UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the thirteen weeks ended November 2, 1996
Commission File No. 1-11161
Nine West Group Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware 06-1093855
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification Number)
9 West Broad Street
Stamford, Connecticut 06902
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(314) 579-8812
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes X No
Number of shares of Common Stock, $.01 par value, outstanding as of the
close of business on December 4, 1996: 35,787,235.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Page
----
Item 1 Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income - Thirteen and
thirty-nine weeks ended November 2, 1996 and October 28, 1995 3
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - November 2, 1996 and
February 3, 1996 4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Thirty-nine
weeks ended November 2, 1996 and October 28, 1995 5
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 6
Item 2 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations 10
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1 Legal Proceedings 19
Item 6 Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 19
Signatures 20
Exhibit Index 21
NINE WEST GROUP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Unaudited)
13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended
------------------ ---------------------
Nov. 2 Oct. 28 Nov. 2 Oct. 28
1996 1995 1996 1995
(In thousands except per share data)
Net revenues......................... $442,523 $391,211 $1,218,324 $907,484
Cost of goods sold................... 249,588 220,534 696,977 520,006
Purchase accounting adjustments to
cost of goods sold.................. - 10,961 - 34,520
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Gross profit....................... 192,935 159,716 521,347 352,958
Selling, general and
administrative expenses............. 122,047 111,601 358,704 266,689
Amortization of acquisition goodwill,
trademarks and trade names.......... 2,391 2,294 7,172 3,951
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Operating income................... 68,497 45,821 155,471 82,318
Interest expense..................... 9,823 10,998 29,671 19,648
Other income - net................... 602 497 1,840 1,249
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Income before income taxes......... 59,276 35,320 127,640 63,919
Income tax expense................... 23,712 14,522 51,058 26,047
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Net income......................... $ 35,564 $ 20,798 $ 76,582 $ 37,872
======== ======== ========== ========
Weighted average common shares and
common share equivalents:
Primary............................ 36,729 36,534 36,728 35,543
Fully diluted...................... 39,785 38,531
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Primary earnings per common share
and common share equivalents........ $ 0.97 $ 0.57 $ 2.09 $ 1.07
======== ======== ========== ========
Fully diluted earnings per common
share and common share equivalents.. $ 0.94 $ 2.05
======== ==========
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements.
NINE WEST GROUP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
November 2 February 3
1996 1996
(Unaudited)
ASSETS (In thousands except share data)
Current Assets:
Cash........................................... $ 25,727 $ 20,782
Accounts receivable - net...................... 84,308 78,867
Inventories - net.............................. 459,182 396,676
Deferred income taxes.......................... 34,857 46,088
Assets held for sale........................... 19,242 31,118
Prepaid expenses and other current assets...... 18,518 18,249
---------- ----------
Total current assets........................ 641,834 591,780
Property and equipment - net...................... 126,668 136,719
Deferred income taxes............................. 18,542 21,658
Goodwill.......................................... 224,812 233,149
Trademarks and trade names........................ 143,266 146,053
Other assets...................................... 29,658 30,733
---------- ----------
Total assets............................... $1,184,780 $1,160,092
========== ==========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable............................... $ 102,837 $ 139,731
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities. 101,671 134,737
Current portion of long-term debt.............. 30,000 20,000
---------- ----------
Total current liabilities................... 234,508 294,468
Long-term debt.................................... 524,076 471,000
Other non-current liabilities..................... 70,679 66,298
---------- ----------
Total liabilities........................... 829,263 831,766
---------- ----------
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock($0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares
authorized; 35,787,235 and 35,240,052 shares
issued and outstanding, respectively).......... 358 352
Warrants......................................... - 57,600
Additional paid-in capital....................... 139,798 131,595
Retained earnings................................ 215,361 138,779
---------- ----------
Total stockholders' equity.................. 355,517 328,326
---------- ----------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity. $1,184,780 $1,160,092
========== ==========
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements.
NINE WEST GROUP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
39 Weeks Ended
---------------------
Nov. 2 Oct. 28
1996 1995
(In thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income............................................ $ 76,582 $ 37,872
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided (used) by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization...................... 24,134 17,280
Provision for losses on accounts receivable........ 12,289 460
Provision for losses on inventory.................. 771 (1,524)
Loss on disposal of property and equipment......... 234 464
Deferred income taxes.............................. 14,347 246
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Increase in balance of accounts receivable sold. 25,810 -
Accounts receivable............................. (44,347) (31,966)
Inventory....................................... (62,749) 12,112
Prepaid expenses and other assets............... (7,832) (4,502)
Accounts payable................................ (36,894) 29,919
Accrued expenses and other liabilities.......... (24,622) 5,633
--------- --------
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities...... (22,277) 65,994
--------- --------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment................... (27,240) (28,692)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment.......... 19,612 -
Acquisition of businesses - net of cash acquired...... (6,357) (583,494)
Acquisition purchase price settlement................. 25,000 -
Net decrease (increase) in other assets............... 2,680 (3,356)
--------- --------
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities...... 13,695 (615,542)
--------- --------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net borrowings (payments)under financing agreements... 97,642 (2,710)
Proceeds from issuance of long term debt.............. 181,270 559,810
Repayments of long-term debt.......................... (216,000) -
Repurchase of warrants................................ (67,500) -
Net proceeds from issuance of stock................... 18,115 6,962
--------- --------
Net cash provided by financing activities............. 13,527 564,062
--------- --------
NET INCREASE IN CASH.................................. 4,945 14,514
CASH, BEGINNING OF PERIOD............................. 20,782 4,358
--------- --------
CASH, END OF PERIOD................................... $ 25,727 $ 18,872
========= ========
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements.
