amount by which a
single share of Common Stock increases in value from the date of grant until
the award vests by the number of shares that are subject to the Performance
Stock Option. The number of Performance Stock Options granted with respect to
a participant for any performance cycle may be determined, as discussed below,
by taking into account the portion of the participant's Target Present Value
that is subject to the election and the assumed growth and interest rates used
in determining the present value of the Award Vehicle elected. The closing
sales price for a share of Common Stock on May 2, 1997 was $6.25 as reported
by the Nasdaq National Market.
The number of Performance Shares and the number of shares of Common Stock
subject to a Performance Stock Option (or that are subject to Stock Options
that are otherwise granted with respect to a portion of a participant's Target
Present Value) is determined in the following manner:
(a) In the case of an election to receive a Performance Award in the form
of Performance Shares, an initial determination is made as to the future
value of a single Performance Share. This is done by applying an annual
growth rate established by the Committee (the "Assumed Annual Growth Rate")
to the fair market value of a share of Common Stock as of the date of grant
to project the future value of a Performance Share at the end of three
years. The Assumed Annual Growth Rate is established by the Committee in
light of available information regarding anticipated equity growth rates
and other information the Committee determines to be relevant. The Assumed
Annual Growth Rate may not, however, be set at less than 7.5%. The present
value of a Performance Share as of the date of grant is then determined by
discounting the projected future value of the Performance Share using an
assumed interest rate (the "Assumed Interest Rate") which is established at
the discretion of the Committee in light of available information regarding
current interest rates. In no event, however, may the Committee set the
assumed interest rate at more than 15%. Once the present value of a
Performance Share is determined, the number of Performance Shares to be
granted to a participant is determined by dividing the portion of the
participant's Target Present Value to which the election applies by the
present value of a single Performance Share.
(b) In the case of an election to receive a Performance Award in the form
of Performance Stock Options, an initial determination is made as to the
future value of a Performance Stock Option to acquire a single share of
Common Stock by projecting the future value of one share of Common Stock
(using the
12
<PAGE>
assumptions described above with respect to Performance Shares) and
subtracting from that future value the current fair market value of one
share of Common Stock. This future value is then discounted to determine a
present value for such a Performance Stock Option using the Assumed
Interest Rate (as described above) as the applicable discount rate. The
number of shares of Common Stock which are subject to the Performance Stock
Option to be awarded to the participant is determined by dividing the
portion of the participant's Target Present Value to which the election
applies by the present value of a Performance Stock Option for a single
share. The same determination is also made with respect to the portion of a
participant's Target Present Value that is granted initially at the
Committee's discretion in the form of Stock Options.
Establishment of Performance Goals:
A new performance cycle begins each year. Performance goals are established
at the beginning of each performance cycle. One or more performance measures
may be used for a cycle. The performance goals may be expressed as an absolute
dollar or percentage amount or as a percentile ranking against a defined peer
group. For a particular performance cycle, both the performance measures and
goals set for each measure may be the same or different than the measures and
goals set for other performance cycles. The performance measures will in all
events be objective indicators of long-term shareholder value, such as return
on investment or total shareholder return (stock price appreciation plus
dividends).
The performance goals described above and the other elements required to be
fixed in order for a participant's award to be determined (i.e., the
percentage of base salary or dollar amount used to fix the Target Present
Value and the assumed growth and interest/discount rates) will be established
by the Committee no later than 90 days after the beginning of each year. The
participant's election as to the form the award takes also must be made within
the same time period.
Administration of the LTI Plan:
The LTI Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee, consisting of
two or more "outside directors" (as that term is defined for purposes of
Section 162(m) of the Code), or by such other committee of two or more
"outside directors" as may be appointed by the Board of Directors to act as
the LTI Plan administrative committee. The resolution of any questions with
respect to payments and entitlements pursuant to the provisions of the LTI
Plan will be determined by the Committee, and all such determinations shall be
final and conclusive.
Amendment and Termination of the LTI Plan:
The Company, acting through its Board of Directors, may terminate the LTI
Plan at any time. In addition, the LTI Plan may be amended by the Company,
acting through its Board of Directors, from time to time. No amendment that
would increase the amount of the award under the LTI Plan will be effective
unless approved by the shareholders of the Company.
Federal Tax Issues:
Section 162(m) of the Code limits the deductibility of compensation in
excess of $1,000,000 to certain employees of publicly held companies (the
"Million Dollar Cap"), unless the compensation falls within certain
exceptions. One exception to the Million Dollar Cap is available for
"performance-based" compensation. In order for an award to qualify for
exception to the Million Dollar Cap, a number of requirements must be
satisfied, including the establishment of performance goals by a committee of
two or more "outside" members of the Company's Board of Directors, disclosure
to the shareholders of the material terms of the LTI Plan under which such an
award is to be paid, and approval by the shareholders of the LTI Plan.
Additional rules apply to the ongoing administration of the LTI Plan.
In general, the LTI Plan is intended to pay compensation only on the
attainment of the performance goals established by the Committee. If the LTI
Plan is put into effect in accordance with its terms and subject to the
13
<PAGE>
approval of the Company's shareholders, and provided the LTI Plan is and
continues to be administered in accordance with the provisions set forth in
the LTI Plan, the Performance Awards made under the LTI Plan should be
"performance based" compensation that is exempt from the Million Dollar Cap.
The following table sets forth with respect to each of the Option Plan and
the LTI Plan the number of shares of Common Stock for which stock options have
been granted from the inception of each such plan through May 12, 1997 to (i)
each of the named executive officers, (ii) all current executive officers as a
group, (iii) all current directors who are not executive officers as a group,
(iv) each nominee for election as a director, and (v) all employees, including
all current officers, who are not executive officers, as a group. No options
have been granted under either of such plans to any associate of any of the
Company's current directors (which includes all of management's nominees for
election as directors of the Company) or executive officers. The options
reflected in the table are not necessarily indicative of the number of options
that may be granted in the future, or the individuals to whom such options may
be granted, pursuant to such plans.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPTIONS GRANTED (1)
------------------------
NAME AND POSITION OPTION PLAN (2) LTI PLAN
----------------- --------------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Heywood L. Wilansky................................... 453,800 203,800
President and Chief Executive Officer
M. Thomas Grumbacher.................................. 159,600 159,600
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Michael L. Gleim...................................... 209,000 74,500
Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer
Theodore C. Johnson, Jr............................... 22,500 --
Senior Vice President, Human Resources
Douglas C. Lamm....................................... 20,000 --
Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager
Samuel J. Gerson...................................... 1,000 --
Nominee for election as director
Roger S. Hillas....................................... 1,000 --
Nominee for election as director
Lawrence J. Ring...................................... 1,000 --
Nominee for election as director
Leon D. Starr......................................... 500 --
Nominee for election as director
Leon F. Winbigler..................................... 1,000 --
Nominee for election as director
All current executive officers, as a group............ 993,736 437,900
All current directors who are not executive officers, 4,500 --
as a group...........................................
Non-executive officer employees, as a group........... 478,470 --
</TABLE>
- - --------
(1) Expressed in numbers of shares of Common Stock and includes options which
have since expired or have been canceled or surrendered.
(2) Includes options granted under the LTI Plan as Performance Stock Options,
which are also disclosed in the other column of this table.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS
VOTING "FOR" APPROVAL OF THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN FOR PRINCIPALS
14
<PAGE>
PROPOSAL FOUR
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT OF
THE COMPANY'S
MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN
The Company's Management Incentive Plan (the "MIP") was initially adopted by
the Board of Directors in 1990. The MIP is designed to attract, reward and
retain key executives for their contributions to the Company. The MIP provides
for the granting of cash bonuses, and/or, under the proposed amendment, shares
of Common Stock to participants based on a combination of Company performance
and the participant's individual performance.
The material provisions of the MIP, as proposed to be amended, are as
follows:
Administration. The MIP is administered by the Compensation Committee or any
other committee designated by the Board of Directors consisting of two or more
non-employee directors (in this Proposal Four, the "Committee"). The MIP is
presently administered by the Compensation Committee.
Eligibility. All employees at the level of divisional vice president and
above, exclusive of participants in the LTI Plan, and certain other managerial
employees are eligible to participate in the MIP.
Bonuses. A target bonus is established for all participants. The target
bonus is a percentage of each participant's base salary. The actual earned
bonus for each participant can range to 150% of the target bonus, and is based
on a combination of the Company's performance and the participant's
performance, each evaluated separately. Bonus payouts are discretionary and no
bonus payouts may be made if the Company fails to achieve a level of
performance established by the Executive Committee and the Compensation
Committee.
Presently, all bonus payouts under the MIP are made in cash.
Proposed Amendment. Under the proposed amendment to the MIP (the "MIP
Amendment"), eligible MIP participants (all employees of the Company at the
level of divisional vice president and above who participate in the MIP) may
elect to receive a portion of their annual bonus in shares of Common Stock (in
this proposal, "Restricted Shares"). Such participants elect a portion of
their bonus (up to 100%) to be paid in Restricted Shares. For each electing
participant, a "pool" is established of a number of Restricted Shares which is
calculated by multiplying an amount equal to 50% of the participant's target
bonus under the MIP for 1996 by the percentage elected, multiplying such
figure again by three, and dividing it by $6.125. Such Restricted Shares are
issued in the name of the electing participant but are restricted and do not
vest (i.e., are not eligible for resale by such participant) until bonus
awards for such participant are made.
For each of the next three bonus awards received by an electing participant,
the percentage of such bonus so elected by such participant will be paid in
Restricted Shares valued at $6.125 per share, up to one-third of the number of
shares in such participant's pool, and the balance of any such bonus shall be
paid in cash. For an electing participant's third annual bonus payment, and
any subsequent bonus payments while shares still remain in such participant's
pool, such one-third maximum does not apply.
The participant will receive all unvested shares after the end of the 2005
plan year (the Company's fiscal year 2005), whether or not such shares have
been awarded as a bonus for that or any previous years. In addition, the
Committee may accelerate the vesting of the unvested shares in the pool.
Generally, a participant's unvested shares will be forfeited if the
participant's employment with the Company terminates or the participant is no
longer otherwise eligible to participate in the MIP. In the event of the
death, disability or retirement of a participant or a "Change of Control" of
the Company as defined in the Option Plan, the Committee may vest a pro-rata
portion of a participant's pool shares which would have become vested had the
participant worked the full year.
15
<PAGE>
The following table sets forth the aggregate number of Restricted Shares in
the pools established under the MIP for the individuals named in the Summary
Compensation Table, for all of the Company's current executive officers as a
group and for all of the Company's employees as a group.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF
NAME AND POSITION RESTRICTED SHARES
----------------- -----------------
<S> <C>
Theodore C. Johnson, Jr................................... 10,800
Senior Vice President, Human Resources
Douglas Lamm.............................................. 14,691
Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager
All current executive officers as a group................. 74,364
All employees, including all current officers who are not
executive officers, as a group........................... 120,819
</TABLE>
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS VOTING
"FOR" AMENDMENT OF
THE COMPANY'S MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN
PROPOSAL FIVE
RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT
OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
Subject to shareholder ratification, the Board of Directors, upon
recommendation of the Audit Committee, has reappointed Arthur Andersen LLP,
which served as the Company's independent public accountants for the last
fiscal year, to serve as the Company's independent public accountants for the
current fiscal year. If the shareholders do not ratify this appointment by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the Common Shares, other independent public
accountants will be considered by the Board of Directors upon recommendation
of the Audit Committee.
