SL INDUSTRIES INC
10-K, 1998-10-29
ELECTRIC LIGHTING & WIRING EQUIPMENT
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<PAGE>   1
                                  UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549
                                    FORM 10-K

    (Mark One)
          [X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
                         SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                     FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JULY 31, 1998
                                       OR
          [ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
                         SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                   For the transition period ______ to ______

                          Commission file number 1-4987

                               SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
<TABLE>

<S>                                                                       <C>
                        NEW JERSEY                                                    21-0682685
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)            (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

520 FELLOWSHIP ROAD, SUITE A114, MT. LAUREL, NJ                                         08054
              (Address of principal executive offices)                               (Zip Code)
</TABLE>

        Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 609-727-1500

<TABLE>
<S>                                                        <C>
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
            Title of each class                            Name of each exchange on which registered
    Common stock, $.20 par value                                    New York Stock Exchange
                                                                  Philadelphia Stock Exchange
</TABLE>

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No ___

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers to Item 405 of
Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best
of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K.[X]

On October 15, 1998, the aggregate market value of SL common stock was
approximately $57,036,000. The number of shares of common stock outstanding as
of October 15, 1998, was 5,633,140.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
Part I, II, IV - Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended July
31, 1998 
Part III - Proxy Statement dated October 16, 1998



<PAGE>   2


                                     PART I

ITEM 1.  DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

     (a) General Development of Business

On March 29, 1956, the Registrant was incorporated as G-L Electronics Company in
the state of New Jersey. Its name was changed to G-L Industries, Inc., in
November 1963, SGL Industries, Inc., in November 1970 and then to the present
name of SL Industries, Inc., in September 1984. The Registrant and its
subsidiaries design and produce propriety advanced systems and equipment for the
high-growth Power and Data Quality ("PDQ") industry. The products of the
Registrant and its subsidiaries either become components of other industrial or
consumer products or are sold through distribution for general retail or
commercial use.

For the most part, the Registrant and its subsidiaries concentrate on specialty
markets believed to offer higher profit margins and greater potential for growth
than industrial commodities. No single customer accounts for more than 10% of
consolidated net sales nor are export sales material thereto.

On July 10, 1998, pursuant to a Purchase Agreement dated June 30, 1998, the
Registrant, through its wholly-owned subsidiary formed solely for such purpose,
SL Industries Vertrieb, GmbH, a German Corporation, acquired 100% of the issued
and outstanding Common Shares of Elektro-Metall Export GmbH ("EME"), a German
Corporation. The Registrant paid $9,500,000 in cash at closing. EME is a leading
German based designer and manufacturer of power quality products. EME is based
in Ingolstadt, Germany and maintains low-cost manufacturing operations in Paks,
Hungary.

     (b) Financial Segment Information

Financial information about the Registrant's business segments is incorporated
herein by reference to Note 13 in the Annual Report to Shareholders for the
fiscal year ended July 31, 1998.

     (c) Narrative Description of Business

During fiscal 1997 and 1996, the Registrant was comprised of two business
segments - power and data quality and specialty products. Currently, the
Registrant operates principally in one business segment; the design, production
and marketing of advanced power and data quality systems and equipment for
industrial, medical, aerospace and consumer applications.

Products
Power Supplies - The Registrant produces a wide range of standard and custom
power supply products which convert AC or DC power to direct electrical current
to be used in customers' end products. Condor D.C. Power Supplies, Inc.
("Condor"), designs, manufactures and markets standard and custom AC-DC and
DC-DC power supplies in both linear and switching configurations. These products
range in power from 7 to 700 watts and are manufactured in either commercial or
medical configurations. Condor's power supplies closely regulate and monitor
power outputs, using patented filter and other technologies, resulting in little
or no electrical interference. Condor's power supplies service the medical,
industrial,


<PAGE>   3

telecommunications and instrumentation markets. SL Montevideo Technology, Inc.
("MTI") also incorporates power supplies into its drive systems for electric
vehicles and other motion control systems. For the years ended July 31, 1998,
1997 and 1996, Condor's net sales, as a percentage of consolidated net sales,
were 27%, 26% and 23%.

Power Distribution and Power Conditioning Units - The Registrant is the leader
in the design and manufacture of customized power distribution and power
conditioning units. Teal Electronics Corporation ("Teal") develops and
manufactures custom electrical subsystems for OEM's of semiconductor, medical
imaging, graphics and telecommunication systems. Outsourcing the AC power system
to Teal helps its customers reduce cost and time to market, while increasing
system performance and customer satisfaction. Teal also helps its customers by
getting necessary agency approvals. Custom products are often called "Power
Conditioning and Distribution Units," which provide voltage conversion and
stabilization, system control, and power distribution for systems such as CT and
MRI scanners, chip testers and cellular radio systems. Most of Teal's products
are sold direct to its OEM customers who include them with their systems, which
are sold to the end user. EME's power distribution products can be found in
aerospace applications such as passenger entertainment units, and in automotive
applications used in mirror controls and general power wiring systems throughout
the vehicle. SL Waber, Inc. ("Waber") also designs and manufacturers Power
Distribution Units that safely convert a high power input into user specified
output ranges. For the years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, Teal's net
sales, as a percentage of consolidated net sales, were 16%, 13% and 12%.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies and Battery Charging - Waber designs and
manufactures uninterruptible power supplies that provide back-up power in the
event of a power failure. These products are also used to recharge batteries
and, in some applications, provide a direct power supply to connected equipment.
Two of the products sold are "POWERHOUSE(R)" and "UPSTART(R)", which is an under
the monitor product that includes software used to save and restore data, as
well as provide typical UPS back up capability and surge protection. This
concept was extended to network equipment in 1997 in the form of the "UPSTART
Network(TM)" 350 and 550 products. Condor also designs and manufactures custom
back-up power supplies for medical equipment and other critical industrial
applications. MTI has introduced and developed battery chargers as part of its
motion control systems for electric vehicle applications and is advancing its
flywheel energy storage systems that provide uninterruptible power by storing
electricity as kinetic energy which does not require batteries.

Motion Control Systems - MTI is continuing its recent growth as a technological
leader in the design and manufacture of intelligent, high power density,
precision motors. MTI has been capitalizing on its new motor and (patented and
patent pending) motor control technologies to win important programs in both
traditional and new market areas. MTI's new motor and motion controls are used
in numerous applications, including aerospace, medical and industrial products.
Negotiations are continuing with customers on advanced designs for numerous
programs including flywheel energy storage systems, high performance missile
guidance motors, and medical/surgical drills and saws. EME designs and
manufactures electromechanical products for Aerospace and Ordnance applications.
Its products are used in aircraft elevator and rudder trim actuation, cargo
application and door control. For the years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996,
MTI's net sales, as a percentage of consolidated net sales, were 13%, 10% and
8%.


<PAGE>   4

Surge Suppressors and Other - Surge suppressors are sold to protect computers,
audiovisual and other electronic equipment from sudden surges in power. Waber
is a leader in the design and manufacture of surge suppressors for the custom,
OEM and retail marketplaces.  These products include those sold under the
trademarks of "POWERMASTER(R)" and "DATAGARD(R)".  SL Surface Technologies,
Inc. ("STI"), provides chromium electroplated, specialty engineered surfaces to
the paper, plastics, steel, nuclear and construction industries.  The company
is a major supplier of these services in the Greater Philadelphia region, and
has developed a presence in Western Europe.  Sales are made by appropriate
company technical personnel.  For the years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996,
Waber's net sales, as a percentage of consolidated net sales, were 39%, 41% and
42%.


Raw Materials
Raw materials are supplied by various domestic and international vendors and
availability for materials is not foreseen to be a problem. Raw materials are
purchased direct from the manufacturer whenever possible to avoid distributor
mark-ups. Average lead times run from immediate availability to eight weeks. In
most cases, viable multiple sources are maintained for flexibility and
competitive leverage.

Seasonality
Generally, seasonality is not a factor.

Significant Customers
No business has a customer which accounts for 10% or more of consolidated net
sales. The loss of any one major customer should not have an adverse affect on
the business.

Backlog
Backlog at September 6, 1998, and September 7, 1997, was $40,229,000 and
$30,713,000, respectively. The increase is primarily related to the EME
acquisition. Excluding EME, the backlog at September 6, 1998, was $30,202,000.

Competitive Conditions
The businesses are in active competition with domestic companies, some with
national name recognition, offering similar products or services and with
companies producing alternative products appropriate for the same uses. In
addition, Waber and Condor have experienced significant off-shore competition,
for certain products in certain markets. Currently, the businesses are sourcing
many components and products outside of the United States. The decreasing
military market has also created more competitive conditions in both the
military and commercial markets. The businesses differentiate themselves from
their competitor by concentrating on customized products based on customer
needs. Methods of competition are primarily quality, service, innovation,
delivery and price.


Environmental

The Registrant (together with the industries in which it operates or has
operated) is subject to United States, Mexican and German environmental laws and
regulations concerning emissions to the air, discharges to surface and
subsurface waters, and the generation, handling, storage,


<PAGE>   5

transportation, treatment and disposal of waste materials. The Registrant and
the industries are also subject to other federal, state and local environmental
laws and regulations, including those that require the Registrant to remediate
or mitigate the effects of the disposal or release of certain chemical
substances at various sites, including some where it has ceased operations. It
is impossible to predict precisely what affect these laws and regulations will
have on the Registrant in the future. However, it is not expected that the
Registrant will be affected differently from others in its industries.

It is the Registrant's policy to comply with all environmental, health and
safety regulations, as well as industry standards for maintenance. The
Registrant's domestic competitors are subject to the same environmental, health
and safety laws and regulations, and the Registrant believes that the compliance
issues and potential expenditures of its operating subsidiaries are comparable
to those faced by their major domestic competitors. Environmental liabilities
and related costs are believed to have been adequately provided for in the
consolidated financial statements. There were no capital expenditures for these
purposes during fiscal year 1998 and are estimated to be immaterial for fiscal
1999. For additional information related to environmental issues, see Note 10 to
the consolidated financial statements and "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the Annual Report to
Shareholders for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1998, which is incorporated
herein by reference.


Employees

As of September 6, 1998, the Registrant had approximately 2,000 employees. Of
these employees, approximately 363 are subject to collective bargaining
agreements.


Additional Information

For the purposes of providing additional information regarding the development
of the Registrant's businesses in fiscal 1998, the "PDQ Solutions" and
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" included in the Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year
ended July 31, 1998, are incorporated by reference.



<PAGE>   6


ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                            Approx.         Owned or Leased
                                                                                            Square                And
   Location                          General Character                                      Footage         Expiration Date
  ----------                         -----------------                                      -------         ---------------
<S>                         <C>                                                             <C>            <C>
Montevideo, MN              Manufacture of precision motors and motion                      38,700               Owned
                            control systems                                                  7,040         Leased - 12/31/98


Matamoros, Mexico           Manufacture of precision motors                                  8,600         Leased - 11/05/99


Nogales, Mexico             Manufacture of power protection products                        65,000         Leased - 12/31/02

Nogales, AZ                 Distribution of power protection products                       11,700         Leased - Month
                                                                                                              to Month


Mt. Laurel, NJ              Corporate Office - power protection products                    15,900         Leased - 11/30/99

                            Manufacture and distribution of power supply
Oxnard, CA                  products                                                        36,400         Leased - 02/28/03

                                                                                                                Leased
                            Manufacture and distribution of power supply                    40,000              6/01/99
Mexicali, Mexico            products                                                        21,500             08/31/00


San Diego, CA               Manufacture of AC power subsystems                              45,054         Leased - 03/22/02


                            Manufacture of motion control systems and                       39,876               Owned
Ingolstadt, Germany         power distribution products                                     17,668         Leased - 09/30/03

Camden, NJ                  Industrial surface finishing                                    15,800               Owned

Pennsauken, NJ              Industrial surface finishing warehouse                           6,000               Owned

Mt. Laurel, NJ              Corporate Office                                                 4,200         Leased - 11/30/99
</TABLE>

All manufacturing facilities are adequate for current production requirements.
The Registrant believes that its facilities are sufficient for future
operations, maintained in good operating condition and adequately insured. Of
the owned properties, none are subject to a major encumbrance material to the
operations of the Registrant.

<PAGE>   7

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the ordinary course of its business, the Registrant is subject to loss
contingencies pursuant to foreign and domestic federal, state and local
governmental laws and regulations and is also party to certain legal actions,
most frequently complaints by terminated employees. It is management's opinion
that the impact of these legal actions will not have a material affect on the
financial position or results of operations of the Registrant. There are no
legal proceedings to which any Director or Officer of the Registrant, or any
associate of any Director or Officer, is a party or has a material interest
adverse to the Registrant's interest. There are no material proceedings with
environmental issues, which involve penalties or sanctions. Additional
information pertaining to legal proceedings is found in Note 10 to the
consolidated financial statements, and in "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the Annual Report to
Shareholders for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1998, which is incorporated
herein by reference.


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

During the fourth quarter ended July 31, 1998, there were no matters submitted
to a vote of security holders, through a solicitation of proxies or otherwise.


                                     PART II

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


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          --------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------
                                                         FISCAL 1998                            FISCAL 1997
                                          --------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------
                                                 HIGH                LOW                 HIGH                LOW
                                          ------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
<C>                                             <C>                   <C>               <C>                <C>
Stock Prices
1st Quarter...............................      16 1/4                10                10 1/4              8 1/8
2nd Quarter...............................      13 1/2                11                 8 5/8              6 7/8
3rd Quarter...............................      14 7/8                12                 7 7/8              6 3/8
4th Quarter...............................      15 3/8                12 1/2            11                  7 3/8

Dividends
Cash - November...........................                 $.04                                    $.03
Cash - June...............................                 $.04                                    $.04
                                          --------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------
</TABLE>
As of September 17, 1998, there were approximately 1,700 registered
shareholders. A semi-annual cash dividend of $.04 per share was declared on
September 25, 1998, which is payable on November 24, 1998, to shareholders of
record on November 2, 1998.

<PAGE>   8



ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the
material captioned "Selected Financial Data" in the Annual Report to
Shareholders for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1998.


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

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the
material captioned "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations" in the Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal
year ended July 31, 1998.


ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the
consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto and the material
captioned "Report of Independent Public Accountants" and "Selected Quarterly
Financial Data (Unaudited)" in the Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal
year ended July 31, 1998.


ITEM 9.  DISAGREEMENTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

This item is not applicable.

                                    PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The information required by this item, except for the ages and positions held
with the Registrant of the executive officers, is incorporated herein by
reference to the material captioned "Election of Directors" on page 5 of the
proxy statement dated October 16, 1998. The name, age and positions of each
executive officers are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name                    Age         Position with the Registrant
- ----                    ---         ----------------------------
<S>                      <C>        <C>
Owen Farren              47         Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer
James E. Morris          61         Vice President, Corporate Controller and Treasurer
David Nuzzo              41         Vice President - Finance and Administration & Secretary
</TABLE>

Owen Farren has been Chairman of the Board since June 1998 and President and
Chief Executive Officer since April 1991 and prior thereto as Executive Vice
President since 1990.

James E. Morris has been Vice President and Corporate Controller since September
1991 and Treasurer since November 1995. From November 1995 through December
1997, Mr. Morris served as Corporate Secretary and has been a financial
executive since 1978.
<PAGE>   9

David R. Nuzzo has been Vice President - Finance and Administration & Secretary
since December 1997.

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the
material captioned "The Board of Directors" and "Executive Officer Compensation"
on pages 6 through 9 of the proxy statement dated October 16, 1998.

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
          MANAGEMENT

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the
material captioned "Security Ownership of Principal Shareholders and Management"
on pages 3 and 4 of the proxy statement dated October 16, 1998.


ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

The information required by this item, except for related transactions, is
incorporated herein by reference to the material captioned "Executive Officer
Compensation" on pages 7 through 9 of the proxy statement dated October 16,
1998.


                                     PART IV

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

(a) (1)  Financial Statements

The following consolidated financial statements, related notes to consolidated
financial statements and the report of independent public accountants appearing
in the portions of the Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders, filed as
Exhibit 13, for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1998, are incorporated herein by
reference:

     Consolidated Statements of Earnings - Years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and
     1996

     Consolidated Balance Sheets - July 31, 1998 and 1997

     Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity - Years ended July 31,
     1998, 1997 and 1996

     Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and
     1996

     Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     Report of Independent Public Accountants

<PAGE>   10

(a)(2)  Financial Statement Schedules

The following financial statement schedules for the years 1998, 1997 and 1996
are submitted herewith:

        Report of Independent Public Accountants - Arthur Andersen LLP

        Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

All other schedules are omitted because (a) the required information is
shown elsewhere in the Annual Report, or (b) they are inapplicable, or (c)
they are not required.

(a)(3)  Exhibits

The information called for by this section is listed in the Exhibit Index of
this report.


(b)     Reports on Form 8-K

On July 24, 1998, the Registrant filed a report dated July 10, 1998, on Form 8-K
covering the acquisition of Elektro-Metall Export GmbH.

On September 18, 1998, the Registrant filed a report on Form 8-K/A to amend Item
7 of the Form 8-K filed on July 24, 1998.




<PAGE>   11



                                   SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


                                                 SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                                 -------------------
                                                       (Registrant)


                                                 /s/ Owen Farren
                                                 -------------------
                                                 Owen Farren, President
                                                 October 21, 1998

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant in
the capacities and on the dates indicated.




/s/ Owen Farren                                      /s/ J. Dwane Baumgardner
- ---------------                                      ------------------------
Owen Farren                                          J. Dwane Baumgardner
Chairman of the Board,                               Director
President and Chief Executive Officer                October 22, 1998
October 21, 1998

/s/ James E. Morris                                  /s/ Edward A. Gaugler
- -------------------                                  ---------------------
James E. Morris                                      Edward A. Gaugler
Vice President,                                      Director
Corporate Controller,                                October 22, 1998
and Treasurer
October 21, 1998                                     /s/ George R. Hornig
                                                     --------------------
                                                     George R. Hornig
                                                     Director
                                                     October 22, 1998

                                                     /s/ Walter I. Rickard
                                                     ---------------------
                                                     Walter I. Rickard
                                                     Director
                                                     October 22, 1998

                                                     /s/ Robert J. Sanator
                                                     ---------------------
                                                     Robert J. Sanator
                                                     Director
                                                     October 22, 1998



<PAGE>   12


                                                      COMMISSION FILE NO. 1-4987
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------









                      SL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                              SUPPORTING SCHEDULES

                                       FOR

                                  ANNUAL REPORT
                                   (Form 10-K)

                                       TO

                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

                                Washington, D.C.



<PAGE>   13

                              ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP



                    REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS




To SL Industries, Inc.:


We have audited in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, the
consolidated financial statements included in SL Industries, Inc.'s annual
report to shareholders incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K, and have
issued our report thereon dated September 10, 1998. Our audits were made for the
purpose of forming an opinion on those statements taken as a whole. The schedule
listed in the index at Item 14 (a)(2) is the responsibility of the Company's
management and is presented for purposes of complying with the Securities and
Exchange Commission's rules and is not part of the basic financial statements.
This schedule has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit
of the basic financial statements and, in our opinion, fairly states in all
material respects the financial data required to be set forth therein in
relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole.



                                            ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP

Philadelphia, PA
 September 10, 1998

<PAGE>   14





                                   SCHEDULE II

                        VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

                FOR THE YEARS ENDED JULY 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
                                 (In Thousands)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Additions
                                          -----------------------------------------
                              Balance at       Charged to          Charged to
                            Beginning of        Costs and               Other                             Balance at
Description                       Period         Expenses            Accounts            Deductions    End of Period
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                             <C>               <C>                 <C>                 <C>               <C>
YEAR 1998
Allowance for:
  doubtful accounts                 $496              $53                 $85                 $44(a)            $590
                                    ====              ===                 ===                 ===               ====
  customer credits                $1,294           $2,462                 $--              $2,301(b)          $1,455
                                  ======           ======                 ===              ======             ======

YEAR 1997
Allowance for:
  doubtful accounts                 $428              $62                 $35                 $29               $496
                                    ====              ===                 ===                 ===               ====
  customer credits                $1,212           $2,157                 $--              $2,075(b)          $1,294
                                  ======           ======                 ===              ======             ======

YEAR 1996
Allowance for:
  doubtful accounts                 $453             $151                 $41                $217(a)            $428
                                    ====             ====                 ===                ====               ====
  customer credits                $1,367           $1,888                 $--              $2,043(b)          $1,212
                                  ======           ======                 ===              ======             ======

</TABLE>
- -----------------
(a)   Accounts receivable written off, net of recoveries.
(b)   Primarily for customer advertising programs.




