Schedule 14A
(Rule 14a-101)
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. )
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]
Check the appropriate box:
[X] Preliminary Proxy Statement
[ ] Confidential, for Use of the
Commission Only
(as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[ ] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Rule 14a-11(c) or Rule 14a-12
ECCS, Inc.
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(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
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(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
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[X] No fee required.
[ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1)
and 0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
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(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
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(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing
fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
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(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
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(5) Total fee paid:
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[ ] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
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[ ] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by
Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting
fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration
statement number, or the form or schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount Previously Paid:
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(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement no.:
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(3) Filing Party:
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(4) Date Filed:
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<PAGE>
Preliminary Copy
ECCS, INC.
PROXY SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF THE COMPANY FOR THE SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints Michael E. Faherty and
Gregg M. Azcuy, and each of them, his or her true and lawful agent and proxy
with full power of substitution in each, to represent and to vote on behalf of
the undersigned all of the shares of Common Stock of ECCS, Inc. (the "Company")
which the undersigned is entitled to vote at the Special Meeting of Shareholders
of the Company to be held at the offices of the Company, One Sheila Drive,
Tinton Falls, New Jersey at 9:00 A.M., local time, on Monday, November 20, 2000
and at any adjournment or adjournments thereof, upon the following proposals
more fully described in the Notice of Special Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy
Statement for the Special Meeting (receipt of which is hereby acknowledged).
THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED
HEREIN BY THE UNDERSIGNED SHAREHOLDER. IF NO DIRECTION IS MADE, THIS PROXY WILL
BE VOTED FOR PROPOSALS 1 AND 2.
(Continued and to be signed on reverse side)
<PAGE>
1. APPROVAL OF A PRIVATE PLACEMENT PURSUANT TO WHICH THE COMPANY SHALL
ISSUE UP TO 5,714,286 SHARES OF 6% CUMULATIVE CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK,
SERIES A, $.01 PAR VALUE, REPRESENTING APPROXIMATELY 49.6% OF THE ISSUED AND
OUTSTANDING EQUITY SECURITIES OF THE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TO SUCH ISSUANCE.
FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN [ ]
2. APPROVAL OF PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OF THE
COMPANY TO INCREASE THE COMPANY'S AUTHORIZED SHARES OF PREFERRED STOCK FROM
3,000,000 TO 9,000,000, OF WHICH 5,714,286 SHALL BE DESIGNATED 6% CUMULATIVE
CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK, SERIES A.
FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN [ ]
3. In his discretion, the proxy is authorized to vote upon other matters as
may properly come before the Special Meeting or any adjournment or adjournments
thereof.
Dated:__________________________ This proxy must be signed exactly
as the name appears hereon.
________________________________ When shares are held by joint
Signature of Shareholder tenants, both should sign. If the
signer is a corporation, please sign
________________________________ full corporate name by duly authorized
Signature of Shareholder if held jointly officer, giving full title as such.
If the signer is a partnership, please
sign in partnership name by authorized
person.
I WILL [ ] WILL NOT [ ] attend the
Special Meeting.
PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THE PROXY CARD PROMPTLY, USING THE ENCLOSED
ENVELOPE.
<PAGE>
Preliminary Copy
ECCS, INC.
ONE SHEILA DRIVE
TINTON FALLS, NEW JERSEY 07724
October 31, 2000
To the Shareholders of ECCS, Inc.:
ECCS, Inc. (the "Company") is contemplating a private offering of up to
5,714,286 shares (the "Preferred Shares") of 6% Cumulative Convertible Preferred
Stock, Series A, $.01 par value ("Series A Preferred Stock"), at an estimated
purchase price of $1.75 per share. The purchase price is subject to change
depending on various factors, including the market price for the Company's
Common Stock. If consummated, the private offering will provide additional
capital to the Company to fund the Company's business plan.
Shareholder approval is being sought because the Company proposes to amend
its Certificate of Incorporation to provide for an aggregate of 9,000,000 shares
of preferred stock, of which 5,714,286 will be designated Series A Preferred
Stock. In addition, the Bylaws of the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. require the Company to obtain shareholder approval prior to the
sale or issuance of securities convertible into common stock, which securities
are equal to 20% or more of the common stock outstanding before such issuance
and which are being offered for less than the fair market value of such stock.
The offering of the Preferred Shares as currently contemplated would fall within
such parameters and accordingly requires shareholder approval.
A delay in consummating such equity infusion would seriously jeopardize the
financial viability of the Company. Thus, we are seeking your immediate approval
in securing in a timely manner the potential financing available. There can be
no assurance that we will close the sale of the Preferred Shares even if
shareholder approval for such issuance is obtained.
It is important that your shares be represented in this request for
shareholder approval. Please return your proxy in the enclosed envelope, which
requires no postage if mailed in the United States, as soon as possible. Your
shares will be voted in accordance with the instructions you have given in your
proxy.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Gregg M. Azcuy
President and Chief Executive Officer
<PAGE>
Preliminary Copy
ECCS, INC.
One Sheila Drive
Tinton Falls, New Jersey 07724
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING TO SHAREHOLDERS
To Be Held November 20, 2000
The Special Meeting of Shareholders (the "Special Meeting") of ECCS, Inc.,
a New Jersey corporation (the "Company"), will be held at the offices of the
Company, One Sheila Drive, Tinton Falls, New Jersey, on Monday, November 20,
2000, at 9:00 A.M., local time, for the following purposes:
(1) To approve a private placement pursuant to which the Company shall issue up
to 5,714,286 shares of 6% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, Series A,
$.01 par value, representing approximately 49.6% of the issued and
outstanding equity securities of the Company immediately prior to such
issuance;
(2) To amend the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company to increase the
Company's authorized shares of Preferred Stock from 3,000,000 to 9,000,000,
of which 5,714,286 shall be designated 6% Cumulative Convertible Preferred
Stock, Series A; and
(3) To transact such other business as may properly come before the Special
Meeting or any adjournment or adjournments thereof.
Holders of Common Stock of record at the close of business on October 26,
2000 are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting, or any
adjournment or adjournments thereof. A complete list of such shareholders will
be subject to the inspection of any shareholder for reasonable periods during
the Special Meeting. The Special Meeting may be adjourned from time to time
without notice other than by announcement at the Special Meeting.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOUR SHARES BE REPRESENTED REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF
SHARES YOU MAY HOLD. WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING IN
PERSON, PLEASE COMPLETE, DATE AND SIGN THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD AND MAIL IT
PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED RETURN ENVELOPE. THE PROMPT RETURN OF PROXIES WILL
ENSURE A QUORUM AND SAVE THE COMPANY THE EXPENSE OF FURTHER SOLICITATION. EACH
PROXY GRANTED MAY BE REVOKED BY THE SHAREHOLDER APPOINTING SUCH PROXY AT ANY
TIME BEFORE IT IS VOTED. IF YOU RECEIVE MORE THAN ONE PROXY CARD BECAUSE YOUR
SHARES ARE REGISTERED IN DIFFERENT NAMES OR ADDRESSES, EACH SUCH PROXY CARD
SHOULD BE SIGNED AND RETURNED TO ENSURE THAT ALL OF YOUR SHARES WILL BE VOTED.
By Order of the Board of Directors
David J. Sorin
Secretary
Tinton Falls, New Jersey
October 31, 2000
<PAGE>
Preliminary Copy
ECCS, INC.
One Sheila Drive
Tinton Falls, New Jersey 07724
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PROXY STATEMENT
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This Proxy Statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation by
the Board of Directors of ECCS, Inc. (the "Company") of proxies to be voted at
the Special Meeting of Shareholders of the Company to be held on November 20,
2000 (the "Special Meeting"), at the offices of the Company, One Sheila Drive,
Tinton Falls, New Jersey at 9:00 A.M., local time, and at any adjournment or
adjournments thereof. Holders of record of shares of common stock, $.01 par
value ("Common Stock"), as of the close of business on October 26, 2000 will be
entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting and any adjournment or
adjournments thereof. As of that date, there were 11,522,971 shares of Common
Stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. Each share of Common Stock is
entitled to one vote on any matter presented at the Special Meeting.