NINE WEST GROUP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
Nine West Group Inc. (the "Company"), its wholly-owned subsidiaries and its
controlled-interest joint ventures. The accompanying financial statements have
been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In
the opinion of management, such information contains all adjustments, consisting
only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the
results of such periods. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to
conform to the current presentation. All intercompany transactions and balances
have been eliminated from the financial statements for the periods presented.
The results of operations for the 39 weeks ended November 2, 1996 are not
necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the 52 weeks ending
February 1, 1997 ("Fiscal 1996").
On May 23, 1995, the Company consummated its acquisition (the
"Acquisition") of the footwear business (the "Footwear Group") of The United
States Shoe Corporation ("U.S. Shoe"). Financial information for the 39-week
period ended November 2, 1996 is not comparable to financial information for the
39-week period ended October 28, 1995, as Footwear Group results are only
included in the 1995 period for the 23 weeks from May 23, 1995 through October
28, 1995.
Certain information and disclosures normally included in the notes to
consolidated financial statements have been condensed or omitted as permitted by
the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, although
the Company believes the disclosure is adequate to make the information
presented not misleading. The accompanying unaudited financial statements
should be read in conjunction with the financial statements contained in the
Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the 53 weeks ended February 3,
1996 ("Fiscal 1995"), as amended, and the Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q of the
Company for the periods subsequent thereto.
2. EARNINGS PER SHARE
Primary weighted average common shares and common stock equivalents consist
of common stock issued and outstanding of 35,739,000 and 35,599,000 shares and
primary common stock equivalents of 990,000 and 1,129,000 shares for the 13 and
39 weeks ended November 2, 1996, respectively. For the 13 and 39 weeks ended
October 28, 1995, weighted average common shares and common stock equivalents
consist of common stock issued and outstanding of 35,059,000 and 34,946,000
shares, respectively, and primary common stock equivalents of 1,475,000 and
597,000 shares, respectively.
Fully diluted earnings per share reflect an after-tax interest adjustment
of $1,713,000 and $2,415,000 for the 13 and 39 weeks ended November 2, 1996 and
fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding of 39,785,000 and 38,531,000
for the 13 and 39 weeks ended November 2, 1996, respectively. This adjustment
reflects the issuance in June 1996 of $185.7 million principal amount of 5-1/2%
convertible subordinated notes due 2003 (the "Notes").
3. INVENTORIES
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Approximately 65%
of inventory values were determined by using the FIFO (first in, first out)
method of valuation as of November 2, 1996; the remainder was determined by
using the weighted average cost method. Inventory is comprised of (in
thousands):
Raw materials................................ $ 29,210
Work in process.............................. 3,874
Finished goods............................... 426,098
--------
Total inventory......................... $459,182
========
4. CASH FLOWS
Cash paid for income taxes was $34.2 million and $24.4 million for the 39
weeks ended November 2, 1996 and October 28, 1995, respectively. Cash paid for
interest was $24.9 million and $19.5 million for the 39 weeks ended November 2,
1996 and October 28, 1995, respectively.
5. ACQUISITION
In connection with the Acquisition and the Company's integration plan,
involuntary severance and termination benefits of $8.6 million and relocation
costs of $8.2 million were accrued during the fourth quarter of Fiscal 1995. As
of November 2, 1996, approximately $6.4 million ($4.5 million during the 39
weeks ended November 2, 1996) of severance and termination benefits, and $6.4
million ($2.2 million during the 39 weeks ended November 2, 1996) of relocation
costs had been paid and charged against these liabilities. As of November 2,
1996 approximately 228 of the 295 position reductions which were contemplated in
the severance and termination benefits accrual have been made with the remaining
reductions to be substantially completed during the remainder of Fiscal 1996.
Any costs incurred in excess of the liability recorded will be included in the
determination of net income when such amounts are recognized.
On June 5, 1996, the Company and U.S. Shoe consummated a settlement (the
"Settlement") of a post-closing balance sheet dispute relating to the
Acquisition. Pursuant to the Settlement, U.S. Shoe was obligated to pay the
Company $25.0 million, which has been recorded as a reduction in goodwill. In
addition, the Company and U.S. Shoe agreed that the Company would repurchase,
for a price of $67.5 million, the warrants to purchase 3.7 million of its shares
of common stock (the "Common Stock") which were issued by the Company to U.S.
Shoe in connection with the consummation of the Acquisition (the "Warrants").
The Warrants were exercisable for shares of Common Stock at a price of $35.50
per share. The net payment by the Company to U.S. Shoe of $42.5 million was
financed with borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facility.
6. BUSINESS RESTRUCTURING AND INTEGRATION CHARGES
During the fourth quarter of Fiscal 1995, the Company incurred and accrued
expenses for restructuring and integration costs of $51.9 million (the
"Restructuring Charge"). The major components of the Restructuring Charge are:
(1) severance and termination benefits of $7.7 million; (2) write-down of
assets, principally leasehold improvements, of $14.6 million; (3) accruals for
lease and other contract terminations of $7.0 million; (4) inventory valuation
adjustments of $10.4 million; and (5) other integration and consolidation costs
of $12.2 million. Total cash outlays related to this charge are estimated at
approximately $22.0 million, of which $15.9 million has been paid through
November 2, 1996, including $11.5 million paid during the 39 weeks ended
November 2, 1996. The Restructuring Charge balance at November 2, 1996 of $9.9
million is included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities.