<PAGE>   15




                               INDEX TO EXHIBITS

The exhibit number, description and sequential page number in the original copy
of this document where exhibits can be found follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit #                                Description
- ---------                                -----------
<S>                   <C>
 3.1                  Articles of Incorporation. Copy of Certificate of 
                      Incorporation as amended (transmitted herewith).
 3.2                  By-Laws. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended
                      October 31, 1994 and October 31, 1996.
10.1                  Supplemental Compensation Agreement for the Benefit of
                      Byrne Litschgi. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1
                      to the Registrants report on Form 8 dated November 9,
                      1990.
10.2                  Chairman's Executive Severance Agreement. Incorporated by
                      reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant's report on
                      Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.3                  First Amendment to Chairman's Executive Severance
                      Agreement and to Supplemental Compensation Agreement.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3.1 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.4                  Second Amendment to Chairman's Executive Severance
                      Agreement and to Supplemental Compensation Agreement.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3.2 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.5                  Third Amendment to Chairman's Executive Severance
                      Agreement and to Supplemental Compensation Agreement.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3.3 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.6                  Fourth Amendment to Chairman's Executive Severance
                      Agreement and to Supplemental Compensation Agreement.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3.2 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.7                  Deferred Supplemental Compensation Agreement with Grant
                      Heilman. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4.5 to
                      the Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.8                  Deferred Supplemental Compensation Agreement with William
                      Hess. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4.6 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.9                  Supplemental Compensation Agreement for the Benefit of
                      Donald J. Lloyd-Jones. Incorporated by reference to
                      Exhibit 10.5.1 to the Registrant's report on Form 8 dated
                      November 9, 1990.
10.10                 Supplemental Compensation Agreement for the Benefit of
                      Salvatore J. Nuzzo. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                      10.5.3 to the Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November
                      9, 1990.
10.11                 Supplemental Compensation Agreement for the Benefit of
                      Marlin Miller, Jr. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                      10.5.4 to the Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November
                      9, 1990.


</TABLE>
<PAGE>   16
<TABLE>

<S>                   <C>
10.12                 Supplemental Compensation Agreement for the Benefit of
                      Grant Heilman. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5.5
                      to the Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9,
                      1990.
10.13                 Supplemental Compensation Agreement for the Benefit of
                      William M. Hess. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                      10.5.6 to the Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November
                      9, 1990.
10.14                 1988 Deferred Compensation Agreement with a Certain
                      Officer. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.15                 Death Benefit Arrangement with Certain Officers adopted by
                      Board Resolution dated September 18, 1975. Incorporated by
                      reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant's report on
                      Form 8 dated November 9, 1990.
10.16                 Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement dated June 19, 1991.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-A to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
                      July 31, 1991.
10.17                 Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement dated September 25,
                      1991. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-B to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
                      July 31, 1991.
10.18                 Severance Pay Agreement with Owen Farren. Incorporated by
                      reference to Exhibit 10-C to the Registrant's report on
                      Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1991.
10.19                 Severance Pay Agreement with Ted D. Taubeneck.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-D to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
                      July 31, 1991.
10.20                 Deferred Compensation Agreement with James E. Morris.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-E to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
                      July 31, 1991.
10.21                 1991 Long Term Incentive Plan of SL Industries, Inc., as
                      amended, is incorporated by reference to Appendix to the
                      Registrant's Proxy Statement for its 1995 Annual Meeting
                      held November 17, 1995, previously filed with the
                      Securities and Exchange Commission.
10.22                 SL Industries, Inc. Non-Employee Director Non-Qualified
                      Stock Option Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                      4.3 to Registration Statement No. 33-63681, filed October
                      25, 1995.
10.23                 Capital Accumulation Plan. Incorporated by reference to 
                      the Registrant's report on Form 10K/A for the fiscal 
                      period ended July 31, 1994.
10.24                 Amendment No. 1 to Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement
                      dated September 25, 1991, is incorporated herein by
                      reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Registration Statement on Form
                      S-8/A (No. 33-53274) filed with the Securities and
                      Exchange Commission on June 18, 1996.
10.25                 Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement Incorporated by
                      reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Registration Statement No.
                      33-65445, filed December 28, 1995.
10.26                 Severance Pay Agreement with James D. Klemashevich.
                      Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the
                      Registrant's report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
                      July 31, 1997.
</TABLE>


<PAGE>   17



<TABLE>
<S>                   <C>
10.27                 Severance Pay Agreement with David R. Nuzzo. Incorporated
                      by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's report on
                      Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1998.
11                    Statement Re Computation of Per Share Earnings
                      (transmitted herewith).
13                    Portions of Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal
                      year ended July 31, 1998 (transmitted herewith).
17                    Letter Re Director Resignation. Incorporated by reference
                      to the Registrant's report on Form 8-K filed on October
                      20, 1992.
22                    Subsidiaries of the Registrant (transmitted herewith).
24                    Consent of Independent Public Accountants - Arthur
                      Andersen LLP (transmitted herewith).
27                    Financial Data Schedule (Schedule is furnished for the
                      information of the Securities and Exchange Commission and
                      is not to be deemed "filed" as part of Form 10-K, or
                      otherwise subject to the liabilities of Section 18 of the
                      Securities Exchange Act of 1934).
28                    Annual Report on Form 11-K (to be filed by amendment).

</TABLE>

<PAGE>   1
                                                                     EXHIBIT 3-1



                     RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

                                       OF

                              SL INDUSTRIES, INC.



TO:  The Secretary of State 
     State of New Jersey

       Pursuant to the provisions of Section 14A:9-5 of the New Jersey Business
Corporation Act, the undersigned corporation hereby executes the following
Restated Certificate of Incorporation:

         I.  Name.  The name of the corporation is SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

        II.  Registered Office and Agent.  The location of the corporation's
current registered office in the State of New Jersey is 28 West State Street,
Trenton, New Jersey 08608 and the name of the current registered agent thereon
and in charge thereof, upon whom process against this corporation may be served,
is The Corporation Trust Company.

       III.  Objects.  A.  The objects for which the corporation is formed are:

        (1)  To manufacture, purchase or otherwise acquire and to hold, own,
mortgage, sell or otherwise dispose of, trade and deal in and with electronic
and other components, parts, materials and products.


<PAGE>   2

        (2)  To acquire by purchase, assignment, grant, license or otherwise, to
apply for, secure, lease or in any manner obtain, to develop, hold, own, use,
exploit, operate, enjoy and introduce, to sell, assign, lease, mortgage, pledge,
grant licenses and rights of all kinds in respect of, or otherwise dispose of,
and generally to deal in and with and turn to account for any or all purposes,
either for itself or as nominee or agent for others:

             (a)  Any and all inventions, devices, processes, discoveries and
formulae, and improvements and modifications thereof and rights and interests
therein;

             (b)  Any and all letters patent or applications for letters patent
of the United States of America or of any other country, state, locality or
authority, and any and all rights, interests and privileges connected therewith
or incidental or appertaining thereto;

             (c)  Any and all copyrights granted by the United States of America
or any other country, state, locality or authority, and any and all rights,
interests and privileges connected therewith or incidental or appertaining
thereto; and

             (d)  Any and all trade-marks, trade names, trade symbols, labels,
designs and other indications of origin and ownership granted by or recognized
under the laws of the United States of America or any other country, state,
locality or authority, and any and all rights, interests and privileges
connected therewith or incidental or appertaining thereto.


                                     -2-

<PAGE>   3
        (3)  To manufacture, purchase, sell and generally trade and deal in and
with any article, product or commodity produced as the result of or through the
use of any such inventions, devices, processes, discoveries, formulae and
improvements and modifications thereof, or the like, or any articles, products,
commodities, supplies and materials used or suitable to be used in connection
therewith or in any manner applicable or incidental thereto; to grant licenses,
sub-licenses, rights, interests and privileges in respect of any of the
foregoing, and to supervise or otherwise exercise such control over its licenses
or grantees and the business conducted by them, as may be agreed upon in its
contracts or agreements with such licensees or grantees for the protection of
its rights and interests therein, and to secure to it the payment of agreed
royalties or other considerations.

        (4)  To carry on and conduct the business of research and development in
any and all fields for the purpose of leasing and/or selling such services and
the products thereof; including the conception, development, execution and
completion of special scientific and engineering projects, on its own behalf and
on behalf of any other person, firm, association, corporation, public or
private, or the government of the United States of America, or any foreign
government, or any political subdivision thereof or any governmental agency.

        (5)  To act as agent, manufacturer's agent, sales representative,
distributor, representative, dealer, broker, wholesaler, retailer, or in any
other capacity as principal or

                                     -3-

<PAGE>   4
agent, and with any and all persons, firms, partnerships, corporations, and
others, and to buy, sell, distribute, export, import, pledge, make advances
upon, or otherwise deal in and deal with goods, wares and merchandise of every
class and description; to act as dealers, distributors, selling agents or
representatives, sectionally, nationally or internationally, of manufacturers,
producers, distributors, dealers and others; to establish and maintain
dealerships and agencies of all kinds; to represent, in any capacity,
manufacturers, wholesalers, jobbers and dealers in the sale and distribution of
their products.

        (6)  To purchase, lease, rent, construct, erect or otherwise acquire, 
and to hold, own, operate,conduct, sell, lease or otherwise dispose of
factories, manufacturing plants, workshops, laboratories, office buildings, or
other structures as may seem necessary, useful or incidental to the proper
accomplishment of any of the purposes of the corporation; to purchase, acquire,
hold, own, use, deal in, sell, lease, mortgage, pledge or otherwise dispose of
real estate or any interests therein without limit as to amount within or
without the State of New Jersey, in other states, territories or dependencies of
the United States and in foreign countries.

        (7)  To manufacture, purchase or otherwise acquire goods, merchandise 
and personal property of every class, and to hold, own, mortgage, sell or
otherwise dispose of, trade, deal in and with the same.



                                     -4-

<PAGE>   5
        (8)  To purchase, take by devise or bequest, hold, mortgage and convey
such real estate as the purposes of the corporation shall require and all other
real estate which shall have been conveyed to the corporation by way of security
or in satisfaction of debts or purchased at sales upon judgment or decree duly
obtained.

        (9)  To acquire and pay for in cash, stock or bonds of this corporation,
the good will, rights, assets and property, and to undertake or assume the whole
or any part of the obligations or liabilities of any person, firm, association
or corporation.

       (10)  To apply for, obtain, register, purchase,lease or otherwise
acquire, and to hold, use, own, operate and introduce and to sell, assign or
otherwise dispose of, any trade-marks, trade names, copyrights, patents,
inventions, improvements and processes used in connection with or secured under
letters patent of the United States or any foreign country, and to use,
exercise, develop, grant licenses in respect of, or otherwise to turn to account
any such trade-marks, trade names, patents, licenses, processes, copyrights, or
any such property or rights.

       (11)  To purchase hold, sell, assign, transfer, mortgage, pledge or
otherwise dispose of the shares of the capital stock of, or any bonds,
securities or evidences of indebtedness created by, any other corporation or
corporations organized under the laws of New Jersey or any other state or any
foreign country, always subject, however, to the laws of the State of New
Jersey, and while the owner of such stock, to


                                     -5-

<PAGE>   6
exercise all the rights, powers, and privileges of ownership, including the
right to vote thereon.

       (12)  To enter into, make, perform and carry out contracts of every kind
and for any lawful purpose with any person, firm, association, corporation or
body politic or government.

       (13)  To borrow or raise money without limit as to amount and to draw,
make, accept, endorse, execute and issue promissory notes, drafts, bills of
exchange, warrants, bonds, debentures and other negotiable or non-negotiable
instruments and evidences of indebtedness and to secure the payment of any of
the foregoing and the interest thereon by mortgage upon or pledge, or assignment
in trust of the whole or any part of the property of the corporation, and to
sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of such bonds and other evidences of
indebtedness for the purposes of the corporation.

       (14)  To purchase, hold, reissue and sell the shares of its own capital
stock, provided that shares of its own capital stock belonging to it shall not
be voted upon directly or indirectly.

       (15)  To conduct business in any of the states, territories, possessions
or dependencies of the United States, in the District of Columbia, and in any
and all foreign countries, and to have one or more offices therein and to hold,
purchase, mortgage and convey real and personal property therein without limit
as to amount, but always subject to the laws of such state, territory,
possession, dependency or country. 

                                      -6-

<PAGE>   7
       (16)  In general, to carry on any other business in connection with the
foregoing, and to have and exercise all the powers conferred by Title 14A,
Corporations, General, Revised Statutes of New Jersey, and to do any or all of
the things hereinbefore set forth and to the same extent as natural persons
might or could do, and in any part of the world.

         B.  The foregoing clauses shall be construed both as objects and powers
and, except where otherwise expressed, such objects and powers shall not be
limited or restricted by reference to or inference from the terms of any other
clause in this restated certificate of incorporation, but the objects and powers
so specified shall be regarded as independent objects and powers,and it is
hereby expressly provided that the foregoing enumeration of specific powers
shall not be held to limit or restrict in any manner the powers of the
corporation.

        IV.  Shares.  A.  The total number of authorized common shares of the
corporation is six million (6,000,000) shares of the par value of twenty cents
($0.20) per share. The total authorized capital stock of this corporation is ONE
MILLION TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,200,000.00).

         B.  All or any part of such shares of common stock, of the par value of
twenty cents ($0.20), may be issued from time to time and for such
consideration, not less than the par value thereof, as may be determined and
fixed from time to time by the board of directors, as provided by law.



                                     -7-

<PAGE>   8
         C.  At all elections of directors of the corporation, each stockholder
shall be entitled to as many votes as shall equal the number of votes which he
would be entitled to cast for the election of directors with respect to his
shares of stock multiplied by the number of directors to be elected, and he may
cast all of such votes for a single director or may distribute them among the
number to be voted for, or for any two or more of them as he may see fit.

         D.  No shareholder shall be entitled as a matter of right to subscribe
for or receive additional shares of any class of stock of the corporation,
whether now or hereafter authorized or any bonds, debentures or other securities
convertible into stock, but such additional shares of stock or other securities
convertible into stock maybe issued or disposed of by the board of directors to
such persons and on such terms as in its discretion it shall deem advisable.

         V.  Directors.  The directors constituting the current board of 
directors of the corporation are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
    NAME                             ADDRESS
    ----                             -------
<S>                                  <C>
Grant Heilman                        Box 609
                                     Buena Vista, CO 81211

William M. Hess                      33 E. Main St.
                                     Moorestown, NJ 08057

John C. Instone                      Three Greentree Centre
                                     Suite 201
                                     Marlton, NJ 08053

Byrne Litschgi                       Atlantic Bank Building
                                     501 E. Kennedy Blvd.
                                     Tampa, FL 33601
</TABLE>

                                     -8-

<PAGE>   9
<TABLE>
<S>                                  <C>
Donald J. Lloyd-Jones                37 Chestnut Hill Lane
                                     Stamford, CT  06903

Marlin Miller, Jr.                   Hill & George Streets
                                     Wyomissing, PA 19610

Mandell Shimberg                     Barnett Bank Building, Suite 400
                                     1000 N. Ashley Drive
                                     Tampa, FL 33602
</TABLE>

        VI.  Duration.  The duration of the corporation is to be perpetual.

       VII.  Directors' Authority.  In furtherance and not in limitation of the
powers conferred by statute, the board of directors is expressly authorized:

         A.  To make, alter and amend the by-laws of the corporation.

         B.  To fix and vary the amount of the working capital of the 
corporation and to determine what, if any, dividends shall be declared and paid.

         C.  To authorize and cause to be executed mortgages and liens upon the
real and personal property of the corporation.

         D.  To set apart out of any of the funds of the corporation available 
for dividends a reserve or reserves for any proper purpose or to abolish any 
such reserve in the manner in which it was created.

         E.  By a resolution passed by a majority vote of the whole board, if so
provided in the by-laws, to designate two or more of its number to constitute an
executive committee, which committee shall exercise, as provided in said
resolution or in


                                     -9-

<PAGE>   10
the by-laws, the powers of the board of directors in the management of the
business, affairs and property of the corporation during the intervals between
the meetings of the directors.

         F.  To determine from time to time whether and, if allowed, under what
conditions and regulations the accounts and books of the corporation (other than
the stock and transfer books), or any of them, shall be open to the inspection
of the stockholders, and the stockholders, rights in this respect are and shall
be restricted and limited accordingly.

      VIII.  Indemnification.  The corporation shall indemnify any and all of 
its directors or officers or former directors or officers or any person who may
have served at its request as a director or officer of another corporation in
which it owns shares of capital stock or of which it is a creditor against
expenses actually and necessarily incurred by them in connection with the
defense of any action, suit or proceeding in which they, or any of them, are
made parties, or a party, by reason of being or having been directors or
officers or a director or officer of the corporation, or of such other
corporation, except in relation to matters as to which any such director or
officer or former director or officer or person shall be adjudged in such
action, suit or proceeding to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the
performance of duty. Such indemnification shall not be deemed exclusive of any
other rights to which those indemnified may be entitled, under any by-law,
agreement, vote of stockholders, or otherwise.


                                      -10-

<PAGE>   11
        IX.  Related Transactions.  In the absence of fraud, no contract or 
other transaction between the corporation and any other corporation or any
individual, association or firm shall be in any way affected or invalidated by
the fact that any of the directors of the corporation are interested in such
other corporation, association or firm or personally interested in such contract
or transaction; provided that such interest shall be fully disclosed or
otherwise known to the board of directors at the meeting of said board at which
such contract or transaction is authorized or confirmed; and provided further
that at such meeting there is present a quorum of directors not so interested
and that such contract or transaction shall be approved by a majority of such
quorum. Any director of the corporation may vote upon any contract or other
transaction between this corporation and any subsidiary or affiliated
corporation without regard to the fact that he is also a director of such
subsidiary or affiliated corporation.

         X.  Books and Records.  The corporation may have one or more offices 
within or outside the State of New Jersey at which the directors may hold their
meetings and keep the books of the corporation, but the corporation shall always
keep at its principal office in New Jersey a transfer book in which the
transfers of stock can be made, entered and registered, and also a book
containing the names and addresses of the stockholders and the number of shares
held by them respectively, which shall be open at all times during the business
hours to the examination of


                                     -11-

<PAGE>   12
the stockholders. Elections of directors need not be by ballot unless the
by-laws of the corporation so provide.

        XI.  Amendment.  Subject to the provisions of Article XII below, the
corporation reserves the right to amend, alter or repeal any provision contained
in this restated certificate of incorporation, in the manner now or hereafter
prescribed by statute, and all rights conferred upon stockholders herein are
granted subject to this reservation.

       XII.  A.  Required Vote for Mergers, Sales of Substantially All of the
Corporation's Assets and Dissolution.  The affirmative vote of the holders of 
not less than two-thirds of the votes cast by the holders of the outstanding
common shares of the corporation shall be required:

             (1)  to adopt any agreement for, or to approve, the merger or
                  consolidation of the corporation with or into any other
                  corporation;

             (2)  to authorize any sale, transfer, or exchange of all or
                  substantially all of the assets of the corporation; or

             (3)  to authorize or adopt any plan for the dissolution of the
                  corporation;

except that any such action that has been approved by resolution adopted by at
least two-thirds of the directors then in office may be authorized by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast by the holders of the common
shares of the corporation.