A representative of Arthur Andersen LLP is expected to be present at the
meeting. Such representative will have the opportunity to make a statement and
will be available to respond to appropriate questions of shareholders.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS VOTING
"FOR" RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
AS THE COMPANY'S INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
16
<PAGE>
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
The following table sets forth, for the Company's last three fiscal years,
the compensation paid or accrued by the Company for those years to the
Company's Chief Executive Officer and to each of the other four most highly
compensated executive officers of the Company (collectively, the "Named
Executives"):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LONG-TERM
COMPENSATION
ANNUAL COMPENSATION AWARDS
-------------------- ------------
SECURITIES ALL OTHER
NAME AND PRINCIPAL FISCAL UNDERLYING COMPENSATION
POSITION YEAR SALARY ($) BONUS ($) OPTIONS(#) ($)
------------------ ------ ---------- --------- ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Heywood L. Wilansky...... 1996 800,000 200,000 104,800 948,778(1)
President and Chief 1995 353,846 822,877 250,000 117,803
Executive Officer 1994 -- -- -- --
M. Thomas Grumbacher..... 1996 351,923 -- 45,800 2,775(2)
Chairman of the 1995 450,000 -- 25,000 675
Board of Directors 1994 450,000 236,000 45,500 9,987
Michael L. Gleim......... 1996 414,417 -- 26,200 4,692(2)
Vice Chairman and 1995 311,923 -- 56,600 20,628
Chief Operating Officer 1994 315,404 158,000 30,400 9,987
Theodore C. Johnson, Jr.. 1996 223,846 -- -- 3,988(2)
Senior Vice President, 1995 210,375 -- 5,000 11,215
Human Resources 1994 209,250 37,440 10,000 9,987
Douglas Lamm............. 1996 244,984 -- -- 3,402(2)
Senior Vice President, 1995 79,279 10,000 20,000 --
General Merchandise
Manager 1994 -- -- -- --
</TABLE>
- - --------
(1) Includes $39,146 for moving expenses, $200,000 for the purchase of an
annuity in Mr. Wilansky's name, $698,193 for which the Company was
obligated in connection with the sale of Mr. Wilansky's former residence
and premiums on excess life insurance in the amount of $10,266.
(2) Includes Company contributions to its Retirement Savings/Profit Sharing
Plan in the amounts of $1,500 and $600, respectively, for each of Messrs.
Grumbacher, Gleim, Johnson and Lamm, and premiums on excess life insurance
for each of Messrs. Grumbacher, Gleim, Johnson and Lamm in the respective
amounts of $675, $2,592, $1,888 and $1,302.
17
<PAGE>
STOCK OPTION GRANTS
The following table contains information concerning the grant of stock
options under the Company's Option Plan to each of the Named Executives during
fiscal 1996. The Company does not have any plan pursuant to which stock
appreciation rights may be granted.
OPTION GRANTS IN FISCAL 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDIVIDUAL GRANTS
-----------------------------------------------
POTENTIAL REALIZABLE VALUE
NUMBER OF AT ASSUMED ANNUAL RATES OF
SECURITIES % OF TOTAL STOCK PRICE APPRECIATION
UNDERLYING OPTIONS GRANTED EXERCISE FOR OPTION TERM ($)(1)
OPTIONS TO EMPLOYEES PRICE EXPIRATION ---------------------------
NAME GRANTED(#) IN FISCAL 1996 ($/SH) DATE 5% 10%
---- ---------- --------------- -------- ---------- ------------ --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Heywood L. Wilansky..... 104,800(2) 34.0% 6.125 2/25/2006 $ 403,687 $ 1,023,023
M. Thomas Grumbacher.... 45,800(2) 14.9% 6.125 2/25/2006 176,421 447,085
Michael L. Gleim........ 26,200(2) 8.5% 6.125 2/25/2006 100,922 255,756
26,200(3) 8.5% 6.125 2/25/2006 100,922 255,756
Theodore C. Johnson,
Jr..................... -- -- -- -- -- --
Douglas Lamm............ -- -- -- -- -- --
</TABLE>
- - --------
(1) Illustrates value that might be realized upon exercise of options
immediately prior to the expiration of their term, assuming specified
compounded rates of appreciation on the Common Stock over the term of the
options. Assumed rates of appreciation are not necessarily indicative of
future stock performance.
(2) The options vest on February 26, 1999 only upon the Company meeting pre-
established goals for return on investment and for total shareholders'
return on the Common Stock as compared to a group of other retailers, each
measured during the three year period of fiscal 1996 to 1998. Fifty
percent of the options vest upon the attainment of each goal.
(3) One-third of the options vest on each of February 26, 1997, 1998 and 1999.
STOCK OPTION EXERCISES AND HOLDINGS
The following table sets forth information related to the number and value
of stock options of each of the Named Executives at February 1, 1997. None of
the Named Executives exercised any stock options during fiscal 1996.
OPTION VALUES AT FEBRUARY 1, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF UNEXERCISED VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
OPTIONS AT IN-THE-MONEY OPTIONS
FEBRUARY 1, 1997(#) AT FEBRUARY 1, 1997($)(1)
------------------------- -------------------------
EXERCISABLE UNEXERCISABLE EXERCISABLE UNEXERCISABLE
----------- ------------- ----------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Heywood L. Wilansky......... 83,334 271,466 $31,250 $154,200
M. Thomas Grumbacher........ -- 70,800 -- 40,075
Michael L. Gleim............ 101,827 97,965 177,579 75,849
Theodore C. Johnson, Jr..... 34,285 6,666 53,794 --
Douglas Lamm................ 5,000 15,000 -- --
</TABLE>
- - --------
(1) In-the-money options are options having a per share exercise price below
$7.00, the closing price of shares of Common Stock on the Nasdaq National
Market on January 31, 1997 (the last trading day in fiscal 1996). The
amounts shown are the amounts by which the product of such closing price
and the number of shares purchasable upon the exercise of such in-the-
money options exceeds the aggregate exercise price of such shares.
18
<PAGE>
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
The Company has entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Wilansky which
expires September 17, 1998 pursuant to which Mr. Wilansky is entitled to
receive an annual base salary of at least $800,000 and a performance bonus
based on the combined performance of the Company and Mr. Wilansky according to
criteria to be established by the Compensation Committee. The maximum bonus
attainable is 75% of Mr. Wilansky's base salary. The agreement also provides
that the Company shall extend a non-interest bearing loan to Mr. Wilansky of
$750,000 to allow Mr. Wilansky to purchase a primary residence, secured by a
second deed of trust thereon. The loan is due in two equal installments to be
paid in December of 1997 and April of 1999, subject to forgiveness of payments
under certain circumstances. The agreement provides that in the event the
Company discharges Mr. Wilansky without cause (as defined in such agreement),
Mr. Wilansky shall continue to receive his base salary, pro-rated bonus and
other benefits for the greater of the remaining term of the agreement or one
year from termination of employment. In addition, pursuant to the employment
agreement, the Company has agreed to invest $200,000 annually, for so long as
Mr. Wilansky is employed by the Company, toward an annuity payable to Mr.
Wilansky after age 55 which will provide a supplemental annual retirement
income of approximately $300,000. The Company believes that the present value
of the aggregate cost of this arrangement over time, assuming an interest rate
of 6%, is approximately $2,500,000.
The Company has entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Gleim which
expires January 31, 1999 pursuant to which Mr. Gleim is entitled to receive an
annual salary of at least $400,000 and is eligible for an annual bonus to be
determined by the Compensation Committee. The agreement provides that in the
event the Company discharges Mr. Gleim without cause or Mr. Gleim resigns for
good reason (each as defined in the agreement), Mr. Gleim shall continue to
receive his base salary and other benefits for the greater of the remaining
term of the agreement or one year from termination of employment.
The Company has entered into a severance agreement with each of its
executive officers other than Messrs. Grumbacher, Wilansky and Gleim which
provides for certain payments to be made by the Company in the event the
executive officer is terminated without cause (as defined in such agreement).
19
<PAGE>
STOCK PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The following graph compares the yearly percentage change in the cumulative
total shareholder return on the Company's Common Stock from February 1, 1992
through February 1, 1997, the cumulative total return on the CRSP Total Return
Index for The Nasdaq Stock Market (US Companies) and the Nasdaq Retail Trade
Stocks Index during such period. The comparison assumes $100 was invested on
February 1, 1992 in the Common Stock and in each of the foregoing indices and
assumes the reinvestment of any dividends.
[LINE GRAPH APPEARS HERE]
REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
The Compensation Committee, consisting entirely of non-employee directors,
approves all general policies under which compensation is paid or awarded to
the Company's executive officers. The Compensation Committee determines the
compensation of M. Thomas Grumbacher, the Company's Chairman of the Board, of
Heywood L. Wilansky, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, and
of Michael L. Gleim, the Company's Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer.
The Compensation Committee has delegated to the Executive Committee of the
Board, which is comprised of Messrs. Grumbacher, Wilansky and Gleim, the
initial responsibility of recommending the compensation for the executive
officers of the Company other than Messrs. Grumbacher, Wilansky and Gleim. The
Executive Committee reports its recommendations with respect to the level and
form of compensation to be provided to such other executive officers, and the
Compensation Committee then votes on such recommendations.
The basic forms of executive compensation are annual compensation, in the
form of salary and possible bonuses, and long-term incentives, currently
consisting primarily of stock options. The Compensation Committee seeks to
achieve a mix of these various forms of compensation which will properly
compensate and motivate its executives on an individual basis. In doing so,
the Compensation Committee, with the input of the Executive Committee with
respect to the executive officers other than Messrs. Grumbacher, Wilansky and
Gleim, considers various aspects of the Company's operating results as well as
its financial condition and considers each executive's role in such
achievement.
20
<PAGE>
Annual Compensation -- Salary and Bonus
Annual compensation is comprised of a base salary and a possible bonus. The
Compensation Committee set the base salary of the Chairman of the Board for
fiscal 1996 and for fiscal 1995. The base salaries for the Company's President
and Chief Executive Officer and for the Vice Chairman and Chief Operating
Officer are established pursuant to employment agreements which have been
approved by the Compensation Committee. The remainder of the Company's
executives have their base salaries approved annually by the Compensation
Committee based on recommendations from the Executive Committee, which
considers such factors as individual and Company performance.
The Compensation Committee believes that it is appropriate for an increasing
amount of the potential annual compensation for the Chairman of the Board, the
President and Chief Executive Officer, and the Vice Chairman and Chief
Operating Officer to be provided in the form of an annual bonus which is
dependent upon the Company's performance. For fiscal 1996, there was in place
a plan to grant bonuses to the Chairman of the Board and the Vice Chairman and
Chief Operating Officer based on a combination of the Company's earnings
before interest, taxes and LIFO charges ("EBIT") and net income during fiscal
1996. As a result of the Company's performance for fiscal 1996, there were no
bonuses paid to the Chairman of the Board and the Vice Chairman and Chief
Operating Officer. The annual bonus paid to the Company's President and Chief
Executive Officer for fiscal 1996 was set in Mr. Wilansky's employment
agreement.
With respect to the Company's executive officers other than Messrs.
Grumbacher, Wilansky and Gleim, the Company has adopted the MIP.
Long-Term Incentives -- Stock Options and Restricted Stock Awards
The Compensation Committee administers the Option Plan which provides for
the grant of stock options and restricted stock awards, both of whose value is
related to the value of the Common Stock. Accordingly, grants of stock options
and restricted stock awards are intended to help align the executive officers'
interests with that of shareholders by increasing such officers' stakes in the
Company.
Stock options and restricted stock awards generally vest over a number of
years, and any unvested options or shares of restricted stock are usually
forfeited ninety days after termination of the recipient's employment with the
Company. Such awards, therefore, are also intended to encourage recipients to
remain in the employ of the Company over a substantial period of time.
The Compensation Committee adopted in February 1994 the LTI Plan, for the
Company's Chairman of the Board, the President and Chief Executive Officer and
the Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer. Under this plan, each of these
executive officers received in fiscal 1996 stock options that will vest only
if the Company meets pre-established goals for return on investment and for
total shareholders' return on the Common Stock as compared to a group of other
retailers, each measured during the succeeding three-year period. Each
participant in this plan chose, on the date of the grant, to have any
performance award earned paid in options to purchase Common Stock at the fair
market value on the date of grant. Other choices made available to each
participant included cash and shares of Common Stock. By establishing this
long-term incentive plan, the Compensation Committee intended to increase the
participants' stakes in the long-term performance of the Company.
In addition, the Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer received a grant
of stock options under the LTI Plan which vests in three equal annual
installments beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant.
The performance options, together with the grant of these options, have an
estimated net present value that for fiscal 1996 did not exceed 25% of any
executive's base salary for such period.