During the 39 weeks ended November 2, 1996, the Company continued its
planned business restructuring and integration activities. The following table
shows the activity recorded against the major components of the Restructuring
Charge accrual through November 2, 1996:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Other
Severance Lease and Integration
and Asset Contract Inventory and
Termination Write- Termination Valuation Consolidation
(in thousands) Benefits Downs Costs Adjustments Costs Total
--------- ------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -------
1995 Provision.............. $7,650 $14,620 $7,046 $10,423 $12,161 $51,900
1995 Activity............... 836 14,620 235 - 4,253 19,944
--------- ------- ----------- ----------- ------------ -------
February 3, 1996 balance.... 6,814 - 6,811 10,423 7,908 31,956
39 weeks ended November 2,
1996 activity............. 3,342 - 4,474 8,536 5,747 22,099
--------- ------- ----------- ----------- ------------ -------
November 2, 1996 balance.. $3,472 $ - $2,337 $ 1,887 $ 2,161 $ 9,857
========= ======= =========== =========== ============ =======
</TABLE>
In connection with the restructuring of its international sourcing
operations, the Company has substantially completed the liquidation of its
sourcing offices located in the Far East and began to source substantially all
of its Far East production through its new agency arrangement.
In connection with the restructuring of its retail operations, the Company
has completed (1) the closing of all 84 leased departments operated within
Burlington Coat Factory stores; and (2) 31 of 40 planned Banister retail store
closings through November 2, 1996. The remaining 9 planned Banister retail
store closings are expected to be substantially completed during the remainder
of Fiscal 1996.
Severance and termination benefits relate to approximately 475 employees,
of which approximately 422 employees had been terminated by November 2, 1996,
with the remaining separations to be substantially completed during the
remainder of Fiscal 1996.
7. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
INTEREST RATE INSTRUMENTS. As of November 2, 1996, the Company had an
outstanding interest rate swap in the notional principal amount of $100.0
million, effectively fixing the Eurodollar index rate on that amount of variable
rate debt to 5.62%. This interest rate swap matures in 1998. As of November 2,
1996, the Company had outstanding two interest rate collar agreements in the
notional principal amount of $100.0 million each. The collar agreements
effectively limit the Eurodollar index rate on such amount to a range of 5.25%
to 6.25%. The collar agreements mature in 1997 and 1999. The collar agreement
which matures in 1999 will convert into an interest rate swap at such time,
effectively fixing the Eurodollar index rate to 5.94% until 2000.
8. LONG TERM DEBT.
CONVERTIBLE NOTES. In June 1996, the Company issued the Notes. The Notes are
due July 15, 2003 and are convertible into common stock of the Company at a
conversion price of $60.76 per share, subject to adjustment in certain
circumstances. The Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at the option of
the Company, at any time on or after July 16, 1999, at declining redemption
prices plus any accrued interest. The Notes are subordinated in right of
payment to all existing and future senior indebtedness of the Company. Proceeds
from the issuance of the Notes were approximately $181.3 million (net of
underwriters' discounts of $4.4 million) and were used to repay a portion of the
indebtedness outstanding under the Company's credit agreement, as discussed
below.
CREDIT AGREEMENT. In August 1996, the Company's credit agreement was amended
and restated (the "Credit Agreement") to: (1) increase the outstanding,
quarterly amortizing term loan (the "Term Loan") to $335.0 million; (2) allow
the Company to borrow up to $225.0 million on a revolving basis (the "Revolving
Loan"); and (3) reduce the interest rates and fees and make certain
modifications to the covenants thereunder. Letters of credit outstanding under
the Revolving Loan may not exceed $100.0 million at any one time. The Credit
Agreement expires on November 1, 2001.
Amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement are secured by substantially
all assets of the Company (excluding receivables related to the Company's
accounts receivable securitization facility) and bear interest, at the Company's
option, at rates based on Citibank, N.A.'s base rate or the Eurodollar rate.
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement will become unsecured once the Company
reaches an "investment grade" rating on its long-term senior indebtedness.
The Credit Agreement contains various operating covenants which, among
other things, impose certain limitations on the Company's ability to incur
indebtedness, merge or consolidate and require the Company to enter into
interest rate hedge agreements. The Company is also required to comply with
financial covenants relative to net worth, leverage and fixed charge coverage.
9. SALE/LEASEBACK TRANSACTION
In April 1996, the Company consummated the sale (for $20.3 million) and
leaseback of its distribution facility located in West Deptford, New Jersey.
The lease has been classified as an operating lease.
The cost and accumulated depreciation associated with this facility of
approximately $16.4 million and $2.0 million, respectively, have been removed
from the property and equipment accounts. The net gain realized on the sale of
approximately $5.3 million (net of transaction costs) has been deferred and will
be credited to income as rent expense adjustments over the 20-year initial lease
term. Payments under the lease will approximate $1.7 million annually.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS.
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with
the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and the Notes
thereto included in Item 1 of this report.
All references to "Third Quarter of 1996" and "Third Quarter of 1995" are
to the Company's 13-week periods ended November 2, 1996 and October 28, 1995,
respectively. Additionally, all references to the "first 39 weeks of 1996" and
"first 39 weeks of 1995" are to the Company's 39-week periods ended November 2,
1996 and October 28, 1995, respectively. All references to "Fiscal 1996" and
"Fiscal 1997" are to the Company's 52-week periods ended February 1, 1997 and
January 31, 1998, respectively.