         B.  Higher Vote for Certain Business Combinations.

        (1)  When Higher Vote is Required.  In addition to any affirmative vote
required by law or this restated certificate of



                                     -12-

<PAGE>   13
incorporation, and except as otherwise expressly provided in subparagraph (3)
of this paragraph B:

             (a) any merger or consolidation of the corporation or any
             Subsidiary (as hereinafter defined) with (i) any Interested
             Shareholder (as hereinafter defined) or (ii) any other corporation
             (whether or not itself an Interested Shareholder) which is, or
             after such merger or consolidation would be, an Affiliate (as
             hereinafter defined) of an Interested Shareholder; or

             (b) any sale, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, transfer or other
             disposition (in one transaction or a series of transactions) to or
             with any Interested Shareholder or any Affiliate of any Interested
             Shareholder of any assets of the corporation or any Subsidiary
             having an aggregate Fair Market Value (as hereinafter defined) of
             $1,000,000 or more; or

             (c) the issuance or transfer by the corporation or any Subsidiary
             (in one transaction or a series of transactions) of any securities
             of the corporation or any Subsidiary to any Interested Shareholder
             or any Affiliate of any Interested Shareholder in exchange for
             cash, securities or other property (or a combination thereof)
             having an aggregate Fair Market Value of $1,000,000 or more; or


                                     -13-

<PAGE>   14
             (d) the adoption of any plan or proposal for the liquidation or
             dissolution of the corporation proposed by or on behalf of an
             Interested Shareholder or any Affiliate of any Interested
             Shareholder; or

             (e) any reclassification of securities (including any reverse stock
             split), or recapitalization of the corporation, or any merger or
             consolidation of the corporation with any of its Subsidiaries or
             any other transaction (whether or not with or into or otherwise
             involving an Interested Shareholder) which has the effect,
             directly, or indirectly, of increasing the proportionate share of
             the outstanding common shares or convertible securities of the
             corporation or any Subsidiary which is directly or indirectly owned
             by any Interested Shareholder or any Affiliate of any Interested
             Shareholder;

shall require the affirmative vote of the holders of at least seventy-five
percent (75%) of the outstanding common shares of the corporation. Such
affirmative vote shall be required notwithstanding the fact that no vote may be
required or that a lesser percentage may be specified, by law or in any
agreement with any national securities exchange or otherwise, but such
affirmative vote shall be required in addition to any affirmative vote of the
holders of the outstanding common shares required by law or this restated
certificate of incorporation.

                                     -14-

<PAGE>   15
        (2)  Definition of "Business Combination". The term "Business
Combination" as used in this Article XII shall mean any transaction which is
referred to in any one or more of clauses (a) through (e) of subparagraph (1) of
this paragraph B.

        (3)  When Higher Vote is Not Required. The provisions of subparagraph 
(1) of this paragraph B shall not be applicable to any particular Business
Combination, and such Business Combination shall require only such affirmative
vote as is required by law, any other provision of this restated certificate of
incorporation, or any agreement with any national securities exchange, if all of
the conditions specified in either of the following clauses (a) and (b) are met:

             (a)  Approval by Disinterested Directors. The Business Combination
shall have been approved by a majority of the Disinterested Directors (as
hereinafter defined).

             (b)  Price, Form of Consideration and Procedural Requirements. All
of the following conditions shall have been met:

        (i) The aggregate amount of the cash and the Fair Market Value as of the
        date of the consummation of the Business Combination of consideration
        other than cash to be received per share by holders of the common shares
        in such Business Combination shall be at least equal to the highest
        amount determined under subclauses (a), (b) and (c) below:



                                     -15-

<PAGE>   16
             (a) (if applicable) the highest per share price (including any
             brokerage commissions, transfer taxes and soliciting dealers' fees)
             paid by the Interested Shareholder for any common shares acquired
             by it (1) within the two-year period immediately prior to the first
             public announcement of the proposal of the Business Combination
             (the "Announcement Date") or (2) in the transaction in which it
             became an Interested Shareholder, whichever is higher;

             (b) the Fair Market Value per common share on the Announcement Date
             or on the date on which the Interested Shareholder became an
             Interested Shareholder (such latter date is referred to in this
             Article XII as the "Determination Date"), whichever is higher; and

             (c) (if applicable) the price per common share equal to the Fair
             Market Value per common share determined pursuant to subclause
             (b)(i)(b) above, multiplied by the ratio of (1) the highest per
             common share price (including any brokerage commissions, transfer
             taxes and soliciting dealers' fees) paid by the Interested
             Shareholder for any common shares acquired by it within the
             two-year period immediately prior to the Announcement Date to (2)
             the Fair Market Value per common share on


                                      -16-

<PAGE>   17
             the first day in such two-year period upon which the Interested
             Shareholder acquired any common shares.

        (ii) The consideration to be received by holders of common shares shall
        be in cash or in the same form as the Interested Shareholder has
        previously paid for common shares. If the Interested Shareholder has
        paid for common shares with varying forms of consideration, the form of
        consideration shall be either cash or the form used to acquire the
        largest number of common shares previously acquired by it.

        (iii) After such Interested Shareholder has become an Interested
        Shareholder and prior to the consummation of such Business Combination:
        (a) there shall have been (1) no reduction in the annual rate of
        dividends paid on the common shares (except as necessary to reflect any
        subdivision of the common shares), except as approved by a majority of
        the Disinterested Directors, and (2) an increase in such annual rate of
        dividends as necessary to reflect any reclassification (including any
        reverse stock split), recapitalization, reorganization or any similar
        transaction which has the effect of reducing the number of outstanding
        common shares, unless the failure so to increase such annual rate is
        approved by a majority of the Disinterested Directors; and (b) such
        Interested Shareholder shall have not become the


                                     -17-

<PAGE>   18
        beneficial owner of any additional common shares except as part of the
        transaction which results in such Interested Shareholder becoming an
        Interested Shareholder.

        (iv) After such Interested Shareholder has become an Interested
        Shareholder, such Interested Shareholder shall not have received the
        benefit, directly or indirectly (except proportionately as a
        shareholder), of any loans, advances, guarantees, pledges or other
        financial assistance or any tax credits or other tax advantages provided
        by the corporation, whether in anticipation of or in connection with
        such Business Combination or otherwise.

        (v) A proxy or information statement describing the proposed Business
        Combination and complying with the requirements of the Securities
        Exchange Act of 1934 and the rules and regulations thereunder (or any
        subsequent provisions replacing such Act, rules or regulations) shall be
        mailed to public shareholders of the corporation at least 30 days prior
        to the consummation of such Business Combination (whether or not such
        proxy or information statement is required to be mailed pursuant to such
        Act or subsequent provisions).

        (4)  Certain Definitions.  For the purposes of this Article XII:

             (a)  The term "person" shall mean any individual, firm, corporation
or other entity.

                                     -18-

<PAGE>   19
             (b)  The term "Interested Shareholder" shall mean any person (other
than the corporation or any Subsidiary and other than any
profit--sharing,employee stock ownership or other employee benefit plan of the
corporation or any Subsidiary or any trustee of or fiduciary with respect to any
such plan when acting in such capacity) who or which:

                  (i)  is the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of 10% 
or more of the outstanding common shares; or

                 (ii)  is an Affiliate of the corporation and at any time within
the two--year period immediately prior to the date in question was the
beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of 10% or more of the outstanding
common shares; or

                (iii)  is an assignee of or has otherwise succeeded to any 
common shares which were at any time within the two--year period immediately
prior to the date in question beneficially owned by any Interested Shareholder,
if such assignment or succession shall have occurred in the course of a
transaction or series of transactions not involving a public offering within the
meaning of the Securities Act of 1933.

            (c)  A person shall be a "beneficial owner" of common shares:

                 (i)  which such person or any of its Affiliates or Associates
(as hereinafter defined) beneficially owns, directly or indirectly; or

                 (ii)  which such person or any of its Affiliates or Associates
has (a) the right to acquire (whether


                                      -19-

<PAGE>   20

such right is exercisable immediately or only after the passage of time),
pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or' understanding or upon the exercise of
conversion rights, exchange rights, warrants or options, or otherwise, or (b)
the right to vote pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding; or

                  (iii)  which are beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, 
by any other person with which such person or any of its Affiliates or
Associates has any agreement, arrangement or understanding for the purpose of
acquiring, holding, voting or disposing of any common shares.

             (d)  For the purposes of determining whether a person is an
Interested Shareholder pursuant to clause (b) of this subparagraph (4), the
number of common shares deemed to be outstanding shall include shares deemed
owned through application of clause (c) of this subparagraph (4) but shall not
include any other common shares which may be issuable pursuant to any agreement,
arrangement or understanding, or upon exercise of conversion rights, exchange
rights, warrants or options, or otherwise.

             (e)  The terms "Affiliate" and "Associate" shall have the
respective meanings ascribed to such terms in Rule 12b--2 of the General Rules
and Regulations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as in effect on
September 30, 1984.

             (f)  The term "Subsidiary" shall mean any corporation of which a
majority of any class of equity security is owned, directly or indirectly, by
the corporation; provided,


                                      -20-

<PAGE>   21
however, that for the purposes of the definition of Interested Shareholder set
forth in clause (b) of this subparagraph (4), the term "Subsidiary" shall mean
only a corporation of which a majority of each class of equity security is
owned, directly or indirectly, by the corporation.

             (g)  The term "Disinterested Director" shall mean any member of the
Board (i) who was a director on September 30, 1984, or (ii) who is unaffiliated
with the Interested Shareholder and who was a member of the Board prior to the
time that the Interested Shareholder became an Interested Shareholder, or (iii)
any successor of a Disinterested Director if such successor is unaffiliated with
the Interested Shareholder and if such successor was recommended or elected to
succeed a Disinterested Director by a majority of Disinterested Directors then
on the Board.

             (h)  The term "Fair Market Value" shall mean: (i) in the case of
stock, the highest closing sale price during the 30-day period immediately
preceding the date in question of a share of such stock on the Composite Tape
for New York Stock Exchange-Listed Stocks, or, if such stock is not quoted on
the Composite Tape, on the New York Stock Exchange, or, if such stock is not
listed on such Exchange, on the principal United States securities exchange
registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on which such stock is
listed, or, if such stock is not listed on any such exchange, the highest
closing bid quotation with respect to a share of such stock during the 30-day
period


                                     -21-

<PAGE>   22
preceding the date in question on the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. Automated Quotations System or any system then in use, or if no
such quotations are available, the fair market value on the date in question of
a share of such stock as determined by the Board in good faith; and (ii) in the
case of property other than cash or stock, the fair market value of such
property on the date in question as determined by the Board in good faith.

             (i)  In the event of any Business Combination in which the
Corporation survives, the phrase "consideration other than cash to be received"
as used in subclauses (b)(i) and (ii) of subparagraph (3) of this paragraph B
shall include the common shares retained by the holders of such shares.

        (5)  Powers of Disinterested Directors.  A majority of the Disinterested
Directors of the corporation shall have the power and duty to determine for the
purposes of this Article XII, on the basis of information known to them after
reasonable inquiry, (a) whether a person is an Interested Shareholder, (b) the
number of common shares beneficially owned by any person, (c) whether a person
is an Affiliate or Associate of another and (d) whether the assets which are the
subject of any Business Combination have, or the consideration to be received
for the issuance or transfer of securities by the corporation or any Subsidiary
in any Business Combination has, an aggregate Fair Market Value of $1,000,000 or
more; and the good faith determination of a majority of the Disinterested
Directors on


                                     -22-

<PAGE>   23
such matters shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes of this Article
XII.

        (6)  No Effect on Fiduciary Obligations of Interested Shareholders.
Nothing contained in this Article XII shall be construed to relieve any
Interested Shareholder from any fiduciary obligation imposed by law.

         C.  Alteration, Amendment, Repeal, etc. Notwithstanding any other
provisions of this restated certificate of incorporation or the By-Laws of the
corporation or any provision of law which might otherwise permit a lesser vote
or no vote, but in addition to any affirmative vote of the holders of common
shares required by law or this restated certificate of incorporation, the
affirmative vote of the holders of 75% or more of the outstanding common shares,
shall be required to alter, amend or repeal, or adopt any provisions
inconsistent with, this Article XII of this restated certificate of
incorporation.

      XIII.  Captions.  The captions contained in this restated certificate 
are for convenience only and shall not control or affect the meaning or
construction of any of the provisions of this restated certificate of
incorporation.

        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the corporation has executed this document on the
1st     day of      March         , 1985.


                                                SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

                                                BY: /s/ JOHN C. INSTONE
                                                    -------------------------
                                                    JOHN C. INSTONE, President
0129c
11585
                                     -23-
<PAGE>   24


<TABLE>
                                         <S>                                               <C>
                                             SL INDUSTRIES, INC.                               FILED

                                           CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT                          DEC 2 1985

                                                      OF                                    JANE BURGIO
                                                                                           Secretary of
                                         CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION                          State
</TABLE>

                 Pursuant to the provisions of Section 14A:9-4(3) of the New
Jersey Business Corporation Act, the undersigned corporation hereby executes
the following Certificate:

         1.      The name of the corporation is SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

         2.      Article Fourth of the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of
SL Industries, Inc. is amended in its entirety to read as set forth on Exhibit
A, attached hereto and made a part hereof as if set forth in full herein.

         3.      The Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation was
adopted by the shareholders at the annual meeting held on November 21, 1985.

         4.      At the time of the adoption of the Amendment to the Restated
Certificate of Incorporation, 3,566,574 common shares were entitled to vote
thereon.

         5.      At the time of adoption of the Amendment to the Restated
Certificate of Incorporation, 2,213,652 common shares (84.37% of the votes
cast) were voted in favor of adoption of the Amendment and 410,147 shares were
voted against adoption of the Amendment.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has caused this Certificate of
Amendment to be executed this 27th day of November, 1985.

                                             SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                             
                                             BY: /s/John C. Instone       
                                                 -------------------------
                                                JOHN C. INSTONE, President
<PAGE>   25
                                   EXHIBIT A


                         TEXT OF AMENDMENT TO RESTATED
                          CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
                             OF SL INDUSTRIES, INC.



         IV.     Shares. The total number of shares of all classes of stock
which the corporation shall be authorized to issue is twelve million
(12,000,000) shares, divided into six million (6,000,000) shares of Preferred
Stock, without par value (herein called "Preferred Stock"), and six million
(6,000,000) shares of Common Stock, of the par value of twenty cents ($0.20)
per share (herein called "Common Stock").

                              A. Preferred Stock.

         1.  The Preferred Stock may be issued in one or more series. The
designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other
special rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, of
the Preferred Stock of each series shall be such as are stated and expressed
herein and, to the extent not stated and expressed herein, shall be such as may
be fixed by the Board of Directors (authority so to do being hereby expressly
granted) and stated and expressed in a resolution or resolutions adopted by the
Board of Directors providing for the issue of Preferred Stock of such series.
Such resolution or resolutions shall (a) specify the series to which such
Preferred Stock shall belong, (b) state whether a dividend shall be payable in
cash, stock or otherwise, whether such dividend shall be cumulative or
noncumulative and whether the Preferred Stock of such series shall rank on a
parity with or junior to other series of Preferred Stock as to dividends, and
fix the dividend rate therefor (or the manner of computing the rate of such
dividends thereon) (c) fix the amount which the holders of the Preferred Stock
of such series shall be entitled to be paid in the event of a voluntary or
involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the corporation, (d)
state whether or not the Preferred Stock of such series shall be
<PAGE>   26
redeemable and at what times and under what conditions and the amount or
amounts payable thereon in the event of redemption; and may, in a manner not
inconsistent with the provisions of this Article IV, (i) limit the number of
shares of such series which may be issued, (ii) provide for a sinking fund for
the purchase or redemption, or a purchase fund for the purchase, of shares of
such series and the terms and provisions governing the operation of any such
fund and the status as to reissuance of shares of Preferred Stock purchased or
otherwise reacquired or redeemed or retired through the operation thereof, and
that so long as the corporation is in default as to such sinking or purchase
fund the corporation shall not (with such exceptions, if any, as may be
provided) pay any dividends upon or purchase or redeem shares of capital stock
ranking junior to the Preferred Stock with respect to dividends or distribution
of assets upon liquidation (referred to in this Paragraph A of Article IV as
"stock ranking junior to the Preferred Stock"), (iii) grant voting rights to
the holders of shares of such series in addition to those required by law, (iv)
impose conditions or restrictions upon the creation of indebtedness of the
corporation or upon the issue of additional Preferred Stock or other capital
stock ranking on a parity therewith or prior thereto with respect to dividends
or distribution of assets upon liquidation, (v) impose conditions or
restrictions upon the payment of dividends upon, or the making of other
distributions to, or the acquisition of, stock ranking junior to the Preferred
Stock, (vi) grant to the holders of the Preferred Stock of such series the
right to convert such stock into other securities, and (vii) grant such other
special rights to the holders of shares of such series as the Board of
Directors may determine and as shall not be inconsistent with the provisions of
this Article IV. The term "fixed for such series" and similar terms as used in
this Paragraph A shall mean stated and expressed herein or in a resolution or
resolutions adopted by the Board or Directors providing for the issue of
Preferred Stock of the series referred to therein.
<PAGE>   27
         2.  In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the
affairs of the corporation, then, before any distribution or payment shall be
made to the holders of any class of stock of the corporation ranking junior to
the Preferred Stock, the holders of the Preferred Stock of the respective
series shall be entitled to be paid in full the respective amounts fixed for
such series. After such payment shall have been made in full to the holders of
the Preferred Stock, the remaining assets and funds of the corporation shall be
distributed among the holders of the stocks of the corporation ranking junior
to the Preferred Stock according to their respective rights. In the event that
the assets of the corporation available for distribution to holders of
Preferred Stock shall not be sufficient to make the payment herein required to
be made in full, such assets shall be distributed to the holders of the
respective shares of Preferred Stock pro rata in proportion to the amounts
payable hereunder upon each share thereof.

         3.   Except as otherwise provided in any resolution of the Board of
Directors providing for the issuance of any particular series of Preferred
Stock, shares of Preferred Stock redeemed or otherwise acquired by the
corporation shall assume the status of authorized but unissued Preferred Stock
and may thereafter, subject to the provisions of this Paragraph A and of any
restrictions contained in any resolution of the Board of Directors providing
for the issue of any particular series of Preferred Stock, be reissued in the
same manner as other authorized but unissued Preferred Stock.

                                B. COMMON STOCK

         1.  All or any part of the authorized shares of Common Stock of the
corporation may be issued from time to time and for such consideration, not
less than the par value thereof, as may be determined and fixed from time to
time by the Board of Directors, as provided by law.

         2. Subject to the prior and superior rights of the Preferred Stock and
on the conditions set forth in the foregoing Paragraph A of this Article IV or
in any resolution of the Board of
<PAGE>   28
Directors providing for the issuance of any particular series of Preferred
Stock, and not otherwise, such dividends (payable in cash, stock or otherwise)
as may be determined by the Board of Directors may be declared and paid on the
Common Stock from time to time out of any funds legally available therefor.

         3. Subject to the provisions of this Article IV, the holders of Common
Stock shall be entitled to one vote for each share held at all meetings of the
shareholders of the corporation.

         4. After payment shall have been made in full to the holders of the
Preferred Stock in the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
the affairs of the corporation, the remaining assets and funds of the
corporation shall be distributed among the holders of the Common Stock
according to their respective shares.

                             C. GENERAL PROVISIONS

         1.  At all elections of directors of the corporation, each holder of a
class or series of stock entitled to vote for all or some of the directors
shall be entitled to as many votes as shall equal the number of votes which he
would be entitled to cast for the election of directors with respect to his
shares of stock multiplied by the number of directors to be elected by such
class or series, and he may cast all of such votes for a single director or may
distribute them among the number to be voted for, or for any two or more of
them as he may see fit.

         2.  No shareholder shall be entitled as a matter of right to subscribe
for or receive additional shares of any class of stock of the corporation,
whether now or hereafter authorized or any bonds, debentures or other
securities convertible into stock, but such additional shares of stock or other
securities convertible into stock may be issued or disposed of by the Board of
Directors to such persons and on such terms as in its discretion it shall deem
advisable.
<PAGE>   29


<TABLE>
                                           <S>                                       <C>
                                           SL INDUSTRIES, INC.                                F I L E D

                                                                                              NOV 24 1986
                                           CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
                                                            OF                                JANE BURGIO
                                           CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
                                                                                       Secretary of State
</TABLE>

         Pursuant to the provisions of Section 14A:9-4(3) of the New Jersey
Business Corporation Act, the undersigned corporation hereby executes the
following Certificate:

         1.      The name of the corporation is SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

         2.      The first sentence of Article Fourth of the Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of SL Industries, Inc. is amended in its entirety
to read as follows:

                 "FOURTH:   The total number of shares of all classes of stock
                 which the corporation shall be authorized to issue is
                 thirty-one million (31,000,000) shares, divided into six
                 million (6,000,000) shares of Preferred Stock, without par
                 value (herein called "Preferred Stock"), and twenty-five
                 million (25,000,000) shares of Common Stock, of the par value
                 of twenty cents ($0.20) per share (herein called "Common
                 Stock").


         3.      The Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation was
adopted by the shareholders at the annual meeting held on November 20, 1986.

         4.      At the time of the adoption of the Amendment to the Restated
Certificate of Incorporation 5,055,606 common shares were entitled to vote
thereon.

         5.      At the time of the adoption of the Amendment to the
Certificate of Incorporation, 3,652,264 common shares (94.9% of the votes cast)
were voted in favor of the adoption of the Amendment and 149,844 shares were
voted against adoption of the Amendment.

                 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has caused this
Certificate of Amendment to be executed this 21st day of NOVEMBER, 1986.