21
<PAGE>
Of the 308,086 total stock options granted in fiscal 1996, 265,336 were
granted to the Company's senior executive officers.
Qualifying Executive Compensation for Deductibility Under Provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code
The Code provides that publicly held corporations may not generally deduct
compensation for its chief executive officer and certain other executive
officers to the extent that compensation for the executive exceeds $1,000,000
unless such compensation is "performance based" as defined in the Code. The
Compensation Committee intends to take such actions as are appropriate to
qualify, to the extent possible, compensation paid to executives for
deductibility under the Code. The Compensation Committee notes that recent
amendments to the LTI Plan were designed to preserve the deductibility for the
Company of income realized by executive officers upon the exercise of stock
options under the LTI Plan regardless of whether such income, together with
salary, bonus and other compensation, exceeds the limitation.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE:
Roger S. Hillas
Leon F. Winbigler
SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires the Company's executive officers
and directors and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class
of the Company's equity securities (collectively, the "reporting persons") to
file reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the Securities and
Exchange Commission and to furnish the Company with copies of these reports.
Based on the Company's review of the copies of these reports and written
representations received from reporting persons, the Company believes that all
filings required to be made by the reporting persons for the period February
4, 1996 through February 1, 1997 were made on a timely basis other than a
report on Form 3 by Samuel J. Gerson, director of the Company, which was filed
late, and reports on Form 5 for grants of stock options by each of H. Stephen
Evans, Michael L. Gleim, Paul Lindblom, Ryan J. Sattler and Heywood L.
Wilansky, each an executive officer of the Company, which were filed late.
CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
The Company leases its Oil City, Pennsylvania and Butler, Pennsylvania
stores from M. Thomas Grumbacher. Mr. Grumbacher is the ground tenant under
leases from the owners of the respective shopping centers. These leases
between the Company and Mr. Grumbacher were entered into on January 1, 1981
and February 17, 1981, respectively. The aggregate rental payments during
fiscal 1996 for the Oil City store and the Butler store to Mr. Grumbacher were
$216,750 and $264,000, respectively. The Oil City and Butler leases also
require payment of a percentage rent (1% of sales in excess of $5.3 million
with respect to Oil City and 1% of sales in excess of $7.0 million with
respect to Butler) which Mr. Grumbacher passes through to the ground lessor.
Both leases terminate on July 31, 2006 and provide the Company with five five-
year renewal options.
Additionally, the Company leases the land for its York Galleria store from
MBM Land Associates Limited Partnership ("MBM"), a partnership of which M.
Thomas Grumbacher, through a wholly-owned corporation, and certain trusts
established for the benefit of his three children, are the partners. The lease
expires onSeptember 30, 2019, and the Company has the right to extend the term
of the lease for six additional periods of five years each. Rental payments by
the Company during fiscal 1996 for the York Galleria store aggregated $63,000.
The Company also leases a portion of the property on which its distribution
center is located from MBM. The remainder is leased from Mr. Grumbacher.
Aggregate annual rental payments under the leases are $162,000
22
<PAGE>
until January 1, 2001. During fiscal 1996, Mr. Grumbacher and MBM received
rental payments from the Company under such leases aggregating $105,565 and
$56,435, respectively. Each of the leases terminates on May 31, 2017, and the
Company has the right to extend the term of each of the leases for two
additional periods of five years each at the then fair market rental value.
Total lease payments to M. Thomas Grumbacher and affiliated entities with
respect to fiscal 1996 were $705,750.
During fiscal 1991, the Company entered into a Tax Indemnification Agreement
with its shareholders prior to the initial public offering of its Common Stock
which provides for, among other things, an indemnification of such
shareholders for any losses or liabilities with respect to any additional
taxes (including interest, penalties and legal fees) resulting from the
Company's operations during the period in which it was an S Corporation. No
amounts were distributed under the Tax Indemnification Agreement during fiscal
1996.
In November 1996, the Company extended to James H. Baireuther, Senior Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer, a relocation loan in the amount of
$85,000 in connection with Mr. Baireuther's employment by the Company. Such
loan bears interest at 9.0% and is due and payable on November 21, 1997.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Shareholder proposals intended to be presented at the 1998 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders must be received by the Company at the address appearing on the
first page of this proxy statement by January 14, 1998 in order to be
considered for inclusion in the Company's proxy statement and form of proxy
relating to that meeting.
SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
The enclosed form of proxy is being solicited on behalf of the Company's
Board of Directors. The Company will bear the cost of the solicitation of the
Board of Directors' proxies for the meeting, including the cost of preparing,
assembling and mailing proxy materials, the handling and tabulation of proxies
received, and charges of brokerage houses and other institutions, nominees and
fiduciaries in forwarding such materials to beneficial owners.
In addition to the mailing of the proxy material, such solicitation may be
made in person or by telephone, telegraph or telecopy by directors, officers
or regular employees of the Company, or by a professional proxy solicitation
organization engaged by the Company.
By order of the Board of Directors
ROBERT E. STERN
Vice President and Secretary
23
<PAGE>
Appendix A
(included with
the EDGAR filing
only)
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
AMENDED AND RESTATED 1991 STOCK OPTION
AND RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN
--------------------------------------------------
(As proposed to be amended at the
1997 Annual Meeting of Shareholders)
1. Purpose. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. hereby amends and restates The
-------
Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Amended and Restated 1991 Stock Option and Restricted Stock
Plan to be hereafter known as The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Amended and Restated 1991
Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan (the "Plan"). The Plan is intended to
recognize the contributions made to the Company by employees (including
employees who are members of the Board of Directors), directors, consultants and
advisors of the Company or any Affiliate, to provide such persons with
additional incentive to devote themselves to the future success of the Company
or an Affiliate, and to improve the ability of the Company or an Affiliate to
attract, retain, and motivate individuals upon whom the Company's sustained
growth and financial success depend, by providing such persons with an
opportunity to acquire or increase their proprietary interest in the Company
through receipt of rights to acquire the Company's Common Stock, par value $.01
per share (the "Common Stock").
2. Definitions. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the
-----------
following terms shall have the following meanings:
(a) "Affiliate" means a corporation which is a parent corporation
or a subsidiary corporation with respect to the Company within the meaning of
section 424(e) or (f) of the Code.
(b) "Award" means an award of Restricted Stock, granted under the
Plan, designated by the Committee at the time of such grant as an Award, and
containing the terms specified herein for Awards.
(c) "Award Document" means the document described in Section 9
which sets forth the terms and conditions of each grant of an Award.
(d) "Board of Directors" means the Board of Directors of the
Company.
(e) "Change of Control" shall have the meaning as set forth in
Section 10 of the Plan.
<PAGE>
(f) "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
(g) "Committee" shall have the meaning set forth in subsection 3(a).
(h) "Company" means The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc., a Pennsylvania
corporation.
(i) "Disability" shall have the meaning set forth in section 22(e)(3)
of the Code.
(j) "Fair Market Value" shall have the meaning set forth in Section
8(b) of the Plan.
(k) "Grantee" means a person who is granted Restricted Stock.
(l) "ISO" means an Option granted under the Plan which is intended to
qualify as an "incentive stock option" within the meaning of section 422(b) of
the Code.
(m) "Non-qualified Stock Option" means an Option granted under the
Plan which is not intended to qualify, or otherwise does not qualify, as an
"incentive stock option" within the meaning of section 422(b) of the Code.
(n) "Option" means either an ISO or a Non-qualified Stock Option
granted under the Plan.
(o) "Optionee" means a person to whom an Option has been granted under
the Plan, which Option has not been exercised and has not expired or terminated.
(p) "Option Document" means the document described in Section 8 which
sets forth the terms and conditions of each grant of Options.
(q) "Option Price" means the price at which Shares may be purchased
upon exercise of an Option, as calculated pursuant to subsection 8(b).
(r) "Restricted Stock" means shares issued to a person pursuant to an
Award.
(s) "Shares" means the shares of Common Stock of the Company which are
the subject of Options or Awards.
(t) "Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended.
-2-
<PAGE>
3. Administration of the Plan.
--------------------------
(a) Committee. The Plan shall be administered by the Board of
---------
Directors, or, in the discretion of the Board of Directors, by a committee
composed of two or more of the members of the Company's Board of Directors. To
the extent possible, and to the extent the Board of Directors deems it necessary
or appropriate, each member of the Committee shall be a "Non-Employee Director"
(as such term is defined in Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act) and
an "Outside Director" (as such term is defined in Treasury Regulations Section
1.162-27 promulgated under the Code); however, the Board may designate two
committees to operate and administer the Plan in its stead. Any of such
committees designated by the Board of Directors is referred to as the
"Committee," and, to the extent that the Plan is administered by the Board of
Directors, "Committee" shall also refer to the Board of Directors as appropriate
in the particular context. The Board of Directors may from time to time remove
members from, or add members to, the Committee. Vacancies on the Committee,
howsoever caused, shall be filled by the Board of Directors.
(b) Meetings. The Committee shall hold meetings at such times and
--------
places as it may determine. Acts approved at a meeting by a majority of the
members of the Committee or acts approved in writing by the unanimous consent of
the members of the Committee shall be the valid acts of the Committee.
(c) Grants. The Committee shall from time to time at its
------
discretion direct the Company to grant Options or Awards pursuant to the terms
of the Plan. The Committee shall have plenary authority to (i) determine the
Optionees and Grantees to whom and the times at which Options and Awards shall
be granted, (ii) determine the price at which Options shall be granted, (iii)
determine the type of Option to be granted and the number of Shares subject
thereto, (iv) determine the number of Shares to be granted pursuant to each
Award and (v) approve the form and terms and conditions of the Option Documents
and of each Award; all subject, however, to the express provisions of the Plan.
In making such determinations, the Committee may take into account the nature of
the Optionee's or Grantee's services and responsibilities, the Optionee's or
Grantee's present and potential contribution to the Company's success and such
other factors as it may deem relevant. The interpretation and construction by
the Committee of any provisions of the Plan or of any Option or Award granted
under it shall be final, binding and conclusive.
(d) Exculpation. No member of the Committee shall be personally
-----------
liable for monetary damages as such for any action taken or any failure to take
any action in connection with the administration of the Plan or the granting of
Options or Awards thereunder unless (i) the member of the Committee has breached
or failed to perform the duties of his office within the meaning of subchapter B
of Chapter 17 of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, as amended,
and (ii) the breach or failure to perform constitutes self-dealing, willful
misconduct or recklessness; provided, however, that the provisions of this
subsection 3(c) shall not apply to the responsibility or liability of a member
of the Committee pursuant to any criminal statute or to the
-3-
<PAGE>
liability of a member of the Committee for the payment of taxes pursuant to
local, state or federal law.
(e) Indemnification. Service on the Committee shall constitute
---------------
service as a member of the Board of Directors of the Company. Each member of
the Committee shall be entitled without further act on his part to indemnity
from the Company to the fullest extent provided by applicable law and the
Company's Articles of Incorporation and/or Bylaws in connection with or arising
out of any action, suit or proceeding with respect to the administration of the
Plan or the granting of Options or Awards thereunder in which he or she may be
involved by reason of his or her being or having been a member of the Committee,
whether or not he or she continues to be such member of the Committee at the
time of the action, suit or proceeding.
4. Grants of Options under the Plan. Grants of Options under the
--------------------------------
Plan may be in the form of a Non-qualified Stock Option, an ISO or a combination
thereof, at the discretion of the Committee.
5. Eligibility. All employees (including employees who are members
-----------
of the Board of Directors of the Company or its Affiliates), directors,
consultants and advisors of the Company or its Affiliates shall be eligible to
receive Options or Awards hereunder; provided, that directors (other than
directors who are employees of the Company or its Affiliates) shall not be
eligible to receive ISOs. The Committee, in its sole discretion, shall
determine whether an individual qualifies as an employee, consultant or advisor
of the Company or its Affiliates.
6. Shares Subject to Plan. The aggregate maximum number of Shares
----------------------
for which Options or Awards may be granted pursuant to the Plan is 1,900,000,
adjusted as provided in Section 11. The Shares shall be issued from authorized
and unissued Common Stock or Common Stock held in or hereafter acquired for the
treasury of the Company. If an Option terminates or expires without having been
fully exercised for any reason, or if Restricted Stock is cancelled or forfeited
pursuant to the terms of an Award, the Shares for which the Option was not
exercised or which were cancelled or forfeited pursuant to the Award may again
be the subject of an Option or Award granted pursuant to the Plan.