If proxies in the accompanying form are properly executed and returned, the
shares of Common Stock represented thereby will be voted in the manner specified
therein. If not otherwise specified, the shares of Common Stock represented by
the proxies will be voted (i) FOR a proposal to consummate a private placement
pursuant to which the Company shall issue up to 5,714,286 shares of 6%
Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, Series A, $.01 par value ("Series A
Preferred Stock"), representing approximately 49.6% of the issued and
outstanding equity securities of the Company immediately prior to such issuance,
(ii) FOR a proposal to amend the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company to
increase the Company's authorized shares of Preferred Stock from 3,000,000 to
9,000,000, of which 5,714,286 shall be designated Series A Preferred Stock, and
(iii) in the discretion of the persons named in the enclosed form of proxy, on
any other proposals which may properly come before the Special Meeting or any
adjournment or adjournments thereof. Any shareholder who has submitted a proxy
may revoke it at any time before it is voted by written notice addressed to and
received by the Secretary of the Company, by submitting a duly executed proxy
bearing a later date or by electing to vote in person by written ballot at the
Special Meeting. The mere presence at the Special Meeting of the person
appointing a proxy does not, however, revoke the appointment.
This Proxy Statement, together with the related form of proxy, is being
mailed to the shareholders of the Company on or about October 31, 2000. The
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999, including
financial statements (the "Annual Report"), and the Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2000 (the "Quarterly Report"), are being
mailed together with this Proxy Statement to all shareholders of record as of
October 26, 2000. In addition, the Company has provided brokers, dealers, banks,
voting trustees and their nominees, at the Company's expense, with additional
copies of the Annual Report and Quarterly Report so that such record holders can
supply such material to beneficial owners as of October 26, 2000.
The presence, in person or by proxy, of holders of the shares of Common
Stock having a majority of the votes entitled to be cast at the Special Meeting
shall constitute a quorum. All actions proposed herein may be taken upon the
affirmative vote of shareholders possessing a majority of the shares of Common
Stock represented at the Special Meeting, provided a quorum is present in person
or by proxy.
<PAGE>
Abstentions are included in the shares present at the Special Meeting for
purposes of determining whether a quorum is present, and are counted as a vote
against for purposes of determining whether a proposal is approved. Broker
non-votes (when shares are represented at the Special Meeting by a proxy
specifically conferring only limited authority to vote on certain matters and no
authority to vote on other matters) are included in the determination of the
number of shares represented at the Special Meeting for purposes of determining
whether a quorum is present but are not counted for purposes of determining
whether a proposal has been approved and thus have no effect on the outcome.
SERIES A PREFERRED STOCK ISSUANCE PROPOSAL
Shareholders are being asked to consider and vote upon a proposal to issue,
pursuant to a private placement (the "Private Placement"), up to 5,714,286
shares (the "Preferred Shares") of Series A Preferred Stock at an estimated
price per share of $1.75. In connection with the Private Placement, the Company
may receive up to $10,000,000 in aggregate gross proceeds. The per share
purchase price is subject to change depending on various factors, including the
market price for the Company's Common Stock and negotiations with purchasers.
Stockholders will be notified by the Company prior to the Special Meeting of the
definitive number of shares to be sold in the Private Placement and the related
per share purchase price. The Series A Preferred Stock would be initially
convertible into an aggregate of 5,714,286 shares of Common Stock, or
approximately 49.6% of the issued and outstanding equity securities of the
Company immediately prior to such issuance. Based on the number of shares to be
issued (on an as-converted to Common Stock basis) and other rights and
preferences thereof, the Company, pursuant to The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc.'s
Marketplace Rules 4310(c) and (d), seeks to obtain shareholder approval of the
Private Placement.
C.E. Unterberg, Towbin ("Unterberg Towbin") is acting as placement agent in
connection with the Private Placement. As compensation for its services,
Unterberg Towbin will receive a fee equal to six percent (6%) of the total gross
capital raised in the Private Placement in addition to payment of its expenses.
The Company anticipates that the purchasers of the Preferred Shares will include
Thomas I. Unterberg, a Director of the Company and beneficial owner of
approximately 3.2% of the Company's outstanding Common Stock, and certain
affiliates of Mr. Unterberg. Mr. Unterberg also is Chairman, Managing Director
and member of the Executive Committee of Unterberg Towbin. See "Security
Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" below.
As indicated in the Company's Quarterly Report, the Company is in need of
additional financing to fund the Company's actual and planned operations. Net
proceeds from the offering will be used for general corporate purposes, research
and development and sales and marketing, including, approximately $3,000,000 for
brand and product advertising to establish a first mover advantage in the SAN
marketplace. The Company had cash and cash equivalents of $3,374,000 at
September 30, 2000.
The Company currently estimates that cash on hand at September 30, 2000
together with borrowings under its line of credit and inventory financing
facility and cash generated from operations will be sufficient to satisfy the
Company's cash requirements through December 31, 2000. The Board of Directors of
the Company considered various means of procuring financing and has determined
that, at the present time, the Private Placement is in the best interests of the
Company and its shareholders. The Company believes that it will be required to
seek additional financing in the future to fund its operations and to continue
to develop and market its products.
THE SERIES A PREFERRED STOCK
Appendix A attached hereto is the proposed form of the Certificate of
Amendment to the Restated and Amended Certificate of Incorporation (the
"Certificate") setting forth the preferences and rights of the Series A
Preferred Stock. Defined terms used in this section which are not defined shall
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<PAGE>
have the meaning set forth in the Certificate. The dollar amounts set forth in
the following summary are based upon an estimated purchase price of $1.75 per
share. In general, the Series A Preferred Stock has liquidation and dividend
preferences superior to those of existing common shareholders. The following is
a summary of the rights, preferences and privileges of the Series A Preferred
Stock:
DESIGNATION AND AMOUNT. Preferred Stock of the Company designated as the
"6% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, Series A" (herein referred to as the
"Series A Preferred Stock"), having a par value per share equal to $.01, with
5,714,286 shares constituting such series.
DIVIDENDS. The holders of the outstanding shares of Series A Preferred
Stock will be entitled to receive, out of funds legally available therefor,
quarter-annual dividends. Each quarter-annual dividend shall be computed by
dividing the annual dividend rate of $0.105 by four and shall be payable in
cash. Such Series A Preferred Stock dividends shall be cumulative, whether or
not declared, and shall compound at an annual rate of 6% on the unpaid
cumulative balance. No dividends may be paid or declared upon junior securities,
including Common Stock, unless full cumulative dividends on all outstanding
shares of Series A Preferred Stock shall have been paid or set apart. Dividends
may be declared on parity securities, only if dividends are also declared on the
Series A Preferred Stock ratably in proportion to the respective amounts of
dividends accumulated and unpaid on the Series A Preferred Stock and accumulated
and unpaid on such parity securities.
LIQUIDATION, DISSOLUTION OR WINDING UP. In the event of any liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary,
before any payment or distribution of Company assets shall be made or set apart
for holders of junior securities, the holders of outstanding shares of Series A
Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive out of the assets of the Company
available for distribution to its shareholders an amount equal to $1.75 per
share of Series A Preferred Stock plus all cumulative dividends, whether or not
earned or declared.
MATURITY DATE. The Series A Preferred Stock will mature on the date that is
four years after issuance (the "Maturity Date"). On the Maturity Date, the
Company is required to redeem all shares of Series A Preferred Stock at a
redemption price of $1.75 per share in cash together with any accrued and unpaid
dividends thereon.
REDEMPTION AT COMPANY'S OPTION. After the first anniversary of the date of
issuance of the shares of Series A Preferred Stock, if the Current Market Price
Per Common Share is $3.50 or greater for any 20 consecutive Trading Day Period,
and the Daily Price on the last Trading Day of such 20 Trading Day period is
$3.50 or greater, the Company may redeem at its option, in whole but not in
part, all shares of Series A Preferred Stock then outstanding at a redemption
price of $1.75 per share in cash together with any accrued and unpaid dividends
thereon to the redemption date.
REDEMPTION AT SERIES A PREFERRED SHAREHOLDER'S OPTION. If the Company
enters into a transaction involving a merger, consolidation or sale or transfer
of all of or substantially all of the assets of the Company that results in the
holders of Common Stock receiving a value of less than $1.75 per share of Common
Stock, at the option of each holder of Series A Preferred Stock, the Company
shall redeem such shares of Series A Preferred Stock at a redemption price of
$1.75 per share in cash together with any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon
up to and including the redemption date. Such holders of Series A Preferred
Stock must elect to redeem the shares of Series A Preferred Stock within 90 days
after the closing of such transaction.