                                            SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                            
                                            
                                            By: /s/ John C. Instone  
                                               ----------------------
                                                John C. Instone, President
<PAGE>   30

<TABLE>
                                         <S>                                               <C>
                                             SL INDUSTRIES, INC.                               FILED

                                           CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT                         NOV 20 1987

                                                      OF                                    JANE BURGIO
                                                                                           Secretary of
                                         CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION                          State
</TABLE>

               Pursuant to the provisions of Section 14A:9-4(3) of the New
Jersey Business Corporation Act, the undersigned corporation hereby executes the
following Certificate.

         ONE:  The name of the corporation is SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

         TWO:  Article VIII of the Restated Certificate of Incorporation is
amended in its entirety to read as set forth on Exhibit A, attached hereto and
made a part hereof as if set forth in full herein.

         THREE:  The Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation was
approved by the Board of Directors and thereafter adopted by the Shareholders at
the annual meeting held on November 19, 1987.

         FOUR:  At the time of the adoption of the Amendment to the Restated
Certificate of Incorporation, 5,377,555 shares of common stock were entitled to
vote thereon.

         FIVE:  At the time of the adoption of the Amendment to the Restated
Certificate of Incorporation, 3,830,492 common shares (86.8% of the votes cast)
were voted in favor of adoption of the Amendment, 467,779 shares were voted
against adoption of the Amendment, and 114,738 shares abstained from voting.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has caused this Certificate of
Amendment to be executed this 19th day of November, 1987.


                                                 SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                                 
                                                 By: /s/ Charles A. Shipley    
                                                    ---------------------------
                                                    Charles A. Shipley,
                                                          Vice President
<PAGE>   31
                                   EXHIBIT A

"VIII.  Director and Officer Liability and Indemnification.

A.  To the fullest extent that the laws of the State of New Jersey, as they
exist or may hereafter be amended, permit the limitation or elimination of the
liability of directors and officers, no director or officer of this Corporation
shall be liable to the Corporation or its shareholders for damages or breach of
any duty owed to the Corporation or its shareholders.

B.  The Corporation shall indemnify any and all persons whom it has the power
to indemnify pursuant to the New Jersey Business Corporation Act against any
and all expenses, judgments, fines, amounts paid in settlement, and any other
liabilities to the fullest extent permitted by such law and may, in the
discretion of the Board of Directors, purchase and maintain insurance, at its
expense, to protect itself and such persons against any such expense, judgment,
fine, amount paid in settlement, or other liability, whether or not the
Corporation would have the power to so indemnify such person under the New
Jersey Business Corporation Act. The indemnification provided herein shall not
be deemed to limit the right of the Corporation to indemnify any other person
or any such expenses to the full extent permitted by law nor shall it be deemed
exclusive of any other rights to which any person seeking indemnification from
the Corporation may be entitled under any agreement, vote of shareholders or
directors or otherwise, both as to acts in his official capacity and as to
action in another capacity while holding such office.

C.  No amendment to or repeal of this Article VIII shall apply to or have any
effect on the liability or alleged liability of any director or officer of this
Corporation for or with respect to any acts or omissions of such director or
officer occurring prior to such amendment or repeal, or any indemnification
right of any person arising from any matter occurring prior to such amendment
or repeal."
<PAGE>   32


<TABLE>
                                                     <S>                                           <C>
                                                                                                       FILED

                                                                                                    NOV 20 1987

                                                                                                    JANE BURGIO
                                                       CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT                    Secretary of
                                                                                                       State
                                                                  OF

                                                     CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

                                                                  OF

                                                         SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
</TABLE>


                 SL INDUSTRIES, INC., a New Jersey corporation (the
"Corporation"), certifies as follows:

                 FIRST: The name of the corporation is SL Industries, Inc.

                 SECOND: Under the authority contained in Article IV, Section
A.1 of the charter of the Corporation, the Board of Directors of the
Corporation on June 4, 1987 classified 250,000 unissued shares of the Preferred
Stock of the Corporation as 250,000 shares of "Series A Junior Participating
Preferred Stock."

                 THIRD: A description of the Series A Junior Participating
Preferred Stock including the preferences, conversion and other rights, voting
powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends, qualifications, and terms
and conditions of redemption as set or changed by the Board of Directors of the
Corporation is as follows:

                 Section 1. Designation and Amount. The shares of such series
shall be designated as "Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock" (the
"Series A Stock"), without par value, and the number of shares constituting
such series shall be 250,000.
<PAGE>   33
                 Section 2. Dividends and Distributions.

                          (A) Subject to the prior and superior rights of the
holders of any shares of any series of preferred stock ranking prior and
superior to the shares of Series A Stock with respect to dividends, the holders
of shares of Series A Stock shall be entitled to receive, when, as and if
declared by the Board of Directors out of funds legally available for the
purpose, semi-annual dividends payable in cash during the months of May and
November, in each year (each such date being referred to herein as a
"Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date"), commencing on the first Semi-Annual
Dividend Payment Date after the first issuance of a share or fraction of a
share of Series A Stock, in an amount per share (rounded to the nearest cent)
equal to the greater of (a) $8.00 or (b) subject to the provision for
adjustment hereinafter set forth, 100 times the aggregate per share amount of
all cash dividends, and 100 times the aggregate per share amount (payable in
kind) of all non-cash dividends or other distributions other than a dividend
payable in shares of Common Stock or a subdivision of the outstanding shares of
Common Stock (by reclassification or otherwise), declared on the Common Stock,
par value $.20 per share, of the Corporation (the "Common Stock") since the
immediately preceding Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date, or with respect to the
first Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date, since the first issuance of any share
or fraction of a share of Series A Stock. In the event the Corporation shall at
any time after December 13, 1987 (the "Rights Declaration Date") (i) declare
any dividend on Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock, (ii) subdivide
the outstanding Common Stock, or (iii) combine the outstanding Common Stock
into a smaller number of shares, then in each such case the amount to which
holders of shares of Series A Stock were entitled immediately prior to such
event under clause (b) of the preceding sentence shall be adjusted by
multiplying such amount by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of
shares of Common Stock outstanding
<PAGE>   34
immediately after such event and the denominator of which is the number of
shares of Common Stock that were outstanding immediately prior to such event.

                 (B) The Corporation shall declare a dividend or distribution
on the Series A Stock as provided in paragraph (A) above immediately after it
declares a dividend or distribution on the Common Stock (other than a dividend
payable in shares of Common Stock); provided that, in the event no dividend or
distribution shall have been declared on the Common Stock during the period
between any Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date and the next subsequent
Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date, a dividend of $8.00 per share on the Series
A Stock shall nevertheless be payable on such subsequent Semi-Annual Dividend
Payment Date.

                 (C) Dividends shall begin to accrue and be cumulative on
outstanding shares of Series A Stock from the Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date
next preceding the date of issue of such shares of Series A Stock, unless the
date of issue of such shares is prior to the record date for the first
Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date, in which case dividends on such shares shall
begin to accrue from the date of issue of such shares, or unless the date of
issue is a Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date or is a date after the record date
for the determination of holders of shares of Series A Stock entitled to
receive a semi-annual dividend and before such Semi-Annual Dividend Payment
Date, in either of which events such dividends shall begin to accrue and be
cumulative from such Semi-Annual Dividend Payment Date. Accrued but unpaid
dividends shall not bear interest. Dividends paid on the shares of Series A
Stock in an amount less than the total amount of such dividends at the time
accrued and payable on such shares shall be allocated pro rata on a
share-by-share basis among all such shares at the time outstanding. The Board
of Directors may fix a record date for the determination of holders of shares
of Series A Stock entitled to receive
<PAGE>   35
payment of a dividend or distribution declared thereon, which record date shall
be no more than 30 days prior to the date fixed for the payment thereof.

                 Section 3.  Voting Rights.  The holders of shares of Series A
Stock shall have the following voting rights:

                          (A) Subject to the provision for adjustment
hereinafter set forth, each share of Series A Stock shall entitle the holder
thereof to 100 votes on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders of
the Corporation. In the event the Corporation shall at any time after the
Rights Declaration Date (i) declare any dividend on Common Stock payable in
shares of Common Stock, (ii) subdivide the outstanding Common Stock, or (iii)
combine the outstanding Common Stock into a smaller number of shares, then in
each such case the number of votes per share to which holders of shares of
Series A Stock were entitled immediately prior to such event shall be adjusted
by multiplying such number by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number
of shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately after such event and the
denominator of which is the number of shares of Common Stock that were
outstanding immediately prior to such event.

                          (B) Except as otherwise provided herein or by law,
the holders of shares of Series A Stock and the holders of shares of Common
Stock shall vote together as one class on all matters submitted to a vote of
stockholders of the Corporation.

                          (C)     (i) If at any time dividends on any Series A
Stock shall be in arrears in an amount equal to three semi-annual dividends
thereon, the occurrence of such contingency shall mark the beginning of a
period (herein called a "default period") which shall extend until such time
when all accrued and unpaid dividends for all previous semi-annual dividend
periods and for the current semi-annual dividend period on all shares of Series
A Stock then outstanding shall have been declared and paid or set apart for
payment. During each default period, all holders of
<PAGE>   36
preferred stock (including holders of the Series A Stock) with dividends in
arrears in an amount equal to three semi-annual dividends thereon, voting as a
class, irrespective of series, shall have the right to elect two Directors.

                                  (ii) During any default period, such voting
rights of the holders of Series A Stock may be exercised initially at a special
meeting called pursuant to subparagraph (iii) of this Section 3(C) or at any
annual meeting of stockholders, and thereafter at annual meetings of
stockholders, provided that neither such voting rights nor the right of the
holders of any other series of preferred stock, if any, to increase, in certain
cases, the authorized number of Directors shall be exercised unless the holders
of 10% in number of shares of the preferred stock outstanding shall be present
in person or by proxy.  The absence of a quorum of the holders of Common Stock
shall not affect the exercise by the holders of preferred stock of such voting
right. At any meeting at which the holders of preferred stock shall exercise
such voting right initially during an existing default period, they shall have
the right, voting as a class, to elect Directors to fill such vacancies, if
any, in the Board of Directors as may then exist up to two Directors or, if
such right is exercised at an annual meeting, to elect two Directors. If the
number which may be so elected at any special meeting does not amount to the
required number, the holders of the preferred stock shall have the right to
make such increase in the number of Directors as shall be necessary to permit
the election by them of the required number. After the holders of the preferred
stock shall have exercised their right to elect Directors in any default period
and during the continuance of such period, the number of Directors shall not be
increased or decreased except by vote of the holders of preferred stock as
herein provided or pursuant to the rights of any equity securities ranking
senior to or pari passu with the Series A Stock.
<PAGE>   37
                                  (iii) Unless the holders of preferred stock
shall, during an existing default period, have previously exercised their right
to elect Directors, the Board of Directors may order, or any stockholder or
stockholders owning in the aggregate not less than 10% of the total number of
shares of preferred stock outstanding, irrespective of series, may request, the
calling of a special meeting of the holders of preferred stock, which meeting
shall thereupon be called by the President, a Vice-President or the Secretary
of the Corporation. Notice of such meeting and of any annual meeting at which
holders of preferred stock are entitled to vote pursuant to this paragraph
(C)(iii) shall be given to each holder of record of preferred stock by mailing
a copy of such notice to him at his last address as the same appears on the
books of the Corporation. Such meeting shall be called for a time not earlier
than 20 days and not later than 60 days after such order or request or in
default of the calling of such meeting within 60 days after such order or
request, such meeting may be called on similar notice by any stockholder or
stockholders owning in the aggregate not less than 10% of the total number of
shares of preferred stock outstanding. Notwithstanding the provisions of this
paragraph (C)(iii), no such special meeting shall be called during the period
within 60 days immediately preceding the date fixed for the next annual meeting
of the stockholders.

                                  (iv) In any default period, the holders of
Common Stock, and other classes of stock of the Corporation if applicable,
shall continue to be entitled to elect the whole number of Directors until the
holders of preferred stock shall have exercised their right to elect two
Directors voting as a class, after the exercise of which right (y) the
Directors so elected by the holders of preferred stock shall continue in office
until their successors shall have been elected by such holders or until the
expiration of the default period, and (z) any vacancy in he Board of Directors
may (except as provided in paragraph (C)(ii) of this Section 3) be filled by
vote of a
<PAGE>   38
majority of the remaining Directors theretofore elected by the holders of the
class of stock which elected the Director whose office shall have become
vacant. References in this paragraph (C) to Directors elected by the holders of
a particular class of stock shall include Directors elected by such Directors
to fill vacancies as provided in clause (z) of the foregoing sentence.

                                  (v) Immediately upon the expiration of a
default period, (x) the right of the holders of preferred stock as a class to
elect Directors shall cease, (y) the term of any Directors elected by the
holders of preferred stock as a class shall terminate, and (z) the number of
Directors shall be such number as may be provided for in the charter or by-laws
irrespective of any increase made pursuant to the provisions of paragraph
(C)(ii) of this Section 3 (such number being subject, however, to change
thereafter in any manner provided by law or in the charter or by-laws). Any
vacancies in the Board of Directors effected by the provisions of clauses (y)
and (z) in the preceding sentence may be filled by a majority of the remaining
Directors.

                          (D) Except as set forth herein, holders of Series A
Stock shall have no special voting rights and their consent shall not be
required (except to the extent they are entitled to vote with holders of Common
Stock as set forth herein) for taking any corporate action.

                 Section 4. Certain Restrictions.

                          (A) Whenever semi-annual dividends or other dividends
or distributions payable on the Series A Stock as provided in Section 2 are in
arrears, thereafter and until all accrued and unpaid dividends and
distributions, whether or not declared, on shares of Series A Stock outstanding
shall have been paid in full, the Corporation shall not:

                                  (i) declare or pay dividends on, make any
other distributions on, or redeem or purchase or otherwise acquire for
consideration any shares of stock ranking junior (either as to dividends or
upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up) to the Series A Stock;
<PAGE>   39
                                  (ii) declare or pay dividends on or make any
other distributions on any shares of stock ranking on a parity (either as to
dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up) with the Series A
Stock, except dividends paid ratably on the Series A Stock and all such parity
stock on which dividends are payable or in arrears in proportion to the total
amounts to which the holders of all such shares are then entitled;

                                  (iii) redeem or purchase or otherwise acquire
for consideration shares of any stock ranking on a parity (either as to
dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up) with the Series A
Stock, provided that the Corporation may at any time redeem, purchase or
otherwise acquire shares of any such parity stock in exchange for shares of any
stock of the Corporation ranking junior (either as to dividends or upon
dissolution, liquidation or winding up) to the Series A Stock;

                                  (iv) purchase or otherwise acquire for
consideration any shares of Series A Stock, or any shares of stock ranking on a
parity with the Series A Stock, except in accordance with a purchase offer made
in writing or by publication (as determined by the Board of Directors) to all
holders of such shares upon such terms as the Board of Directors, after
consideration of the respective annual dividend rates and other relative rights
and preferences of the respective series and classes, shall determine in good
faith will result in fair and equitable treatment among the respective series
or classes.

                          (B) The Corporation shall not permit any subsidiary
of the Corporation to purchase or otherwise acquire for consideration any
shares of stock of the Corporation unless the Corporation could, under
paragraph (A) of this Section 4, purchase or otherwise acquire such shares at
such time and in such manner.
<PAGE>   40
                 Section 5. Reacquired Shares. Any shares of Series A Stock
purchased or otherwise acquired by the Corporation in any manner whatsoever
shall be retired and cancelled promptly after the acquisition thereof. All such
shares shall upon their cancellation become authorized but unissued shares of
preferred stock and may be reissued as part of a new series of preferred stock
to be created by resolution or resolutions of the Board of Directors, subject
to the conditions and restrictions on issuance set forth herein.

                 Section 6. Liquidation, Dissolution or Winding Up.

                          (A) Upon any liquidation (voluntary or otherwise),
dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, no distribution shall be made to
the holders of shares of stock ranking junior (either as to dividends or upon
liquidation, dissolution or winding up) to the Series A Stock unless, prior
thereto, the holders of shares of Series A Stock shall have received $100 per
share, plus an amount equal to accrued and unpaid dividends and distributions
thereon, whether or not declared, to the date of such payment (the "Series A
Liquidation Preference"). Following the payment of the full amount of the
Series A Liquidation Preference, no additional distributions shall be made to
the holders of shares of Series A Stock unless, prior thereto, the holders of
shares of Common Stock shall have received an amount per share (the "Common
Adjustment") equal to the quotient obtained by dividing (i) the Series A
Liquidation Preference by (ii) 100 (as appropriately adjusted as set forth in
subparagraph (C) below to reflect such events as stock splits, stock dividends
and recapitalizations with respect to the Common Stock) (such number in clause
(ii) being hereinafter referred to as the "Adjustment Number"). Following the
payment of the full amount of the Series A Liquidation Preference and the
Common Adjustment in respect of all outstanding shares of Series A Stock and
Common Stock, respectively, holders of Series A Stock and holders of shares of
Common Stock shall receive their ratable and proportionate share
<PAGE>   41
of the remaining assets to be distributed in the ratio of the Adjustment Number
to 1 with respect the Series A Stock and Common Stock, on a per share basis,
respectively.

                          (B) In the event, however, that there are not
sufficient assets available to permit payment in full of the Series A
Liquidation Preference and the liquidation preferences of all other series of
preferred stock, if any, which rank on a parity with the Series A Stock, then
such remaining assets shall be distributed ratably to the holders of such
parity shares in proportion to their respective liquidation preferences. In the
event, however, that there are not sufficient assets available to permit
payment in full of the Common Adjustment, then such remaining assets shall be
distributed ratably to the holders of Common Stock.

                          (C) In the event the Corporation shall at any time
after the Rights Declaration Date (i) declare any dividend on Common Stock
payable in shares of Common Stock, (ii) subdivide the outstanding Common Stock,
or (iii) combine the outstanding Common Stock into a smaller number of shares,
then in each such case the Adjustment Number in effect immediately prior to
such event shall be adjusted by multiplying such Adjustment Number by a
fraction the numerator of which is the number of shares of Common Stock that
were outstanding immediately after such event and the denominator of which is
the number of shares of Common Stock that were outstanding immediately prior to
such event.

                 Section 7. Consolidation, Merger, etc. In case the Corporation
shall enter into any consolidation, merger, combination or other transaction in
which the shares of Common Stock are exchanged for or changed into other stock,
securities, cash or any other property, or any combination thereof, then in any
such case the shares of Series A Stock shall at the same time be similarly
exchanged or changed in an amount per share (subject to the provision for
adjustment hereinafter set forth) equal to 100 times the aggregate amount of
stock, securities, cash or any
<PAGE>   42
other property (payable in kind), as the case may be, into which or for which
each share of Common Stock is changed or exchanged. In the event the
Corporation shall at any time after the Rights Declaration Date (i) declare any
dividend on Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock, (ii) subdivide the
outstanding Common Stock, or (iii) combine the outstanding Common Stock into a
smaller number of shares, then in each such case the amount set forth in the
preceding sentence with respect to the exchange or change of shares of Series A
Stock shall be adjusted by multiplying such amount by a fraction the numerator
of which is the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately after
such event and the denominator of which is the number of shares of Common Stock
that were outstanding immediately prior to such event.

                 Section 8. No Redemption. The shares of Series A Stock shall
not be redeemable.

                 Section 9. Ranking. The Series A Stock shall rank junior to
all other series of the Corporation's preferred stock as to the payments of
dividends and the distribution of assets, unless the terms of any such series
shall provide otherwise.

                 Section 10. Amendment. The charter of the Corporation shall
not be further amended in any manner that would materially alter or change the
powers, preferences or special rights of the Series A Stock so as to affect
them adversely without the affirmative vote of the holders of two-thirds or
more of the outstanding shares of Series A Stock, voting separately as a class.

                 Section 11. Fractional Shares. Series A Stock may be issued in
fractions of a share which shall entitle the holder, in proportion to such
holder's fractional shares, to exercise voting rights, receive dividends,
participate in distributions and to have the benefit of all other rights of
holders of Series A Stock.

                 FOURTH: The Restated Certificate of Incorporation of SL
Industries, Inc., is amended so that the designation and number of shares of
Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, and 
<PAGE>   43
the relative rights, preferences and limitations of the Series A Junior
Participating Preferred Stock, are as stated in paragraph Third.

                 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Amendment
to be signed in its name and on its behalf on this 19th day of November, 1987.