7. Term of the Plan. No Option or Award may be granted under the
----------------
Plan after September 15, 2001.
8. Option Documents and Terms. Each Option granted under the Plan
--------------------------
shall be a Non-qualified Stock Option unless the Option shall be specifically
designated at the time of grant to be an ISO for federal income tax purposes.
Options granted pursuant to the Plan shall be evidenced by the Option Documents
in such form as the Committee shall from time to time approve, which Option
Documents shall comply with and be subject to the following terms and conditions
and such other terms and conditions as the Committee shall from time to time
require which are not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan.
-4-
<PAGE>
(a) Number of Option Shares. Each Option Document shall state the
-----------------------
number of Shares to which it pertains. An Optionee may receive more than one
Option, which may include Options which are intended to be ISOs and Options
which are not intended to be ISOs, but only on the terms and subject to the
conditions and restrictions of the Plan. The maximum number of Shares for which
Options may be granted to any single Optionee in any fiscal year, adjusted as
provided in Section 11, shall be 500,000 Shares.
(b) Option Price. Each Option Document shall state the Option Price
------------
which, for all ISOs, shall be at least 100% of the Fair Market Value of the
Shares at the time the Option is granted as determined by the Committee in
accordance with this subsection 8(b); provided, however, that if an ISO is
granted to an Optionee who then owns, directly or by attribution under section
424(d) of the Code, shares possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting
power of all classes of stock of the Company or an Affiliate, then the Option
Price shall be at least 110% of the Fair Market Value of the Shares at the time
the Option is granted. If the Common Stock is traded in a public market, then
the Fair Market Value per share shall be, if the Shares are listed on a national
securities exchange or included in the NASDAQ National Market System, the last
reported sale price thereof on the relevant date, or, if the Shares are not so
listed or included, the mean between the last reported "bid" and "asked" prices
thereof, as reported on NASDAQ or, if not so reported, as reported by the
National Daily Quotation Bureau, Inc., or as reported in a customary financial
reporting service, as applicable and as the Committee determines, on the
relevant date. If the Common Stock is not traded in a public market on the
relevant date, the Fair Market Value shall be as determined in good faith by the
Committee.
(c) Exercise. No Option shall be deemed to have been exercised prior
--------
to the receipt by the Company of written notice of such exercise and of payment
in full of the Option Price for the Shares to be purchased. Each such notice
shall specify the number of Shares to be purchased and shall (unless the Shares
are covered by a then current registration statement or a Notification under
Regulation A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act")), contain
the Optionee's acknowledgment in form and substance satisfactory to the Company
that (i) such Shares are being purchased for investment and not for distribution
or resale (other than a distribution or resale which, in the opinion of counsel
satisfactory to the Company, may be made without violating the registration
provisions of the Act), (ii) the Optionee has been advised and understands that
(A) the Shares have not been registered under the Act and are "restricted
securities" within the meaning of Rule 144 under the Act and are subject to
restrictions on transfer and (B) the Company is under no obligation to register
the Shares under the Act or to take any action which would make available to the
Optionee any exemption from such registration, (iii) such Shares may not be
transferred without compliance with all applicable federal and state securities
laws, and (iv) an appropriate legend referring to the foregoing restrictions on
transfer and any other restrictions imposed under the Option Documents may be
endorsed on the certificates. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Company
determines that issuance of Shares should be delayed pending (I) registration
under federal or state securities laws, (II) the receipt of an opinion that an
appropriate exemption from such registration is available, (III) the listing or
inclusion of the Shares on any
-5-
<PAGE>
securities exchange or in an automated quotation system or (IV) the consent or
approval of any governmental regulatory body whose consent or approval is
necessary in connection with the issuance of such Shares, the Company may defer
exercise of any Option granted hereunder until any of the events described in
this Subsection 8(c) has occurred.
(d) Medium of Payment. An Optionee shall pay for Shares (i) in cash,
-----------------
(ii) by certified check payable to the order of the Company, or (iii) by such
other mode of payment as the Committee may approve, including payment through a
broker in accordance with procedures permitted by Regulation T of the Federal
Reserve Board. Furthermore, the Committee may provide in an Option Document
that payment may be made in whole or in part in shares of the Company's Common
Stock held by the Optionee for at least six months. If payment is made in whole
or in part in shares of the Company's Common Stock, then the Optionee shall
deliver to the Company certificates registered in the name of such Optionee
representing the shares owned by such Optionee, free of all liens, claims and
encumbrances of every kind and having an aggregate Fair Market Value on the date
of delivery that is at least as great as the Option Price of the Shares (or
relevant portion thereof) with respect to which such Option is to be exercised
by the payment in shares of Common Stock, accompanied by stock powers duly
endorsed in blank by the Optionee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee
may impose from time to time such limitations and prohibitions on the use of
shares of the Common Stock to exercise an Option as it deems appropriate.
(e) Termination of Options.
----------------------
(i) No Option shall be exercisable after the first to occur of
the following:
(A) Expiration of the Option term specified in the Option
Document, which shall not exceed (1) ten years from the date of grant, or (2)
five years from the date of grant of an ISO if the Optionee on the date of grant
owns, directly or by attribution under section 424(d) of the Code, shares
possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all
classes of stock of the Company or of an Affiliate;
(B) Expiration of ninety (90) days from the date the
Optionee's employment or service with the Company or its Affiliates terminates
for any reason other than Disability or death or as otherwise specified in
subsection 8(e)(i)(D) or Section 10 below;
(C) Expiration of one year from the date the Optionee's
employment or service with the Company or its Affiliates terminates due to the
Optionee's Disability or death;
(D) A finding by the Committee, after full consideration of
the facts presented on behalf of both the Company and the Optionee, that the
Optionee has breached his employment or service contract with the Company or an
Affiliate, or has been engaged in any sort
-6-
<PAGE>
of disloyalty to the Company or an Affiliate, including, without limitation,
fraud, embezzlement, theft, commission of a felony or proven dishonesty in the
course of his employment or service, or has disclosed trade secrets or
confidential information of the Company or an Affiliate. In such event, in
addition to immediate termination of the Option, the Optionee shall
automatically forfeit all Shares for which the Company has not yet delivered the
share certificates upon refund by the Company of the Option Price of such
Shares. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Company may
withhold delivery of share certificates pending the resolution of any inquiry
that could lead to a finding resulting in a forfeiture; or
(E) The date, if any, set by the Board of Directors as an
accelerated expiration date pursuant to Section 10 hereof.
(ii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may extend the
period during which an Option may be exercised to a date no later than the date
of the expiration of the Option term specified in the Option Documents, as they
may be amended, provided that any change pursuant to this subsection 8(e)(ii)
that would cause an ISO to become a Non-qualified Stock Option may be made only
with the consent of the Optionee.
(f) Transfers. No Option granted under the Plan may be transferred,
---------
except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. During the lifetime
of the person to whom an Option is granted, such Option may be exercised only by
him. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Non-qualified Stock Option may be
transferred pursuant to the terms of a "qualified domestic relations order,"
within the meaning of sections 401(a)(13) and 414(p) of the Code or within the
meaning of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as
amended.
(g) Holding Period. No Option granted under the Plan may be exercised
--------------
unless six months, or such greater period of time as may be specified in the
Option Documents, have elapsed from the date of grant.
(h) Limitation on ISO Grants. In no event shall the aggregate Fair
------------------------
Market Value of the Shares (determined at the time the ISO is granted) with
respect to which an ISO is exercisable for the first time by the Optionee during
any calendar year (under all incentive stock option plans of the Company or its
Affiliates) exceed $100,000.
(i) Other Provisions. The Option Documents shall contain such other
----------------
provisions including, without limitation, provisions authorizing the Committee
to accelerate the exercisability of all or any portion of an Option granted
pursuant to the Plan, additional restrictions upon the exercise of the Option or
additional limitations upon the term of the Option, as the Committee shall deem
advisable.
(j) Amendment. The Committee shall have the right to amend Option
---------
Documents issued to an Optionee, subject to the Optionee's consent if such
amendment is not
-7-
<PAGE>
favorable to the Optionee, except that the consent of the Optionee shall not be
required for any amendment made under Section 10 of the Plan.
9. Award Documents and Terms. Awards granted pursuant to the Plan
-------------------------
shall be evidenced by an Award Document in such form as the Committee shall from
time to time approve, which Award Document shall comply with and be subject to
the following terms and conditions and such other terms and conditions as the
Committee shall from time to time require which are not inconsistent with the
terms of the Plan. A Grantee shall not have any rights with respect to an Award
until and unless such Grantee shall have executed an Award Document containing
the terms and conditions determined by the Committee.
(a) Number of Shares and Price. Each Award Document shall state
--------------------------
the number of Shares of Restricted Stock to which it pertains. No cash or other
consideration shall be required to be paid by the Grantee for an Award.
(b) Certificates. Each Grantee shall be issued a certificate in
------------
respect of Shares subject to an Award. Such certificate shall be registered in
the name of the Grantee and shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the
terms, conditions and restrictions applicable to such Award. The Company may
require that the certificate evidencing such Shares be held by the Company until
all restrictions on such Shares have lapsed.
(c) Restrictions. Subject to the provisions of the Plan and the
------------
Award Documents, during a period set by the Committee commencing with the date
of such Award, which period shall extend for at least six months from the date
of such Award (except as provided by Paragraph 9(g)), the Grantee shall not be
permitted to sell, transfer, pledge, assign, or otherwise dispose of Shares of
Restricted Stock awarded under the Plan.
(d) Lapse of Restrictions. Subject to the provisions of the Plan
---------------------
and the Award Document, restrictions upon Shares of Restricted Stock subject to
an Award shall lapse at such time or times and on such terms and conditions as
the Committee may determine and set forth in the Award Document; provided,
however, that the restrictions upon such Shares shall lapse only if the Grantee
on the date of such lapse is, and has continuously been an employee of the
Company or its affiliates from the date such Award was granted. The Award
Document may provide for the lapse of restrictions in installments, as
determined by the Committee. In the event that a Grantee's employment terminates
as a result of the Grantee's death or Disability, all remaining restrictions
with respect to such Grantee's Restricted Stock shall immediately lapse, unless
otherwise provided in the Award Document.
(e) Rights of the Grantee. Grantees may have such rights with
---------------------
respect to the Shares subject to an Award as may be determined by the Committee
and set forth in the Award Document, including the right to vote such Shares,
and the right to receive dividends paid with the respect to such Shares.
-8-
<PAGE>
(f) Dividends. The Committee may, in its sole discretion, provide
---------
in an Award Document, that an amount equivalent to any dividends payable with
respect to the number of Shares of Restricted Stock granted, but not yet
delivered, be invested and reinvested in additional Shares of Restricted Stock,
which shall be subject to the same restrictions as Restricted Stock to which the
dividends relate. Such Shares of Restricted Stock shall be reflected in
accordance with the terms of the Award Document, by the credit of additional
full or fractional Shares, calculated to the thousandth of a Share, in an amount
equal to the value of the declared dividend divided by the Fair Market Value of
a Share on the date of payment of the dividend. Any arrangements for the credit
of additional Shares of Restricted Stock shall terminate if, and to the extent
that, under the terms of the Award Document, the right to receive the Restricted
Stock to which the dividends relate shall terminate or lapse.
(g) Forfeiture of Restricted Stock. In the event that a Grantee's
------------------------------
employment with the Company terminates for any reason, other than because of
death or Disability, any Restricted Stock held by such Grantee which is still
subject to restrictions shall be forfeited by the Grantee and reacquired by the
Company. The Company may, in its sole discretion, waive, in whole or in part,
any remaining restrictions with respect to such Grantee's Restricted Stock.
