CORE INDUSTRIES INC
10-K405, 1996-10-30
MISCELLANEOUS FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS
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<PAGE>   1
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                              WASHINGTON, DC 20549

                                   FORM 10-K

/x/      Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
         Exchange Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 1996 or

/ /      Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
         Exchange Act of 1934 for the transition period from _______ to _______.

                         Commission file number 1-5034

                              CORE INDUSTRIES INC
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
                            Nevada                                             38-1052434
- --------------------------------------------------------------  -----------------------------------------
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)    (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
          P. O. Box 2000, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan                              48304
- --------------------------------------------------------------  -----------------------------------------
           (Address of principal executive offices)                            (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:                          (810) 642-3400
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:     -----------------------------------------
                     Title of each class                        Name of each exchange on which registered
- --------------------------------------------------------------  -----------------------------------------
                         Common Stock                                    New York Stock Exchange
- --------------------------------------------------------------  -----------------------------------------
</TABLE>

          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

                                      None
                                      ----

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

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of 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/

As of September 30, 1996, 10,710,930 common shares were outstanding, and the
aggregate market value of the common shares held by nonaffiliates of the
Registrant (based upon the closing sale price of $13.63 for these shares on the
New York Stock Exchange) was approximately $146 million.

Certain sections of the definitive proxy statement to be filed for the Annual
Meeting of Stockholders to be held on January 14, 1997 are incorporated by
reference in Part III of this Form 10-K.


<PAGE>   2
                                    PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

(A) GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

   The Company was incorporated under the name of Soss Manufacturing Company in
   1909 as a manufacturer of a line of concealed hinges sold to the hardware,
   furniture and home building trades and subsequently developed hinges and
   other stampings for the infant automotive industry.  The Company went public
   in 1937 and had its shares traded on the American Stock Exchange.

   In 1958, the Company began to diversify its interests through the
   acquisition of a number of businesses.  It presently groups its businesses
   into three industry segments:  Fluid Controls and Construction Products;
   Test, Measurement and Control; and Farm Equipment.  From sales of $5,000,000
   in 1958, 90% of which were derived from the production of automobile parts,
   the Company has grown to its present size and diversified structure with
   less than five percent automotive business.

   The Company changed its name in January 1969 to SOS Consolidated Inc. to
   help alleviate confusion between the parent company and its automotive
   division.  In April 1969, the Company's shares were listed for trading on
   the New York Stock Exchange.  In January 1978, the Company adopted the name
   Core Industries Inc, as being more representative of its operations.

   Various acquisitions, primarily in the electronics industry, contributed to
   the Company's sales growth in the 1980s.  However, in 1992, after several
   years of declining earnings, the Company divested three unprofitable
   electronics subsidiaries and instituted a plan to become a more focused
   business.  Since then, the Company has made six acquisitions related to
   existing businesses and has sold three unrelated operations.  During 1996,
   the Company sold its wholly-owned electronics-related subsidiary, Cherokee
   International, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively "Cherokee") for cash
   and a long-term note receivable.  Cherokee had been classified as a
   discontinued operation as of August 31, 1995.  The Company plans to grow
   in its focus businesses through new products and additional geographic and
   end-user markets, as well as making selected, strategic acquisitions in its
   focus areas.

   Under the Company's method of operation and control, each division operates
   as a separate and autonomous entity with its own manufacturing, engineering,
   accounting, sales staff and distribution network.  Personnel at Corporate
   office direct overall policies and perform services for all divisions in the
   areas of financial and treasury control, manufacturing consultation,
   information systems and marketing.  Corporate maintains involvement in the
   divisions through direct contact, reviews of budgets and reports, internal
   auditing and involvement in formal planning.  In addition, the Corporate
   office develops and implements strategic options to increase shareholder
   value and responds to division results and opportunities.

(B) INDUSTRY SEGMENTS

   The Company is engaged principally in the manufacture of specialty products
   for commercial and industrial use.  Required industry segment financial
   information is set forth in the notes to consolidated financial statements
   incorporated herein by reference.  The Company operates in three segments:
   Fluid Controls and Construction Products; Test, Measurement and Control; and
   Farm Equipment.

                    FLUID CONTROLS AND CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS

Fluid Controls and Construction Products and services cover a broad range from
specialty valves and pipeline strainers for various fluid control applications
to molded plastic parts, metal stampings and hinges, and mechanical
contracting.  This group serves the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
("HVAC") market as well as the chemical and petrochemical processing industry,
oil and gas industry, the irrigation industry, the paper and food processing 
industry, the commercial construction market, and general industry.

                                      2

<PAGE>   3


The CORE FLUID CONTROLS GROUP (CFCG) is a major part of this segment and
consists of the following units:

MUELLER STEAM SPECIALTY is the largest division of CFCG and manufactures four
primary product lines: strainers and specialty valves, check valves, butterfly
valves and non-lubricated plug valves.  Mueller believes that it is the largest
manufacturer of pipeline strainers and check valves in the world.  Pipeline
strainers catch objects larger than 40 microns and prevent them from damaging
machinery.  Strainers and valves are used in various kinds of industrial
processes and plants, essentially wherever piping systems exist.   Mueller
believes that it carries a product line that is more extensive than most of its
competitors, and Mueller's ability to design, build, and ship products in a
short time frame is well known in the industry.  Business is derived largely
from quoting jobs as well as from stocking distributors and retrofit orders.
Valves designed by Mueller are outsourced from approximately 65 foundries
throughout the world.  Once castings are received at Mueller's North Carolina
plant, Mueller machines, assembles, tests, and packages the valves to meet a
wide variety of specifications.  Orders are typically processed within a week
of their receipt.

CMB INDUSTRIES (CMB), located in Fresno, California, was acquired in fiscal
1996 and is the second largest division of CFCG.  CMB designs and manufactures
a broad line of bronze and ductile iron products for the backflow prevention
industry under the FEBCO name.  FEBCO has a network of highly trained agents
that sell worldwide to the end user.  FEBCO is an industry leader in backflow
prevention sales and is also the valve of choice in many municipal and fire
protection markets.  CMB's Bailey Polyjet product is a custom-designed,
multi-jet, sleeve-type control valve engineered for optimum performance for
high pressure drops and precise flow control over a wide range, solving
cavitation problems in waterworks, power generation and industrial
applications.