                                          SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                          
                                          By  /s/ Charles A. Shipley, V.P.
                                            ------------------------------
<PAGE>   44


                              SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

                            CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
                                       OF
                          CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION


                 Pursuant to the provisions of Section 14A:9-2(4) and Section
14A:9-4(3), Corporations, General, of the New Jersey Statutes, the undersigned
corporation executes the following Certificate of Amendment to its Certificate
of Incorporation:

                 ONE:  The name of the corporation is SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

                 TWO:  The following amendment to the Certificate of
Incorporation was approved by the directors and thereafter duly adopted by the
shareholders of the corporation on the 21st day of November, 1997:

                          RESOLVED, that Article IV of the Certificate of
                 Incorporation be amended by deleting Section C1, relating to
                 cumulative voting, in its entirety and renumbering Section C2
                 as Section C1.

                 THREE:  The number of shares outstanding at the time of the
adoption of the amendment was 5,539,937.  The total number of shares entitled
to vote thereon was 5,487,280.

                 FOUR:  The number of shares voting for and against such
amendment is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of Shares Voting for Amendment Against Amendment             Number of Shares Voting
- -------------------------------------------------------             -----------------------
                 <S>                                                      <C>
                 2,812,339                                                988,478
</TABLE>

                 FIVE:  The effective date of this Amendment to the Certificate
of Incorporation shall be the date of filing.  Dated this 22nd day of October,
1998.

                                  SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                  
                                  By:   /s/ James E. Morris                   
                                      -----------------------------------------
                                           James E. Morris
                                           Vice President, Corporate Controller
                                                and Treasurer

<PAGE>   1




                                  EXHIBIT 10.1

                      AGREEMENT REGARDING SEVERANCE BENEFIT


This AGREEMENT REGARDING SEVERANCE BENEFIT ("Agreement") is made as of the 1st
day of December, 1997, by and between SL INDUSTRIES, INC. (the "Company"), a New
Jersey corporation, and DAVID R. NUZZO ("Employee").



                                   BACKGROUND


            A.      Employee has this date commenced employment with the
                    Company as its Vice President - Finance and Administration
                    and Secretary.

            B.      In connection with his employment with the Company,
                    Employee, because of the at-will nature of his employment,
                    has requested, and the Company has agreed to provide, the
                    following Severance Benefit (as defined below) in the
                    event of a change in control of the Company.

NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration and intending to be legally
bound hereby, the undersigned agree as follows:


            1.      In the event that any action or series of actions shall take
                    place which shall result in a change in the control of the
                    Company, Employee shall be entitled to receive the Severance
                    Benefit, upon Employee's termination of employment with the
                    Company, within six months of such change in control. The
                    Severance Benefit shall be an amount equal to Employee's
                    annual base salary for a period not greater than 24 months,
                    or until he secures new employment, whichever comes first,
                    but, in any event, not less than 12 months (the "Severance
                    Benefit"). The Severance Benefit shall be paid to Employee
                    at the same time and in the same manner as Employee's base
                    salary was paid to Employee, immediately prior to
                    termination, and shall be subject to deduction for any
                    amounts that are required to be withheld or deducted
                    according to applicable law. Employee shall be entitled to
                    receive the Severance Benefit regardless of whether his
                    employment is terminated voluntarily or involuntarily, or
                    with or without cause.

            2.      As consideration for the payment of the Severance Benefit,
                    Employee shall provide to the Company a general release from
                    all liability, in form and substance satisfactory to the
                    Company in its reasonable discretion.

            3.      This Agreement may not be modified or amended except by
                    writing signed by both parties; shall be binding upon and
                    inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their
                    respective heirs, legal representatives, successors and
                    assigns; sets forth



<PAGE>   2

                    the entire agreement and understanding of the parties hereto
                    with respect to the specific subject matter hereof and
                    supersedes any and all prior discussions, agreements or
                    understandings, whether oral or written; may be executed in
                    counterparts and delivered by facsimile transmission or
                    comparable means; and, shall be governed by and construed in
                    accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey without
                    reference to any principles of conflicts of law.


This Agreement is hereby executed and delivered by the undersigned as of the
date and year first above written.


SL INDUSTRIES, INC.



By: /s/OWEN FARREN                               /s/ DAVID R. NUZZO
    ---------------------------                 ---------------------
    Owen Farren, President                           David R. Nuzzo
    and Chief Executive Officer







                                       2

<PAGE>   1
                                   EXHIBIT 11

                 STATEMENT RE COMPUTATION OF PER SHARE EARNINGS
                      (In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Years Ended July 31,
                                                      ---------------------------------------------------
                                                            1998               1997               1996
                                                            ----               ----               ----
<S>                                                       <C>                <C>                <C>

Net Income......................................          $5,313             $7,815             $3,498
                                                          ======             ======             ======


Shares Outstanding:
Weighted average number of common shares used in
calculation for basic net income per common
share...........................................           5,598              5,776              5,701
Add: shares of common stock equivalents.........             299                245                249
                                                             ---                ---                ---

Weighted average number of common shares used in
calculation of diluted net income per
common share....................................           5,897              6,021              5,950
                                                           =====              =====              =====


Basic net income per common share...............            $.95              $1.35               $.61
                                                            ====              =====               ====


Diluted net income per common share.............            $.90              $1.30               $.59
                                                            ====              =====               ====

</TABLE>




<PAGE>   1
SL INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                                                      EXHIBIT 13

PDQ SOLUTIONS

     SL Industries designs and manufactures advanced power products and systems
to ensure power and data quality (PDQ) for today's complex electronic equipment
and systems that require a stable and reliable source of power for proper
operation. The market for PDQ products and technology now exceeds $10 billion
worldwide, and is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 8% to 10% over
the next five years.


PDQ SOLUTIONS

     The demand for PDQ solutions is driven by the increasing sophistication and
application of electronic equipment and consumer products. As electronic devices
incorporate a greater degree of computing capability, power irregularities pose
a greater threat of damage and data loss. The Company produces a wide range of
power supplies, power conditioners, motion control systems, power distribution
units, surge protection devices and other systems designed to ensure the safe
and reliable operation of sophisticated equipment. The Company's products are
sold in the medical, aerospace, telecommunications, industrial and consumer
industries.

     SL Industries engineers its PDQ solutions for the world community. Its
products are sold, directly and through representatives, primarily to original
equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and distributors with global sales and
operations. In order to meet the demands of its multinational customers, the
Company has acquired a thorough knowledge of the diverse energy problems and
performance standards in effect in local and regional markets throughout the
world.

     SL Industries' PDQ products are designed to operate under the wide range of
power conditions found around the world, and comply with international safety
agency requirements. The acquisition of ELEKTRO-METALL EXPORT GMBH (EME)
furthers the Company's plans to establish international manufacturing and
engineering capabilities and direct foreign sales channels for its global
products.


MASS CUSTOMIZATION

     SL Industries implements its PDQ technology through its strategy called
"mass customization." Mass customization at SL is the process of configuring its
portfolio of PDQ solutions (products) to meet specific customer requirements or
market applications. This strategy enables the Company to establish strong
customer relationships and respond better to market developments, as well as to
reduce costs for both the Company and its customers.

     Among SL's competitive advantages is its ability to rapidly deliver
comprehensive power solutions. In response to the market's demands for greater
functionality, energy efficiency and power density, OEMs are increasingly
integrating the design of power systems and electronics into their end products.
At the same time, just-in-time production methods are creating incentives for
OEMs to partner with a smaller number of qualified vendors. Thus, by providing
complete PDQ systems, the Company is able to strengthen and expand its
relationships with established customers and to penetrate new markets for
value-added applications of its technology.

     In fiscal 1998, SL Industries realized a number of important product
developments. The following is a highlight of some of the Company's recent
developments and achievements:


4
<PAGE>   2
SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

POWER SUPPLIES

     SL Industries produces a wide range of standard and custom power supplies
that convert AC or DC power to required levels of direct electrical current for
use in customers' end products. CONDOR designs and manufactures linear and
switching AC power supplies, primarily in the 7 watt to 700 watt power range.
The CONDOR product line is noted for its innovation and highly efficient designs
and dominates the market for low voltage power supplies for medical equipment.
The Company has incorporated its advanced technology and designs into products
for the telecom, instrumentation and industrial equipment markets. CONDOR'S
highly responsive product teams effectively partner with established customers
and have enabled CONDOR to penetrate new market applications for its products,
including home health care, air filtration systems, chemical and genetic
analysis equipment, and telecom and datacom interface equipment.

[POWER SUPPLY PHOTO]
[CAPTION]

     During fiscal 1998, CONDOR introduced 11 new power supply products and is
currently developing new products at the rate of one every four to six weeks.
CONDOR has ongoing plans to develop external power supplies and DC to DC
converters and to expand the power range of its PDQ solutions. The Company is
currently engineering new power supply products to meet the growing needs of
OEMs in the emerging telemedicine industry.

POWER CONDITIONING AND DISTRIBUTION UNITS

     SL Industries has established a prominent position in the growing market
for power conditioning and distribution units (PCDUs). PCDUs are used to filter
out noise from power lines, as well as for voltage conversion and stabilization,
system control and power distribution. In addition, PCDUs enhance the quality
and reliability of equipment and systems by providing the precise power and
distribution features required for dependable operation. TEAL ELECTRONICS is a
leader in the design and manufacture of custom power systems for OEMs in the
medical imaging, telecommunications and semiconductor production equipment
markets.

     In fiscal 1998, TEAL successfully developed and introduced a new line of
PCDUs with voltage regulation. The technology developed by TEAL and its
well-recognized PCDU product line constitutes an excellent platform to penetrate
markets for more value-added and cost-effective solutions in the medical,
semiconductor, telecommunications and graphic arts industries.

[POWER CONDITIONER PHOTO]
[CAPTION]




                                                                               5
<PAGE>   3

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.


     SL WABER designs and manufactures power distribution units that safely
convert a high power input into user specified output ranges. These units
distribute power evenly and conveniently throughout the customer's system. In
fiscal 1998, SL WABER began working with its customers to develop advanced
microprocessor controlled systems that can satisfy the demanding new performance
requirements that are expected to be caused by utility deregulation.

     EME power distribution equipment can be found in aerospace applications
such as passenger entertainment units, and in automotive applications used in
mirror controls and general power wiring systems throughout the vehicle.

UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLIES

     Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) products provide back-up power in the
event of a power failure. Dependable back-up power supplies prevent the loss of
data transmissions due to sudden power shortages and ensure an orderly system
shutdown in the event of an extended energy failure. UPS products also recharge
batteries and, in some applications, provide a direct power supply to connected
equipment.

[UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY PHOTO]
[CAPTION]

     SL WABER back-up power supplies include the Upstart Network series, which
are designed for computers operating in a network environment. These units
incorporate sophisticated software for managing, saving and restoring files. SL
WABER expanded its product line into higher power ranges with the introduction
of its 650va UPS unit during the past fiscal year, and is expected to introduce
its 850va UPS unit in the first half of fiscal 1999.

     CONDOR has continued its expansion into custom back-up power supplies that
incorporate UPS and battery charging technology. These products are required by
OEMs that manufacture and sell medical and telecom equipment and other critical
industrial applications where the consequences of on-line interruption are
unacceptable. Applications for this capability are expected to proliferate in
the future, as sophisticated capital equipment in a wide range of industries is
designed to process information within wide and local area networks.

[REMOTE CONTROL AIR PLANE PHOTO]
[CAPTION]



6
       
<PAGE>   4
SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

MOTION CONTROL SYSTEMS

     SL Industries' competitive advantage in motion control systems lies in its
cutting-edge designs. SL-MTI's new motor and motion controls are used in
numerous applications, including aerospace, medical and industrial products,
which require extremely high reliability under demanding operating conditions.
SL-MTI's proprietary motor/generator technology is employed in jet engines,
electric vehicles, hand-held precision tools and advanced flywheel systems for
telecommunications and utility markets.

[PASSENGER AIR PLANE PHOTO]
[CAPTION]

     In fiscal 1998, SL-MTI's power and drive systems were incorporated into the
ground breaking "Personal Transit Module" electronic vehicle manufactured by
Corbin industries.

     The acquisition of EME in June 1998 further expands the market for the
Company's motion control systems. EME designs and manufactures actuators and
power distribution units used in a variety of aerospace and industrial
applications. The synergies between EME and each of the Company's other
strategic business units, particularly SL-MTI, will enable SL Industries to
provide its customers with more comprehensive PDQ solutions.


SURGE SUPPRESSORS AND OTHER

     SL Industries has a well-established reputation in the design and
manufacture of surge suppressors and surge suppression technologies. These
devices are sold to protect computers, audiovisual and other electronic
equipment from damage or destruction due to sudden power surges. SL WABER is a
leader in the design and manufacture of surge suppressors for the custom, OEM
and retail marketplaces. Surge suppression and other types of noise filtration
technology are generally incorporated into many of the Company's more advanced
PDQ products.

[EME PHOTO]
[CAPTION]

REPRESENTATIVE CUSTOMER LIST

SL Industries provides power and data quality solutions for world-class
customers in many industries. Some of the customers for the Company's PDQ
solutions over the past year include:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

<S>                            <C>                         <C>
AKSYS                          Federal Express             Newark Electronics
Airbus Industries              Future Electronics          Office Depot
Allied Signal                  GEC Marconi                 Philips
Audi                           General Electric            Raytheon
Avnet/Allied Electronics       Healthdyne                  Schlumberger
Bell/Milgray Electronics       Hewlett Packard             Siemens
B.F. Goodrich/Aerospace        Home Depot                  Teradyne
Digi-Key                       Lucas Aerospace             Textron
Digital Equipment              Motorola                    3M Corporation
Ericsson                       Nellcor/Puritan Bennett     Toshiba
</TABLE>




                                                                               7
<PAGE>   5
SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended July 31,                                                                1998         1997          1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                               (In thousands, except per share data)
<S>                                                                           <C>           <C>           <C>
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS                                                         
Net sales..................................................................    $ 118,212    $ 115,687     $ 117,313

Income before cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles (1) ...    $   5,313    $   7,815     $   3,498
Cumulative effect of change in accounting for income taxes.................            -            -             -
                                                                              --------------------------------------

Net income.................................................................    $   5,313    $   7,815     $   3,498
                                                                              ======================================

Diluted net income per common share: (2)
Income before cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles (1) ...    $     .90    $    1.30     $     .59
Cumulative effect of change in accounting for income taxes.................            -            -             -
                                                                              --------------------------------------

Diluted net income.........................................................    $     .90    $    1.30     $     .59
                                                                              ======================================

Shares used in computing diluted net income per common share (2) ..........        5,897        6,021         5,950

Cash dividend per common share.............................................    $     .08    $     .07     $     .06


YEAR-END FINANCIAL POSITION
Working capital............................................................    $  21,344    $  17,399     $  20,765
Current ratio..............................................................          2.1          1.8           2.3
Total assets...............................................................    $  80,915    $  66,804     $  64,175
Long-term debt.............................................................    $  13,283    $     700     $  13,186
Shareholders' equity.......................................................    $  38,345    $  36,492     $  28,680
Book value per share.......................................................    $    6.84    $    6.27     $    4.98

OTHER
Capital expenditures (3) ..................................................    $   2,756    $   2,097     $   2,219
Depreciation and amortization..............................................    $   3,043    $   2,700     $   2,584
                                                                              --------------------------------------
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended July 31,                                                                1995         1994
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        (In thousands, except per share data)
<S>                                                                            <C>           <C>
Summary of operations
Net sales..................................................................     $ 91,125     $ 76,593

Income before cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles (1) ...     $  3,677     $  1,951
Cumulative effect of change in accounting for income taxes.................            -          603
                                                                               ------------------------------

Net income.................................................................     $  3,677     $  2,554
                                                                               ==============================


Diluted net income per common share: (2)
Income before cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles (1) ...     $    .62     $    .32
Cumulative effect of change in accounting for income taxes.................            -          .10
                                                                               ------------------------------

Diluted net income.........................................................     $    .62     $    .42
                                                                               ==============================

Shares used in computing diluted net income per common share (2) ..........        5,940        6,152

Cash dividend per common share.............................................     $    .06     $    .06


Year-end financial position
Working capital............................................................     $ 21,929     $ 21,125
Current ratio..............................................................          2.5          2.9
Total assets...............................................................     $ 62,156     $ 52,397
Long-term debt.............................................................     $ 17,373     $ 11,918
Shareholders' equity.......................................................     $ 24,930     $ 23,577
Book value per share.......................................................     $   4.43     $   3.93

Other
Capital expenditures (3) ..................................................     $  1,736     $  1,446
Depreciation and amortization..............................................     $  2,108     $  1,868
                                                                               ------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1) Fiscal 1997 includes pre-tax gain, net of severance, facility closing,
    legal and other costs, on disposition of subsidiary of $5,888,000,
    increasing net income by $3,556,000, or $.59 per common share.   Fiscal
    1995 includes pre-tax gain, net of severance, legal and other costs, on
    disposition of subsidiary of $818,000, increasing net income by $1,100,000,
    or $.19 per common share.

(2) The effect of outstanding dilutive stock options is not material for fiscal
    1995 and is antidilutive for fiscal 1994; and is not included in the
    calculations for these years.

(3) Excludes assets acquired in business combinations.

<PAGE>   6

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

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

FINANCIAL CONDITION

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
During fiscal 1998, the net cash provided by operating activities was
$6,621,000, as compared to $3,266,000 and $4,687,000 provided in fiscal 1997 and
1996, respectively. The fiscal 1998 increase, as compared to fiscal 1997,
resulted primarily from increased income from operations, and decreased
receivables and inventories, offset, in part, by decreased accounts payable and
accrued liabilities. The fiscal 1997 decrease, as compared to fiscal 1996,
resulted primarily from increased inventories at current operations, offset, in
part, by increased accounts payable. During fiscal 1998, the net cash used in
investing activities of $13,634,000 was primarily related to the acquisition of
all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Elektro-Metall Export GmbH
("EME") and capital expenditures. During fiscal 1997, the net cash provided by
investing activities of $9,399,000 was primarily related to the sale of
substantially all of the assets of SL Auburn, Inc. ("Auburn"), offset, in part,
by capital expenditures. During fiscal 1996, the net cash used in investing
activities of $1,240,000, was primarily related to capital expenditures, offset,
in part, by the sale of substantially all of the assets of SL Piping Systems,
Inc. ("Piping"), net of certain liabilities. During fiscal 1998, the net cash
provided by financing activities of $7,000,000 was primarily related to the use
of the Company's revolving line of credit for the EME acquisition, offset, in
part, by the purchase of 375,500 shares of the Company's common stock. During
fiscal 1997 and 1996, the net cash used in financing activities of $12,665,000
and $4,024,000 was primarily related to payments made to reduce the Company's
long-term debt obligation.

The Company's current ratio was 2.1 to 1 at July 31, 1998, 1.8 to 1 at July 31,
1997, and 2.3 to 1 at July 31, 1996. The fiscal 1998 increase, as compared to
fiscal 1997, resulted from a 7% increase in current assets and a 5% decrease in
current liabilities. The increase in current assets resulted primarily from the
addition of inventories at EME. The decrease in current liabilities resulted
primarily from the payment of vendor invoices, offset, in part, by the addition
of liabilities at EME. The fiscal 1997 decrease, as compared to fiscal 1996,
resulted from a 28% increase in current liabilities, as compared to a 3%
increase in current assets. The increase in current liabilities resulted
primarily from increased accounts payable.

As a percentage of total capitalization, consisting of long-term debt and
shareholders' equity, total borrowings by the Company were 27% at July 31, 1998,
2% at July 31, 1997, and 32% at July 31, 1996. The fiscal 1998 increase in total
borrowings, as compared to fiscal 1997, was primarily a result of the Company's
use of its revolving line of credit to purchase all of the issued and
outstanding common shares of EME and 375,500 shares of the Company's common
stock. The fiscal 1997 decrease in total borrowings, as compared to fiscal 1996,
was primarily a result of payments made to reduce the outstanding balance of the
Company's revolving line of credit. On July 21, 1998, the Company amended its
revolving credit agreement in the amount of $25,000,000 with three participating
banks to provide for multi-currency borrowing and international acquisitions,
and to extend the agreement's maturity date to October 31, 2001. At July 31,
1998, the Company had $12,280,000, net of outstanding trade letters of credit of
$920,000, of this revolving line of credit available for use. See Note 8 to the
consolidated financial statements for additional information about the credit
agreement. The Company's borrowing capacity at July 31, 1998, remained
considerably above its use of outside financing.