(h) Delivery of Shares. When the restrictions imposed on
------------------
Restricted Stock expire or have been cancelled with respect to one or more
Shares (whether issued as an Award or as additional Restricted Stock pursuant to
Paragraph 9(f)), the Company shall notify the Grantee that such restrictions no
longer apply with respect to such Shares, and shall deliver to the Grantee (or
the person to whom ownership rights in such Restricted Stock may have passed by
will or the laws of descent and distribution) a certificate for the number of
Shares of Restricted Stock for which restrictions have been cancelled or have
expired, without any legend or restrictions (except those that may be imposed by
the Committee in its sole judgment to ensure compliance with the then existing
requirements of the Act and the Exchange Act). The right to payment for any
fractional Shares that may have accrued shall be satisfied in cash based on the
Fair Market Value of a Share on the date the restriction with respect to such
fractional Share lapsed or terminated.
10. Change of Control. In the event of a Change of Control, the
-----------------
Committee may take whatever action with respect to Options and Awards
outstanding as it deems necessary or desirable, including, without limitation,
accelerating the expiration or termination date or the date of exercisability in
any Option Documents, or removing any restrictions from or imposing any
additional restrictions on any outstanding Awards.
A "Change of Control" shall be deemed to have occurred upon the
earliest to occur of the following events: (i) the date the shareholders of the
Company (or the Board of Directors, if shareholder action is not required)
approve a plan or other arrangement pursuant to which the Company will be
dissolved or liquidated, or (ii) the date the shareholders of the Company (or
the Board of Directors, if shareholder action is not required) approve a
definitive agreement to sell or otherwise dispose of substantially all of the
assets of the Company, or (iii) the date the
-9-
<PAGE>
shareholders of the Company (or the Board of Directors, if shareholder action is
not required) and the shareholders of the other constituent corporation (or its
board of directors if shareholder action is not required) have approved a
definitive agreement to merge or consolidate the Company with or into such other
corporation, other than, in either case, a merger or consolidation of the
Company in which holders of shares of the Company's Common Stock or other common
voting stock immediately prior to the merger or consolidation will hold at least
a majority of the ownership of common stock of the surviving corporation (and,
if one class of common stock is not the only class of voting securities entitled
to vote on the election of directors of the surviving corporation, a majority of
the voting power of the surviving corporation's voting securities) immediately
after the merger or consolidation, which common stock (and if applicable voting
securities) is to be held in the same proportion as such holders' ownership of
Common Stock or other common voting stock of the Company immediately before the
merger or consolidation, or (iv) the date any entity, person or group (within
the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) other
than M. Thomas Grumbacher, members of his family, his lineal descendants, or
entities of which such persons are the beneficial owners of at least fifty
percent (50%) of the voting interests, the Company or any of its subsidiaries,
or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the
Company or any of its subsidiaries, shall have become the beneficial owner of,
or shall have obtained voting control over, outstanding shares of the Company's
voting stock representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting power of
all of the Company's outstanding voting stock, or (v) the first day after the
date this Plan is effective when directors constituting a majority of the Board
of Directors shall have been members of the Board of Directors for less than
twelve (12) months, unless the nomination for election of each new director who
was not a director at the beginning of such twelve (12) month period was
approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office
who were directors at the beginning of such period.
11. Adjustments on Changes in Capitalization. The aggregate number
----------------------------------------
of Shares and class of Shares as to which Options and Awards may be granted
hereunder, the limitation granted to individuals set forth in Section 8(a)
hereof, the number of Shares covered by each outstanding Option or Award, and
the Option Price for each related outstanding Option, shall be appropriately
adjusted in the event of a stock dividend, stock split, recapitalization or
other change in the number or class of issued and outstanding equity securities
of the Company resulting from a subdivision or consolidation of the Common Stock
and/or, if appropriate, other outstanding equity securities or a
recapitalization or other capital adjustment (not including the issuance of
Common Stock on the conversion of other securities of the Company which are
convertible into Common Stock) affecting the Common Stock which is effected
without receipt of consideration by the Company. The Committee shall have
authority to determine the adjustments to be made under this Section, and any
such determination by the Committee shall be final, binding and conclusive;
provided, however, that no adjustment shall be made which will cause an ISO to
lose its status as such without the consent of the Optionee, except for
adjustments made pursuant to Section 10 hereof.
-10-
<PAGE>
12. Amendment of the Plan. The Board of Directors of the Company may
---------------------
amend the Plan from time to time in such manner as it may deem advisable.
Nevertheless, the Board of Directors of the Company may not: (i) change the
class of individuals eligible to receive an ISO, (ii) increase the maximum
number of Shares as to which Options or Awards may be granted, or (iii) make any
other change or amendment as to which shareholder approval is required in order
to satisfy the conditions set forth in Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange
Act in each case without obtaining approval, within twelve months before or
after such action, by (A) vote of a majority of the votes cast at a duly called
meeting of the shareholders at which a quorum representing a majority of all
outstanding voting stock of the Company is, either in person or by proxy,
present and voting on the matter or by (B) a method and in a degree that would
be treated as adequate under applicable state law for actions requiring
shareholder approval, including without limitation by written consent of
shareholders constituting a majority of all shares of outstanding voting stock
of the Company entitled to vote. No amendment to the Plan shall adversely
affect any outstanding Option or Award, however, without the consent of the
Optionee or Grantee.
13. No Commitment to Retain. The grant of an Option or Award
-----------------------
pursuant to the Plan shall not be construed to imply or to constitute evidence
of any agreement, express or implied, on the part of the Company or any
Affiliate to retain the Optionee or Grantee in the employ of the Company or an
Affiliate and/or as a member of the Company's Board of Directors or in any other
capacity.
14. Withholding of Taxes. Whenever the Company proposes or is
--------------------
required to deliver or transfer Shares in connection with an Award or the
exercise of an Option, the Company shall have the right to (a) require the
recipient to remit or otherwise make available to the Company an amount
sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and/or local withholding tax
requirements prior to the delivery or transfer of any certificate or
certificates for such Shares or (b) take whatever other action it deems
necessary to protect its interests with respect to tax liabilities. The
Company's obligation to make any delivery or transfer of Shares shall be
conditioned on the Optionee's or Grantee's compliance, to the Company's
satisfaction, with any withholding requirement.
15. Interpretation. The Plan is intended to enable transactions
--------------
under the Plan with respect to directors and officers (within the meaning of
Section 16(a) under the Securities Exchange Act) to satisfy the conditions of
Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act; any provision of the Plan which
would cause a conflict with such conditions shall be deemed null and void to the
extent permitted by applicable law and in the discretion of the Board of
Directors.
-11-
<PAGE>
APPENDIX 2
================================================================================
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
Long-Term Incentive Plan For Principals
ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDE
MARCH 1, 1996
================================================================================
<PAGE>
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PROGRAM
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SECTION PAGE
- - --------------------------------------------- ----------
<S> <C>
1. Introduction 1
2. Objectives 2
3. Overview 3
4. Stock Options 4
5. Performance Awards 5
6. Grant Size Determination and Potential Award Value 7
7. Termination Provisions 9
8. Change-in-Control Provisions 10
9. Administration 11
10. Illustrations 12
</TABLE>
Appendix
Plan and Agreements
<PAGE>
================================================================================
1. INTRODUCTION
================================================================================
The Bon-Ton's compensation program for the principals of the Company has four
components:
1. BASE SALARY, which provides a competitive rate of fixed pay reflecting the
market value of the executive's expertise, function, and contribution to
the Company.
2. ANNUAL BONUS, which provides a reward for achieving key one-year operating
and financial objectives related to the growth and profitability of the
Company.
3. DEFERRED COMPENSATION, which allows principals to elect to defer part of
base salary and bonus to accumulate capital to supplement the Company's
retirement program and/or to support intermediate financial needs. This
program provides flexibility to accommodate personal financial
considerations, which can vary by individual and for the same individual
over time, based on age and other factors.
4. LONG-TERM INCENTIVE, which provides a reward for achieving key long-term
financial objectives related to increases in shareholder value. Like the
deferred compensation plan, this plan is intended to allow principals to
accumulate capital to supplement the Company's retirement program and/or to
support intermediate financial needs, with flexibility to accommodate
various personal financial considerations.
The purpose of this guide is to describe the fourth component of the pay
package: Long-Term Incentive Plan for Principals. The guide outlines the plan's
objectives, incentive vehicles, links to Company performance, mechanics, and
illustrations of how it works. Any questions may be directed to the Chief
Financial Officer.
-1-
<PAGE>
================================================================================
2. OBJECTIVES
================================================================================
The long-term incentive component of the principals' pay program is intended to
work in tandem with the other three components of the pay program to achieve the
following objectives:
. To provide a competitive component of executive income linked to the
increase in the Company's shareholder value.
. To focus and reward executives for stock price appreciation.
. To focus and reward executives for achieving long-term performance
objectives.
. To provide executives with a capital accumulation opportunity that is
consistent with their individual attitudes toward risk and the stock market
and their personal considerations regarding their investment portfolios.
-2-
<PAGE>
================================================================================
3. OVERVIEW
================================================================================
The Long-Term Incentive Plan comprises two vehicles: stock options and
performance awards. Both stock options and performance awards are granted
annually.
The stock option grants are similar to those that have been made historically.
They are explained in Section 4 of this guide. The performance award component
offers three incentive vehicles from which participants chose one each year:
performance units, performance shares, and performance stock options (in
addition to the stock option component). The performance awards vest at the end
of a three-year performance cycle to the extent a specified performance goal is
achieved. Performance awards are described in detail in Section 5.
As explained in detail in Section 6, the size of the grants is determined as
follows:
. Target present value of the long-term opportunity is established for each
principal based on target compensation mix and competitive practice.
. Target present value is divided in two portions, one for stock options and
one for performance awards.
. For stock options: target present value for the stock option component is
divided by the present value of one option to determine the number of
stock options. For performance awards: target present value for the
performance award component is divided by the present value of the award
vehicle selected.
-3-
<PAGE>
===============================================================================
4. STOCK OPTIONS
===============================================================================
Stock options granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan will operate according
to the terms and conditions set forth in the Amended and Restated 1991 Stock
Option and Restricted Stock Plan (contained in the Appendix of this guide).
Each grant of stock options will be evidenced by an Option Document, which sets
forth the terms and conditions of each grant.
Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) will be granted to the extent possible under
prevailing tax laws, unless otherwise decided by the Compensation Committee.
The remainder of the stock option grants will be nonqualified stock options.
The term of the stock options, which will be specified in the Option Document,
will generally be ten years. The options will have a vesting schedule in the
Option Document which prescribes when and under what conditions the options
become exercisable. Generally, the options will become exercisable in four equal
annual installments beginning one year after the date of grant, though this
vesting schedule may vary from grant to grant. The options remain exercisable
until the end of their term, or earlier in the case of termination of employment
(as explained in Section 8). They may become exercisable earlier in the event of
a change of control (as explained in Section 9).
The exercise price of the options is the Fair Market Value of the shares at the
time the option is granted, which is deemed to be the last reported sale price
on the grant date.
-4-
<PAGE>
===============================================================================
5. PERFORMANCE AWARDS
===============================================================================
Each year performance awards are granted with a new three-year performance
cycle.
At the outset of each performance cycle, the participant selects one of three
awards which will be granted for that three-year cycle. The award selected may
be the same as or different than the award selected for other performance
cycles.
The three award vehicles are as follows:
1. Performance Units
A performance unit is a unit whose value equals the price of a share of The
Bon-Ton Stock on the date of grant that is granted to the participant at
the beginning of the performance cycle and earned at the end of the
performance cycle if the performance goals set for the cycle are met. The
value of the Unit remains fixed throughout the performance cycle. At the
end of the cycle, the value of the Units that are earned is paid to the
participant in cash. If the Units are not earned, there is no payout.
2. Performance Shares
A performance share is a share of The Bon-Ton Stock that is granted to the
participant at the beginning of the performance cycle and earned at the end
of the cycle if the performance goals set for the cycle are met. The value
of the Share fluctuates throughout the performance cycle with the price of
The Bon-Ton Stock. The Shares have a forfeiture restriction until the end
of the cycle. If the Shares are earned, the restriction lapses; if the
Shares are not earned, the shares are forfeited.