MUELLER FLOW TECHNOLOGY, located in Houston, Texas, includes two companies
acquired in 1994 and 1995.  HENDRIX STEEL & FABRICATING is a full-service
fabricating company specializing in pressure vessels and specialty and custom
flow control products.  OIL AND GAS SPECIALTY COMPANY (OGASCO) specializes in
fluid measurement systems and related products widely used in the oil and gas
industry, petrochemical industry and other markets where precise flow
measurement is required.

Other United States operations of CFCG include MUELLER WEST, a Phoenix,
Arizona, distribution center; ASSOCIATED PIPING EQUIPMENT, INC., a supplier of
commodity type valves and strainers; and MUELLER VALVE SPECIALTIES, formed in
1996 to manufacture a full line of manual and automated teflon sleeved and
lined plug valves for the chemical and petrochemical industries.

CFCG's overseas locations include MUELLER ASIA, located in Singapore, and
MUELLER/DAVIS FILTERS LTD., located in the United Kingdom.  MUELLER ASIA is a
sales, warehouse and distribution center for the entire Pacific Rim which will
also begin manufacturing operations in FY 1997.  MUELLER/DAVIS FILTERS LTD.,
which was acquired in 1996, is a manufacturer of "Y" type strainers for the
pipeline industry, and also will market other CFCG products in Europe.

Other companies in the Fluid Controls and Construction Products segment are
POLY CRAFT (injection molded plastic products), UNIVERSAL INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 
(UIP)commercial lawnmower blades and Soss hinges, and THE ROBERT CARTER
CORPORATION (mechanical contractor).  Poly Craft and UIP each represent less 
than five percent of Core's total sales and all three account for less than
five percent of Core's total earnings.

There is substantial competition in the markets served by this segment, and in
certain instances, the Company competes with companies whose financial
resources are greater.

This segment's backlog aggregated $21,500,000 at August 31, 1996, as compared
to $21,400,000 at August 31, 1995.  It is anticipated that substantially all of
the backlog will be filled during the year ending August 31, 1997.  In general,
this segment business is not seasonal in nature.

The primary raw materials used by this product segment are steel coil and
sheet, castings made of various metals, resins and plastics.  The Company
generally obtains these materials from several sources, including foreign
suppliers, and materials are readily available.

                                      3

<PAGE>   4
The Company holds important patents related to its CMB product line.  Other
patents relative to this product segment, although of value, do not play a
significant part in the Company's operations.  The Company also has registered
certain product trademarks which are considered to be of value.

                         TEST, MEASUREMENT AND CONTROL

The Test, Measurement and Control group is Core's second largest segment.  The
Company believes it is the leading producer of selected electrical test,
measurement and control products.  Sales are primarily made through dealers and
manufacturers' representatives in the United States and abroad.  This group
serves the electrical, construction, and maintenance markets; the HVAC
industry; factory automation companies; computer and telecommunications 
manufacturers, and general industry.

AMPROBE INSTRUMENT has been recognized as a leader in quality test equipment
for professionals in the electrical, HVAC, construction, and maintenance
markets.  Amprobe primarily manufactures hand-held devices, which are used by
professionals for testing and measuring electrical properties in various field
applications.  Amprobe's name is well recognized in the industry and
represents a significant asset in marketing its products.  Amprobe believes 
that its products have a reputation for being reliable and competitively priced.
Primary products include clamp-on units, multi-meters (volt/amp/ohmmeters),
circuit tracers, harmonic analyzers, ultrasonic leak detectors, and refrigerant
recovery products.  The 1995 acquisition of Promax, a manufacturer of
refrigerant recycling and recovery products, has strengthened Amprobe's
presence in the HVAC market.  All sales are made through distributors and
catalogs.  Amprobe's advertising is targeted directly to consumers to create
demand at the distributor level.  Amprobe performs primarily light assembly and
calibration in its ISO 9000 certified plant in Lynbrook, New York, and conducts
research and development activities in Denver, Colorado.

Amprobe's new product development efforts include enhancing the features of
existing products, and introducing new products such as circuit tracers,
digital clamp-on units, ultrasonic leak detectors, and refrigerant recovery
products.  Known in the industry for its clamp-on products, Amprobe is
continually improving and expanding its products offerings.  Amprobe has 
developed a strong presence in the refrigerant recycling and recovery product 
market.  The Company believes that oil-less recovery products of Promax offer 
a number of performance advantages over competitive systems.  This product line 
is sold through its HVAC distribution channels.

GSE, INC. operates in three areas:  "tech-motive" tools, measurement and
control products (including torque sensors), and scales and weighing systems.
"tech-motive" tools are a line of direct current electric nutrunners and
electronic controllers for accurate fastening in manufacturing or repair
applications.  GSE's measurement and control products are used in a wide
variety of applications and industries.  GSE provides process controllers and
monitors for process operations and sensors and systems testing equipment for
measuring forces such as torque. Scales and weighing systems consist of
programmable scales and controllers used for accurate measurement, parts
counting, or weight-based processes.

GSE manufactures numerous torque measuring devices and has the exclusive
license to a non-contact torque sensing technology.  Non-contact torque
measurement has two important applications in vehicles and predictive
maintenance in industrial applications such as oil drilling.  Management
believes that significant additional revenues from this application may be
developed over the next several years, but there can be no assurance that
technological obstacles can be overcome or that sufficient market acceptance
can be achieved to permit this application to make a significant contribution
to this segment's revenues or earnings.