Capital expenditures were $2,756,000 in 1998, as compared to $2,097,000 in 1997,
and $2,219,000 in 1996. Expenditures during the three-year period have primarily
included investments in new process technology and increased production
capacity. Fiscal 1999 capital expenditures are planned to be approximately
$3,963,000, and the Company expects to fund the expenditures with cash provided
by operations. 

The Company is not aware of any demands, commitments, trends or
uncertainties, which are reasonably likely, in the normal course, to impair its
ability to generate or obtain adequate amounts of cash to meet its future needs.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FISCAL 1998 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1997
Fiscal 1998 consolidated net sales of $118,212,000 increased approximately 2%
($2,525,000), as compared to fiscal 1997 consolidated net sales. Fiscal 1998 and
1997 consolidated net sales included one month of EME's net sales of $1,831,000
and nine months of Auburn's net sales of $8,489,000, respectively. Fiscal 1998
net income was $5,313,000, or a diluted $.90 per share, as compared to fiscal
1997 net income of $7,815,000, or a diluted $1.30 per share. Fiscal 1997 net
income included a gain, net of severance, facility closing, legal and other
costs, from the sale of substantially all of the assets of Auburn of $3,556,000
or a diluted $.59 per share. If the gain is excluded from fiscal 1997 net
income, fiscal 1998 net income increased approximately 25% ($1,054,000).

Fiscal 1998 power and data quality net sales increased approximately 10%
($11,014,000), as compared to fiscal 1997.  Contributing to this increase were
increased net sales of linear and switching power supplies, power conditioning
and distribution units and precision motor products, which resulted primarily
from technology improvements, new customer programs and increased demand,
offset, in part, by decreased demand for surge protectors and uninterruptible
power supplies, which resulted primarily from reduced demand because of
competitive pressures within the retail marketplace.  Fiscal 1998 power and
data quality operating income increased approximately 25% ($2,433,000), as
compared to fiscal 1997.  The increase in fiscal 1998 operating income resulted
from the increased net sales and operational efficiencies realized by the power
and data quality businesses.

COST OF SALES
As a percentage of net sales, fiscal 1998 and 1997 costs of products sold were
approximately 63% and 64%, respectively. The Company continues to make
investments to improve operational efficiencies that should reduce cost of
products sold as a percentage of net sales.

ENGINEERING AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT EXPENSES
Fiscal 1998 engineering and product development expenses of $6,167,000 increased
approximately 17% ($884,000), as compared to fiscal 1997. As a percentage of net
sales, fiscal 1998 and 1997 engineering and product development expenses were
approximately 5%.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
Fiscal 1998 selling, general and administrative expenses of $25,576,000
decreased approximately 3% ($788,000), as compared to fiscal 1997. The fiscal
1998 decrease was primarily related to decreased selling expenses. As a
percentage of net sales, fiscal 1998 selling, general and





                                                                               9
<PAGE>   7
          MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
                           AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

administrative expenses were approximately 22%, as compared to 23% in fiscal
1997.

DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION EXPENSE
Fiscal 1998 depreciation and amortization expense of $3,043,000 increased
approximately 13% ($343,000), as compared to fiscal 1997. The increase was
primarily related to depreciation and amortization of computer hardware and
software, respectively.

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Fiscal 1998 other income (expense) consisted entirely of interest income and
expense. Fiscal 1997 other income (expense) included the gain from the Auburn
asset sale, as well as interest income and expense. Fiscal 1998 interest income
decreased, as compared to fiscal 1997, because of less cash available for
investment. Fiscal 1998 interest expense decreased, as compared to fiscal 1997,
primarily because of a lower average debt balance. 

TAXES
The fiscal 1998 effective tax rate on pre-tax income was 38%, as
compared to 39% in fiscal 1997. The fiscal 1997 effective tax rate included
incremental taxes associated with the gain realized from the Auburn asset sale.

FISCAL 1997 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1996
Fiscal 1997 consolidated net sales of $115,687,000 decreased approximately 1%
($1,626,000), as compared to fiscal 1996 consolidated net sales. Fiscal 1997's
consolidated net sales included nine months of Auburn's net sales of $8,489,000
and fiscal 1996 consolidated net sales included twelve months of Auburn's net
sales of $10,766,000 and approximately seven months of Piping's net sales of
$2,964,000. Fiscal 1997 net income was $7,815,000, or a diluted $1.30 per share,
as compared to fiscal 1996 net income of $3,498,000, or a diluted $.59 per
share. Fiscal 1997 net income included a gain, net of severance, facility
closing, legal and other costs, from the sale of substantially all of the assets
of Auburn of $3,556,000 or a diluted $.59 per share. If the gain is excluded
from fiscal 1997 net income, net income increased approximately 22% ($761,000).

The power and data quality segment's fiscal 1997 net sales and operating income
increased approximately 3% ($3,616,000) and 5% ($463,000), respectively, as
compared to fiscal 1996 net sales and operating income. Contributing to these
increases were increased net sales of linear and switching power supplies, power
conditioning and distribution units and precision motor products which resulted
from increased market share, offset by decreased sales of surge protectors and
uninterruptible power supplies because of a flat retail market. The increase in
fiscal 1997 operating income resulted from the increased net sales realized by
the businesses within this segment.

The specialty products segment's fiscal 1997 net sales and operating income
decreased approximately 38% ($5,242,000), and increased approximately 92%
($272,000), respectively, as compared to fiscal 1996 net sales and operating
income. Fiscal 1997 and 1996's net sales and operating income included the
results of Auburn and, in fiscal 1996, also included the results of Piping.

COST OF SALES
As a percentage of net sales, fiscal 1997 cost of products sold was
approximately 64%, as compared to approximately 65% in fiscal 1996. The
percentage decrease was a direct result of improved operational efficiencies
contributed by the power and data quality segment's product lines.

ENGINEERING AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT EXPENSES
Fiscal 1997 engineering and product development expenses of $5,283,000 increased
approximately 12% ($570,000), as compared to fiscal 1996. As a percentage of net
sales, fiscal 1997 engineering and product development expenses were 5%, as
compared to 4% in fiscal 1996. The fiscal 1997 increases were primarily related
to additional investments made by the businesses within the power and data
quality segment.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
Fiscal 1997 selling, general and administrative expenses of $26,364,000
decreased approximately 2% ($520,000), as compared to fiscal 1996. As a
percentage of net sales, fiscal 1997 and 1996 selling, general and
administrative expenses were approximately 23% for both years.

DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION EXPENSE
Fiscal 1997 depreciation and amortization expense of $2,700,000 increased
approximately 4% ($116,000), as compared to fiscal 1996. The slight fiscal 1997
increase was primarily related to the depreciation of equipment within the power
and data quality segment.

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Fiscal 1997 other income (expense) included the gain from the Auburn asset sale,
as well as interest income and expense, as compared to fiscal 1996 other income
(expense), which consisted entirely of interest income and expense. Fiscal 1997
interest income increased, as compared to fiscal 1996, because of additional
cash available for investment. Fiscal 1997 interest expense decreased, as
compared to fiscal 1996, primarily because of a reduction in the Company's
long-term debt obligation.

TAXES
The fiscal 1997 effective tax rate on pre-tax income was 39%, as compared to 35%
in fiscal 1996. This increase was primarily related to taxes associated with the
Company's Mexican operations, the gain realized from the Auburn asset sale and
state income tax refunds included in fiscal 1996.

ENVIRONMENTAL
During fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996, investigation or remediation activities, or
both, were continued at sites owned, leased or previously utilized by the
Company. During the latter part of fiscal 1995, the New Jersey Department of
Environmental Protection ("NJDEP") required the Company to begin additional
investigation of the extent of off-site contamination at its former facility in
Wayne, New Jersey, where remediation had been underway for several years. Based
on the results of that investigation, which were received in fiscal 1996, the
Company determined that additional remediation costs of approximately $1,000,000
were probable; therefore, in fiscal 1996, the Company made an additional
provision of $900,000.

In a November 1991, Administrative Directive, NJDEP alleged that SL Surface
Technologies, Inc. ("STI"), formerly SL Modern Hard Chrome, Inc., and 20 other
respondents are responsible for a contaminant plume which has affected the
Puchack Wellfield in Pennsauken, New Jersey (which supplies Camden, New Jersey).
Three other actions have been



10
<PAGE>   8

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

initiated from the underlying directive. The first is Supplemental Directive No.
1 issued by NJDEP to the same parties in May 1992, which seeks a cost
reimbursement of $8,655,000 for the construction of a treatment system at the
Puchack site and an annual payment of $611,000 for ongoing operation and
maintenance of the treatment system. The second matter is a lawsuit initiated by
one of the parties named in Directive No. 1 seeking to have the remainder of
those parties and more than 600 others pay some or all of that party's cost of
compliance with Directive No. 1 and any other costs associated with its site.
The third matter is a Spill Act Directive by NJDEP to STI alone, regarding
similar matters at its site. The state has not initiated enforcement action
regarding any of its three Directives. There also exists an outstanding
enforcement issue regarding the Company's compliance with ECRA at the same site.

With regard to the $8,655,000 amount, in the Company's view it is not
appropriate to consider that amount as "potential cost reimbursements". The STI
site, which is the subject of these actions, has undergone remedial activities
under NJDEP's supervision since 1983. The Company believes that it has a
significant defense against all or any part of the $8,655,000 claim since
technical data generated as part of previous remedial activities indicate that
there is no offsite migration of contaminants at the Company's STI site. Based
on this and other technical factors, the Company has been advised by its outside
technical consultant, with the concurrence of its outside counsel, that it has a
significant defense to Directive No. 1 and any material exposure is remote.

Although these contingencies could result in additional expenses or judgments,
or offsets, thereto, at present such expenses or judgments are not expected to
have a material affect on the Company's consolidated financial position or
results of earnings.

The Company filed claims with its insurers seeking reimbursement for past and
future environmental costs and it received $900,000 from one insurer during
fiscal 1996 and a commitment to pay 15% of the environmental costs associated
with the STI site, up to an aggregate of $300,000. During fiscal 1997, the
Company received $1,500,000 from three additional insurers and from two of those
insurers, commitments to pay 15% and 20% of the environmental costs associated
with the same location, up to an aggregate of $150,000 and $400,000,
respectively. In addition, the Company received $100,000 during fiscal 1998 and
will receive $100,000 during the fiscal years 1999, 2000 and 2001, as stipulated
in the settlement agreement negotiated with one of the three insurers.

See Note 10  to the consolidated financial statements for additional
information.

YEAR 2000
The Year 2000 issue is the result of computer programs using two digits rather
than four to define the applicable year. Computer programs that have
date-sensitive software may recognize a date using "00" as the year 1900 rather
than the year 2000. This could result in system failures or miscalculations
leading to disruptions in a company's operations.

The Company has taken actions to address and complete the work associated with
the Year 2000. Executive management and information system employees at each of
its business units have been contacted regarding Year 2000 readiness, either
through on-site visits or intercompany correspondence. Each of its business
units and corporate headquarters have established, or are in the process of
establishing, teams to identify and correct Year 2000 issues. Attention is being
given to computer hardware and software, communications equipment, manufacturing
equipment and facilities and products sold, if any, to achieve compliance in all
these areas. The teams are also charged with investigating the Year 2000
capabilities of suppliers, customers and other external entities, and with
developing contingency plans where necessary. 

Three of the Company's business units implemented new enterprise software
packages during the last two years that their suppliers have stated are Year
2000 compliant. A detailed accounting and assessment of all computer systems and
most application software utilized throughout the Company's operations has been
completed, and plans for establishing compliance are either in process or have
been developed. These plans identify or will identify which non-compliant
hardware and software will be remediated, upgraded or replaced and the timetable
and resource requirements to achieve those objectives. Remediation and testing
activities have been completed or are in the process of being completed at all
of the Company's business units and at corporate headquarters.

The Company does not expect Year 2000 spending to materially affect consolidated
profitability or liquidity. This expectation assumes that its existing forecast
of costs to be incurred contemplates all significant actions required, and that
the Company will not be obligated to incur significant Year 2000 related costs
on behalf of its customers or suppliers.

TRENDS AND PROSPECTS
At the present time, all of the Company's businesses are profitable and are
expected to remain so, and it is anticipated that the Company's fiscal year 1999
consolidated financial results should continue to show improvements.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
From time to time, information provided by the Company, including written or
oral statements made by its representatives, may contain forward-looking
information as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
All statements, other than statements of historical facts, which address
activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will
or may occur in the future, including such things as expansion and growth of the
company's business, future capital expenditures and the Company's prospects and
Year 2000 strategy, contain forward-looking information. In reviewing such
information, it should be kept in mind that actual results may differ materially
from those projected or suggested in such forward-looking information. This
forward-looking information is based on various factors and was derived
utilizing numerous assumptions. Many of these factors have previously been
identified in filings or statements made by or on behalf of the Company.

Important assumptions and other important factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking
information include changes in the general economy, changes in consumer
spending, competitive factors and other factors affecting the Company's business
in or beyond the Company's control. These factors include changes in the rate of
inflation, changes in state or federal legislation or regulation, adverse
determinations with respect to litigation or other claims (including
environmental matters), adverse effects of failure to achieve Year 2000
compliance, the Company's ability to recruit and develop employees, its ability
to successfully implement new technology and stability of product costs.

Other factors and assumptions not identified above could also cause the actual
results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking
information. The Company does not undertake to update forward-looking
information contained herein or elsewhere to reflect actual results, changes in
assumptions or changes in other factors affecting such forward-looking
information.




                                                                            11


<PAGE>   9
SL Industries, Inc.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended July 31,                                                    1998                      1997                     1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                            <C>                       <C>                      <C>
Net sales......................................................$ 118,212,000             $ 115,687,000            $ 117,313,000
                                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------

Cost and expenses:
  Cost of products sold........................................   74,646,000                74,085,000               76,773,000
  Engineering and product development..........................    6,167,000                 5,283,000                4,713,000
  Selling, general and administrative expenses.................   25,576,000                26,364,000               26,884,000
  Depreciation and amortization................................    3,043,000                 2,700,000                2,584,000
                                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
Total cost and expenses........................................  109,432,000               108,432,000              110,954,000
                                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
Income from operations.........................................    8,780,000                 7,255,000                6,359,000
Other income (expense):
  Gain on disposition of subsidiary............................            -                 5,888,000                        -
  Interest income..............................................      214,000                   301,000                  159,000
  Interest expense.............................................     (427,000)                 (680,000)              (1,123,000)
                                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
Income before income taxes.....................................    8,567,000                12,764,000                5,395,000
Provision for income taxes.....................................    3,254,000                 4,949,000                1,897,000
                                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
Net income......................................................$  5,313,000             $   7,815,000            $   3,498,000
                                                               =================================================================

Basic net income per common share.............................. $        .95             $        1.35            $         .61
                                                               =================================================================
Diluted net income per common share............................ $        .90             $        1.30            $         .59
                                                               =================================================================


Shares used in computing basic net income per common share.....    5,598,000                 5,776,000                5,701,000
                                                               =================================================================
Shares used in computing diluted net income per common share...    5,897,000                 6,021,000                5,950,000
                                                               =================================================================


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

</TABLE>



12
<PAGE>   10

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
July 31,                                                                                 1998                        1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                              <C>                         <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents...................................................   $          -                $          -
  Receivables, less allowances
    of $2,045,000 and $1,790,000, respectively................................     18,886,000                  18,141,000
  Inventories.................................................................     18,538,000                  16,505,000
  Prepaid expenses............................................................        972,000                     712,000
  Deferred income taxes.......................................................      3,014,000                   3,168,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
        Total current assets..................................................     41,410,000                  38,526,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
Property, plant and equipment, net............................................     13,977,000                   6,296,000
Assets held for future sale...................................................        913,000                     958,000
Long-term note receivable.....................................................      2,201,000                   2,234,000
Deferred income taxes.........................................................      1,865,000                   2,442,000
Cash surrender value of life insurance policies...............................      8,657,000                   7,627,000
Intangible assets, net........................................................     10,705,000                   7,594,000
Other assets..................................................................      1,187,000                   1,127,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
        Total assets..........................................................   $ 80,915,000                $ 66,804,000
                                                                                ==========================================

LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
  Debt due within one year....................................................   $    727,000                $    133,000
  Accounts payable............................................................      5,982,000                   8,839,000
  Accrued income taxes........................................................      2,105,000                     770,000
  Accrued liabilities:
    Payroll and related costs.................................................      4,851,000                   5,331,000
    Other.....................................................................      6,401,000                   6,054,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
        Total current liabilities.............................................     20,066,000                  21,127,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
Long-term debt less portion due within one year...............................     13,283,000                     700,000
Deferred compensation and supplemental retirement benefits....................      4,667,000                   4,133,000
Other liabilities.............................................................      4,554,000                   4,352,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
        Total liabilities.....................................................   $ 42,570,000                $ 30,312,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------

Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock, no par value; authorized, 6,000,000 shares; none issued......   $          -                $          -
Common stock, $.20 par value; authorized, 25,000,000 shares;
  issued, 1998 - 8,153,000 shares, 1997 - 7,958,000 shares....................      1,631,000                   1,592,000
Capital in excess of par value................................................     36,061,000                  34,695,000
Retained earnings.............................................................     14,476,000                   9,607,000
Translation adjustment........................................................         80,000                           -
Treasury stock at cost, 1998 - 2,546,000 shares, 1997 - 2,141,000 shares......    (13,903,000)                 (9,402,000)
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
        Total shareholders' equity............................................   $ 38,345,000                $ 36,492,000
                                                                                ------------------------------------------
        Total liabilities and shareholders' equity............................   $ 80,915,000                $ 66,804,000
                                                                                ==========================================
</TABLE>


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.





                                                                              13
<PAGE>   11

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY





<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  
                                                    Common Stock                                 
                                     -------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                            Retained
                                               Issued                    Held In Treasury     Capital in    Earnings
                                     --------------------------  ---------------------------  Excess of  (Accumulated  Translation
                                        Shares       Amount         Shares        Amount      Par Value     Deficit)    Adjustment
                                     ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>         <C>           <C>           <C>             <C>             <C>          <C>
Balance August 1, 1995.............  7,773,000   $ 1,555,000   (2,141,000)   $ (9,402,000)   $33,735,000     $ (958,000)  $      -
Net income ........................                                                                           3,498,000
Cash dividends, $.06 per share.....                                                                            (343,000)
Other, including exercise of      
  employee stock options and      
  related income tax benefits......    126,000        25,000                                     571,000         (1,000)
                                     ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance july 31, 1996..............  7,899,000     1,580,000   (2,141,000)     (9,402,000)    34,306,000      2,196,000          -
Net income.........................                                                                           7,815,000
Cash dividends, $.07 per share.....                                                                            (405,000)
Other, including exercise of      
  employee stock options and      
  related income tax benefits......     59,000        12,000                                     389,000          1,000
                                     ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance July 31, 1997..............  7,958,000     1,592,000   (2,141,000)     (9,402,000)    34,695,000      9,607,000          -
Net income.........................                                                                           5,313,000
Cash dividends, $.08 per share.....                                                                            (445,000)
Other, including exercise of      
  employee stock options and      
  related income tax benefits......    195,000        39,000                                   1,366,000          1,000
Treasury stock purchased...........                              (405,000)     (4,501,000)
Current year translation          
  adjustment.......................                                                                                         80,000
                                     ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE JULY 31, 1998..............  8,153,000   $ 1,631,000   (2,546,000)  $ (13,903,000)   $36,061,000   $ 14,476,000   $ 80,000
                                     =============================================================================================
</TABLE>                          


14
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
<PAGE>   12

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended July 31,                                                                 1998                 1997               1996
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
<S>                                                                         <C>                  <C>                  <C>
  Net income..............................................................  $   5,313,000        $   7,815,000        $ 3,498,000
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
    provided by operating activities:
      Depreciation........................................................      2,023,000            1,889,000          1,869,000
      Amortization........................................................      1,020,000              811,000            715,000
      Provisions for losses on accounts receivable........................         52,000               63,000            151,000
      Additions to other assets...........................................     (1,366,000)            (820,000)          (259,000)
      Cash surrender value of life insurance premiums.....................       (656,000)            (534,000)          (499,000)
      Deferred compensation and supplemental retirement benefits..........      1,158,000              942,000            863,000
      Deferred compensation and supplemental retirement benefit payments..       (611,000)            (499,000)          (449,000)
      Decrease (Increase) in deferred income taxes........................        731,000           (1,454,000)        (1,148,000)
      Gain on the sale of equipment.......................................        (13,000)             (23,000)            (5,000)
      Discontinued product line expenses..................................       (168,000)            (143,000)          (246,000)
      Gain on disposition of subsidiary...................................              -           (5,888,000)                 -
      Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the effect of
       acquisition and dispositions:
        Receivables.......................................................      2,495,000           (3,073,000)        (5,000,000)
        Inventories.......................................................      1,068,000           (1,718,000)         2,682,000
        Prepaid expenses..................................................        181,000              135,000             11,000
        Accounts payable..................................................     (3,588,000)           3,633,000            444,000
        Accrued liabilities...............................................     (1,978,000)           2,025,000          2,325,000
        Accrued income taxes..............................................        960,000              105,000           (265,000)
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
        NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES.........................  $   6,621,000        $   3,266,000       $  4,687,000
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
  Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment....................         18,000               29,000            151,000
  Purchases of property, plant and equipment..............................     (2,756,000)          (2,097,000)        (2,219,000)
  Proceeds from notes receivable..........................................         32,000               74,000              7,000
  Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired.........................    (10,928,000)            (823,000)          (533,000)
  Proceeds from disposition of subsidiaries...............................              -           12,216,000          1,354,000
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
        NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES...............  $ (13,634,000)       $   9,399,000       $ (1,240,000)
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
  Cash dividends paid.....................................................       (445,000)            (405,000)          (343,000)
  Proceeds from long-term debt............................................     17,550,000            2,200,000            600,000
  Payments on long-term debt..............................................     (6,722,000)         (14,740,000)        (4,786,000)
  Proceeds from stock options exercised...................................      1,118,000              280,000            505,000
  Treasury stock acquired.................................................     (4,501,000)                   -                  -
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
        NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES...............  $   7,000,000        $ (12,665,000)      $ (4,024,000)
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
  Effect of exchange rate changes on cash.................................  $      13,000        $           -       $          -
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
        NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS..............              -                    -           (577,000)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR............................              -                    -            577,000
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT YEAR END.....................................  $           -        $           -       $          -
                                                                          ========================================================
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


                                                                              15
<PAGE>   13

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of SL
Industries, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries ("the Company"). All
intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Revenue recognition: Sales are recognized upon shipment of products.