3. Performance Stock Options
A performance stock option is a nonqualified stock option to buy a share of
The Bon-Ton stock at the price on the date of grant that is granted to
the participant at the beginning of the performance cycle and earned at the
end of the performance cycle if the performance goals set for the cycle are
met. The value of the options is zero when granted and fluctuates
throughout the performance cycle with the appreciation in the share price.
The options have a forfeiture restriction until the end of the performance
cycle. If they are earned, the restriction lapses; if they are not earned,
they are forfeited.
-5-
<PAGE>
All awards are earned at the end of the three-year performance cycle if the
performance goal(s) set for the cycle are achieved. If the goal(s) are met or
exceeded, 100% of the awards are earned. If the goal(s) are not achieved, all
awards are forfeited. However, if the goal(s) are not achieved, the
Compensation Committee has the authority to extend the performance cycle by one
or two years, at the end of which time actual performance over the extended
cycle will be measured against the original goals set for the cycle. If the
goals are met or exceeded over the extended performance cycle, 50% of the awards
are earned and 50% are forfeited. If the goals are not achieved, all awards are
forfeited.
A new three-year performance cycle begins each year. Performance measures and
goals are established at the beginning of each cycle. One or more performance
measures may be used for a cycle. The performance goals may be expressed as an
absolute dollar or percentage amount or as a percentile ranking against as
defined peer group. For a particular performance cycle, both the performance
measures and goals set for each measure may be the same or different than the
measures and goals set for other performance cycles. The performance measures
will be indicators of long-term shareholder value, such as Return on
Shareholder Equity (ROE), Economic Value Added (EVA), or Total Shareholder
Return (stock price appreciation plus dividends).
-6-
<PAGE>
================================================================================
6. GRANT SIZE DETERMINATION AND POTENTIAL AWARD VALUE
================================================================================
A specified percent is applied to the participant's base salary to determine the
target present value of the long-term incentive opportunity. The percentage to
be applied may or may not be the same for each participant and may or may not be
the same each year. Generally, though, the percent will be the same for all
participants and will be the same year to year (around 25%).
The target present value of long-term incentive opportunity for each participant
is divided between stock options and performance awards. The balance between the
two may or may not be the same for each participant and may or may not be the
same each year. Generally, the split will be half stock options, half
performance awards for all participants each year.
To determine the number of options in the stock option grant, the portion of the
present value of the long-term incentive opportunity assigned to stock options
is divided by the present value of one stock option.
The present value of one stock option is calculated as follows:
Share price on the grant date (i.e., exercise price) projected
three years based on the assumed compound annual growth rate for
the cycle minus the share price on the grant date equals the gain
in one stock option at the end of three years. The gain is
discounted back three years based on the assumed interest rate
for the cycle to determine the present value of the stock option.
To determine the size of the performance award grant, the portion of the present
value of the long-term incentive opportunity assigned to performance awards is
divided by the present value of the performance award selected by the
participant.
The present value of one performance unit is determined as follows:
Share price on grant date, which is the amount that will be paid out at the
end of the three-year performance cycle, is discounted back three years
based on the assumed interest rate for the cycle to determine the present
value of one Unit.
-7-
<PAGE>
The present value of one performance share is determined as follows:
Share price on grant date projected three years based on the assumed
compound annual growth rate for the cycle is the value of one Share at the
end of the three-year cycle. The value is discounted back three years based
on the assumed interest rate for the cycle to determine the present value
of one Share.
The present value of one performance stock option is determined as described
above for stock options.
The grants determined for the three award vehicles will all have the same
present value on the grant date. Performance shares have the highest present
value per share, so there will be fewer of them in the grant than either units
or options. Performance stock options have the lowest present value per option,
so there will be more of them in the grant than either shares or units.
The actual value at the end of the performance cycle is fixed for the Units but
is variable (dependent on share price) for the Shares and Options. The least
leveraged/lowest risk award vehicle is the performance unit, since the value is
fixed on the date of grant. The most leveraged/highest risk award vehicle is the
performance stock options since the Option could be underwater, i.e., with no
value, when it is earned (though the participant could hold it seven years until
the end of the option term). The middle award vehicle is the performance share
whose value when earned could be higher or lower than its initial value when
granted (and the participant could hold it indefinitely).
-8-
<PAGE>
================================================================================
7. TERMINATION PROVISIONS
================================================================================
A participant who leaves the Company for any reason other than death,
disability, or normal retirement as agreed between the participant and the
Company forfeits all unvested stock options and unearned performance awards. The
participant has ninety days from the termination date to exercise vested stock
options.
If a participant dies or becomes disabled, all unvested options vest and
unearned performance awards are paid out. The participant or beneficiary may
exercise the options within one year of the date of death/disability.
In the event of a normal retirement as agreed between the participant and the
Company, the participant may hold unvested stock options until they vest and
then has one year from the date of vesting to exercise them. The retiree may
exercise options that are vested on the retirement date within one year of
retirement. Performance awards are partially earned and paid out on the
retirement date to the extent the Compensation Committee deems the performance
goals have been met and the portion of the performance cycle that has elapsed.
Notwithstanding these general guidelines, the Committee designated by the Board
of Directors to administer the plan may extend the period following termination
during which an option may be exercised but not beyond the end of the option
term.
-9-
<PAGE>
================================================================================
8. CHANGE-IN-CONTROL PROVISIONS
================================================================================
In the event of Change of Control as defined in the Amended and Restated 1991
Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan, all unvested stock options vest
immediately. Unearned performance awards are earned based on the price of the
stock in the sale of the Company and as if the performance cycle had ended and
all performance goals had been met.
-10-
<PAGE>
================================================================================
9. ADMINISTRATION
================================================================================
The Plan will be administered by the Committee of the Board of Directors
designated to administer the Amended and Restated 1991 Stock Option and
Restricted Stock Plan. The Committee will have the authority to approve the
participants, grants, vesting, performance measures and goals, and other
administrative matters.
The Chief Executive Officer will recommend to the Committee who should
participate, the size of incentive opportunities, and the balance between stock
options and performance awards. The Chief Financial Officer will provide input
regarding the performance measures and goals as well as assumptions required to
calculate the present value of stock options and performance awards, to ensure
that the Plan is consistent with the Company's long-term financial plans and
budgets.
The Committee will approve the earn-out of all performance awards based on their
assessment of the Company's performance against the performance goal(s).
-11-
<PAGE>
================================================================================
10. ILLUSTRATIONS
================================================================================
ASSUMPTIONS
- - -----------
Long-term incentive opportunity as a percent of base salary is 25%.
Split between stock options and performance awards is 50%/50%.
Salaries of the three participants are:
Participant A: $400,000
Participant B: $360,000
Participant C: $300,000
Performance award selections are:
Participant A: performance units
Participant B: performance shares
Participant C: performance stock options
Share price on grant date is $6.
Expected annual stock price growth rate is 8%. Discount factor is 6%.
Performance goal is 3-year ROE of 14.0%.
PARTICIPANTS' GRANTS
- - --------------------
Based on the above assumptions, the present value of each award vehicle and the
grant sizes for each participant are calculated as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
($000)
===================================================================================================================
LTI OPPORTUNITY PV GRANT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STOCK PERFORMANCE STOCK PERFORMANCE STOCK PERFORMANCE
PARTICIPANT SALARY TOTAL OPTIONS AWARDS OPTION AWARD OPTIONS AWARDS
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
A $400 $100 $50.0 $50.0 $ 1.31 $5.04 38,200 9,900
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B 360 90 45.0 45.0 1.31 6.35 34,350 7,100
- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C 300 75 37.5 37.5 1.31 1.31 28,625 28,625
===================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
-12-
<PAGE>
AWARD VALUE
- - -----------
Assume that actual share price doubles and at the end of performance cycle is
$12 and that 3-year average ROE is 14.5%, resulting in an earn-out of the
performance awards. The Value of each participant's awards is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
================================================================================
VALUE OF
-------------------------------------------------------------
PARTICIPANT STOCK OPTIONS PERFORMANCE AWARDS TOTAL
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
A $229,200 $ 59,400 $288,600
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B $206,100 $ 85,200 $291,300
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C $171,750 $171,750 $343,500
================================================================================
</TABLE>
Participant C, whose target long-term income is the lowest, ends up with the
largest value, because the options are the largest beneficiary of the doubling
in stock price. Conversely, Participant A, whose target incentive is the
highest, realizes the lowest income because the performance units do not benefit
at all from the doubled stock price.
Now assume that actual share price at the end of the cycle is $7 and 3-year
average ROE is 14.5%.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
================================================================================
VALUE OF
-------------------------------------------------------------
PARTICIPANT STOCK OPTIONS PERFORMANCE AWARDS TOTAL
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
A $38,200 $59,400 $97,600
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B $34,350 $49,700 $84,050
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C $28,625 $28,625 $57,250
================================================================================
</TABLE>
In this scenario, the participants earn much less than in the first example,
because the stock price hardly moved even though ROE was achieved. Note that
the participant who experiences the largest decline is C. A's decline is only
in the value of the stock option component; the value of the performance award
is the same in both scenarios because the value of performance units (A's
choice) is independent of stock price.
-13-
<PAGE>
APPENDIX 3
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM
THE BON.TON
FOR FISCAL YEAR 1995
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONTENTS: PAGE
- - --------- ----
<S> <C>
I. Plan Description (with Examples) 1
II. Goal Setting 6
III. Incentive Payouts 6
IV. Individual Worksheet 7
V. General Rules 9
Appendix A: Goal Weights
Appendix B: Plan Participants (limited distribution)
Appendix C: Weighting Criteria (limited distribution)
</TABLE>
EFFECTIVE: January 29, 1995
<PAGE>
Page 1
I. PLAN DESCRIPTION
A. Objectives of the Plan
----------------------
1. To attract, reward and retain key executives for their individual and
combined contribution to the achievement of specific goals and
objectives.
2. To emphasize the importance of high standards of individual
performance.
3. To reinforce teamwork to achieve the overall corporate financial
goals.
4. To reward the "flexibility factor" which is required in an environment
of continuing change and growth.
B. Eligibility
-----------
1. As determined by the Executive Committee.
2. See Appendix A
<PAGE>
Page 2
C. Basic Principles
----------------
1. The "target" bonus for each participant is expressed as a percent of
base salary. Any additional compensation for benefits, perks, bonuses,
travel, etc. is excluded.
Example: 10% of $50,000 = $5,000.
2. The actual "earned" bonus may range from 0 to 1.5 (150%) of the target
bonus.
Example: 1.5 x $5,000 = $7,500.
3. Earned bonuses are based on:
(a) Company performance, defined by "earnings before interest and
taxes", or EBIT.
(b) Individual performance, based on the written goals and objectives
for the current fiscal year.
(c) The executive's bonus opportunities are weighted by position.
Example: 60% based on company performance (EBIT)
40% based on individual performance (goals and
objectives).
4. Company performance and individual performance are evaluated
separately and earned payouts (bonuses) are made accordingly. Bonus
payments may be rounded to a $50 increment.
5. The participant must be rated "GOOD" or better to receive any bonus,
individual or company.
6. This incentive plan does not replace, reduce or change the basic
compensation plans now in place. Salaries and merit increases based on
a position and individual performance remain in effect and are
unchanged from the compensation programs that apply to all other
managers.
7. Bonus payments remain at the discretion of the Chief Executive
Officer. No bonuses (company or individual) may be paid if the company
fails to achieve "minimum results" established by the Executive
Committee or in the event of unusual circumstances that would make it
impractical to make bonus payments.
<PAGE>
Page 3
D. Measurement of Performance
--------------------------
1. The levels of performance required to earn various percentages of the
target bonus (i.e. 40%, 50%, 75%, 100%, 125% or 150%) are established
at the beginning of each fiscal year during the goal setting process.
Performance below the 40% level earns no ($0) bonus.
2. Company Performance
a) Based on financial plan for EBIT, as "booked" by March 1 of each
fiscal year.
b) The performance level will be evaluated each fiscal year and may
be changed from year to year.
c) Payouts to be 40%, 50%, 75%, 100%, 125% or 150%, depending on the
company's EBIT performance.