"tech-motive" products represent another major growth area for GSE.  Their
nutrunner products provide accurate, reliable fastening and offer significant
performance advantages over other fastener systems products such as pneumatic
tools.  Its new CS 4000 tech-motive tool nutrunner system is the first tool of
its kind with 100% digital communications.  Although the overall nutrunner
market is fairly mature, DC electric systems are growing and taking market
share from other systems.  Additionally, GSE is benefitting from the worldwide
macro trend toward superior manufacturing quality and the increased emphasis on
the importance of quality in safety-related applications.

                                      4

<PAGE>   5
GSE's programmable scales and weighing systems is its other growth area.  GSE
continues to grow in this area by expanding its research and development effort
to remain a technology leader and introducing new products that provide greater
value than competing systems.  New product offerings include both products for
general applications and specialized systems for unique applications.

GSE's primary strategy is to become the technology leader in applying
controlled strain gage technology to high performance tooling, torque sensing,
and programmable weighing systems.  Through new product development, GSE seeks
to grow in its existing markets and penetrate related markets.  GSE also seeks
to expand its presence in Europe, largely by increasing the distribution of its
scale systems.

GREAT LAKES/EGLINTON (GLE) is a well-recognized manufacturer of high precision
carbide tooling. It accounts for less than five percent of Core's total sales
and earnings.  


There is substantial competition in the markets served by this segment, and in
certain instances, the Company competes with companies whose financial
resources are greater.

The backlog of this segment aggregated $5,500,000 at August 31, 1996, as
compared to $5,000,000 at August 31, 1995.  It is anticipated that all of the 
backlog will be shipped during the year ending August 31, 1997. In general, 
the business of this segment is not highly seasonal in nature.

This segment's products are made principally from purchased electronic
components and materials which are readily available from numerous sources.

The Company holds important patents related to its "tech-motive" tool product
line.  Other patents relative to this segment, although of value, do not play a
significant part in the Company's operations, although the exclusive right to
distribute the non-contact torque sensing technology in the Americas and Europe
has strong potential.  The Company also has licenses and has registered certain
product trademarks which are considered to be of value.

                                 FARM EQUIPMENT

The Farm Equipment segment is made up of short line products for the farm
industry.  Core believes it is the leading producer of tillage equipment in the
High Plains region and a leading manufacturer of grain augers.  Although farm
equipment is a traditionally seasonal business, certain sales strategies
significantly reduce seasonal fluctuations.  Sales are made through dealers and
distributors primarily in the High Plains and Midwest United States, as well as
in Canada.  In 1996, while continuing to be profitable, results were reduced by
unfavorable weather conditions in the farm belt.

SUNFLOWER MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. is among the world's leading producers of
high-quality disc harrows.  Its grain drills and other tillage equipment are
also known for their quality, reliability and value.  This equipment is used to
prepare land for seeding and for seeding operations.  The primary market for
Sunflower equipment is the High Plains states of Texas, Colorado, Nebraska,
Kansas, and the Dakotas.  Secondary market areas include the Midwest, and
Sunflower is working to expand into the delta region of the South.

Sunflower equipment is sold through a direct sales force and an independent
dealership network of more than 400 dealers.  Within this 400 dealership
network, Sunflower believes it has approximately a 20% share of all tillage
equipment sold.  Tillage equipment usually represents 10 to 15% of a dealer's
sales.  Sunflower enhances its dealer relationships by training and educating
its dealers and by providing outstanding customer service.

Sunflower has benefitted from the 1990 Farm Bill, which required farmers on
erosion-prone soil to maintain a certain percentage of residue.  Sunflower
manufactures several conservation tillage tools which protect topsoil from
erosion.  Sunflower is continually implementing product design changes to
comply with conservation tillage regulations.

                                      5

<PAGE>   6
FETERL MANUFACTURING COMPANY (grain augers, cleaners and service bodies) and
RICHARDTON MANUFACTURING COMPANY (foraging wagons) form the remainder of Core's
Farm Equipment segment.  Neither business accounts for more than five percent
of Core's total sales, although Feterl accounts for slightly more than five
percent of total earnings.



There is substantial competition in the markets served by this segment, and in
certain instances, the Company competes with companies whose financial
resources are greater.

This segment's backlog aggregated $7,200,000 at August 31, 1996, as compared to
$3,800,000 at August 31, 1995.  It is anticipated that substantially all of the
backlog will be shipped during the first quarter of fiscal 1997. Sales of many
products are seasonal in nature. The Company partially mitigates this
seasonality by balancing production throughout the year. The farm economy has
been, historically, very cyclical and can be significantly affected by the
general economy and the weather.  As is customary in the farm equipment
industry, the Company makes many sales with seasonal dating payment terms to
its farm equipment customers.

The primary raw material used by the businesses within this segment is standard
sheet steel which is readily available from numerous sources.

The Company holds various patents relating to the products of this segment
which, although of value, do not play a significant part in the Company's
operations.  The Company also has registered certain product trademarks which
are considered to be of value.

(C) EMPLOYMENT

   At August 31, 1996, there were approximately 1,565 people employed by the
   Company in its operations, of whom 1,500 were employed in the United States.

(D) OTHER

   While the Company places a high emphasis on the development of new and
   improved products, research and development activities did not represent
   significant expenditures during the past three years.

   Compliance with federal, state and local provisions which have been enacted
   or adopted regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, or
   otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, is not expected to
   have a material effect upon the capital expenditures, earnings and
   competitive position of the Company.