CONVERSION BY HOLDERS. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock will be
convertible, at the option of its holder, at any time after issuance, into
shares of Common Stock determined by dividing $1.75 by the conversion price,
which initially shall be $1.75 per share, for each share of Series A Preferred
Stock converted.
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<PAGE>
AUTOMATIC CONVERSION. Upon the consummation of the Company's sale of Common
Stock in a public offering pursuant to a registration statement under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at a per share offering price to the public
of not less than $3.50 per share and resulting in net proceeds to the Company of
at least $20,000,000, all shares of Series A Preferred then outstanding shall,
simultaneously with the closing of such public offering, be deemed automatically
converted into Common Stock. To the extent the Company has funds legally
available, the holders of Series A Preferred Stock that are converted into
Common Stock shall be entitled to payment of all accrued and unpaid dividends on
the Series A Preferred Stock up to and including the conversion date.
ADJUSTMENT OF CONVERSION PRICE. The conversion price of the Series A
Preferred Stock shall be adjusted, on a weighted average basis, upon the
issuance of Common Stock, other than Excluded Stock at a price per share less
than the then Current Market Price Per Common Share. In such event, the Series A
Preferred Stock may be convertible into a greater percentage of the Company's
total outstanding equity than at the time of the initial issuance of the Series
A Preferred Stock. However, from the date of the Closing to the earlier of (i)
the date of issuance of additional shares of Series A Preferred Stock by the
Company, and (ii) December 31, 2000, the Company shall not issue or sell any
Common Stock (other than Excluded Stock) without consideration or for
consideration per share less than the then Current Market Price Per Common
Share.
VOTING RIGHTS. The holders of record of shares of Series A Preferred Stock
shall not be entitled to any voting rights except with respect to actions by the
Company specifically referenced in the Certificate. Such actions require the
vote of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the then outstanding shares of Series
A Preferred Stock voting as a class and include: (i) amending the Certificate of
Incorporation or Bylaws of the Company; (ii) creating a class of stock or
increasing the authorized number of shares of any class of stock ranking equal
or prior to the Series A Preferred Stock; (iii) redeeming shares of the
Company's capital stock, except as otherwise provided for in the Certificate of
Incorporation; (iv) canceling any material indebtedness; (v) permitting any of
its assets to become subject to any mortgage, lien or security interest; or (vi)
selling all or substantially all of the assets of the Company. The holders of
the Series A Preferred Stock are precluded from voting on the proposal regarding
the Private Placement.
RIGHT OF FIRST OFFER. If the percentage of outstanding Common Stock owned
(or into which the shares of Series A Preferred Stock are convertible) by a
Series A Preferred Stock holder would be diluted by 10% or more in the aggregate
by the sale of securities by the Company, including Common Stock, by the
Company, such Series A Preferred Stock holder shall have the right of first
offer to purchase a pro rata share of such securities sold by the Company.
REGISTRATION RIGHTS. The holders of the Series A Preferred Stock will be
granted certain demand and piggyback registration rights with respect to the
Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock.
The issuance of the Preferred Shares under this proposal is also
subject to the approval of an amendment to the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation as described below under "Amendment to Certificate of
Incorporation."
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE PROPOSAL TO CONSUMMATE THE
PRIVATE PLACEMENT OF UP TO 5,714,286 SHARES OF SERIES A PREFERRED STOCK,
REPRESENTING APPROXIMATELY 49.6% OF THE ISSUED AND OUTSTANDING EQUITY SECURITIES
OF THE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TO SUCH ISSUANCE.
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<PAGE>
AMENDMENT TO CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
Shareholders are being asked to consider and vote upon a proposal to amend
the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company to increase the number of
authorized shares of Preferred Stock from three million (3,000,000) shares to
nine million (9,000,000) shares, 5,714,286 of which shares will be designated
Series A Preferred Stock and sold in the Private Placement. The 3,285,714 shares
of undesignated Preferred Stock will provide the Company with flexibility to
undertake future financings or negotiate potential future acquisitions.
The 3,285,714 shares of undesignated Preferred Stock will be issuable from
time to time in one or more series and with such designations, preferences and
other rights for each series as shall be stated in the resolutions providing for
the designation and issue of each such series adopted by the Company's Board of
Directors. The Board of Directors is authorized by the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation to determine, among other things, the voting, dividend,
redemption, conversion, exchange and liquidation powers, rights and preferences
and the limitations thereon pertaining to such series. The Board of Directors,
subject only to the preferred rights of the holders of the Series A Preferred
Stock, if any, may issue Preferred Stock with voting and other rights that could
adversely affect the voting power of the holders of the Common Stock and that
could have certain anti-takeover effects. The Company has no present plans to
issue any additional shares of Preferred Stock other than the shares of Series A
Preferred Stock in the Private Placement. The ability of the Board of Directors
to issue Preferred Stock, subject only to the preferred rights of the holders of
the Series A Preferred Stock, if any, could have the effect of delaying,
deferring or preventing a change in control of the Company or the removal of
existing management.
The approval of this proposal to amend the Certificate of Incorporation is
required in order to effect the issuance of the Preferred Shares as proposed
above under "Series A Preferred Stock Issuance Proposal."
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE AMENDMENT
TO THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OF THE COMPANY.
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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
There were, as of September 30, 2000, approximately 143 holders of record.
The following table sets forth certain information, as of September 30, 2000,
regarding the beneficial ownership of the Company's Common Stock by (i) each
person who is known by the Company to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of
the total number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of such date, (ii)
each of the Company's Directors and executive officers, and (iii) all Directors
and current executive officers as a group.
Amount and Nature
Name and Address of Beneficial Percent
of Beneficial Owner(1) Ownership(1) of Class(2)
---------------------- ------------ -----------
(i) Certain Beneficial Owners:
E&M RP Trust
c/o Edmund Shea
655 Brea Canyon Road
Walnut, CA 71789-3010........... 638,727 5.6%
(ii) Directors and executive
officers:
Gale R. Aguilar................... 37,500(3) *
James K. Dutton................... 37,500(3) *
Michael E. Faherty................ 389,274(4) 3.3%
Donald E. Fowler.................. 37,500(3) *
Frank R. Triolo................... 37,500(3) *
Thomas I. Unterberg............... 367,500(3) 3.2%
Gregg M. Azcuy.................... 265,725(5) 2.3%
Louis J. Altieri.................. 68,309(6) *
Priyan Guneratne.................. 81,000(7) *
(iii) All Directors and current
executive officers as a group
(9 persons)................... 1,321,808(8) 10.6%
------------
* Less than one percent.
(1) Except as set forth in the footnotes to this table and subject to
applicable community property law, the persons named in the table have sole
voting and sole investment power with respect to all shares of Common Stock
shown as beneficially owned by such shareholder.
(2) Applicable percentage of ownership is based on 11,522,971 shares of Common
Stock outstanding on September 30, 2000, plus any presently exercisable
stock options or warrants held by each such holder and options or warrants
which will become exercisable within 60 days after September 30, 2000.
(3) Represents 37,500 shares of Common Stock subject to options which are
exercisable at September 30, 2000 or which will become exercisable within
60 days of such date.
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(4) Includes 331,348 shares of Common Stock subject to warrants or options
which are exercisable at September 30, 2000 or which will become
exercisable within 60 days of such date.
(5) Includes 264,404 shares of Common Stock subject to options which are
exercisable at September 30, 2000 or which will become exercisable within
60 days of such date.
(6) Includes 67,750 shares of Common Stock subject to options which are
exercisable at September 30, 2000 or which will become exercisable within
60 days of such date.
(7) Includes 81,000 shares of Common Stock subject to options which are
exercisable at September 30, 1999 or which will become exercisable within
60 days of such date.
(8) See Notes 3 through 7.
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AVAILABILITY OF AUDITORS
One or more representatives of Ernst & Young LLP is expected to attend the
Special Meeting and to have an opportunity to make a statement and respond to
appropriate questions from shareholders.
SHAREHOLDERS' PROPOSALS
Shareholders who wish to submit proposals for inclusion in the Company's
proxy statement and form of proxy relating to the 2001 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders must advise the Secretary of the Company of such proposals in
writing by December 31, 2000. Any shareholder proposal submitted after such date
shall be deemed untimely.
OTHER MATTERS
The Board of Directors is not aware of any matter to be presented for
action at the Special Meeting other than the matters referred to above and does
not intend to bring any other matters before the Special Meeting. However, if
other matters should come before the Special Meeting, it is intended that
holders of the proxies will vote thereon in their discretion.