Example:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Performance Level Company Percent
(% to EBIT Plan) Perf. Rating Payout
----------------- ------------ ------
<S> <C> <C>
90 LOW GOOD 40%
100 GOOD (Plan) 50%
105 High,GOOD/Low VERY GOOD 75%
110 VERY GOOD 100%
115 High VERY GOOD 125%
120 EXCELLENT 150%
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
Page 4
3. Individual Performance
a) Based on the approved financial goals and personal objectives for the
participant, as "booked" or provided as the financial plan by March 1
for the Spring season and by September 1 for the Fall season of each
fiscal year.
b) Payouts to be 40%, 50%, 75%, 100%, 125%, or 150%, depending on the
overall (combined) performance evaluation of the participant's goals
and objectives (excludes "Skills and Responsibilities" appraisal).
Example:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Performance Level Individual Percent
(Goals and Objectives) Perf. Rating Payout
---------------------- ------------ -------
<S> <C> <C>
3.1 to 3.5 LOW GOOD 40%
3.5 to 3.8 Solid or High GOOD (Plan; 3.5) 50%
3.8 to 4.1 Low VERY GOOD 75%
4.1 to 4.4 VERY GOOD 100%
4.4 to 4.7 High VERY GOOD 125%
4.7 to 5.0 EXCELLENT 150%
</TABLE>
c) The Performance rating scale is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNSAT FAIR GOOD V.GOOD EXCELLENT
----- ---- ---- ------ ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
0-39 40-55 56-75 76-90 91-100
</TABLE>
d) Evaluation of goals and objectives - Example:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1) Goal Goal X Performance = Total Weighted
Number Weight Rating Points
------ ------ --------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1 10% 4.5 0.45
2 15% 4.0 0.60
3 15% 3.0 0.45
4 15% 4.0 0.60
5 5% 3.0 0.15
--- ----
TOTAL 60% 2.25
</TABLE>
2) Overall Performance Level
a) Total weighted individual performance = 2.25
b) Divided by goal weight (60%) = 3.75
c) 3.75 = Overall performance level of Solid/High GOOD,
eligible for a payout of 50%.
<PAGE>
Page 5
E. Bonus Calculation - Example:
-----------------
1. Individual Data
Salary $50,000
Target = 10% of Salary $ 5,000
Weightings:
60% on Company Performance $ 3,000
40% on Individual Performance $ 2,000
-------
TOTAL $ 5,000
2. Assumptions
a) Company EBIT performance level exceeds Plan by 5% (105%); 75%
bonus payout.
b) Individual goals and objectives rated 3.75 (Solid High GOOD); 50%
bonus payout.
3. Bonus Calculations
a) Company Performance: 75% x $3,000 = $2,250
Individual Performance: 50% x $2,000 = $1,000
------
TOTAL Bonus: $3,250 or
6.5% of salary
4. Merit Increase
a) Assume overall rating points = 75, High GOOD
b) Using "normal" merit increase guidelines, assume an increase to
the base salary of $2,000 (4.0%). Increase guidelines vary each
year.
c) New base salary: $50,000 + $2,000 = $52,000.
<PAGE>
Page 6
II. GOAL SETTING
A. Company Goal
------------
The company goal is based on "earnings before interest and taxes" or EBIT.
The Executive Committee approves the EBIT plan for each fiscal year.
B. Individual Goals and Objectives
-------------------------------
1. Individual goals and objectives are those established through the MBO
(management by objectives) process. These goals are written on the
company's goal-setting form and are kept on file in Human Resources.
2. Generally, all the goals and objectives and their individual
weightings used for the performance appraisal process are used for the
management incentive plan.
3. The performance rating for each goal and objective is the same for the
performance appraisal and the management incentive plan.
III. INCENTIVE PAYOUTS
A. Payouts will be in cash. All applicable taxes will be withheld.
NOTE: For the current year and future payouts, the company reserves the
option to provide payouts through the use of alternative
arrangements to cash, e.g. stock options (restricted and/or
incentive), stock grants (restricted and/or incentive), deferred
compensation, etc.
B. Payouts will usually be distributed in April or May following the end of
the fiscal year.
C. All payouts are reviewed and approved by the Executive Committee.
D. Eligible managers may defer a portion or all of their bonus into the
Deferred Compensation plan, as elected the prior year in accordance to the
Deferred Compensation Plan.
<PAGE>
Page 7
EXAMPLE
INDIVIDUAL WORKSHEET FOR MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN
FISCAL YEAR: 1995
Participant's Name: ________________________ Location: _______________
Title: ________________________ Employee #: _______________
SS #: ________________________
Salary: $50,000 Target Bonus as a % of Salary: 15%
------- ---
Target Bonus (Salary x Target Bonus %): $7,500
------
INCENTIVE CRITERIA
------------------
Company Performance: 25% $1,875
--- ------
Individual Performance: 75% $5,625
--- ------
BONUS OPPORTUNITY
-----------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
==========================================================================================================
LEVEL OF PAYOUT (LESS THAN) GOOD LOW GOOD HIGH EXCELLENT
0% GOOD (PLAN) LOW V.GOOD V.GOOD V.GOOD
40% 50% 75% 100% 125% 150%
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Company Performance: $0 $750 $938 $1,406 $1,875 $2,344 $2,813
% to EBIT Plan: 90% 100% 105% 110% 115% 120%
- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Individual Performance: $0 $2,250 $2,813 $4,219 $5,625 $7,031 $8,438
Rating: 3.1-3.5 3.5-3.8 3.8-4.1 4.1-4.4 4.4-4.7 4.7-5.0
==========================================================================================================
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
Page 8
INCENTIVE AWARDS EARNED
A. OVERALL PERFORMANCE RATING:__________________
B. SUMMARY OF INDIVIDUAL'S PERFORMANCE
GOAL PERFORMANCE GOAL TOTAL WEIGHTED
NUMBER RATING X WEIGHT(%) = POINTS
------ ------ --------- ------
1 ______ X _______ = ______
2 ______ X _______ = ______
3 ______ X _______ = ______
4 ______ X _______ = ______
5 ______ X _______ = ______
6 ______ X _______ = ______
7 ______ X _______ = ______
8 ______ X _______ = ______
TOTALS _______ % ______ PERFORMANCE LEVEL
C. INCENTIVE AWARDS - Refer to the attached guidelines for the current year.
1. Company Performance
% to EBIT Plan: _____ PERCENT OF PAYOUT: ____% BONUS: $____
2. Individual Performance
Overall Performance Level: _____ PERCENT OF PAYOUT: ____% BONUS: $____
3. TOTAL BONUS $___________
D. APPROVALS
Supervisor: _____________________________ DATE: _______
CEO, COO, CAO: _____________________________ DATE: _______
Sr. VP, Human Resourses: _____________________________ DATE: _______
E. EXECUTIVE SIGNATURE: _____________________________ DATE: _______
<PAGE>
Page 9
V. GENERAL RULES
A. New Hires and Promotions
------------------------
1. New hires and participants promoted into eligible positions during the
first quarter of the current fiscal year will participate for the full
year.
2. Participants who are newly eligible during the second quarter of the
current fiscal year are eligible to participate on a pro-rated basis.
The pro-ration is based on the number of fiscal months the participant
is eligible; the month the participant is first eligible counts as a
full month as long as the participant worked the last two (2) full
weeks of the month.
3. Participants who are newly eligible during the third or fourth
quarters of the fiscal year must wait until the following year to
participate.
B. Transfers
---------
1. a) Participants who change positions (thus, the goals and objectives
change) during the fiscal year are eligible for an award equal to
the sum of the prorated portions of the bonuses they would have
earned in each position.
b) The portion of the bonus is based on the number of months and
performance relative to the goals and the salary in each
position, and the target bonus percentage applicable to each
position.
2. If the transferee is in either position for less than one full
quarter, the award is based solely on the job performed for the
majority of the year, subject to the approval of the participant's
former supervisor (and other required approvals).
3. The portion of the bonus for the new position is based on the number
of full months in the new position. The portion of the bonus for the
previous position is based on the number of months in the previous
position, including the month in which the transfer is effective.
4. When a participant transfers, the participant's supervisor must
prepare a written evaluation (form provided by Human Resources) of the
former goals and objectives within 30 days of the transfer. This
evaluation is then sent to the Sr. Vice President, Human Resources and
filed until the year-end performance appraisals are written.
<PAGE>
Page 10
C. Resignations/ Terminations/ Demotions
-------------------------------------
A participant must be actively employed in an eligible position on the last
day of the fiscal year and must be actively employed with the company at
the time of the bonus payment to be eligible for a payout.
D. Retirement
----------
1. Participants who retire in the first or second fiscal quarters will
not share in the program for the year in which they retire.
2. Participants who retire in the third or fourth fiscal quarters will be
eligible to share proportionately based on the number of months in
position. The month in which the participant retires counts as a full
month.
E. Death/ Disability
-----------------
1. In the case of death or disability, with the consent of the Executive
Committee, an award may be granted based on performance to date and
pro-rated for the portion of the fiscal year that elapsed prior to
the death or commencement of the disability.
2. Disability is defined in accordance to the provisions of the company's
Long-Term Disability Plan.
F. Approvals
---------
1. All individual goals and objectives, to be established between the
participant and his or her supervisor, must be approved at the
beginning of the year by the next level of management.
2. All payouts of incentive awards must be approved by the Executive
Committee and all decisions are final.
3. The Executive Committee administers this management incentive plan.
G. Changes and Exceptions
----------------------
1. Changes and exceptions to these general rules, the plan description
and any other administrative guidelines related to this plan must be
approved by the Chief Executive Officer.
2. The Chief Executive Officer has the right to terminate or modify the
plan, any awards made under the plan or any performance criteria at
any time.
<PAGE>
ADDENDUM TO THE MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN - RESTRICTED STOCK PAYOUTS
DEFINITIONS:
Award - The issuance by The Bon-Ton of a bonus payout to a Manager (i) who has
met certain performance criteria, or (ii) which may be discretionary.
Committee - The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of The Bon-Ton
or any other committee which the Board may designate, provided that the
Committee shall be composed of two or more "non-employee directors" (as such
term is defined in Rule 16b-3 under the Securities Act).
Compensation Committee - The Compensation and Stock Option Committee of the
Board of Directors of The Bon-Ton.
Executive Committee - The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of The
Bon-Ton.
MIP - The Management Incentive Plan of The Bon-Ton as amended by this Addendum.
Manager - an employee of The Bon-Ton entitled to participate in the MIP pursuant
to the terms and provisions of the MIP.
Manager's Election - The election by a Manager which indicates the portion of an
Award to be made in the form of Restricted Stock.
Restricted Stock - Shares of Common Stock of The Bon-Ton available to Managers
through the MIP.
Securities Act - the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
The Bon-Ton - The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
RESTRICTED STOCK PAYOUT ELECTIONS
1. ADMINISTRATION:
--------------
The MIP shall be administered by the Committee. The Committee may designate
an Administrator, who may be an employee of The Bon-Ton or a non-employee,
to perform the day-to-day administration of the MIP. The interpretation and
construction by the Committee of any provision of the MIP or of any Award
hereunder shall be final, binding and conclusive.
2. ELIGIBILITY:
-----------
All managers may elect Awards in Restricted Stock subject to the approval
of the Committee in its sole discretion.
3. RESTRICTED STOCK POOLS:
----------------------
A pool of Restricted Stock shall be established by the Committee for each
Manager based on the shares elected by each Manager's Election. The
Committee has established for all Awards of Restricted Stock to the
original participants described in Section 4 a Base Price of $6.375 per
share.
<PAGE>
4. MANAGER'S ELECTION:
------------------
a. Each Manager shall determine what portion of such Manager's annual
bonus for services performed during 1996 and thereafter shall be paid
in cash or in Restricted Stock, provided that such Restricted Stock
portion shall not exceed 50% of such Manager's target bonus for 1996
calculated on the basis of the Manager's base salary as of 8/4/96
multiplied by three (3). The election shall be made by the execution
of such forms as may be determined by the Administrator. The election
establishes the maximum pool of Restricted Stock which may be Awarded
to the Manager, contingent on the Manager's continuing eligibility in
the MIP.
b. The Manager's Election may be for 100% Restricted Stock, 100% cash, or
any whole number combination of the two which equals 100%. The number
of shares of Restricted Stock in the Manager's pool must be a whole
number of shares, determined as follows: the percentage elected shall
be multiplied by the target bonus, the result shall be divided by the
price per share, then rounded down to the next whole number, and then
multiplied by three.