                                      6
<PAGE>   7




ITEM 2.PROPERTIES
- --------------------------

Listed below are the major properties of the Company:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                 SQUARE             OWNED           EXPIRATION
                                  FOOT               OR              DATE OF              BUSINESS
        LOCATION                  AREA             LEASED             LEASE                SEGMENT
- --------------------------  ------------------  ------------------  ----------  -----------------------------
<S>                         <C>                 <C>                 <C>         <C>
Bridgeport, Michigan              23,000             Owned                           Test, Measurement and Control
Farmington Hills, Michigan        36,000             Owned                           Test, Measurement and Control
Lynbrook, New York                49,000             Owned                           Test, Measurement and Control
Southfield, Michigan               8,000            Leased             1999          Test, Measurement and Control
Denver, Colorado                  18,000            Leased             1997          Test, Measurement and Control
Beloit, Kansas                    88,000             Owned                           Farm Equipment
Cawker City, Kansas               51,000             Owned                           Farm Equipment
Richardton, North Dakota          37,000             Owned                           Farm Equipment
Salem, South Dakota              108,500             Owned                           Farm Equipment
Houston, Texas                    32,000             Owned                           Fluid Controls and Construction Products
                                  18,000            Leased             1997
Lumberton, North Carolina        144,000             Owned                           Fluid Controls and Construction Products
St. Pauls, North Carolina        216,000             Owned                           Fluid Controls and Construction Products
Fresno, California               116,000            Leased             2005          Fluid Controls and Construction Products
Phoenix, Arizona                  14,000            Leased             1997          Fluid Controls and Construction Products
Pioneer, Ohio                     66,400             Owned                           Fluid Controls and Construction Products
Wauseon, Ohio                     47,000             Owned                           Fluid Controls and Construction Products
Singapore                         26,700             Owned                           Fluid Controls and Construction Products
                                   9,300            Leased             2006
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan        12,000            Leased             2001          Corporate Offices
</TABLE>


All of the above properties are substantially utilized, are suitable for the
Company's needs and have sufficient productive capacity.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

On August 8, 1996, a lawsuit was served on Core Industries Inc (the "Company").
The lawsuit is entitled "Electro Lock, Inc., vs. Dynamic Acquisition
Corporation, Inc., Cherokee International, Inc., Core Industries Inc, CI
Tustin, Inc., CII Tustin, Inc., and Motec Industries, Inc.," Case No. BC 155007,
and was filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles,
Central District.  The Complaint seeks significant unsubstantiated damages in
connection with allegedly defective components supplied by Dynamic Acquisition
Corporation, Inc.  ("Dynamic," which is a subsidiary of a subsidiary of the
Registrant) to Electro Lock, Inc. ("Electro Lock").  Electro Lock also seeks
damages against CII Tustin, Inc. (the parent of Dynamic) and against the
Registrant (the parent of CII Tustin, Inc.), as alter egos of Dynamic.

The case is in its early stages.  The operations of CII Tustin, Inc. and of
Dynamic have been reported by the Company as discontinued operations since
August 31, 1995.  Dynamic had total assets of approximately $700,000 as of
August 31, 1996.  The Company intends to defend vigorously any claims against
it, and management of the Company believes that the ultimate disposition of
this matter will not have a material effect on the Company's financial
condition.

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

No matter was submitted during the fourth quarter of 1996 to a vote of security
holders through a solicitation of proxies or otherwise.

                                      7
<PAGE>   8


                                   PART II

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

At August 31, 1996, there were 1,898 shareholders of record of the common stock
of Core Industries Inc.

The Company's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange.  The
following table indicates the high and low sales prices of the common stock of
the Company, and the dividends paid per share for the periods indicated:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                   YEAR ENDED       MARKET PRICE
                                  -----------------
                 AUGUST 31, 1996    HIGH      LOW    DIVIDENDS
                 ---------------  ---------  ------  ---------
                 <S>              <C>        <C>     <C>

                 First quarter      $14     $11           $.06
                 Second quarter      14-1/2  12-1/8        .06
                 Third quarter       15-7/8  13-5/8        .06
                 Fourth quarter      15-3/4  11-1/2        .06
                                                     ---------
                                                           
                                                         $ .24
                                                     =========
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                   YEAR ENDED        MARKET PRICE
                                  ------------------
                 AUGUST 31, 1995     HIGH     LOW     DIVIDENDS
                 ---------------  ----------  ------  ---------
                 <S>              <C>         <C>     <C>
                 First quarter      $11-1/8  $8-5/8       $.06
                 Second quarter      12-1/2   9-1/2        .06
                 Third quarter       12-5/8  10            .06
                 Fourth quarter      12-5/8   9-3/4        .06
                                                      ---------

                                                         $ .24
                                                      =========

</TABLE>


NOTE A:        Under the Company's debt agreements with insurance companies, 
               retained earnings of approximately $27 million were available 
               for dividends at August 31, 1996 subject to future earnings 
               levels.
               


                                      8
<PAGE>   9

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA


A summary of selected financial data follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                   YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31,
                                    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         1996               1995               1994                1993            1992          
                                    --------------        ------------     --------------       -----------      -----------      
<S>                                  <C>                 <C>               <C>               <C>                <C>
Net sales                             $230,157,000        $187,897,000      $166,260,000      $156,615,000      $146,571,000

Earnings from continuing operations 
     (Note B)                           12,940,000          10,693,000         9,209,000         7,900,000          (596,000)
     Net earnings (loss)                12,940,000           3,828,000        10,006,000         8,565,000       (26,368,000)

Net earnings (loss) per common share:
     Continuing operations                   $1.24               $1.09             $0.94             $0.81            $(0.06)
     Net earnings (loss)                      1.24                0.39              1.02              0.88             (2.70)
Cash dividends declared per share             0.24                0.24              0.24              0.24              0.30

As of August 31:
     Total assets                     $172,949,000        $147,043,000       $156,387,000      $151,277,000     $156,583,000
     Long-term debt                     24,520,000          32,609,000         41,608,000        47,134,000       50,146,000


</TABLE>

NOTE A:   Effective September 23, 1993, the Company sold its Du-Al Manufacturing
          Division, a manufacturer of front end loaders, back hoes and other
          equipment sold to the construction and farm industries.  Effective May
          31, 1994, the Company sold its Pioneer Industries Division, a
          manufacturer of metal doors and frames for the construction industry.
          The businesses sold had approximately $9,000,000 of sales in FY 1994
          prior to disposition and approximately $20,000,000 of sales in FY
          1993. 

          Other income for the year ended August 31, 1994 includes pretax gain
          of $1,475,000 (total of $.09 per share) related to the sale of the
          Du-Al Division.