GENERAL
The accompanying proxy is solicited by and on behalf of the Board of
Directors of the Company, whose notice of meeting is attached to this Proxy
Statement, and the entire cost of such solicitation will be borne directly by
the Company.
In addition to the use of the mails, proxies may be solicited by personal
interview, telephone and telegram by Directors, officers and other employees of
the Company who will not be specially compensated for these services. The
Company will also request that brokers, nominees, custodians and other
fiduciaries forward soliciting materials to the beneficial owners of shares held
of record by such brokers, nominees, custodians and other fiduciaries. The
Company will reimburse such persons for their reasonable expenses in connection
therewith.
Certain information contained in this Proxy Statement relating to the
security holdings of Directors and officers of the Company is based upon
information received from the individual Directors and officers.
-8-
<PAGE>
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE
The following financial information is incorporated herein by reference to
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999
(the "Annual Report"): (i) the information appearing under the captions
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations"; (ii) the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31,
1999 and December 31, 1998; (iii) the Company's Consolidated Statements of
Operations and the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow, each for the years
ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997; (iv) the Company's Consolidated
Statement of Stockholders' Equity for the year ended December 31, 1999; and (v)
the independent auditors' report on such consolidated financial statements
contained in the Company's Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 1999
and the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in the Annual
Report.
The following financial information is incorporated herein by reference to
the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30,
2000 (the "Quarterly Report"): (i) the information appearing under the captions
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations"; (ii) the Company's interim Consolidated Balance Sheet (unaudited)
as of September 30, 2000; (iii) the interim Consolidated Statements of
Operations (unaudited) and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow (unaudited),
each for the six month periods ended September 30, 2000 and September 30, 1999;
and (iv) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited).
The Annual Report and the Quarterly Report are being mailed together with
this Proxy Statement to all shareholders of record as of October 26, 2000. In
addition, the Company has provided brokers, dealers, banks, voting trustees and
their nominees, at the Company's expense, with additional copies of the Annual
Report and Quarterly Report so that such record holders could supply such
material to beneficial owners as of October 26, 2000.
PLEASE DATE, SIGN AND RETURN THE PROXY CARD AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE IN
THE ENCLOSED RETURN ENVELOPE. A PROMPT RETURN OF YOUR PROXY CARD WILL BE
APPRECIATED AS IT WILL SAVE THE EXPENSE OF FURTHER MAILINGS.
By Order of the Board of Directors
David J. Sorin, Secretary
Tinton Falls, New Jersey
October 31, 2000
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<PAGE>
APPENDIX A
CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT TO THE
RESTATED AND AMENDED CERTIFICATE OF
INCORPORATION OF ECCS, INC.
To: The Secretary of State
State of New Jersey
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 14:7-2, of the New Jersey Business
Corporation Act, the undersigned corporation executes the following Certificate
of Amendment to its Restated and Amended Certificate of Incorporation, as
amended (the "Certificate of Incorporation").
I. The name of the corporation is ECCS, Inc. (the "Corporation").
II. The following resolution (the "Resolution"), establishing and
designating a series of shares and fixing and determining the relative rights
and preferences thereof was duly adopted by the Board of Directors on the [ ]th
day of November, 2000 pursuant to authority vested in it by the Certificate of
Incorporation.
RESOLVED that pursuant to Article IV of the Certificate of Incorporation
(which authorizes (9,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.01 par value
("Preferred Stock") of which no shares are currently outstanding, the Board of
Directors hereby fixes the powers, designations, preferences and relative,
participating, optional and other special rights, and the qualifications,
limitations and restrictions, of a series of Preferred Stock (in addition to the
powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other
special rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, set
forth in the Certificate of Incorporation which are applicable to such series of
Preferred Stock).
RESOLVED, that each share of such series of Preferred Stock shall rank
equally in all respects and shall be subject to the following provisions:
(1) NUMBER AND DESIGNATION. 5,714,286 shares of the Preferred Stock of the
Corporation shall be designated as 6% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock,
Series A (the "Series A Convertible Preferred Stock").
(2) RANK. The shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall (i) rank
on a parity with (whether with respect to dividends or upon liquidation,
dissolution, winding up or otherwise) additional shares of Series A Preferred
Stock issued by
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the Corporation and each other class of capital stock or series of Preferred
Stock issued by the Corporation, the terms of which expressly provide that such
class or series will rank on a parity with the shares of Series A Preferred
Stock and (ii) rank prior to the shares of the Corporation's common stock, $0.01
par value (the "Common Stock"), and any other class of capital stock or series
of Preferred Stock of the Corporation, the terms of which do not expressly
provide that it ranks on a parity with the shares of Series A Preferred Stock
(whether with respect to dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution, winding up
or otherwise). All equity securities of the Corporation to which the Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock ranks prior (whether with respect to dividends or
upon liquidation, dissolution, winding up or otherwise), including the Common
Stock, are collectively referred to herein as the "Junior Securities". All
equity securities of the Corporation with which the Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock ranks on a parity (whether with respect to dividends or upon
liquidation, dissolution, winding up or otherwise), are collectively referred to
herein as the "Parity Securities". The respective definitions of Junior
Securities and Parity Securities shall also include any rights or options
exercisable for or convertible into any of the Junior Securities and Parity
Securities, as the case may be.
(3) DIVIDENDS. (a) The holders of shares of Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock shall be entitled to receive, out of funds legally available for the
payment of dividends, quarter-annual dividends. Each quarter-annual dividend
shall be computed by dividing the annual dividend rate of $0.105 by four and
shall be payable in cash. Each payment of a dividend resulting in a fraction of
a cent will be rounded up to the nearest whole cent. Such dividends shall be
payable in arrears in equal amounts quarterly on March 15, June 15, September 15
and December 15 of each year (unless such day is not a Business Day, in which
event on the next succeeding Business Day) (each of such dates being a "Dividend
Payment Date" and each such quarterly period being a "Dividend Period")
commencing on the Dividend Payment Date which next follows the issuance of such
shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. Such dividends (i) shall be
cumulative from the date of issue, whether or not declared and whether or not in
any Dividend Period or Periods there shall be funds of the Corporation legally
available for the payment of such dividends and (ii) shall compound quarterly,
to the extent they are unpaid, at the rate of 6% per annum computed on the basis
of a 360-day year and twelve 30-day months. Each such dividend shall be payable
to the holders of record of shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock,
as they appear on the stock records of the Corporation at the close of business
on such record dates, not more than 60 days, or less than 10 days, preceding the
payment dates thereof, as shall be fixed by the Board of Directors or a duly
authorized committee thereof. Accrued and unpaid dividends for any past Dividend
Periods may be declared and paid at any time, without reference to any Dividend
Payment Date, to holders of record on such date, not more than 45 days preceding
the payment date thereof, as may be fixed by the Board of Directors. As used
herein, the term "Business Day" shall mean any day other than a Saturday,
Sunday, a day on which the Nasdaq National Market ("Nasdaq") does not conduct
regular trading or a day which is or is declared a national or New York State
holiday.
(b) The amount of dividends payable for the initial Dividend Period, or any
other period shorter or longer than a full Dividend Period, on the Series A
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Convertible Preferred Stock shall be computed on the basis of twelve 30-day
months and a 360-day year. Holders of shares of Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock shall not be entitled to any dividends, whether payable in cash, property
or stock, in excess of cumulative dividends, as herein provided, on the Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock.
(c) Payments of dividends shall be made in coin or currency of the United
States that as of the Dividend Payment Date shall be legal tender for payment of
public and private debts by mailing a check to each holder of shares of the
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock at the address of such holder as shown on
the stock books of the Corporation.
(d) So long as any shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are
outstanding, no dividends, except as described in the next succeeding sentence,
shall be declared or paid or set apart for payment on Parity Securities, for any
period unless full cumulative dividends have been or contemporaneously are
declared and paid or declared and a sum sufficient for the payment thereof set
apart for such payment on the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock for all
Dividend Periods terminating on or prior to the date of payment of the dividend
on such Parity Securities. When dividends are not paid in full or a sum
sufficient for such payment is not set apart, as aforesaid, all dividends
declared upon shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and all
dividends declared upon any other Parity Security shall be declared ratably in
proportion to the respective amounts of dividends accumulated and unpaid on the
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and accumulated and unpaid on such Parity
Security.