Inventories: Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is
primarily determined using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Cost for
certain inventories is determined using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method.

Property, plant and equipment: Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost
and include expenditures for new facilities and major renewals and betterments.
Maintenance, repairs and minor renewals are charged to expense as incurred. When
assets are sold or otherwise disposed of, any gain or loss is recognized
currently. Depreciation is provided primarily using the straight-line method
over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 25 to 40 years
for buildings, 3 to 10 years for equipment and other property and the lease term
for leasehold improvements.

Intangible assets: Intangible assets consist primarily of goodwill, trademarks,
covenants not to compete and patents. The goodwill resulting from the fiscal
1998 acquisition and the goodwill and trademarks resulting from the May 1995
acquisition are being amortized over 30 years or less. Goodwill resulting from
acquisitions made prior to November 1, 1970, of $955,000, is considered to have
continuing value over an indefinite period, and is not being amortized.
Covenants are amortized over their stated terms and patents are amortized over
their remaining lives. Subsequent to its acquisitions, the Company continually
evaluates whether later events or circumstances have occurred that would
indicate that the remaining estimated useful life of an intangible asset may
warrant revision or that the remaining balance may not be recoverable. When
factors indicate that intangible assets should be evaluated for possible
impairment, the Company uses an estimate of the related undiscounted cash flows
over the remaining life of the intangible asset to measure recoverability. If
impairment exists, measurement of the impairment will be based on the valuation
method which management believes most closely approximates the fair value of the
intangible asset.

Environmental expenditures: Expenditures that relate to current operations are
charged to expense or capitalized, as appropriate. Expenditures that relate to
an existing condition caused by past operations, which do not contribute to
future revenues, are charged to expense. Liabilities are recorded when remedial
efforts are probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. The liability
for remediation expenditures includes, as appropriate, elements of costs such as
site investigations, consultants' fees, feasibility studies, outside contractor
expenses and monitoring expenses. Estimates are not discounted, nor are they
reduced by potential claims for recovery from the Company's insurance carriers.
The liability is periodically reviewed and adjusted to reflect current
remediation progress, prospective estimates of required activity and other
relevant factors including changes in technology or regulations.

Product warranty costs: The Company offers various warranties on its products.
The Company provides for its estimated future warranty obligations in the period
in which the related sales are recognized.

Advertising costs: Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. For the fiscal
years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, these costs were $2,128,000,
$2,287,000 and $2,322,000, respectively.

Research and development costs: Research and development costs are expensed as
incurred. For the fiscal years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, these costs
were $1,756,000, $1,405,000 and $1,245,000, respectively.

Income taxes: Deferred income taxes are provided to reflect the tax effect of
temporary differences in reporting income and deductions for tax and financial
statement purposes.

Foreign currency conversion: The balance sheets and statements of earnings of
the Company's Mexican subsidiaries are converted at the year-end rate of
exchange and the monthly weighted average rate of exchange, respectively, except
for those items requiring conversion at historical rates of exchange, as the
Mexican subsidiaries' functional currency is U.S. dollars. Gains or losses
resulting from these foreign currency conversions are included in the
accompanying consolidated statements of earnings. Since the functional currency
for the Company's German subsidiary is its local currency, the translation from
the local currency to U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using
the current exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date and for earnings
using the monthly weighted average exchange rate during the period. Gains or
losses resulting from such translation are included in a separate component of
stockholders' equity.

Use of estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The most
significant areas which require the use of management estimates relate to
product warranty costs, allowance for doubtful accounts, allowance for inventory
obsolescence and environmental costs.

Net income per common share: In February 1997, the Financial Accounting
Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128
"Earnings per Share ("SFAS No. 128")", which the Company adopted for both
interim and annual periods ending after December 15, 1997. SFAS No. 128
simplifies



16
<PAGE>   14


SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

the Earnings per Share ("EPS") calculation by replacing primary EPS
with basic EPS. Basic EPS is computed by dividing reported earnings available to
common shareholders by weighted average shares outstanding. Fully diluted EPS,
now called diluted EPS, is computed by dividing reported earnings available to
common shareholders by weighted average shares outstanding plus the effect of
outstanding dilutive stock options, using the treasury method.

New accounting pronouncements: In March 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 121 "Accounting for
the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of
("SFAS No. 121")." SFAS No. 121 establishes accounting standards for the
impairment of long-lived assets, certain identifiable intangibles and goodwill.
The Company adopted SFAS No. 121, effective August 1, 1996. The adoption had no
effect on the Company's financial condition or results of operations during
fiscal 1997 and 1998.

In October 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation
("SFAS No. 123")." SFAS No. 123 establishes financial accounting and reporting
standards for stock-based employee compensation plans. This statement also
applies to transactions in which an entity issues its equity instruments to
acquire goods or services from non-employees. The Company adopted SFAS No. 123,
effective August 1, 1996. The Company has elected to adopt the disclosure
requirement of this Statement with respect to its valuation of stock options.

In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 130 "Reporting Comprehensive Income ("SFAS
No. 130")", which the Company is required to adopt for its fiscal year ended
July 31, 1999. SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for reporting and display of
comprehensive income and its components (revenues, expenses, gains and losses)
in interim and annual financial statements. The adoption of SFAS No. 130 is
expected to have no effect on the Company's presentation of its financial
statements.

In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 131 "Disclosures about Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information ("SFAS No. 131")", which the Company is
required to adopt for its July 31, 1999, financial statements. SFAS No. 131
establishes standards for the reporting of information about operating segments
in interim and annual financial statements. Management is in the process of
analyzing the impact of the adoption of SFAS No. 131.

In February 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 132 "Employers" Disclosures about Pensions
and Other Postretirement Benefits ("SFAS No. 132")", which the Company is
required to adopt for annual periods beginning after December 15, 1997. SFAS No.
132 establishes new standards for disclosing pension and other postretirement
benefits in financial statements.

Reclassifications: Reclassifications, when applicable, are made to the prior
year consolidated financial statements to conform with current year
presentation.

2. ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS
On February 20, 1996, the Company sold substantially all the assets of its
wholly-owned subsidiary, SL Piping Systems, Inc., for $1,354,000 and the
assumption of certain liabilities. The sale had no material impact on the
Company's consolidated financial position or income from operations.

On May 1, 1997, the Company sold substantially all the assets, excluding real
property, of its wholly-owned subsidiary, SL Auburn, Inc., for $12,216,000. For
financial reporting purposes, the sale resulted in a pre-tax gain, net of
severance, facility closing, legal and other costs of $5,888,000, increasing net
income by $3,556,000, or $.59 per common share.

On July 10, 1998, pursuant to a Purchase Agreement dated June 30, 1998, the
Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiary formed solely for such purpose, SL
Industries Vertrieb, GmbH, a German Corporation, acquired 100% of the issued and
outstanding Common Shares of Elektro-Metall Export GmbH ("EME"), a German
Corporation. The Company paid $9,500,000 in cash at closing. EME is a leading
German based designer and manufacturer of power quality products.

The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method; therefore, the
aggregate purchase price has been allocated to the net assets acquired based on
their respective fair values at date of acquisition. The excess of the aggregate
purchase price over the fair value of net tangible assets acquired of $2,589,000
has been allocated to goodwill and is being amortized on a straight-line basis
over 30 years.

The results of operations of EME, since the acquisition date, are included in
the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations, which included a
$3,556,000 after-tax gain from the sales of substantially all of the assets of
SL Auburn, Inc. in fiscal 1997, as though the Company acquired EME on August 1
of each fiscal year are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       -----------------------------------------
                                            1998                  1997
                                       -----------------------------------------
                                        (In thousands, except per share data)
<S>                                      <C>                   <C>
Net sales. . . . . . . . . . . . .  .    $138,526              $140,974
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . .       $5,847                $8,769
Basic net income per common share. .        $1.04                 $1.52
Diluted net income per common share.         $.99                 $1.46
</TABLE>

The unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations include the
amortization of goodwill, and additional interest and depreciation expense as if
these acquisition related expenses had been incurred from the beginning of the
respective periods. The unaudited pro forma results are not necessarily
indicative of the actual results of operations that would have occurred had the
purchase actually been made at the beginning of the respective periods, or of
results which may occur in the future.

3. INCOME TAXES
The provision for federal and state income taxes consists of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     ---------------------------------
                                       1998        1997        1996
                                     ---------------------------------
                                              (In thousands)
<S>                                  <C>        <C>          <C>
Current:
  Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $2,642     $ 5,288      $2,584
  State . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     521       1,115         461
Deferred:
  Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . .      36      (1,182)     (1,038)
  State . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      55        (272)       (110)
                                     ------------------------------
                                     $3,254     $ 4,949      $1,897
                                     ==============================
</TABLE>




                                                                           17  
<PAGE>   15


<PAGE>   16

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.


                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities at
July 31, 1998 and 1997, are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      ----------------------
                                         1998        1997
                                      ----------------------
                                           (In thousands)
<S>                                  <C>            <C>
Deferred tax assets:
  Deferred compensation. . . . . . . $1,883         $1,681
  Liabilities related to
    discontinued product line. . . .    313            366
  Liabilities related to
    environmental matters. . . . . .    145            304
  Inventory valuation. . . . . . . .    615            514
  Prepaid and accrued expenses . . .  3,306          3,484
  Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     17             17
                                     ---------------------
                                      6,279          6,366
Deferred tax liabilities:
  Accelerated depreciation and
    amortization . . . . . . . . . .  1,400            756
                                     ---------------------
                                     $4,879         $5,610
                                     =====================
</TABLE>

Following is a reconciliation between the amount of income tax
expense at the applicable federal statutory rate and the effective
rates:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              ------------------------------
                                              1998        1997         1996
                                              ------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>         <C>          <C>
Federal statutory rate. . . . . . . .           34%         34%          34%
Tax rate differential on Foreign
  Sales Corporation earnings. . . . .           (1)          -           (1)
State income taxes, net of
    federal income tax benefit. . . . .          4           4            4
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            1           1           (2)
                                              ------------------------------  
                                                38%         39%          35%
                                              ==============================
</TABLE>

4. CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK
Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to concentration of
credit risk consist principally of temporary cash investments and trade
receivables. The Company places its temporary cash investments with high credit
quality financial institutions. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to
trade receivables are limited due to the large number of customers comprising
the Company's customer base, and their dispersion across many industries and
geographic regions.

5. INVENTORIES
Inventories consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       ----------------------------
                                         1998             1997
                                       ----------------------------
                                              (In thousands)
<S>                                    <C>                  <C>
Raw materials. . . . . . . . . .       $10,543              $ 7,691
Work in process. . . . . . . . .         3,611                2,283
Finished goods . . . . . . . . .         4,384                6,531
                                       ----------------------------
                                       $18,538              $16,505
                                       ============================
</TABLE>

The above includes certain inventories, which are valued using the LIFO method,
which aggregated $3,009,000 and $2,254,000 at July 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively. The excess of FIFO cost over LIFO cost at July 31, 1998 and 1997,
was approximately $455,000 and $446,000, respectively.


6. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          -------------------------
                                             1998            1997
                                          -------------------------
                                               (In thousands)
<S>                                        <C>             <C>
Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         $ 3,553         $    58
Buildings and leasehold
     improvements . . . . . . . . .          5,622           2,873
Equipment and other
 property . . . . . . . . . . . . .          16,844          15,240
                                           -----------------------
                                            26,019          18,171

Less accumulated depreciation. . .          12,042          11,875
                                           -----------------------
                                           $13,977         $ 6,296
                                           =======================
</TABLE>

"Assets held for future sale" at July 31, 1998 and 1997, are not included above
and relate to assets remaining after the 1989 relocation of a power and data
quality operation. The assets remaining consist primarily of land, building and
building improvements which are being leased to a third party. The building and
building improvements are being depreciated and accounted for as an operating
lease. Aggregate accumulated depreciation for the building and building
improvements at July 31, 1998 and 1997, was $527,000 and $483,000, respectively.
Aggregate minimum rental income for fiscal 1998 and 1997 was $131,000 and
$123,000, respectively. Aggregate minimum rental income for the remaining lease
period will be $138,000 and $81,000 in 1999 and 2000, respectively. The net book
values of these assets are less than the estimated net realizable value based on
a market survey received from an independent third party.

7. INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      -----------------------------
                                        1998                  1997
                                      -----------------------------
                                              (In thousands)
<S>                                   <C>                    <C>
Patents . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $   895                $  873
Covenants not to compete. . . . . .     2,980                 2,980
Goodwill  . . . . . . . . . . . . .     8,204                 4,447
Trademarks  . . . . . . . . . . . .       920                   920
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       398                   386
                                      -----------------------------
                                       13,397                 9,606

Less accumulated amortization . . .     2,692                 2,012
                                      -----------------------------
                                      $10,705                $7,594
                                      =============================
</TABLE>

The fiscal 1998 increase in goodwill included $2,589,000 from the EME
acquisition (see Note 2 for additional information about the acquisition) and
$1,168,000 from the payment of additional


18

<PAGE>   17

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.


purchase price as required by the May 1, 1995 Asset Purchase Agreement between
the Company and Teal Electronics Corporation. The Agreement includes a provision
to pay additional purchase price equal to 50% of the annual net profits of the
acquired business in excess of $1,100,000 for each of the five twelve-month
periods beginning May 1, 1995.





8. DEBT
Debt consists of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                          ---------------------
                                                     1998          1997
                                                   ---------------------
                                                       (In thousands)
<S>                                                <C>             <C>
Note payable . . . . . . . . . . . . .             $   557         $  -
Mortgage payable. . . . . . . . . . . .                465            -
Revolving lines of credit . . . . . . .             12,926          700
Industrial revenue bonds, repaid in
  fiscal 1998 . . . . . . . . . . . . .                  -          133
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                 62            -
                                                   --------------------
                                                    14,010          833
Less portion due within one year . . .                 727          133
                                                   --------------------
                                                   $13,283         $700
</TABLE>                                           ====================

The Company's German subsidiary has a note payable at an interest rate of 4.5%
that is due within 15 days of borrowing, unless extended and a mortgage payable
on a building addition, which has a fixed interest rate of 4.75% and requires
principal repayment through 2002.

On July 21, 1998, the Company amended its $25,000,000 revolving credit agreement
with its participating banks, which now expires on October 31, 2001. Under the
terms of this agreement, the Company can borrow for acquisitions, working
capital and, for other purposes, at either a "CD or LIBOR rate," as defined, or
prime interest rate. The agreement contains limitations on borrowings and
requires maintenance of specified ratios, the most restrictive of which is the
ratio of total funded debt plus standby letters of credit to earnings before
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. At July 31, 1998, the Company is
in compliance with the above covenants. In lieu of compensating balances, the
Company pays commitment fees as defined under the agreement. The Company's
German subsidiary also has $4,785,000 in lines of credit with its banks. Under
the terms of its lines of credit, the subsidiary can borrow for any purpose at
interest rates of 5.35% to 7%. No financial covenants are required.

Under the terms of the industrial revenue bond installment loan agreements,
interest was payable quarterly on the outstanding principal at 65% of the
prevailing prime rate, adjusted monthly. Generally the banks had the right and
option to call each loan, at specified dates, if certain levels of shareholders'
equity, as defined, were not maintained.

Principal maturities of long-term debt payable over the next five years are
$113,000 in 2000, $11,919,000 in 2001, $125,000 in 2002 and zero in 2003 and
2004.



9. RETIREMENT PLANS AND DEFERRED COMPENSATION
The Company maintains two noncontributory defined contribution pension plans
covering substantially all employees. The Company's aviation igniter subsidiary
also had a noncontributory defined contribution plan covering all its employees.
The Company's contribution to its plans is based on a percentage of employee
elective contributions and, in one plan, calendar year gross wages, as defined.
The power conditioner subsidiary's contribution to its plan is based on a
percentage of employee elective contributions. The aviation igniter subsidiary's
contribution to its plan was based on a percentage of salary, as defined in the
plan. Costs accrued under the plans for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 amounted to
approximately $671,000, $531,000 and $508,000, respectively. It is the Company's
policy to fund its accrued retirement income costs.

In addition, the Company makes contributions, based on rates per hour, as
specified in two union agreements, to two union administered defined benefit
multi-employer pension plans. Contributions to these plans amounted to $64,000,
$55,000 and $52,000 in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Under the
Multi-employer Pension Plan Amendments Act of 1980, an employer is liable upon
withdrawal from or termination of a multi-employer plan for its proportionate
share of the plan's unfunded vested benefits liability. The Company's share of
the unfunded vested benefits liabilities of the union plans to which it
contributes is not material.

The Company has agreements with certain active and retired directors, officers
and key employees providing for supplemental retirement benefits. The liability
for supplemental retirement benefits is based on the most recent mortality
tables available and discount rates of 6%, 8%, 10% and 12%. The amount charged
to income in connection with these agreements amounted to $456,000, $491,000 and
$398,000 in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

In addition, the Company has agreements with certain active officers and key
employees providing for deferred compensation benefits. Benefits to be provided
to each participant are stated in separate elective salary deferral agreements.
The amount charged to income in connection with these agreements amounted to
$702,000, $451,000 and $465,000 in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

The Company is the owner and beneficiary of insurance policies on the lives of a
majority of the participants having a deferred compensation or supplemental
retirement agreement. At July 31, 1998, the aggregate death benefit totaled
$17,048,000 with the corresponding cash surrender value totaling $8,657,000. At
July 31, 1998, certain agreements may restrict the Company from utilizing cash
surrender value totaling $1,958,000 for purposes other than satisfaction of the
specific underlying deferred compensation agreements, if benefits are not paid
by the Company. The Company nets the dividends realized from the insurance
policies with premium expense. Net amounts included in income in connection with
the policies amounted to $261,000, $257,000 and $337,000 in 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.



10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, rental expense
applicable to continuing operations aggregated $1,701,000, $1,602,000 and
$2,000,000, respectively. These expenses are primarily for facilities and
vehicles. The minimum rental commitments as of July 31, 1998, are as follows:

<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>         <C>                      <C>
(In thousands)
1999 . . . . . . .                  $1,855      2002 . . . . . . .           982
2000 . . . . . . .                   1,331      2003 . . . . . . .           394
2001 . . . . . . .                   1,157      Thereafter . . . .            47
                                                                          ------
                                                                          $5,766
                                                                          ======
</TABLE>

At July 31, 1998, the Company was contingently liable for $1,077,000, under
outstanding letters of credit issued primarily for inventory purchases from
foreign suppliers and settlement of a civil lawsuit.