NOTE B:   Effective February 29, 1992, the Company adopted a formal plan to
          divest three major electronics-related subsidiaries.  The three
          operations, Anilam Electronics, FlexStar and Hilton Industries,
          produced machine tool controls, disk-drive test equipment and tantalum
          capacitors, respectively, were accounted for as discontinued
          operations. Appropriate provisions were recorded for (a) the estimated
          losses of the discontinued operations through their expected disposal
          dates, (b) reduction of assets to their net realizable values and (c)
          the anticipated liabilities relating to the disposals.  The total
          provision amounted to $20,859,000, net of income tax benefit of
          $7,315,000.  Selected information related to these discontinued
          operations follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           1991           1992
                                        -----------    -----------
          <S>                           <C>           <C>
          Sales                          $42,796,000  $16,291,000
          Net earnings (loss)             (6,350,000)  (4,015,000)
          Net earnings (loss) per share        (0.65)       (0.41)
</TABLE>


                                      9
<PAGE>   10


   On October 6, 1995, the Company adopted a formal plan to divest its
   wholly-owned electronics-related subsidiary, Cherokee International, Inc.
   and its subsidiaries ("Cherokee") effective August 31, 1995.  Cherokee
   represented a separate line of business producing electronic power supplies
   to distinct customers and was accounted for as a discontinued operation.
   Appropriate provisions were recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1995
   for (a) the estimated losses for the discontinued operation through its
   expected disposal date, (b) reduction of assets to their net realizable
   values, and (c) the anticipated liabilities related to the disposal.  The
   total provision amounted to $6,500,000, net of income tax benefit of
   $3,500,000.

   Selected information related to Cherokee's operations prior to
   discontinuance follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      1995         1994         1993
                                   -----------  -----------  -----------
        <S>                        <C>          <C>          <C>

        Sales                      $44,669,000   $53,193,000  $50,431,000
        Pretax income (loss)          (285,000)    1,845,000    1,315,000
        Income taxes                    80,000     1,048,000      650,000
        Net income (loss)             (365,000)      797,000      665,000
        Earnings (loss) per share        (0.04)         0.08         0.07
</TABLE>


   The net assets of the discontinued Cherokee operation held for sale were
   included in the Balance Sheet at August 31, 1995 under the caption "Net
   Assets Held for Sale."  In 1996, the net assets of the discontinued
   operations were sold for cash and a long-term note receivable.  It is
   anticipated that the provision established in 1995 should be adequate.

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

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

During the fiscal year ended August 31, 1996, the Company continued its strong
improvement trend which began in 1992 after Core took dramatic action to
restructure operations and refocus its resources.  Management continues to
focus on operating and financial strategies to improve operating performance
and shareholder value.  These strategies include new product development and
market penetration initiatives, improved levels of manufacturing efficiencies
and customer service, and the acquisition of selected companies which can
increase future growth and profitability.

Fiscal 1996 Compared with Fiscal 1995

Sales increased 22% in 1996 over 1995 to $230,157,000 which included
approximately $25 million from the acquisition of CMB Industries.  Net earnings
were $12,940,000 or 21% higher than 1995 earnings from continuing operations of
$10,693,000.  Net earnings per share increased 14% to $1.24 from earnings from
continuing operations of $1.09, while the average number of shares outstanding
was 7% higher.  The strong earnings growth was fueled by new product offerings
and operations improvements in the Company's Fluid Controls and Construction
Products, and Test, Measurement and Control segments which more than offset the
decline in operating earnings in the Farm Equipment segment principally caused
by difficult weather conditions.

Overall gross profit margins decreased from 35.6% to 34.9% as a result of
unfavorable product mix changes and competitive pressures in the Farm Equipment
segment.  Margins improved in both of the Company's other two segments.  The
decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses to 22.5% of sales from
23% reflects the Company's efforts to reduce the growth in administrative
expenses, which more than offsets increases in research and development
expenditures related to new products, resulting in engineering expenses
increasing 39% over 1995 to $5,500,000.  Interest expense increased 13.7% over
1995 due to increased borrowings to finance acquisitions.

The average number of shares outstanding during 1996 was 10.5 million compared
to 9.8 million, primarily due to stock issued in connection with the
acquisition of CMB Industries in December 1995.


                                      10


<PAGE>   11
Fiscal 1995 Compared with Fiscal 1994

Consolidated sales from continuing operations were up 13% to $187,897,000 over
1994 sales of $166,260,000.  Earnings from continuing operations were
$10,693,000, or 16% higher than 1994.  Included in 1994 earnings was an
after-tax gain of $915,000 ($.09 per share) related to the sale of a division.
Excluding this item, earnings from continuing operations increased 29% in 1995
compared to 1994.

Approximately 67% of the sales increase and 60% of the earnings before income
tax increase was attributable to the Test, Measurement and Control segment
which had a 30% sales and earnings increase over 1994. Fluid Controls and 
Construction sales increased 3% with earnings before taxes growing almost 25%.
Excluding 1994's gain on the sale of the division, Farm Equipment earnings
before taxes increased 11% on a 15% sales increase.

Overall gross profit margins improved strongly from 33.1% to 35.6% as a result
of favorable product mix changes and new product introductions.  The increase
in selling, general and administrative expenses from 21.2% of sales to 22.9%
relates primarily to key units where there were increased investments in 
research and development, and promotional and selling costs related to new 
products and entering new markets.

Other income in 1994 included the $1.475 million pretax gain related to the
sale of the Company's Du-Al division.  Interest expense declined 12.2% in 1995
from 1994 as borrowings were reduced by $9 million throughout the year.

Segment Operating Review

Fluid Controls and Construction Products Segment

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>              
           (In Thousands)   1996     1995     1994
                          --------  -------  -------
<S>                       <C>       <C>      <C>
Sales                     $115,497  $80,732  $78,745
Earnings before taxes       15,134   10,766    8,624
</TABLE>


Sales and earnings before taxes in 1996 increased 43% and 41%, respectively,
over the prior year.  This increase was primarily due to the improved
performance of the Core Fluid Control Group which benefitted from recent
acquisitions and expanded distribution efforts.  While all of the recent
acquisitions (OGASCO, acquired effective January 1, 1995; CMB Industries,
acquired effective December 1, 1995; and Davis Filters, acquired effective
January 1, 1996) contributed to the growth in sales and earnings, the base
businesses of the Core Fluid Control Group had increases in sales and
earnings.