(e) So long as any shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are
outstanding, no dividends (other than dividends or distributions paid in shares
of, or options, warrants or rights to subscribe for or purchase shares of,
Junior Securities) shall be declared or paid or set apart for payment or other
distribution declared or made upon Junior Securities, nor shall any Junior
Securities be redeemed, purchased or otherwise acquired (all such dividends,
distributions, redemptions or purchases being hereinafter referred to as a
"Junior Securities Distribution") for any consideration (or any moneys be paid
to or made available for a sinking fund for the redemption of any Junior
Securities) by the Corporation, directly or indirectly (except by conversion
into or exchange for Junior Securities), unless in each case (i) the full
cumulative dividends on all outstanding shares of the Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock and any other Parity Securities shall have been paid or set
apart for payment for all past Dividend Periods with respect to the Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock and all past dividend periods with respect to such
Parity Securities and (ii) sufficient funds shall have been paid or set apart
for the payment of the dividend for the current Dividend Period with respect to
the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and the current dividend period with
respect to such Parity Securities.
(4) MATURITY DATE. The Series A Convertible Preferred Stock will mature on
the date that is four years after issuance (the "Maturity Date"). On the
Maturity Date, to the extent the Corporation shall have funds legally available
for such payment, the Corporation shall redeem, in whole but not in part, all
shares of Series A Convertible
A-3
<PAGE>
Preferred Stock at a redemption price of $1.75 per share in cash together with
any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to the Maturity Date.
(5) LIQUIDATION PREFERENCE. (a) In the event of any liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary,
before any payment or distribution of the assets of the Corporation (whether
capital or surplus) shall be made to or set apart for the holders of Junior
Securities, the holders of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock
shall be entitled to receive $1.75 per share of Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock plus an amount equal to all dividends (whether or not earned or declared)
accrued and unpaid thereon to the date of final distribution to such holders.
If, upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the
assets of the Corporation, or proceeds thereof, distributable among the holders
of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall be insufficient to
pay in full the preferential amount aforesaid and liquidating payments on any
Parity Securities, then such assets, or the proceeds thereof, shall be
distributed among the holders of shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock
and any such other Parity Securities ratably in accordance with the respective
amounts that would be payable on such shares of Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock and any such other stock if all amounts payable thereon were paid in full.
For the purposes of this paragraph (5), and except in the event that the holders
of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock approve such transaction
pursuant to paragraph (9)(a)(ii), any transaction involving a consolidation or
merger of the Corporation with one or more other corporations or the sale or
transfer of all of or substantially all of the assets of the Corporation, shall
be deemed to be a liquidation, dissolution or winding up, voluntary or
involuntary, of the Corporation.
(b) Subject to the rights of the holders of any Parity Securities, after
payment shall have been made in full to the holders of the Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock, as provided in this paragraph (5), any other series or class or
classes of Junior Securities shall, subject to the respective terms and
provisions (if any) applying thereto, be entitled to receive any and all assets
remaining to be paid or distributed, and the holders of the Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to share therein.
(6) REDEMPTION. (a) To the extent the Corporation shall have funds legally
available for such payment, if during any 20 consecutive Trading Day (as defined
in paragraph (8)(f)(vi)) period after the first anniversary of the date of
issuance of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, (x) the Current
Market Price Per Common Share (as defined in paragraph (8)(f)(vi)) is $3.50 or
greater, and (y) the Daily Price on the last Trading Day of such 20 consecutive
Trading Day period is $3.50 or greater, the Corporation may redeem at its
option, in whole but not in part, all shares of Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock at a redemption price of $1.75 per share in cash together with any accrued
and unpaid dividends thereon to the redemption date; provided, however, that the
redemption date selected by the Corporation for the redemption of the shares of
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall be no later than 30 days after the
close of such 20 consecutive Trading Day period.
A-4
<PAGE>
(b) To the extent the Corporation shall have funds legally available for
such payment, at the individual option of each holder of the Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock, if the Corporation enters into a transaction
involving a merger, consolidation or sale or transfer of all of or substantially
all of the assets of the Corporation that results in a holder of the Common
Stock receiving cash, securities or other property in value of less than $1.75
per share of Common Stock, the Corporation shall redeem such shares of Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock at a redemption price of $1.75 per share in cash
together with any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to the redemption date,
provided, however, that such holder must elect to redeem the shares of Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock within 90 days after the closing of such
transaction.
(c) Immediately prior to authorizing or making any redemption pursuant to
paragraph (4) or this paragraph (6), the Corporation, by resolution of its Board
of Directors, shall, to the extent of any funds legally available therefor,
declare a dividend on the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock payable on the
redemption date in an amount equal to any accrued and unpaid dividends on the
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock as of such redemption date.
(d) Shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock which have been issued
and reacquired in any manner, including shares purchased, converted or redeemed
pursuant to the terms contained in this paragraph (6) or paragraphs (4) or (8),
shall (upon compliance with any applicable provisions of the laws of the State
of New Jersey) have the status of authorized and unissued shares of the class of
Preferred Stock designated as to series and may be redesignated and reissued as
part of any series of the Preferred Stock; provided that no such issued and
reacquired shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall be reissued or
sold as Series A Convertible Preferred Stock.
(7) PROCEDURE FOR REDEMPTION. (a) In the event the Corporation shall redeem
shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock pursuant to paragraph (6)(a),
notice of such redemption shall be given by first class mail, postage prepaid,
mailed not less than 30 days nor more than 60 days prior to the redemption date,
to each holder of record of the shares to be redeemed at such holder's address
as the same appears on the stock register of the Corporation; provided that
neither the failure to give such notice nor any defect therein shall affect the
validity of the giving of notice for the redemption of any share of Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock to be redeemed except as to the holder to whom the
Corporation has failed to give said notice or except as to the holder whose
notice was defective. Each such notice shall state: (i) the redemption date;
(ii) the redemption price; (iii) the place or places where certificates for such
shares are to be surrendered for payment of the redemption price; and (iv) that
dividends on the shares to be redeemed will cease to accrue on such redemption
date.
(b) The redemption option under paragraph (6)(b) shall be exercised by
written notice of the holder to the Corporation setting forth the proposed
initial date for redemption, which date shall be not less than 30 nor more than
90 days from the date of such notice. The Corporation shall mail, at least 15
days but not more than 60 days prior
A-5
<PAGE>
to the date fixed for such redemption, a notice to the holder of Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock to be redeemed, at the addresses then appearing on
the books of the Corporation. Such notice shall state: (i) such holder's right
to redemption; (ii) the redemption date; and (iii) the applicable redemption
price. Any notice mailed in such manner shall be conclusively deemed to have
been duly given whether or not such notice is in fact received.
(c) From and after the redemption date (unless default shall be made by the
Corporation in providing money for the payment of the redemption price of the
shares called for redemption), dividends on the shares of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock so called for redemption shall cease to accrue, and all rights
of the holders thereof as stockholders of the Corporation (except the right to
receive from the Corporation the redemption price) shall cease. Upon surrender
in accordance with said notice of the certificates for the shares so redeemed
(properly endorsed or assigned for transfer, if the Board of Directors of the
Corporation shall so require), such shares shall be redeemed by the Corporation
at the redemption price aforesaid.
(8) CONVERSION. (a)(i) Subject to the provisions of this paragraph (8), the
holders of the share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall have the
right, at any time and from time to time, at such holder's option, to convert
any or all outstanding shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, in whole
or in part, into that number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common
Stock obtained by dividing $1.75 by the Conversion Price (as defined below), and
by surrender of such shares so to be converted, such surrender to be made in the
manner provided in this paragraph (8). The term "Conversion Price" shall mean
$1.75 per share, as adjusted in accordance with the provisions of paragraph
(8)(f). To the extent the Corporation shall have funds legally available for
such payment, the holder of shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock
exercising the right to convert such shares into shares of Common Stock shall be
entitled to payment of all accrued and unpaid dividends, if any, on or with
respect to such shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock up to and
including the conversion date.