On May 23, 1995, the Company consummated its acquisition (the
"Acquisition") of the footwear business (the "Footwear Group") of The United
States Shoe Corporation ("U.S. Shoe"). Financial information for the first 39
weeks of 1996 is not comparable to financial information for the first 39 weeks
of 1995, as Footwear Group results are only included in the 1995 period for the
23 weeks from May 23, 1995 through October 28, 1995.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net income for the Third Quarter of 1996 was $35.6 million, or $0.94 per
share on a fully diluted basis, compared to net income of $27.3 million, or
$0.75 per share, for the Third Quarter of 1995. Net income for the first 39
weeks of 1996 was $76.6 million, or $2.05 per share on a fully diluted basis,
compared to net income of $58.3 million, or $1.64 per share, for the first 39
weeks of 1995. Results for 1995 exclude the impact of a $34.5 million non-
recurring increase in cost of goods sold, $11.0 million of which was charged
during the Third Quarter of 1995, attributable to the fair value of inventory
over FIFO cost, recorded as a result of the Acquisition (the "Cost of Goods Sold
Adjustment"). Including the Cost of Goods Sold Adjustment, net income for the
Third Quarter of 1995 and first 39 weeks of 1995 was $20.8 and $37.9 million (or
$0.57 and $1.07 per share), respectively.
The following tables set forth certain items in the Company's condensed
consolidated statements of income in millions of dollars and as a percentage of
net revenues for the Third Quarter and first 39 weeks of 1996 and 1995. For
comparative purposes, results of operations for the Third Quarter of 1995 and
first 39 weeks of 1995 exclude the Cost of Goods Sold Adjustment.
13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended
(IN MILLIONS OF DOLLARS) Nov. 2 Oct. 28 Nov. 2 Oct. 28
(Unaudited) 1996 1995 1996 1995
------ ------ -------- ------
Net revenues.......................... $442.5 $391.2 $1,218.3 $907.5
Cost of goods sold.................... 249.6 220.5 697.0 520.0
------ ------ -------- ------
Gross profit....................... 192.9 170.7 521.3 387.5
Selling, general and
administrative expenses.............. 122.0 111.6 358.7 266.7
Amortization of acquisition goodwill,
trademarks and trade names........... 2.4 2.3 7.1 4.0
------ ------ -------- ------
Operating income................... 68.5 56.8 155.5 116.8
Interest expense...................... 9.8 11.0 29.7 19.6
Other income - net.................... .6 .5 1.8 1.2
------ ------ -------- ------
Income before income taxes......... 59.3 46.3 127.6 98.4
Income tax expense.................... 23.7 19.0 51.0 40.1
------ ------ -------- ------
Net income......................... $ 35.6 $ 27.3 $ 76.6 $ 58.3
====== ====== ======== ======
13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended
(AS A PERCENTAGE OF NET REVENUES) Nov. 2 Oct. 28 Nov. 2 Oct. 28
(Unaudited) 1996 1995 1996 1995
------ ------ ------ ------
Net revenues.......................... 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Cost of goods sold.................... 56.4 56.4 57.2 57.3
------ ------ ------ ------
Gross profit....................... 43.6 43.6 42.8 42.7
Selling, general and
administrative expenses.............. 27.6 28.5 29.4 29.4
Amortization of acquisition goodwill,
trademarks and trade names........... 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.4
------ ------ ------ ------
Operating income................... 15.5 14.5 12.8 12.9
Interest expense...................... 2.2 2.8 2.4 2.2
Other income - net.................... 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1
------ ------ ------ ------
Income before income taxes......... 13.4 11.8 10.5 10.8
Income tax expense.................... 5.4 4.8 4.2 4.4
------ ------ ------ ------
Net income......................... 8.0% 7.0% 6.3% 6.4%
====== ====== ====== ======
THIRTEEN WEEKS ENDED NOVEMBER 2, 1996 COMPARED
TO THIRTEEN WEEKS ENDED OCTOBER 28, 1995
NET REVENUES. Net revenues were $442.5 million in the Third Quarter of
1996 compared to $391.2 million in the Third Quarter of 1995, an increase of
$51.3 million, or 13.1%. Net revenues of the Company's wholesale division
increased by $39.0 million, or 17.5% due to increased revenues from virtually
all of the Company's footwear brands and the growth and development of the
Company's accessories business. Sales through the Company's retail stores
increased $12.3 million, or 7.3%. The increase in net revenues of the Company's
retail division is attributable primarily to the opening (net of closings) of
145 domestic and 33 international retail stores ($22.0 million), the revenues of
which were offset, in part, by a decrease in sales attributable to the closing
of 84 leased departments operated within Burlington Coat Factory stores (the
"Burlington Leased Departments") and 31 Banister stores ($10.7 million). The
Burlington Leased Departments and Banister stores have been closed in connection
with the restructuring and integration costs recorded in the fourth quarter of
1995 (the "Restructuring Charge"). The 84 Burlington Leased Departments and 31
Banister stores have been excluded from the 145 domestic openings (net of
closings) mentioned above.
Comparable store sales increased 0.3% for the Third Quarter of 1996.
Comparable store sales include the net revenues of all stores open for an entire
month during the comparable current year and prior year periods. Comparable
store sales, excluding the results of the Banister stores and Stein Mart leased
departments, increased 3.6% during the Third Quarter of 1996. Comparable store
sales for the Banister stores and Stein Mart leased department decreased during
the Third Quarter of 1996 due primarily to the significant promotional activity
during the Third Quarter of 1995, compared to the Third Quarter of 1996, as the
Company began the repositioning of inventory to more of its branded product.
The foregoing comparable store sales do not include the results of the 84
Burlington Leased Departments, which were closed during the first 26 weeks of
1996.