Test, Measurement and Control Segment

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>         
          (In Thousands)   1996     1995     1994
                          -------  -------  -------
<S>                       <C>      <C>      <C>
Sales                     $69,131  $63,819  $49,229
Earnings before taxes       8,015    6,928    5,328
</TABLE>


Sales and earnings before taxes increased 8% and 16%, respectively, over 1995.
This strong improvement was fueled by new product offerings and operating
efficiencies.

Farm Equipment Segment

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>   
           
             (In Thousands)     1996     1995     1994
                               -------  -------  -------
<S>                           <C>      <C>      <C>
Sales                          $45,529  $43,346  $38,286
Earnings before taxes            5,073    6,075    7,257
</TABLE>



                                      11
<PAGE>   12


Sales increased 5% over 1995 with earnings before taxes down 16%.  Difficult
weather conditions early in fiscal 1996 resulted in lower demand for certain
higher margin products.  This change in product mix also resulted in higher
sales incentives.  Operations improved during the latter part of fiscal 1996
with fourth quarter sales and earnings ahead of 1995's fourth quarter.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

One of the Company's financial strengths has been its ability to generate cash  
from its operating activities.  In 1996, the Company again experienced positive
operating cash flow as operating activities provided $14.2 million.  Cash flow
generation has been enhanced by the Company's ongoing efforts to improve
operating efficiencies, make cost reductions, and manage working capital
requirements to support increased sales volumes.

During 1996 the Company exercised its maximum allowable prepayment options and
reduced its 10% rate long-term debt by $8 million.  Accordingly, debt as a
percentage of capital employed was reduced to 22.1% at August 31, 1996 from
31.5% at the end of the previous fiscal year.

The Company continued to invest in its future during 1996 by making two
strategic acquisitions and making capital expenditures of $5.4 million.  The
total cost of the acquisitions included a combination of cash, debt assumptions
and notes payable issued totaling $15.6 million and the issuance of 857,283
shares of the Company's common stock, valued at $13.50 per share.  The $13
million net cash received during 1996 from the sale of the Company's Cherokee
subsidiary helped finance these acquisitions.  The majority of capital
expenditures were focused at those units where the Company believes it has the
greatest growth potential.  The Company plans to invest $10 to $12 million in
capital expenditures in fiscal 1997, excluding business acquisitions, with
major emphasis on expanding facilities at several locations to support growth
and improve efficiencies.

The Company continues its active program to complement internal growth with
acquisition of product lines and businesses that meet the Company's selective
criteria.  It is expected that this effort may require the significant
expenditure of funds over the next few years.

At August 31, 1996, the Company had working capital of $72.6 million with a
current ratio of 2.8 to 1.  Management believes its current cash position, cash
flows from operations, unused lines of credit ($15,300,000 at August 31, 1996),
along with its borrowing capacity, are adequate to fund its strategies for
future growth, including working capital, expenditures for manufacturing
expansion and efficiencies, new product development and acquisition activities.

At the Company's current quarterly dividend rate of $.06 per share, future
annual dividend payments would approximate $2.6 million.  Under the Company's
debt agreements with insurance companies, retained earnings of approximately
$27.3 million are available for dividends, subject to future earnings levels.

ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The financial statements of the Company and the report of independent
accountants thereon of Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P., independent auditors for the
Company, are included in Exhibit 13 and are identified in Item 14(a)(1) of
this report. Other financial statement schedules are filed pursuant to Item
14(a)(2) and exhibits are filed pursuant to Item 14(a)(3) of this report.

Selected quarterly financial data for the years 1996 and 1995 appear in Note 13
to the financial statements on F-17 (see Exhibit 13).


ITEM 9.     CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND 
            FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None

                                      12


<PAGE>   13

ITEM 10.    DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT


DIRECTORS

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a
definitive proxy statement involving the election of directors which is filed
by the Company pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the close of
its fiscal year.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The following information is provided as to the Executive Officers of the
Company:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             Percentage of
                                                                             Company's
                                                                             Outstanding Common
                                                       Common Shares         Shares Beneficially
                                                       Beneficially Owned    Owned as of Oct.
        Name          Age  Capacities in Which Served  as of Oct. 15, 1996   15, 1996
- --------------------  ---  --------------------------  --------------------  --------------------
<S>                   <C>  <C>                         <C>                   <C>
David R. Zimmer*      50   President and Chief             125,407                   1.1%
                           Executive Officer since
                           March 1992 (previously
                           President and Chief
                           Executive Officer of New
                           Venture Gear, Inc. since
                           January 1990)
Lawrence J. Murphy*   54   Executive Vice President         36,546                   ***
                           since October 1990
                           (previously Vice
                           President-Finance, three
                           years)
Mark J. MacGuidwin**  44   Vice President-Finance               0                    ***
                           and Chief Financial
                           Officer since October
                           1996 (previously Vice
                           President, Controller of
                           Varity Corporation since
                           1995; previously Vice
                           President-Finance of
                           Libbey-Owens-Ford Co.
                           since 1990)
Thomas G. Hooper*     52   Treasurer and Controller         12,667                   ***
                           since October 1990
                           (previously Controller
                           since 1981)
James P. Dixon*       52   Vice President-Planning          13,069                   ***
                           since January 1994
                           (previously Vice
                           President-Marketing,
                           since October 1990;
                           previously
                           Manager-Marketing
                           Services, since April
                           1990)
</TABLE>

*    Elected by the Board of Directors on January 9, 1996
**   Elected by the Board of Directors on October 2, 1996
***  Less than 1%

                                      13
<PAGE>   14


ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a
definitive proxy statement involving the election of directors which is filed
by the Company pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the close of
its fiscal year.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a
definitive proxy statement involving the election of directors which is filed
by the Company pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the close of
its fiscal year.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a
definitive proxy statement involving the election of directors which is filed
by the Company pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the close of
its fiscal year.