(ii) Upon the consummation of the Corporation's sale of Common Stock in a
public offering pursuant to a registration statement under the Securities Act of
1933 (the "Securities Act"), at a per share offering price to the public of not
less than $3.50 per share and resulting in net proceeds to the Corporation of at
least $20,000,000, all shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock then
outstanding shall, by virtue of, and simultaneously with, the closing of such
public offering, be deemed automatically converted into such whole number of
shares of Common Stock as provided in paragraph (8)(a)(i). All shares of Common
Stock issued upon such conversion will be duly and validly issued and fully paid
and nonassessable, free of all liens and charges and not subject to any
preemptive rights and registered under the Securities Act and approved for
quotation on Nasdaq. To the extent the Corporation shall have funds legally
available for such payment, the holder of shares of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock converted into shares of Common Stock shall be entitled to
payment of all accrued and unpaid
A-6
<PAGE>
dividends, if any, on or with respect to such shares of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock up to and including the conversion date.
(b) (i) In order to exercise the conversion right pursuant to paragraph
(8)(a)(i), the holder of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock to
be converted shall surrender the certificate representing such shares at the
office of the Corporation, or at the office of the conversion agent for the
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock appointed for such purpose by the
Corporation, with a written notice of election to convert completed and signed
specifying the number of shares to be converted.
Such notice shall be substantially in the following form:
NOTICE OF ELECTION TO CONVERT
The undersigned, being a holder of the 6% Cumulative Convertible
Preferred Stock, Series A ("Preferred Stock"), of ECCS, Inc. (the
"Corporation"), irrevocably exercises the right to convert __________
outstanding shares of Preferred Stock on October [ ], 2000, into
shares of Common Stock of the Corporation in accordance with the terms
of the Preferred Stock, and directs that the shares issuable and
deliverable upon the conversion, be issued and delivered in the
denominations indicated below to the registered holder hereof unless a
different name has been indicated below. If shares are to be issued in
the name of a Person other than the undersigned, the undersigned will
pay all transfer taxes payable with respect thereto.
Dated:
Fill in for registration of shares of
Common Stock if to be issued otherwise
than to the registered holder:
-------------------------------------
Name
-------------------------------------
Address
-------------------------------------
(Please print name ------------------------------------
and address, (signature)
including postal
code number)
A-7
<PAGE>
Denominations: ----------------------
Unless the shares issuable on conversion are to be issued in the same name as
the name in which such shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are
registered, each share surrendered for conversion shall be accompanied by
instruments of transfer, in form satisfactory to the Corporation, duly executed
by the holder or the holder's duly authorized attorney and an amount sufficient
to pay any transfer or similar tax.
(ii) As promptly as practicable after the surrender by the holder of the
certificates for shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock as aforesaid,
the Corporation shall issue and shall deliver to such holder, or on the holder's
written order to the holder's transferee, a certificate or certificates for the
whole number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the conversion of such
shares in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph (8).
(iii) Each conversion pursuant to paragraph (8)(a)(i) shall be deemed to
have been effected immediately prior to the close of business on the date on
which the certificates for shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall
have been surrendered and such notice received by the Corporation as aforesaid,
and the Person in whose name or names any certificate or certificates for shares
of Common Stock shall be issuable upon such conversion shall be deemed to have
become the holder of record of the shares of Common Stock represented thereby at
such time on such date. All shares of Common Stock delivered upon conversion of
the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock pursuant to paragraph (8)(a)(i) will
upon delivery be duly and validly issued and fully paid and nonassessable, free
of all liens and charges and not subject to any preemptive rights. Upon the
surrender of certificates representing shares of Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock, such shares shall no longer be deemed to be outstanding and all rights of
a holder with respect to such shares surrendered for conversion shall
immediately terminate except the right to receive the Common Stock and other
amounts payable pursuant to paragraph (8)(a)(i).
(c)(i) The Corporation covenants that it will at all times reserve and keep
available, free from preemptive rights, such number of its authorized but
unissued shares of Common Stock as shall be required for the purpose of
effecting conversions of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. For purposes
of this paragraph (c)(i), the number of shares of Common Stock which shall be
deliverable upon the conversion of all outstanding shares of Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock shall be computed as if at the time of computation
all such outstanding shares were held by a single holder.
(ii) Prior to the delivery of any securities which the Corporation shall be
obligated to deliver upon conversion of the Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock, the Corporation shall use its best efforts to comply with all applicable
Federal and state laws and regulations which require action to be taken by the
Corporation, and shall have caused such securities to be approved for quotation
on Nasdaq.
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<PAGE>
(d) The Corporation will pay any and all documentary stamp or similar issue
or transfer taxes payable in respect of the issue or delivery of shares of
Common Stock on conversion of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock pursuant
hereto.
(e) In connection with the conversion of any shares of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock, any fractional shares of Common Stock shall be rounded up to
the nearest whole number. If more than one share shall be surrendered for
conversion at one time by the same holder, the number of full shares of Common
Stock issuable upon conversion thereof shall be computed on the basis of the
aggregate number of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock so
surrendered. (All calculations under this paragraph (8) shall be made to the
nearest 1/100 of one cent or to the nearest 1/10,000 of a share, as the case may
be).
(f) The Conversion Price shall be adjusted from time to time as follows:
(i) In case the Corporation shall at any time after the date of issue of
the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (I) declare a dividend or make a
distribution on Common Stock payable in Common Stock, (II) subdivide or split
the outstanding Common Stock into a greater number of shares, (III) combine or
reclassify the outstanding Common Stock into a smaller number of shares, (IV)
issue any shares of its capital stock in a reclassification of Common Stock
(including any such reclassification in connection with a consolidation or
merger in which the Corporation is the continuing corporation), or (V)
consolidate with, or merge with or into, any other Person (unless the
Corporation shall be the surviving corporation in such merger and the holders of
Common Stock of the Corporation are not entitled to receive any consideration in
connection therewith), the Conversion Price in effect at the time of the record
date for such dividend or distribution or of the effective date of such
subdivision, split, combination, consolidation, merger or reclassification shall
be proportionately adjusted so that the conversion of the Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock after such time shall entitle the holder to receive the
aggregate number of shares of Common Stock or other securities of the
Corporation (or shares of any security into which such shares of Common Stock
have been combined, consolidated, merged or reclassified pursuant to clause
(III), (IV) or (V) above) which, if this Series A Convertible Preferred Stock
had been converted immediately prior to such time, such holder would have owned
upon such conversion and been entitled to receive by virtue of such dividend,
distribution, subdivision, split, combination, consolidation, merger or
reclassification, assuming such holder of Common Stock of the Corporation (x) is
not a Person with which the Corporation consolidated or into which the
Corporation merged or which merged into the Corporation or to which such
recapitalization, sale or transfer was made, as the case may be ("constituent
person"), or an affiliate of a constituent person and (y) failed to exercise any
rights of election as to the kind or amount of securities, cash and other
property receivable upon such reclassification, change, consolidation, merger,
recapitalization, sale or transfer (provided that if the kind or amount of
securities, cash and other property receivable upon such reclassification,
change, consolidation, merger, recapitalization, sale
A-9
<PAGE>
or transfer is not the same for each share of Common Stock of the Corporation
held immediately prior to such reclassification, change, consolidation, merger,
recapitalization, sale or transfer by other than a constituent person or an
affiliate thereof and in respect of which such rights of election shall not have
been exercised ("nonelecting share"), then for the purpose of this paragraph
(f)(i) the kind and amount of securities, cash and other property receivable
upon such reclassification, change, consolidation, merger, recapitalization,
sale or transfer by each nonelecting share shall be deemed to be the kind and
amount so receivable per share by a plurality of the nonelecting shares). Such
adjustment shall be made successively whenever any event listed above shall
occur.