During the Third Quarter of 1996, wholesale operations accounted for 59.3%
of the Company's consolidated net revenues, while retail operations accounted
for the remaining 40.7%. During the comparable period of 1995, wholesale
operations accounted for 57.1% of consolidated net revenues, while retail
operations accounted for the remaining 42.9%. The increase in the percentage of
net revenues provided by wholesale operations resulted from strong sales of the
Company's wholesale division and lower retail sales through the Specialty
Footwear Retailing ("SFR") division (which is comprised of Banister stores,
Stein Mart leased departments and Burlington Leased Departments).
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit was $192.9 million in the Third Quarter of 1996,
an increase of $22.2 million, or 13.0%, from $170.7 million in the Third Quarter
of 1995 (excluding the Cost of Goods Sold Adjustment). Gross profit as a
percentage of net revenues was 43.6% in each of the Third Quarter of 1996 and
the Third Quarter of 1995. Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues is
unchanged due primarily to several factors which offset one another. The
increases in gross margins are attributable to: (1) the overall improvement in
gross margins of the wholesale division; and (2) the improvement in gross
margins of the SFR division, resulting from significant promotional activity
during the Third Quarter of 1995. These factors were substantially offset by a
greater percentage of net revenues derived from the wholesale operations (59.3%
in the Third Quarter of 1996 compared to 57.1% in the Third Quarter of 1995),
which revenues produce lower gross margins than retail revenues. During the
past year, there have been moderate increases in the price of leather, which
have generally been reflected in the selling price of the Company's products.
While the Company is not in a position to reasonably anticipate or predict how
changes in labor, leather, and other raw material prices will ultimately impact
the Company's gross profit margins in the future, the Company anticipates that
such increases will be reflected in the selling price of the Company's products,
to the extent possible under economic and competitive conditions prevailing at
the time.
SELLING, GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative ("SG&A") expenses (excluding the amortization of goodwill,
trademarks and trade names related to the Acquisition) were $122.0 million in
the Third Quarter of 1996, compared to $111.6 million in the Third Quarter of
1995, an increase of $10.4 million, or 9.4%. SG&A expense expressed as a
percentage of net revenues fell to 27.6% in the Third Quarter of 1996 from 28.5%
in the Third Quarter of 1995. The decrease in SG&A expense expressed as a
percentage of net revenues is due primarily to cost savings resulting from the
consolidation and integration of various corporate and business unit operations
and support functions during the past year. While SG&A expenses as a percentage
of net revenues during the remainder of Fiscal 1996 and the foreseeable future
are expected to increase as a result of opening additional retail stores by the
Company (including the commitments as of December 4, 1996 to open 75
additional retail stores), such increases are not expected to have a material
impact on the Company's operating margin, since these higher expenses are
expected to be approximately offset by the higher gross profit as a percentage
of net revenues achieved by the Company's retail operations. SG&A expenses for
the Company will increase by several million dollars beginning in Fiscal 1997 in
connection with an expanded marketing plan which will include higher advertising
and promotional expenses than those incurred during Fiscal 1996.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income was $68.5 million, or 15.5% of net
revenues, for the Third Quarter of 1996 compared to $56.8 million, or 14.5% of
net revenues, for the Third Quarter of 1995 (excluding the Cost of Goods Sold
Adjustment). The increase in operating income as a percentage of net revenues
is attributable to the factors discussed above.
INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense was $9.8 million in the Third Quarter
of 1996 compared to $11.0 million in the Third Quarter of 1995, a decrease of
$1.2 million or 10.7%. The decreased expense was primarily attributable to a
decrease in the weighted average interest rate from 7.4% during the Third
Quarter of 1995 to 6.2% during the Third Quarter of 1996. The decrease in the
weighted average interest rate was primarily attributable to the more favorable
interest rate on Company borrowings achieved as a result of refinancing the
Company's bank debt with: (1) the net proceeds of $181.3 million from the
issuance of 5.5% convertible subordinated notes due July 15, 2003 (the "Notes")
during the second quarter of 1996; (2) the amendment and restatement of the
Company's credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") during the second quarter of
1996 which resulted in reduced interest rates and fees incurred by the Company;
(3) the net proceeds of $71.0 million from the Company's accounts receivable
securitization program; and (4) the net proceeds of $20.0 million from the
sale/leaseback transaction relating to the Company's West Deptford, New Jersey
distribution facility.
THIRTY-NINE WEEKS ENDED NOVEMBER 2, 1996 COMPARED
TO THIRTY-NINE WEEKS ENDED OCTOBER 28, 1995
NET REVENUES. Net revenues were $1.2 billion in the first 39 weeks of 1996
compared to $907.5 million in the first 39 weeks of 1995, an increase of $310.8
million, or 34.3%. Net revenues of the Company's wholesale division increased
by $168.8 million, or 32.4%, of which: (1) approximately $116.0 million is
attributable to the increase in net revenues resulting from the Acquisition of
the Footwear Group, the results of operations of which, for the first 39 weeks
of 1995, are included only for the 23 weeks following the consummation of the
Acquisition; and (2) $52.8 million is attributable to the increase in net
revenues of the Company's wholesale division due to increased revenues from
virtually all of the Company's footwear brands and the growth and development of
the Company's accessories business. Sales through the Company's retail stores
increased $142.0 million, or 36.7%. The increase in net revenues of the
Company's retail division is attributable to: (1) a $80.3 million increase in
net revenues resulting from the Acquisition of the Footwear Group; (2) the
opening (net of closings) of 145 domestic and 33 international retail stores
($63.5 million); (3) comparable store sales increases ($10.5 million); and (4)
a decrease in sales attributable to the closing of 84 Burlington Leased
Departments and 31 Banister retail stores ($12.3 million). The 84 Burlington
Leased Departments and 31 Banister stores have been excluded from the 145
domestic openings (net of closings) mentioned above.