Example:
Salary: $100,000 Target Bonus: 20% ($20,000)
Payout Basis: 50% of target Restricted Stock Election: 75%
Restricted Stock in the pool, assuming a share price of $6.25:
$20,000 x 50% payout = $10,000 x 75% stock election = $7,500
$ 7,500 / $6.25 per share = 1,200 shares
1,200 shares x 3 years = 3,600 shares in the manager's pool
c. The election shall apply to at least the three Awards (even if not
awarded under the MIP) made subsequent to the election unless the pool
of Restricted Stock elected by the Manager is exhausted prior to full
payment of all Awards.
d. The election made by the Manager is irrevocable. The original election
must be completed by October 31, 1996.
e. New participants
1. In the event a Manager becomes eligible to participate in the MIP
after October 31, 1996 (a "New Participant"), the New Participant
shall be entitled to make a Manager's Election to be effective
through the 1998 plan year provided such election is made within
thirty (30) days after the Manager first becomes eligible to
participate.
2. The number of shares included in the New Participant's Restricted
Stock pool shall be based on the Manager's annualized target
bonus for the then current fiscal year and the Base Price for
such shares shall be the average closing market price of the
Common Stock during the 90 calendar days immediately preceding
the date the Manager became a New Participant.
2
<PAGE>
3. Any Awards of Restricted Stock shall be otherwise made in
accordance with the terms of the MIP.
f. In the events Manager's Elections are authorized to be effective
following the expiration of the 1998 plan year, the Manager must
exhaust all Restricted Stock in the original pool before the new
election may be utilized
5. BONUS AWARDS:
------------
a. The decision to make any Awards, the amount of the Awards and the
timing of Awards are at the sole discretion of the Compensation
Committee and the Executive Committee of The Bon-Ton. All Awards to
Officers who are considered insiders under Section 16b of the
Securities Act must be approved by the Committee or the Board of
Directors or the shareholders of The Bon-Ton.
b. Each year in which an Award is granted, the Manager shall receive the
proportion of Restricted Stock or cash elected, provided that the
maximum number of Restricted Shares granted in any year shall be one-
third (1/3) of the Manager's original Restricted Stock pool. All other
earned bonus for that year shall be paid in cash (minimum cash payout
= $50).
Example:
Award: $12,000 Restricted Stock Election: 75%
Restricted Stock Value: $12,000 x 75% = $9,000
$9,000 / $6.25 Base Price = 1,440 Shares
Shares in Pool = 3,600 One-third shares = 1,200
Since the shares payable (1,440) exceed the maximum payable
(1,200), only the maximum shares (1,200) are Awarded.
Stock Award = 1,200 shares of Restricted Stock; value = $7,500
Cash payout equals the remainder: $12,000 - $7,500 = $4,500.
c. Awards which fall short of the target bonus shall be paid by reducing
both the number of shares of stock granted and the cash component,
each on a pro-rata basis.
d. If at the conclusion of the third bonus payout to the Manager there
are shares of Restricted Stock remaining in the Manager's pool, these
shares shall be distributed in lieu of cash in any subsequent Award to
the Manager. The maximum of one-third of the initial Restricted Stock
pool awarded in any year shall be waived for any such subsequent
distribution to the Manager.
e. The Manager will receive all remaining Restricted Stock in the
Manager's Restricted Stock pool after the end of ten (10) plan years,
regardless of whether or not the Restricted Stock was Awarded to the
Manager.
3
<PAGE>
6. VESTING:
-------
a. All Restricted Stock Awards are immediately fully vested in the
Manager.
b. Restricted Stock not Awarded shall fully vest in the Manager upon the
lapse of ten (10) plan years from the date the initial pool for each
Manager is established, provided the committee may accelerate the
vesting of this Restricted Stock.
c. All Restricted Stock shall be valued at the Base Price [as provided in
Section 3 or 4(e) (2)]to determine the number of shares of Restricted
Stock in an Award.
d. Acceleration of Vesting in the Event of the Manager's Death,
Disability or Retirement - in the event of the death, disability
(within the meaning of The Bon-Ton's Long-Term Disability Plan) or
retirement of a Manager, the provisions of the MIP will prevail. The
Committee may, after considering any recommendation of the Executive
Committee with respect to the performance of such Manager and of The
Bon-Ton for the portion of the then current fiscal year prior to such
death, disability or retirement, accelerate vesting with respect to a
pro rata portion of the Restricted Stock which would have become
vested had the Manager worked the entire year. Any balance thereafter
remaining in the Manager's pool shall be forfeited.
e. Acceleration of Vesting of Restricted Stock Shares in the Event of a
Change of Control - After February 1, 1997, in the event of, or upon
the date set by the Committee to be an accelerated vesting date in
anticipation of a Change of Control (as defined in the Company's
Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan), the Committee may, after
considering any recommendation of the Executive Committee with respect
to the performance of such Manager and of The Bon-Ton for the portion
of the then current fiscal year prior to such actual or anticipated
Change of Control, accelerate vesting with respect to a pro rata
portion of the Restricted Stock which would have become vested had the
Manager worked the entire year. Any balance thereafter remaining in
the Manager's pool shall be forfeited.
7. FORFEITURES:
-----------
All nonvested Restricted Stock shall be forfeited by the Manager upon the
last day of the Manager's employment with The Bon-Ton except as provided
under Sections 6(d) and 6(e). All nonvested Restricted Stock shall be
forfeited by the Manager upon the date the Manager is no longer eligible to
participate in the MIP. Restricted Stock which is forfeited may be
cancelled by The Bon-Ton.
8. TRANSFER OF RESTRICTED SHARES:
-----------------------------
No Restricted Stock under the MIP may be transferred, pledged or encumbered
until such time as such shares become vested.
4
<PAGE>
9. AMENDMENT OF THE MIP:
--------------------
The Committee or the non-employee members of the Board of Directors of the
Company may amend the MIP from time to time in such manner as deemed
advisable. No amendment shall adversely affect any Restricted Stock in a
Manager's pool without the consent of the Manager. The shareholders of The
Bon-Ton Common Stock must approve the adoption of this addendum prior to
the making of any Restricted Stock Awards.
10. NO CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT:
-----------------------
Any Restricted Stock Award pursuant to the MIP shall not be constructed to
imply or to constitute evidence of any agreement, express or implied, on
the part of The Bon-Ton to retain the Manager in the employ of The Bon-Ton,
and such Manager shall remain subject to discharge to the same extent as if
this Plan has not been adopted.
11. WITHHOLDING OF TAXES:
--------------------
a. As required by law, The Bon-Ton will include the value of Restricted
Stock Awards as income and withhold appropriate taxes. The fair market
value of the Restricted Stock at the date of the Award will be used
unless an otherwise applicable value is stated by law.
b. Whenever shares of Restricted Stock vest or, if sooner, whenever an
Award recipient must include the Restricted Stock in income for
federal income purposes, The Bon-Ton shall have the right to (a)
require the recipient to remit or otherwise make available to The Bon-
Ton an amount sufficient to satisfy all federal, state and/or local
witholding tax requirements prior to the delivery or transfer of any
certificate or certificates for such Restricted Stock, or (b) take
whatever action it deems necessary to protect interests with
respect to tax liabilities, including, without limitation, redeeming a
portion of any Restricted Stock otherwise deliverable pursuant to this
plan with a then fair market value equal to such tax liabilities. The
Bon-Ton's obligation to make any delivery or transfer of Restricted
Stock shall be conditioned on the Award recipient's compliance with
any witholding requirement to the Company's satisfaction.
c. The Committee shall have the authority to establish rules with respect
to The Bon-Ton's obligations in connection with the witholding
requirements described above so as to insure compliance with Rule 16b-
3(e) of the Securities Act. The Committee must approve the utilization
of Restricted Stock for tax witholding for all Officers covered by
Section 16b of the Securities Act.
12. PLAN DOCUMENTS:
--------------
Any interpretation of the MIP, including this Addendum, are at the
discretion of the Committee and are final and binding on all parties. This
addendum is in effect and governs the Award of Restricted Stock pursuant to
the MIP until the later of the end of The Bon-Ton's 1998 fiscal year or
until a Manager's individual pool of Restricted Stock is Awarded.
5
<PAGE>
13. OTHER RIGHTS:
------------
During the period from the date Restricted Stock is segregated into a
Manager's pool until the date Restricted Stock is vested in the Manager,
the Manager will be entitled with respect to the Restricted Stock in the
Manager's pool to all voting rights of a holder of Common Stock of The Bon-
Ton.
14. STOCK CERTIFICATES:
------------------
The stock certificate(s) evidencing Restricted Stock in each Manager's
pool shall be restricted in the name of the Manager and shall bear a legend
referring to the terms, conditions and restrictions applicable to such
shares. The Committee shall direct The Bon-Ton to either retain physical
possession or custody of or place into escrow the certificate(s) evidencing
the Restricted Stock until such time as such shares are vested.
6
<PAGE>
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned shareholder of THE BON-TON STORES, INC. (the "Company")
hereby appoints Heywood L. Wilansky and Michael L. Gleim, or either of them,
with full power of substitution, to act as attorneys and proxies for the
undersigned and to vote all shares of stock of the Company which the undersigned
is entitled to vote if personally present at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders
of the Company, to be held at the Holiday Inn, 2600 East Market Street, York,
Pennsylvania, 17402 on June 17, 1997 at 9:00 a.m., and at any adjournment or
postponement thereof, provided that said proxies are authorized and directed to
vote as indicated with respect to the matters set forth on the opposite side of
this Proxy.
UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, THE SHARES WILL BE VOTED "FOR" THE ELECTION OF
ALL NOMINATED DIRECTORS, "FOR" AMENDMENT OF THE COMPANY'S AMENDED AND RESTATED
1991 STOCK OPTION AND RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN, "FOR" APPROVAL OF THE COMPANY'S
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN FOR PRINCIPALS, "FOR" AMENDMENT OF THE COMPANY'S
MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN AND "FOR" RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF ARTHUR
ANDERSEN LLP AS THE COMPANY'S INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS. THIS PROXY ALSO
DELEGATES DISCRETIONARY AUTHORITY TO VOTE WITH RESPECT TO ANY OTHER BUSINESS
WHICH MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE MEETING AND ANY ADJOURNMENT OR POSTPONEMENT
THEREOF.
(Please sign and date on reverse side)
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOLD AND DETACH HERE
<PAGE>
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please mark
[X] your votes as
indicated in
this example
FOR WITHHOLD
1. Election of the Directors. [_] [_]
M. Thomas Grumbacher, Heywood L. Wilansky, Samuel J. Gerson, Michael L.
Gleim, Roger S. Hillas, Lawrence J. Ring, Leon D. Starr, Leon F. Winbigler
(Instruction: To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee, write
that nominee's name on the line below.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
2. Amend the Company's Amended and [_] [_] [_]
Restated Stock Option and Restricted
Stock Plan to increase the maximum
number of shares available thereunder
to 1,900,000 shares of Common Stock.
3. Approve the Company's Long-Term Incentive [_] [_] [_]
Plan for Principals.
4. Amend the Company's Management Incentive [_] [_] [_]
Plan.
5. Ratification of the appointment of Arthur [_] [_] [_]
Andersen LLP as the Company's independent
public accountants.
The undersigned hereby acknowledges receipt of the Notice of Annual Meeting,
Proxy Statement and Annual Report.
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Signature(s)
Date
-------------------------------
NOTE: Please sign this proxy exactly as
name(s) appears in address. When
signing as attorney-in-fact, executor,
administrator, trustee or guardian,
please add your title as such, and if
the signer is a corporation, please
sign with full corporate name by duly
authorized officer or officers and
affix the corporate seal. Where stock
is issued in the name of two or more
persons, all such persons should sign.
PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND RETURN IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE.
- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOLD AND DETACH HERE