                                                                              19
<PAGE>   18

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.


                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


In the ordinary course of its business, the Company is subject to loss
contingencies pursuant to foreign and domestic federal, state and local
governmental laws and regulations and is also party to certain legal actions,
most frequently complaints by terminated employees. It is management's opinion
that the impact of these legal actions will not have a material affect on the
consolidated financial position or results of operations of the Company.

Loss contingencies include potential obligations to investigate and eliminate or
mitigate the affects on the environment of the disposal or release of certain
chemical substances at various sites, such as Superfund sites and other
facilities, whether or not they are currently in operation. The Company is
currently participating in environmental assessments and cleanups at a number of
sites under these laws and may in the future be involved in additional
environmental assessments and cleanups. Based upon investigations completed by
the Company and its independent engineering consulting firm to date, management
has provided an estimated accrual for all known costs believed to be probable.
However, it is in the nature of environmental contingencies that other
circumstances might arise, the costs of which are indeterminable at this time
due to such factors as changing government regulations and stricter standards,
the unknown magnitude of defense and cleanup costs, the unknown timing and
extent of the remedial actions that may be required, the determination of the
Company's liability in proportion to other responsible parties, and the extent,
if any, to which such costs are recoverable from other parties or from
insurance. Although these contingencies could result in additional expenses or
judgments, or off-sets thereto, at present such expenses or judgments are not
expected to have a material affect on the Company's consolidated financial
position or results of operations.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 1990, the Company made a provision of
$3,500,000 to cover various such environmental costs for six locations, based
upon estimates prepared at that time by the independent engineering consulting
firm. In fiscal 1991 and 1996, the Company made additional provisions of
$480,000 and $900,000, respectively, based upon new estimates. The fiscal 1996
provision was necessary since, during the latter part of fiscal 1995, the New
Jersey Department of Environmental Protection required the Company to begin
additional investigation of the extent of off-site contamination at its former
facility in Wayne, New Jersey, where remediation had been underway. Based on the
results of that investigation, which were received in fiscal 1996, the Company
determined that additional remediation costs of approximately $1,000,000 were
probable. From fiscal 1993 through 1998, the Company incurred environmental
related capital expenditures of approximately $416,000.

The Company filed claims with its insurers seeking reimbursement for many of
these costs, and received $900,000 from one insurer during fiscal year 1996 and
a commitment to pay 15% of the environmental costs associated with one location
up to an aggregate of $300,000. During fiscal 1997, the Company received
$1,500,000 from three additional insurers and from two of those insurers,
commitments to pay 15% and 20% of the environmental costs associated with the
same location up to an aggregate of $150,000 and $400,000, respectively. In
addition, the Company will receive $100,000 during fiscal years 1999, 2000 and
2001, as stipulated in the settlement agreement negotiated with one of the three
insurers. At July 31, 1998 and 1997, the remaining environmental accrual was
$678,000 and $1,075,000, respectively, of which $250,000 and $400,000,
respectively, have been included in "Accrued Liabilities" and $428,000 and
$675,000, respectively, in "Other Liabilities" in the accompanying consolidated
balance sheets.

11. STOCK OPTIONS AND CAPITAL STOCK
At the Company's 1993 Annual Meeting, the shareholders approved a Nonemployee
Director Nonqualified Stock Option Plan (the "Director Plan"), which was
effective June 1, 1993. The Director Plan provides for the granting of
nonqualified options to purchase up to 250,000 shares of the Company's Common
Stock to nonemployee directors of the Company in lieu of paying quarterly
retainer fees and regular quarterly meeting attendance fees, when elected. The
Director Plan enables the Company to grant options, with an exercise price per
share not less than fair market value of the Company's Common Stock on the date
of grant, which are exercisable at any time. Each option granted under the
Director Plan expires no later than ten years from date of grant and no options
can be granted under the Director Plan after its May 31, 2003, expiration date.
Information for the years 1996, 1997 and 1998 with respect to the Director Plan
is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            ---------------------------------------
                                                 Shares        Option Price
                                            ---------------------------------------
                                            (In thousands, except for option price)
<S>                                            <C>        <C>
Outstanding and exercisable
  at August 1, 1995 . . . . . . . . .             51         $3.5625 to $5.125
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             39         $5.6875 to $10.50
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            (14)        $3.5625 to $5.125
Outstanding and exercisable
  at July 31, 1996. . . . . . . . . .             76         $3.5625 to $10.50
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             27         $7.1875 to $9.6875
Outstanding and exercisable
  at July 31, 1997. . . . . . . . . .            103         $3.5625 to $10.50
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             22        $10.1875 to $14.625
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            (71)        $3.5625 to $12.0313
OUTSTANDING AND EXERCISABLE
  AT JULY 31, 1998. . . . . . . . . .             54         $3.5625 TO $14.625
</TABLE>

As of July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, the number of shares available for grant
were 110,000, 133,000 and 160,000, respectively.

At the Company's 1991 Annual Meeting, the shareholders approved the adoption of
a Long Term Incentive Plan (the "1991 Plan") which provides for the granting of
options to officers and key employees of the Company to purchase up to 500,000
shares of the Company's Common Stock. At the 1995 Annual Meeting, the
shareholders approved an amendment to increase the number of shares subject


20
<PAGE>   19

<PAGE>   20

SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

to options under the 1991 Plan from 500,000 to 922,650. The 1991 Plan enables
the Company to grant either nonqualified options, with an exercise price per
share established by the Board's Compensation Committee, or incentive stock
options, with an exercise price per share not less than the fair market value
of the Company's Common Stock on the date of grant, which are exercisable at
any time. Each option granted under the 1991 Plan expires no later than ten
years from date of grant and no options can be granted under the 1991 Plan
after its September 25, 2001, expiration date. Information for the years 1996,
1997 and 1998 with respect to the 1991 Plan is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                 ---------------------------------------
                                                Shares       Option Price
                                          ---------------------------------------
                                          (In thousands, except for option price)
<S>                                            <C>       <C>
Outstanding and exercisable
     at August 1, 1995 . . . . . . . . .          301       $3.25 to $4.50
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .              83           $6.875
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (95)      $3.25 to $6.875
Cancelled . . . . . . . . . . . . . .              (2)      $3.25 to $6.875
Outstanding at July 31, 1996. . . . .             287       $3.25 to $6.875
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             133       $7.25 to $9.375
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (59)      $3.25 to $9.375
Cancelled . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (13)      $3.25 to $9.375
Outstanding at July 31, 1997. . . . .             348       $3.25 to $9.375
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             189     $11.00 to $14.5625
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (90)      $3.25 to $11.00
Cancelled . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (25)      $4.25 to $11.00
OUTSTANDING AT JULY 31, 1998. . . . .             422      $3.25 TO $14.5625
</TABLE>

The number of shares exercisable at July 31, 1998 and 1997, were 244,000 and
259,000, respectively. As of July 31, 1998, 1997, and 1996 the number of shares
available for grant were 217,000, 381,000, and 501,000, respectively.

The Company's 1981 Incentive Stock Option Plan for officers and employees
expired on July 31, 1991. The Plan provided that option prices were equivalent
to 100% of market value at date of grant. All options granted under the Plan
were exercisable three years from date of grant and expired five years after
date of grant. Information for the year 1996 with respect to the Plan is as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             ---------------------------------------
                                                Shares       Option Price
                                             ---------------------------------------
                                             (In thousands, except for option price)
<S>                                             <C>                  <C>
Outstanding at August 1, 1995 . . . .              17                   $5.90
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . .              (1)                  $5.90
Expired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             (16)                  $5.90
Outstanding at July 31, 1996  . . . .               0
</TABLE>

During fiscal 1991, the Board of Directors approved the granting of nonqualified
stock options to purchase 110,000 shares at an option price of $4.13, and 15,000
shares at an option price of $ 5.25 to the Chief Executive Officer of the
Company and a subsidiary president, respectively. The option for 15,000 shares
was exercised during fiscal 1996. In fiscal 1992, an option to purchase 50,000
shares was granted to another officer of the Company at an option price of $3.25
and was exercisable at July 31, 1998, with an expiration date of November 30,
1998. Options for 25,100 shares were exercised during fiscal 1998. In fiscal
1996, an option to purchase 50,000 shares was granted to a subsidiary officer at
an option price of $8.375 and was exercisable 20% at July 31, 1997, and 50%, 20%
and 10% on or after October 13, 1997, April 13, 1998, and April 13, 1999,
respectively, with no expiration date, except in the event of termination,
disability or death provided that the subsidiary officer has been employed
through such date. Options for 8,000 shares were exercised during fiscal 1998.
The remaining options are exercisable at any time after the date of grant with
no expiration date, except in the event of termination, disability or death. All
of the option prices are equivalent to 100% of market value at date of grant.

The Company applies Accounting Principles Board opinion No. 25, "Accounting for
Stock Issued to Employees", and related interpretations in accounting for its
plans. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been recognized for its
stock-based compensation plans. Had compensation cost for the Company's stock
option plans been determined based upon the fair value at the grant date for
awards under these plans consistent with the methodology prescribed under SFAS
No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation", the Company's net income and
net income per common share would have been reduced in 1998 and 1997 as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                            -----------------------------
                                                            1998             1997
                                                     -----------------------------
<S>                                                   <C>              <C>
Net income - as reported . . . . . . . . . . . .      $5,313,000       $7,815,000
Net income - pro forma . . . . . . . . . . . . .      $4,908,000       $7,617,000

Diluted net income per common share -
  as reported  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $.90            $1.30
Diluted net income per common share -
  pro forma  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $.83            $1.27
</TABLE>

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the
Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                             -----------------------------
                                                             1998           1997
                                                      -----------------------------
<S>                                                        <C>            <C>
Expected dividend yield. . . . . . . . . . . . .             .61%           .98%
Expected stock price volatility. . . . . . . . .             32.7%          31.0%
Risk-free interest rate. . . . . . . . . . . . .             6.1%           6.7%
Expected life of option. . . . . . . . . . . . .            7 YEARS        7 years
</TABLE>

Transactions from August 1, 1995 through July 31, 1998, under the above plans
were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                         -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Weighted
                                                                                                Average Life
                          Number of Shares      Option Price                 Weighted            Remaining
                           (In thousands)         per Share               Average Price           (Years)
                         -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                       <C>                  <C>                      <C>                   <C>
Options at
 August 1, 1995 . .          545                  $3.25 to $5.90              $3.76                 7.53
Granted . . . . . .          172                 $5.6875 to $10.50            $7.48
Exercised . . . . .         (126)                 $3.25 to $5.90              $3.87
Expired . . . . . .          (16)                      $5.90                  $5.90
Cancelled . . . . .           (2)                 $3.25 to $6.875             $5.27
Outstanding at
 July 31, 1996. . .          573                  $3.25 to $10.50             $4.87                 7.18
Granted . . . . . .          160                $7.1875 to $9.6875            $8.84
Exercised . . . . .          (59)                 $3.25 to $9.375             $4.69
Cancelled . . . . .          (13)                 $3.25 to $9.375             $7.26
Outstanding at
 July 31, 1997. . .          661                  $3.25 to $10.50             $5.78                 6.83
Granted . . . . . .          211                $10.1875 to $14.625           $11.95
Exercised . . . . .         (194)                $3.25 to $12.0313            $5.75
Cancelled . . . . .          (25)                 $4.25 to $11.00             $8.65
OUTSTANDING AT
 JULY 31, 1998. . .          653                 $3.25 TO $14.625             $7.67                 6.73

EXERCISABLE AT
 JULY 31, 1998. . .          470                 $3.25 TO $14.625             $6.29
</TABLE>




                                                                              21
<PAGE>   21
SL INDUSTRIES, INC.

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


The following table segregates the outstanding options at July 31, 1998, into
three ranges:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

       ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                         Weighted
              Options               Range of Option       Weighted     Average Life
             Outstanding                Prices             Average      Remaining
            (In thousands)            per Share             Price        (Years)
       ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>             <C>              <C>                    <C>            <C>
                223                 $3.25 to $4.125         $3.75          3.69
                229                $4.1875 to $9.375        $7.69          7.43
                201               $9.6875 to $14.625       $12.00          9.31
                ---
                653
                ===
</TABLE>


12. CASH FLOW INFORMATION
For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, the Company considers
all highly liquid investments, purchased with an original maturity of three
months or less, to be cash equivalents.

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 95, Statement
of Cash Flows, cash flows from EME's operations are calculated based on their
reporting currencies. As a result, amounts related to assets and liabilities
reported on the consolidated cash flows will not necessarily agree with the
translation adjustment recorded on the consolidated balance sheet. The effect of
exchange rate changes on cash balances held in foreign currencies is reported on
a separate line in the statement of cash flows.

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    -------------------------------
                                     1998       1997         1996
                                    -------------------------------
                                           (In thousands)
<S>                                <C>        <C>         <C>
Interest paid . . . . . . . . .       $368       $735        $1,158
Income taxes paid . . . . . . .     $2,225     $6,431        $3,312

</TABLE>

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

During fiscal 1996, the Company received a $2,300,000 note as part of the
consideration for a sale of property, plant and equipment.

During fiscal 1998, the Company acquired all of the capital stock of EME for
$9,500,000. In conjunction with the acquisition, liabilities were assumed as
follows:

<TABLE>
<S>                                             <C>
Fair value of assets acquired . . . . . .       $15,729,000
Cash paid for the capital stock . . . . .       $ 9,500,000
Liabilities assumed . . . . . . . . . . .       $ 6,229,000
</TABLE>





13. INDUSTRY SEGMENTS
The Company's operations are conducted through domestic and foreign
subsidiaries. During fiscal 1997 and 1996 sales between segments were not
material. No single customer accounts for more than 10% of consolidated sales
nor are export sales material thereto.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                       -----------------------------------------------------
                                               1998              1997(1)             1996(1)
                                       -----------------------------------------------------
                                                            (In thousands)
<S>                                        <C>                 <C>                 <C>
NET SALES
Power and data quality . . . . .           $118,212            $107,198            $103,582
Specialty products . . . . . . .                  -               8,489              13,731
                                       -----------------------------------------------------
Consolidated . . . . . . . . . .           $118,212            $115,687            $117,313
                                       ====================================================

OPERATING INCOME
Power and data quality . . . . .            $12,112             $ 9,679             $ 9,216
Specialty products . . . . . . .                  -                 569                 297
Corporate. . . . . . . . . . . .             (3,332)             (2,993)             (3,154)
                                       -----------------------------------------------------
  Total. . . . . . . . . . . . .              8,780               7,255               6,359
Gain on disposition. . . . . . .                  -               5,888                   -
Interest income. . . . . . . . .                214                 301                 159
Interest expense . . . . . . . .               (427)               (680)             (1,123)
                                       -----------------------------------------------------
Consolidated income
    before income taxes. . . . .            $ 8,567             $12,764             $ 5,395
                                       ====================================================


IDENTIFIABLE ASSETS
Power and data quality . . . . .            $62,569             $48,634             $41,863
Specialty products . . . . . . .              2,253               2,366               5,711
                                       -----------------------------------------------------
Consolidated segment totals. . .             64,822              51,000              47,574
Corporate. . . . . . . . . . . .             16,093              15,804              16,601
                                       -----------------------------------------------------
Consolidated assets. . . . . . .            $80,915             $66,804             $64,175
                                       ====================================================


CAPITAL EXPENDITURES (2)
Power and data quality . . . . .             $2,545              $2,002              $1,917
Specialty products . . . . . . .                  -                  50                 168
Corporate. . . . . . . . . . . .                211                  45                 134
                                       ----------------------------------------------------
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . .             $2,756              $2,097              $2,219
                                       ====================================================

DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
Power and data quality . . . . .             $2,853              $2,396              $2,097
Specialty products . . . . . . .                  -                 179                 313
Corporate. . . . . . . . . . . .                190                 125                 174
                                       ----------------------------------------------------
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . .             $3,043              $2,700              $2,584
                                       ====================================================
</TABLE>



(1) Reclassified to conform with current year's presentation.
(2) Excludes assets acquired in business combinations.



22
<PAGE>   22


SL INDUSTRIES, INC.



REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS



TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF SL INDUSTRIES, INC.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of SL Industries,
Inc. and subsidiaries as of July 31, 1998 and 1997, and the related consolidated
statements of earnings, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the
three years in the period ended July 31, 1998. These financial statements are
the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express
an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

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

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of SL Industries, Inc. and
subsidiaries as of July 31, 1998 and 1997, and the results of its operations and
its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended July 31, 1998, in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.



Arthur Andersen LLP

/s/ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
- ----------------------
Philadelphia, PA
September 10, 1998






                                                                              23
<PAGE>   23




S/L INDUSTRIES, INC.

SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      Quarter Ended
                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     October 31,          January 31,             April 30,                 July 31,
                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 1997      1996        1998        1997       1998        1997 (1)      1998        1997
                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 (In thousands, except per share data)
<S>                             <C>       <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>
Net sales ..................    $29,455   $27,844    $28,559     $29,253    $29,340      $29,773      $30,858     $28,817
Gross margin................    $10,491   $ 9,665    $10,096     $10,069    $10,635      $10,085      $10,981     $10,517
Income before income taxes..    $ 1,893   $ 1,416    $ 2,023     $ 1,619    $ 2,249      $ 7,526      $ 2,402     $ 2,203
Net income..................    $ 1,182     $ 880    $ 1,225     $   964    $ 1,405      $ 4,572      $ 1,501     $ 1,399
Diluted net income per
common share................    $  0.20   $  0.15    $  0.21     $  0.16    $  0.24      $  0.76      $  0.25     $  0.23

</TABLE>


(1) Includes pre-tax gain, net of severance, facility closing, legal and other
costs, on disposition of subsidiary of $5,888,000, increasing net income by
$3,556,000, or $.59 per common share.  See Note 2 to consolidated financial
statements.






24

<PAGE>   1



                                   EXHIBIT 22

                         SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       State or other
                                                       Jurisdiction of
     Subsidiaries                                      Incorporation
     ------------                                      -------------
     <S>                                               <C>
     Cedar Corporation                                 Nevada
     Cedro de Mexico, S.A. De C.V.                     Mexico
     Condor D.C. Power Supplies, Inc.                  California
     Elecktro-Metall Export GmbH                       Germany
     Industrias SL, S.A. de C.V                        Mexico
     PDQ Corporation                                   New Jersey
     SL Ameritech Plastics, Inc.                       New York
     SL Auburn, Inc. (a)                               New York
     SL Delaware, Inc.                                 Delaware
     SL Industries Deutschland GmbH                    Germany
     SL Industries Holding GmbH                        Germany
     SL Industries Vertrieb GmbH                       Germany
     SL International (FSC), Inc.                      U.S. Virgin Islands
     SL Surface Technologies, Inc. (b)                 New Jersey
     SL Montevideo Technology, Inc.                    Minnesota
     SL Piping Systems, Inc. (c)                       Delaware
     SL Waber, Inc.                                    New Jersey
     Teal Electronics Corporation                      California
     Waber de Mexico, S.A. De C.V.                     Mexico
     Waber Power, LTD(d)                               Connecticut
</TABLE>


     All of the registrant's subsidiaries are included in the consolidated
financial statements for the year ended July 31, 1998.

- ---------------------
(a)   Disposed on May 1, 1997.
(b)   Formerly SL Modern Hard Chrome, Inc.
(c)   Disposed on February 20, 1996.
(d)   Formerly SL Electrostatic Technology, Inc.


<PAGE>   1

                              ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP




                    CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS





As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation of our
reports incorporated by reference or included in this Form 10-K, into the
Company's previously filed Registration Statement File Nos. 33-53274, 33-63681,
33-65445 and 33-00269.



                                                     ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP



Philadelphia, PA
 October 29, 1998


<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM STATEMENT OF
EARNINGS, CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET & CONSOLIDATED AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH 10K YEAR ENDED JULY 31, 1998.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          JUL-31-1998
<PERIOD-START>                             AUG-01-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               JUL-31-1998
<CASH>                                               0
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   20,931
<ALLOWANCES>                                     2,045
<INVENTORY>                                     18,538
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                41,410
<PP&E>                                          26,019
<DEPRECIATION>                                  12,042
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                  80,915
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           20,066
<BONDS>                                              0
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                         1,631
<OTHER-SE>                                      38,345
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                    80,915
<SALES>                                        118,212
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               118,212
<CGS>                                           74,646
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  109,432
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                     0
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                    52
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                                 427
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                  8,567
<INCOME-TAX>                                     3,254
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                                  0
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     5,313
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .95
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .90
        

</TABLE>


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