Comparable store sales (including the sales of the acquired Footwear Group
stores, had they been acquired as of the beginning of the comparable period of
the prior year) increased 1.7% for the first 39 weeks of 1996. Comparable store
sales, excluding the results of SFR, increased 6.0% during the first 39 weeks of
1996. Comparable store sales for SFR decreased during the first 39 weeks of
1996 due primarily to the significant promotional activity during the second and
Third Quarters of 1995, as the Company began the repositioning of inventory to
more of its branded product. The foregoing comparable store sales do not
include the results of the 84 Burlington Leased Departments, which were closed
during the first 26 weeks of 1996.
During the first 39 weeks of 1996, wholesale net revenues accounted for
56.6% of the Company's consolidated net revenues, while retail operations
accounted for the remaining 43.4%. During the comparable period of 1995,
wholesale operations accounted for 57.4% of consolidated net revenues, while
retail operations accounted for the remaining 42.6%.
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit was $521.3 million in the first 39 weeks of
1996, an increase of $133.8 million, or 34.5%, from $387.5 million in the first
39 weeks of 1995 (excluding the Cost of Goods Sold Adjustment). Gross profit as
a percentage of net revenues increased to 42.8% in the first 39 weeks of 1996
from 42.7% in the first 39 weeks of 1995. The increase in gross profit as a
percentage of net revenues is primarily attributable to a greater percentage of
net revenues from retail operations (43.4% in the first 39 weeks of 1996,
compared to 42.6% in the first 39 weeks of 1995), which revenues produce greater
gross margins than wholesale revenues. During the past year, there have been
moderate increases in the price of leather, which have generally been reflected
in the selling price of the Company's products. While the Company is not in a
position to reasonably anticipate or predict how changes in labor, leather, and
other raw material prices will ultimately impact the Company's gross profit
margins in the future, the Company anticipates that such increases will be
reflected in the selling price of the Company's products, to the extent possible
under economic and competitive conditions prevailing at the time.
SELLING, GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. SG&A expenses (excluding the
amortization of goodwill, trademarks and trade names related to the Acquisition)
were $358.7 million in the first 39 weeks of 1996, compared to $266.7 million in
the first 39 weeks of 1995, an increase of $92.0 million, or 34.5%. SG&A
expense expressed as a percentage of net revenues was 29.4% in each of the first
39 weeks of 1996 and the first 39 weeks of 1995. SG&A expense expressed as a
percentage of net revenues is unchanged due primarily to several factors which
offset one another. The increases in SG&A expenses as a percentage of net
revenues are attributable to: (1) the increase in the percentage of net revenues
contributed by the Company's retail operations relative to its wholesale
operations (the Company's retail operations have a higher level of expenses as a
percentage of net revenues than its wholesale operations); and (2) higher
expenses as a percentage of net revenues experienced by the Footwear Group as
discussed below. These factors were substantially offset by cost savings
resulting from the consolidation and integration of various corporate and
business unit operations and support functions during the past year. The higher
expenses of the Footwear Group are attributable to, among other things,
significant expenditures for advertising, and were incurred during the full 39
weeks ended November 2, 1996, compared to only 23 weeks during the period ended
October 28, 1995. While SG&A expenses as a percentage of net revenues during
the remainder of Fiscal 1996 and the foreseeable future are expected to increase
as a result of opening additional retail stores by the Company (including the
commitments as of December 4, 1996 to open 75 retail stores), such increases are
not expected to have a material impact on the Company's operating margin, since
these higher expenses are expected to be approximately offset by the higher
gross profit as a percentage of net revenues achieved by the Company's retail
operations. SG&A expenses for the Company will increase by several million
dollars beginning in Fiscal 1997 in connection with an expanded marketing plan
which will include higher advertising and promotional expenses than those
incurred during Fiscal 1996.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income was $155.5 million, or 12.8% of net
revenues, for the first 39 weeks of 1996 compared to $116.8 million, or 12.9% of
net revenues, for the first 39 weeks of 1995 (excluding the Cost of Goods Sold
Adjustment). The decrease in operating income as a percentage of net revenues
is attributable to the factors discussed above and the increase in amortization
of goodwill, trademarks and trade names related to the Acquisition. Thirty-nine
weeks of amortization is included in the 1996 period, compared to 23 weeks of
amortization during the first 39 weeks of 1995.
INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense was $29.7 million in the first 39 weeks
of 1996 compared to $19.6 million in the first 39 weeks of 1995, an increase of
$10.1 million or 51.0%. The increased expense was primarily due to Acquisition-
related debt, which was outstanding only for the period from May 23 to October
28 during the first 39 weeks of 1995, but was outstanding during the entire
first 39 weeks of 1996. The increased expense was partially offset by a
decrease in the weighted average interest rate from 7.5% during the first 39
weeks of 1995 to 6.6% during the first 39 weeks of 1996. The decrease in the
weighted average interest rate was primarily attributable to the more favorable
interest rate on Company borrowings achieved as a result of refinancing the
Company's bank debt with: (1) the net proceeds of $181.3 million from the
issuance of 5.5% convertible subordinated notes due July 15, 2003 (the "Notes")
during the second quarter of 1996; (2) the amendment and restatement of the
Company's credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") during the second quarter of
1996 which resulted in reduced interest rates and fees incurred by the Company;
(3) the net proceeds of $71.0 million from the Company's accounts receivable
securitization program; and (4) the net proceeds of $20.0 million from the
sale/leaseback transaction relating to the Company's West Deptford, New Jersey
distribution facility.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company relies primarily upon cash flow from operations and borrowings
under the Company's credit agreement to finance its operations and expansion.