(ii)(a) In case the Corporation shall issue or sell any Common Stock (other
than Excluded Stock (as defined below)) without consideration or for a
consideration per share less than the then Current Market Price Per Common
Share, the Conversion Price to be in effect after such issuance or sale shall be
determined by multiplying the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to
such issuance or sale by a fraction of which the numerator shall be the number
of shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to such issuance or sale
plus the number of shares which the aggregate offering price of the total number
of shares so issued or sold would purchase at such Current Market Price Per
Common Share, and of which the denominator shall be the number of shares of
Common Stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to such issuance or
sale. In case any portion of the consideration to be received by the Corporation
shall be in a form other than cash, the fair market value of such noncash
consideration shall be utilized in the foregoing computation. Such fair market
value shall be determined by the Board of Directors of the Corporation. Such
adjustment shall be made effective immediately after such issuance or sale. For
purposes of paragraphs (f)(ii), (iii) and (iv), "Excluded Stock" shall mean any
shares of Common Stock, or any shares of stock or other securities convertible
or exercisable into or exchangeable for shares of Common Stock (such
convertible, exercisable or exchangeable stock or securities being herein called
"Convertible Securities") or any rights to subscribe for or purchase, or options
or warrants for the purchase of shares of the Common Stock or any Convertible
Securities issued or issuable, granted or sold (I) pursuant to options issued
under the 1989 Stock Option Plan, (II) pursuant to options issued or issuable
under the 1996 Stock Plan, (III) pursuant to options issued or issuable under
the 1996 Non-Employee Directors Stock Option Plan, (IV) pursuant to Common Stock
purchase warrants granted to Michael E. Faherty on December 6, 1994, (V)
pursuant to shares of Common Stock issuable under the 1995 Employee Stock
Purchase Plan, (VI) pursuant to options or warrants outstanding on the date of
the filing of this Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation
and (VI) upon the additional issuance, conversion or exchange of any Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock or pursuant to any other contractual obligation in
existence on the date of the filing of this Certificate of Amendment to the
Certificate of Incorporation, or any Convertible Securities issued after such
date, provided that the "conversion price" for the Common Stock underlying such
Convertible Security is greater than the Current Market Price Per Common Share
on the date such Convertible Security is issued, granted or sold, or pursuant to
the exercise of any rights or options, or upon conversion or exchange of any
Convertible Securities, if with respect to such rights, options or Convertible
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Securities no adjustment to the Conversion Price was required pursuant to this
paragraph (f)(ii) (the rights and options in clauses (I) through (VI) being
collectively called the "Existing Equity Rights").
(b) From the date of the Closing to the earlier of (i) the date of issuance
of additional shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock by the Corporation
and (ii) December 31, 2000, the Corporation shall not issue or sell any Common
Stock (other than Excluded Stock) without consideration or for consideration per
share less than the then Current Market Price Per Common Share.
(iii) In case the Corporation shall fix a record date for the issue of
rights, options or warrants (other than Excluded Stock) to the holders of its
Common Stock or other securities entitling such holders to subscribe for or
purchase shares of Common Stock (or securities convertible into shares of Common
Stock) at a price per share of Common Stock (or having a conversion price per
share of Common Stock, if a security convertible into shares of Common Stock)
less than the then Current Market Price Per Common Share on such record date,
the maximum number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such
rights, options or warrants (or conversion of such convertible securities) shall
be deemed to have been issued and outstanding as of such record date, and the
Conversion Price shall be adjusted pursuant to paragraph (f)(ii) hereof as
though such maximum number of shares of Common Stock had been so issued for an
aggregate consideration equal to the aggregate consideration payable for such
rights, options, warrants or convertible securities and the aggregate
consideration payable by the holders of such rights, options, warrants or
convertible securities prior to their receipt of such shares of Common Stock. In
case any portion of such consideration shall be in a form other than cash, the
fair market value of such noncash consideration shall be determined as set forth
in paragraph (f)(ii) hereof. Such adjustment shall be made effective on the day
immediately after the record date; and in the event that such rights, options or
warrants are not so issued or expire unexercised or such convertible securities
are redeemed or otherwise retired prior to conversion thereof, or in the event
of a change in the number of shares of Common Stock to which the holders of such
rights, options, warrants or convertible securities are entitled (other than
pursuant to adjustment provisions therein comparable to those contained in this
paragraph (f)), the Conversion Price shall again be adjusted to be the
Conversion Price which would then be in effect if such record date had not been
fixed, in the former event, or the Conversion Price which would then be in
effect if such holders had initially been entitled to such changed number of
shares of Common Stock, in the latter event.
(iv) In case the Corporation shall issue rights, options or warrants (other
than Excluded Stock) entitling the holders thereof to subscribe for or purchase
Common Stock (or securities convertible into shares of Common Stock) or shall
issue convertible securities, at a price per share of Common Stock (or having a
conversion price per share of Common Stock, if a security convertible into
shares of Common Stock) (including, in the case of rights, options or warrants,
the price at which they may be exercised) less than the then Current Market
Price Per Common Share, the maximum number of shares of
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Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such rights, options or warrants or upon
conversion of such convertible securities shall be deemed to have been issued
and outstanding as of the date of such sale or issuance, and the Conversion
Price shall be adjusted pursuant to paragraph (f)(ii) hereof as though such
maximum, number of shares of Common Stock had been so issued for an aggregate
consideration equal to the aggregate consideration paid for such rights,
options, warrants or convertible securities and the aggregate consideration
payable by the holders of such rights, options, warrants or convertible
securities prior to their receipt of such shares of Common Stock. In case any
portion of such consideration shall be in a form other than cash, the fair
market value of such noncash consideration shall be determined as set forth in
paragraph (f)(ii) hereof. Such adjustment shall be made effective immediately
after such rights, options, warrants or convertible securities are issued; and
in the event that such rights, options or warrants expire unexercised or such
convertible securities are redeemed or otherwise retired prior to conversion
thereof, or in the event of a change in the number of shares of Common Stock to
which the holders of such rights, options, warrants or convertible securities
are entitled (other than pursuant to adjustment provisions therein comparable to
those contained in this paragraph (f)), the Conversion Price shall again be
adjusted to be the Conversion Price which would then be in effect if such
rights, options, warrants or convertible securities had not been issued, in the
former event, or the Conversion Price which would then be in effect if such
holders had initially been entitled to such changed number of shares of Common
Stock, in the latter event. No adjustment of the Conversion Price shall be made
pursuant to this paragraph (f)(iv) to the extent that the Conversion Price shall
have been adjusted pursuant to paragraph (f)(iii) upon the setting of any record
date relating to such rights, options, warrants or convertible securities and
such adjustment fully reflects the number of shares of Common Stock to which the
holders of such rights, options, warrants or convertible securities are entitled
and the price payable therefor.
(v) In case the Corporation shall fix a record date for the making of a
distribution to holders of Common Stock (including any such distribution made in
connection with a consolidation or merger in which the Corporation is the
continuing corporation) of evidences of indebtedness, assets or other property
(other than regular periodic cash dividends or dividends payable in Common Stock
or rights, options or warrants referred to in, and for which an adjustment is
made pursuant to, paragraph (f)(iii) hereof), the Conversion Price to be in
effect after such record date shall be determined by multiplying the Conversion
Price in effect immediately prior to such record date by a fraction, (A) the
numerator of which shall be the Current Market Price Per Common Share on such
record date, less the fair market value (determined as set forth in paragraph
(f)(ii) hereof) of the portion of the assets, other property or evidence or
indebtedness so to be distributed which is applicable to one share of Common
Stock and (B) the denominator of which shall be the Current Market Price Per
Common Share on such record date. Such adjustments shall be made effective on
the day immediately after the record date; and in the event that such
distribution is not so made, the Conversion Price shall again be adjusted to be
the Conversion Price which would then be in effect if such record date had not
been fixed.
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(vi) On any date, the "Current Market Price Per Common Share" shall be
deemed to be the average of the Daily Prices (as defined below) per share of the
applicable class of Common Stock for the 20 consecutive Trading Days immediately
prior to such date. "Daily Price" means (1) if the shares of such class of
Common Stock then are listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
("NYSE"), the closing price on such day as reported on the NYSE Composite
Transactions Tape; (2) if the shares of such class of Common Stock then are not
listed and traded on the NYSE, the closing price on such day as reported by the
principal national securities exchange on which the shares are listed and
traded; (3) if the shares of such class of Common Stock then are not listed and
traded on any such securities exchange, the closing price on such day quoted on
Nasdaq; (4) if the shares of such class of Common Stock then are not traded on
Nasdaq, the average of the highest reported bid and lowest reported asked price
on such day as reported by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Automated Quotation System; or (5) if the shares of such class of Common Stock
then are not traded in such manner that the quotations referred to in clauses
(1) - (4) are available for the period required hereunder, the Current Market
Price Per Common Share shall be determined in good faith by the Board of
Directors of the Corporation, as evidenced by a resolution, or if such
determination cannot be made, by a nationally recognized independent investment
banking firm selected by the holders of a majority of the shares of the Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock then outstanding. "Trading Day" means, with respect
to any exchange or market, each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday,
other than any day on which securities are not traded on such exchange or in
such market. For purposes of any computation under this paragraph (f), the
number of shares of Common Stock outstanding at any given time shall not include
shares owned or held by or for the account of the Corporation.