                                      14
<PAGE>   15


                                   PART IV


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


(A)   1.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. (Included in Exhibit 13)


                                                                    PAGES IN
                                                                      EX-13
                                                                    --------

Report of Management..................................................F-1
Report of Independent Accountants.....................................F-2
Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the Years Ended
       August 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994.................................F-3
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of August 31, 1996 and 1995............F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended
       August 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994.................................F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
       August 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994.................................F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the Years Ended
       August 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 ................................F-7 - F-17


      2.   FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(A)        Consent of Independent Accountants..........................EX-23

(B)        Schedule Index:                                          PAGE IN
                                                                      10-K
                                                                    --------

             Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts ..........16


Schedules other than those listed are omitted because they are not applicable 
or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes 
thereto.



(A)  3. EXHIBITS

        The exhibits are listed on the accompanying Index to Exhibits.

(B)  4. REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

        No reports on Form 8-K have been filed during the last quarter of the
        period covered by this report.

                                      15
<PAGE>   16
CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
for the years ended August 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

     COLUMN A                      COLUMN B         COLUMN C            COLUMN D          COLUMN E
- ------------------                 ----------    ---------------        ----------        ---------         
                                                 (1)         (2)


                                                             CHARGED
                                   BALANCE AT  CHARGED TO    TO OTHER                        BALANCE
                                   BEGINNING   COSTS AND     ACCOUNTS-   DEDUCTIONS -        AT END
                                   OF PERIOD    EXPENSES     DESCRIBE      DESCRIBE        OF PERIOD
                                   ----------  ----------  ------------ -----------------  ----------
                                                                            (NOTE A)     
<S>                                <C>         <C>         <C>           <C>                <C>

Allowance for doubtful
accounts, deducted from
accounts receivable in
the balance sheet:

1996                               $1,020,000    $212,000  $(86,000) (C)   $ 58,000         $1,260,000
                                   ==========    ========  =========       ========         ==========

1995                               $  960,000    $300,000  $120,000  (B)   $120,000         $1,020,000
                                   ==========    ========  =========       ========         ==========

1994                               $  970,000    $480,000                  $490,000         $  960,000
                                   ==========    ========                  ========         ==========

</TABLE>


Note A:      Accounts written off

Note B:      Discontinued operations

Note C:      Acquisition

                                      16

<PAGE>   17
                                  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.

Date:  October 29, 1996                  CORE INDUSTRIES INC
       ----------------            -----------------------------------------
                              By:  /s/ THOMAS G. HOOPER
                                   -----------------------------------------
                              Thomas G. Hooper, Treasurer and Controller

Pursuant to the requirement of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the
capacities and on the date indicated.


CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER:

/s/ DAVID R. ZIMMER                                   October 29, 1996
- -------------------                                   ----------------
David R. Zimmer, President and Director                     Date

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER:


/s/ MARK J. MACGUIDWIN                                October 29, 1996
- ----------------------                                ----------------
Mark J. MacGuidwin, Vice President - Finance                Date

OTHER DIRECTORS:


/s/ JAY A. ALIX                                       October 29, 1996
- ---------------                                       ----------------
Jay A. Alix                                               Date

/s/ RICHARD P. KUGHN                                  October 29, 1996
- --------------------                                  ----------------
Richard P. Kughn                                          Date

/s/ HAROLD M. MARKO                                   October 29, 1996
- -------------------                                   ----------------
Harold M. Marko                                           Date

/s/ LAWRENCE J. MURPHY                                October 29, 1996
- ----------------------                                ----------------
Lawrence J. Murphy, Executive Vice President              Date

/s/ ALAN E. SCHWARTZ                                  October 29, 1996
- --------------------                                  ----------------
Alan E. Schwartz                                          Date

/s/ ROBERT G. STONE, JR.                              October 29, 1996
- ------------------------                              ----------------
Robert G. Stone, Jr.                                      Date



                                      17
<PAGE>   18
                              INDEX TO EXHIBITS


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


EXHIBIT                           DESCRIPTION
- -------------------------------  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>
3(a)                             Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Company and amendments thereto**

3(b)                             By-Laws, as amended, of the Company**

10(a)                            1991 Director Discounted Stock Option Plan**

10(b)                            1988 Director Discounted Stock Option Plan (Incorporated by reference to Appendix B
                                 to Company's Proxy Statement dated November 23, 1988 filed pursuant to Regulation 14)

10(d)                            Preferred Share Purchase Rights (Incorporated by reference to Company's Form 8-K
                                 Report dated September 28, 1988)

10(e)                            Deferred Compensation for Non-Employee Directors**

10(f)                            Agreement and Plan of Merger between Core Industries Inc and CMB Industries***    

10(g)(1)                         9.75% Note Agreement dated August 1, 1987 between the Company and The Northwestern
                                 Mutual Life Insurance Company**

10(g)(2)                         Amendment dated as of March 15, 1989 to the Agreement dated August 1, 1987 between
                                 the Company  and The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company**

10(g)(3)                         Amendment dated as of March 15, 1989 to the Agreement dated August 1, 1987 between
                                 the Company and The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company**

10(h)(1)                         10.02% Note Agreements dated as of March 15, 1989 between the Company and The
                                 Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company/Allstate Life Insurance Company**

10(h)(2)                         Amendment dated as of March 15, 1992 to the Agreement dated as of March 15, 1989
                                 between the Company and The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company/Allstate Life
                                 Insurance Company**

10(I)                            1993 Performance Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to Company's
                                 Proxy Statement dated November 23, 1993 filed pursuant to Regulation 14)

10(j)                            1993 Stock Bonus Plan (Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to Company's Proxy
                                 Statement dated November 23, 1993 filed pursuant to Regulation 14)

*11                              Calculations of Earnings Per Share 

*13                              Financial Statements

*22                              Subsidiaries of the Company 

*23                              Consent of Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P. relating to Financial Statement Schedule 

*27                              Financial Data Schedule

</TABLE>

*  Filed herewith
** Incorporated by reference to exhibits to the 1992 Form 10-K
***Incorporated by reference to exhibit 2.1, Form 8-K/A filed February 22, 1996


                                      18
<PAGE>   19



NOTE: The Exhibits attached to this report will be furnished to requesting
      security holders upon payment of a reasonable fee to reimburse the Company
      for expenses incurred by the Company in furnishing such Exhibits.