Cash used by operating activities was $22.3 million for the first 39 weeks of
1996, compared to cash provided by operating activities of $66.0 million for the
first 39 weeks of 1995. This decrease in cash flow from operations during the
first 39 weeks of 1996 as compared to the first 39 weeks of 1995 is due
primarily to: (1) additional working capital requirements as a result of the
Acquisition and the Company's expansion; (2) $6.7 million of severance and
relocation payments made during the first 39 weeks of 1996 in connection with
the Acquisition; and (3) $11.5 million of payments during the first 39 weeks of
1996 made in connection with the Restructuring Charge. Working capital was
$407.3 million at November 2, 1996, compared to $297.3 million at February 3,
1996. Working capital increased during the first 39 weeks of 1996 due, in part,
to: (1) a $62.5 million increase in inventory due to wholesale on-order
requirements, early production of inventory for Easy Spirit's 1997 "National
Sales Event", and to support inventory required for new retail stores; and (2)
decreases in accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current
liabilities. Working capital may vary from time to time as a result of seasonal
requirements, the timing of factory shipments and the Company's "open stock" and
"quick response" wholesale programs, which require an increased investment in
inventories.
Total cash outlays related to the Restructuring Charge are estimated at
approximately $22.0 million, of which $11.5 million was paid during the first 39
weeks of 1996, bringing total payments through November 2, 1996 to $15.9
million. In connection with the Acquisition, the Company assumed and included in
the allocation of the acquisition cost of the Footwear Group: (1) accruals for
involuntary severance and termination benefits of $8.6 million; and (2)
relocation costs of $8.2 million. As of November 2, 1996, approximately $6.4
million and $6.4 million of severance and termination benefits, and relocation
costs, respectively, had been charged against these liabilities ($4.5 million
and $2.2 million of severance and termination benefits, and relocation costs,
respectively, were charged during the first 39 weeks of 1996). The Company
anticipates that the remaining cash outlays relating to these actions will be
substantially completed during the remainder of Fiscal 1996.
Subsequent to the Acquisition, the Company consummated several transactions
that reduced borrowings under the credit agreement by an aggregate of $272.3
million. These transactions included: (1) proceeds of $71.0 million from the
Company's accounts receivable securitization program; (2) proceeds of $20.0
million from the sale/leaseback transaction relating to the Company's West
Deptford, New Jersey distribution facility during the first 26 weeks of 1996;
and (3) net proceeds of $181.3 million from the issuance of the Notes during the
second quarter of 1996.
On August 2, 1996, the credit agreement was amended and restated. Under
the amended and restated credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement"), the Company
has a $335.0 million quarterly amortizing term loan facility and may borrow up
to $225.0 million under a revolving credit facility, including letters of credit
up to $100.0 million. The Credit Agreement expires on November 1, 2001.
Amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all
assets of the Company, excluding receivables related to an accounts receivable
securitization program, and bear interest, at the Company's option, at rates
based on Citibank's base rate or the Eurodollar index rate. Borrowings under
the Credit Agreement will become unsecured should the Company reach an
"investment grade" rating on its long term senior indebtedness. The Company has
entered into interest rate hedge agreements to reduce the impact on interest
expense from fluctuating interest rates on variable rate debt. As of December 4,
1996, $324.0 million of borrowings were outstanding under the term loan, $70.0
million of borrowings and $36.9 million of letters of credit were outstanding on
a revolving basis and $118.1 million was available for future borrowing.
In June 1996, the Company issued $185.7 million of Notes. The Notes are
convertible into common stock of the Company at a conversion price of $60.76 per
share, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances. The Notes are
redeemable, in whole or in part, at the option of the Company, at any time on or
after July 16, 1999, at declining redemption prices plus any accrued interest.
The Notes are subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future senior
indebtedness of the Company. Proceeds from the issuance of the Notes were
approximately $181.3 million (net of underwriter's discounts of $4.4 million)
and were used to repay a portion of the outstanding indebtedness under the
Company's credit agreement.
The Company made a $42.5 million net payment to U.S. Shoe on June 5, 1996,
in connection with the settlement of the post-closing balance sheet dispute
relating to the Acquisition and the repurchase by the Company of the Warrants
(see "Acquisitions" in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements) which was financed under the Company's revolving credit facility.
The weighted average interest rate on the Company's long-term debt
outstanding (including the Notes) as of November 2, 1996 was approximately
6.15%.
Capital expenditures totaled $27.2 million and $28.7 million in the first
39 weeks of 1996 and 1995, respectively. Capital expenditures in the first 39
weeks of 1996 relate primarily to the Company's retail store expansion and
remodeling programs. The Company estimates that its capital expenditures for
Fiscal 1996 will be between $45.0 million and $50.0 million, primarily for the
on-going expansion of its domestic retail operations (approximately $32.0
million), equipment for its distribution and manufacturing facilities
(approximately $3.5 million), and international expansion (approximately $2.0
million). The actual amount of the Company's capital expenditures depends, in
part, on requirements related to the integration of the Footwear Group into the
Company, the number of new stores opened, the number of stores remodeled and the
amount of any construction allowances the Company may receive from the landlords
of its new stores. The opening and success of new stores will be dependent
upon, among other things, general economic and business conditions affecting
consumer spending, the availability of desirable locations and the negotiation
of acceptable lease terms for new locations. As of December 4, 1996, the
Company had commitments for approximately $9.9 million of capital expenditures,
related to commitments as of such date to open 75 retail stores, 11 of which are
intended to be opened during the remainder of Fiscal 1996.