(vii) To the extent that the Conversion Price shall have been adjusted
pursuant to any of paragraphs (f)(ii), (iii), (iv) or (v) as a result of a
particular event, no additional adjustment shall be made pursuant to any other
of such paragraphs (f)(ii), (iii), (iv) or (v) as a result of such event. No
adjustment to the Conversion Price pursuant to paragraphs (f)(ii), (iii), (iv)
and (v) above shall be required unless such adjustment would require an increase
or decrease of at least 1% in the Conversion Price; provided that any
adjustments which by reason of this paragraph (f) (vii) are not required to be
made shall be carried forward and taken into account in any subsequent
adjustment. All calculations under this paragraph (f) shall be made to the
nearest four decimal points.
(viii) In the event that, at any time as a result of the provisions of this
paragraph (f), the holder of this Series A Convertible Preferred Stock upon
subsequent conversion shall become entitled to receive any shares of capital
stock of the Corporation other than Common Stock, the number of such other
shares so receivable upon conversion of this Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock shall thereafter be subject to adjustment from time to time in a manner
and on terms as nearly equivalent as practicable to the provisions contained
herein.
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(g) Whenever the Conversion Price is adjusted pursuant to this paragraph
(8), the Corporation shall promptly send by first class mail, postage prepaid,
to the holders of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock at the address of
each holder as shown on the stock books of the Corporation a certificate of a
firm of independent public accountants (who may be the regular accountants
employed by the Corporation) setting forth the Conversion Price after such
adjustment and setting forth a brief statement of the facts requiring such
adjustment and the manner of computing the same.
(h) Shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock which have been issued
and reacquired in any manner, including shares purchased or converted pursuant
to the terms contained in this paragraph (8), shall (upon compliance with any
applicable provisions of the laws of the State of New Jersey) have the status of
authorized and unissued shares of the class of Preferred Stock undesignated as
to series and may be redesignated and reissued as part of any series of the
Preferred Stock; provided that no such issued and reacquired shares of Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock shall be reissued or sold as Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock.
(9) VOTING RIGHTS. The holders of record of shares of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to any voting rights except as hereinafter
provided in this paragraph (9). So long as any shares of the Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock shall remain outstanding, without the vote of
holders of at least 66-2/3% of the then outstanding shares of Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock at a meeting of the holders of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock called for such purpose, the Corporation will not (A) amend,
alter or repeal any provision hereof or of the Certificate of Incorporation or
By-laws; provided that any such amendment that changes the dividend payable on
or the liquidation preference of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall
require the affirmative vote at a meeting of holders of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock called for such purpose, or written consent, of the holders of
at least 80% of the then outstanding shares of Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock; (B) create any class or classes of stock ranking equal or prior to the
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock either as to dividends or upon liquidation,
dissolution or winding up or increase the number of authorized shares of any
class or classes of stock ranking equal or prior to the Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock either as to dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution or
winding up; provided that the holders of the Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock shall not be entitled to affirmatively vote at any meeting of the
stockholders of the Corporation or by written consent on any matters relating to
the issuance by the Corporation of any additional shares of Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock to be issued within 90 days of the date of Closing; (C) redeem
or otherwise acquire any shares of its capital stock or issue any capital stock
or any option, warrant or right relating thereto or any securities convertible
into or exchangeable for any shares of capital stock (except pursuant to the
Existing Equity Rights); (D) cancel any material indebtedness or waive any
claims or rights of substantial value; (E) permit, allow or suffer any of its
assets to be subject to any mortgage, lien, security interest, encumbrance,
easement, covenant, right-of-way or other similar restriction of a material
nature other than in the ordinary course of business; or (F) effect any sale,
lease, assignment, transfer or other conveyance of all or substantially
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all of the assets of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries, or any
consolidation or merger involving the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries, or
any reclassification or other change of any stock, or any recapitalization of
the Corporation.
(10) PURCHASE AGREEMENT. The Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall be
subject to the provisions of the Purchase Agreement between the Corporation and
the Purchasers listed on Exhibit A thereto dated October [ ], 2000.
(11) RIGHT OF FIRST OFFER. (a) Subject to the terms and conditions
specified in this paragraph (10), the Corporation hereby grants to each holder
the right of first offer to purchase a pro rata share of New Securities (as
hereinafter defined) which the Corporation may, from time to time, propose to
sell and issue; provided, however, that any holder shall have such right of
first offer only if the percentage of outstanding Common Stock owned (or into
which the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are convertible) by
such holder would be diluted by 10% or more in the aggregate by any such sale
(or any series of sales over any 48-month period) of New Securities. A holder's
pro rata share, for purposes of this right of first offer, is the ratio of the
number of shares of Common Stock owned by such holder immediately prior to the
issuance of the New Securities, assuming full conversion of the shares of Series
A Convertible Preferred Stock, to the total number of shares of Common Stock
outstanding immediately prior to the issuance of New Securities, assuming full
conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. Each holder
shall have a right of overallotment such that if any holder fails to exercise
its right under hereunder to purchase its pro rata share of New Securities, the
other holders may purchase the nonpurchasing holder's portion on a pro rata
basis within 10 days from the date such nonpurchasing holder fails to exercise
its right hereunder to purchase its pro rata share of New Securities. Each
holder shall be entitled to apportion the right of first offer hereby granted
among itself and its partners, shareholders and affiliates in such proportions
as it deems appropriate.
(b) In the event the Corporation proposes to issue New Securities (and in
the event over-allotment rights exist with respect to any issue of New
Securities), it shall give each holder written notice (the "Notice") of its
intention stating (i) a description of the New Securities it proposes to issue,
(ii) the number of shares of New Securities it proposes to offer, (iii) the
price per share at which, and other terms on which, it proposes to offer such
New Securities and (iv) the number of shares that the holder has the right to
purchase under this paragraph (11).
(c) Within 10 days after the Notice is given, the holder may elect to
purchase, at the price specified in the Notice, up to its pro rata share of New
Securities, as provided for in paragraph (11)(a). An election to purchase shall
be made in writing and must be given to the Corporation within such 10-day
period. The closing of the sale of New Securities by the Corporation to the
participating holder upon exercise of its rights under this paragraph (11) shall
take place simultaneously with the closing of the sale of New Securities to
third parties.
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(d) The Corporation shall have 120 days after the last date on which the
holder's right of first offer lapsed to enter into an agreement (pursuant to
which the sale of New Securities covered thereby shall be closed, if at all,
within 60 days from the execution thereof) to sell the New Securities which the
holders did not elect to purchase under this paragraph (11), at or above the
price and upon terms not more favorable to the purchasers of such securities
than the terms specified in the initial Notice given in connection with such
sale. In the event the Corporation has not entered into an agreement to sell the
New Securities within such 120-day period (or sold and issued New Securities in
accordance with the foregoing within 60 days from the date of said agreement),
the Corporation shall not thereafter issue or sell any New Securities without
first offering such New Securities to the Purchaser in the manner provided in
this paragraph (11).
(e) "New Securities" shall mean any shares of, or securities convertible
into or exercisable for any shares of, any class of the Corporation's capital
stock, provided that "New Securities" does not include: (A) the Series A
Convertible Preferred Stock or the Common Stock issuable upon conversion of
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock; (B) shares of Common Stock issuable
pursuant to the Existing Equity Rights; (C) Common Stock issued upon exercise of
warrants, options or convertible securities if the issuance of such warrants,
options or convertible securities was a result of the exercise of the right of
first offer granted under this paragraph (9) or was subject to the right of
first offer granted under this paragraph (9); and (D) securities sold to the
public in an offering pursuant to a registration statement filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act.
(12) GENERAL PROVISIONS. (a) The term "Person" is used herein means any
corporation, limited liability company, partnership, trust, organization,
association, other entity or individual.
(b) The term "outstanding", when used with reference to shares of stock,
shall mean issued shares, excluding shares held by the Corporation (including
treasury shares) or a subsidiary.
(c) The headings of the paragraphs of this Resolution are for convenience
of reference only and shall not define, limit or affect any of the provisions
hereof.
III. The manner in which the Resolution was adopted by the Board of
Directors is as follows: by action of the Board of Directors at a meeting on
_____________, 2000.
IV. That the Certificate of Incorporation is amended so that the
designation and number of shares of each class and series acted upon in the
Resolution, and the relative rights, preferences and limitations of each such
class and series are as stated in the Resolution.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has caused this Certificate
of Amendment to be executed on the [ ] day of November, 2000.
ECCS, INC.,
By:_________________________________
Gregg M. Azcuy,
President and Chief
Chief Executive Officer