The Company estimates that capital expenditures during Fiscal 1997 will be
approximately $80.0 million, including approximately $50 million for on-going
expansion of its domestic and international retail operations and approximately
$20.0 million (substantially all of which will be completed during Fiscal
1997) related primarily to leasehold improvements, furniture and fixtures, and
equipment associated with the relocation of the Company's Stamford, Connecticut
headquarters and Cincinnati, Ohio offices to White Plains, New York. The
Company anticipates entering into a 25-year lease for the White Plains facility.
The Company expects that its current cash balances, cash flows anticipated
to be generated from operations and availability under its revolving credit
facility will be sufficient to fund its domestic and international growth and
expansion (including planned domestic and international retail store openings),
business restructuring and integration of the Footwear Group, and other
operating cash needs for at least the next 12 months.
SEASONALITY
The Company's footwear and accessories are marketed primarily for each of
the four seasons, with the highest volume of products sold during the last three
fiscal quarters. The Company's retail operations, however, generally experience
their weakest results in the first quarter. Because the timing of shipments of
products for any season may vary from year to year, the results for any
particular quarter may not be indicative of results for the full year. The
Company has not had significant overhead and other costs generally associated
with large seasonal variations.
INFLATION
The Company believes that the relatively moderate rate of inflation over
the past few years has not had a significant impact on the Company's revenues or
profitability. In the past, the Company has been able to maintain its profit
margins during inflationary periods.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in this Report which are not historical facts
contain forward-looking information with respect to the Company's plans,
projections or future performance, the occurrence of which involve certain risks
and uncertainties that could cause the Company's actual results or plans to
differ materially from those expected by the Company. Certain of such risks and
uncertainties relate to competition in the industry; changes in the prevailing
costs of leather and other raw materials, labor and advertising; changes in
consumer demands and preferences; retail store construction delays; the
availability of desirable retail locations and the negotiation of acceptable
lease terms for such locations; the ability of the Company to place its products
in desirable sections of its department store customers; and unexpected costs
incurred in connection with the relocation of the Company's principal executive
offices to White Plains, New York.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company has been named as a defendant in various actions and
proceedings, including actions brought by certain terminated employees, arising
from its ordinary business activities. Although the liability that could arise
with respect to these actions cannot be accurately predicted, in the opinion of
the Company, any such liability will not have a material adverse effect on its
financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.
(a) Exhibits:
See Index to Exhibits
(b) Reports on 8-K:
None
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Nine West Group Inc.
(Registrant)
By: /s/ Robert C. Galvin
---------------------------
Robert C. Galvin
Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer (Principal Financial
Officer and Principal Accounting
Officer)
Date: December 16, 1996
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
Exhibit
Number Exhibit
- ------ -------
*11 Computation of earnings per share.
*Filed herewith
<TABLE>
EXHIBIT 11
NINE WEST GROUP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
(in thousands except per share data)
13 weeks ended 39 weeks ended
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Nov. 2 Oct. 28 Nov. 2 Oct. 28
1996 1995 (1) 1996 1995 (1)
------- ------- ------- -------
PRIMARY EARNINGS PER SHARE
Computation for Statement of Income:
Net income available for common stock $35,564 $20,798 $76,582 $37,872
======= ======= ======= =======
Shares:
Weighted average number of common
shares outstanding 35,739 35,059 35,599 34,946
Add: Net effect of dilutive stock options
based on the treasury stock method 990 1,475 1,129 597
------- ------- ------- -------
Weighted average number of shares outstanding
including common stock equivalents 36,729 36,534 36,728 35,543
======= ======= ======= =======
Primary earnings per share, as adjusted $ 0.97 $ 0.57 $ 2.09 $ 1.07
======= ======= ======= =======
FULLY DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE
Computation for Statement of Income:
Reconciliation of net income to amount used for
fully diluted computation in Statement of Income:
Income per primary calculation above $35,564 $76,582
Add: Interest on 5.5% convertible
debentures, net of tax effect 1,713 2,415
------- -------
Adjusted net income $37,277 $78,997
======= =======
Reconciliation of weighted average common
shares outstanding to amount used for fully
diluted computation in Statement of Income:
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding 35,739 35,599
Add: Weighted average shares issuable from
assumed exercise of 5.5% convertible debentures 3,056 1,455
Net effect of dilutive stock options based on
the treasury stock method 990 1,477
------- -------
Fully diluted shares 39,785 38,531
======= =======
Fully diluted earnings per share $ 0.94 $ 2.05
======= =======
(1) Fully diluted earnings per common and common equivalent share are equal to primary
earnings per share for the 1995 periods.
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-01-1997
<PERIOD-END> NOV-02-1996
<CASH> 25,727
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 84,308
<ALLOWANCES> 0
<INVENTORY> 459,182
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 641,834
<PP&E> 126,668
<DEPRECIATION> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,184,780
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 234,508
<BONDS> 181,434
0
0
<COMMON> 358
<OTHER-SE> 355,159
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 1,184,780
<SALES> 1,218,324
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 1,218,324
<CGS> 696,977
<TOTAL-COSTS> 696,977
<OTHER-EXPENSES> (1840)
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 29,671
<INCOME-PRETAX> 127,640
<INCOME-TAX> 51,058
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 76,582
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 76,582
<EPS-PRIMARY> 2.09
<EPS-DILUTED> 2.05
</TABLE>