                                      19


<PAGE>   1

                                                                     EXHIBIT 11


CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CALCULATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
for the years ended August 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994





<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31,
                                                       -----------------------------------------------
                                                            1996            1995            1994
                                                       --------------    -----------     -------------
<S>                                                    <C>               <C>             <C>

Earnings applicable to common stock                     $12,940,000       $3,828,000      $10,006,000

      Net earnings                                      $12,940,000       $3,828,000      $10,006,000

Average number of common shares outstanding (A)          10,453,360        9,809,041        9,800,135

Earnings per share                                            $1.24            $0.39            $1.02

</TABLE>

Note A:          The number of common stock equivalents related to stock 
                 option plans were 93,000, 77,000 and 117,000 at the 
                 fiscal years ended 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.





<PAGE>   1
                                                                      EXHIBIT 13


                              REPORT OF MANAGEMENT


Management is responsible for the preparation and integrity of the accompanying
financial statements and all other financial information appearing in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K.  The financial statements have been prepared in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles appropriate in the
circumstances.  The other financial information in this Annual Report on Form
10-K is consistent with the financial statements.

Management is responsible for developing and maintaining cost-effective
internal accounting control.  Internal control effectiveness is supported
throughout the Company with written communication of policies and procedures,
careful selection and training of personnel, and audits by a professional staff
of internal auditors.  The Company's control environment is further enhanced
through a formal Code of Conduct that sets standards of professionalism and
integrity for employees.

The financial statements have been audited by the auditors Coopers & Lybrand
L.L.P.  The Company engages them to render an independent professional opinion
based upon an examination conducted in accordance with generally accepted
auditing standards.

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors is composed solely of
non-employee directors and is responsible for oversight of management's
internal control and financial reporting responsibilities.  The Audit Committee
is also responsible for recommending to the Board the independent accounting
firm to be used for the coming year.  The Audit Committee meets periodically
with management, the internal auditors, and privately with the independent
auditors to review auditing, accounting, internal control and financial
reporting matters.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     /s/ DAVID R. ZIMMER  /s/ MARK J. MACGUIDWIN      /s/ THOMAS G. HOOPER
     -------------------  ----------------------      ---------------------
     <S>                  <C>                         <C>
     David R. Zimmer      Mark J. MacGuidwin          Thomas G. Hooper
     President and Chief  Vice President-Finance and  Treasurer and
     Executive Officer    Chief Financial Officer     Controller
</TABLE>













                                     F-1
<PAGE>   2



                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


Stockholders and Board of Directors Core Industries Inc

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Core Industries
Inc and subsidiaries as of August 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related
consolidated statements of earnings, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 1996.  Our audits also
included the financial statement schedule listed in the index at Item 14 for
each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 1996.  These financial
statements and the financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the
Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements and the financial statement schedule 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 consolidated financial position of Core Industries
Inc and subsidiaries as of August 31, 1996 and 1995, and the consolidated
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in
the period ended August 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.  In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement 
schedule referred to above, when considered in relation to the basic 
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all 
material respects, the information required to be included therein.



/s/ COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
- ---------------------------
COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.

Detroit, Michigan
October 9, 1996








                                     F-2
<PAGE>   3
                     CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
                                       


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      Year Ended August 31
                                                                      ----------------------------------------------
                                                                          1996             1995             1994
                                                                      ------------     ------------     ------------
<S>                                                                   <C>              <C>              <C>
Net sales                                                             $230,157,000     $187,897,000     $166,260,000

Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization             $149,772,000     $121,088,000     $111,294,000
Depreciation and amortization                                            5,670,000        4,364,000        4,004,000
Selling, general and administrative expenses                            51,743,000       43,126,000       35,333,000
Interest expense                                                         3,815,000        3,355,000        3,820,000
Other income                                                            (1,283,000)        (929,000)      (2,402,000)
                                                                      ------------     ------------     ------------
                                                                      $209,717,000     $171,004,000     $152,049,000
                                                                      ------------     ------------     ------------

Earnings from continuing operations before taxes on income            $ 20,440,000     $ 16,893,000     $ 14,211,000

Taxes on income                                                          7,500,000        6,200,000        5,002,000
                                                                      ------------     ------------     ------------

Earnings from continuing operations                                   $ 12,940,000     $ 10,693,000     $  9,209,000

Discontinued operations (net of income tax):
          Income (loss) from discontinued operations                          -           ($365,000)    $    797,000
          Estimated loss on disposal                                          -          (6,500,000)
                                                                      ------------     ------------     ------------
          Income (loss) from discontinued operations                          -         ($6,865,000)    $    797,000
                                                                      ------------     ------------     ------------

Net earnings                                                          $ 12,940,000     $  3,828,000     $ 10,006,000
                                                                      ============     ============     ============

Net earnings (loss) per share:
         Continuing operations                                        $       1.24     $       1.09     $       0.94
         Discontinued operations                                              -               (0.70)            0.08
                                                                      ------------     ------------     ------------
         Net earnings                                                 $       1.24     $       0.39     $       1.02
                                                                      ============     ============     ============
</TABLE>





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





                                     F-3
<PAGE>   4
                     CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES

                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                   ASSETS
                                                             August 31
                                                  --------------------------------
                                                      1996                1995
                                                  ------------        ------------
<S>                                               <C>                 <C>   
CURRENT  ASSETS:
   Cash and cash equivalents                      $    572,000        $  1,135,000
   Accounts receivable, less collection
      allowances of $1,260,000 in 1996
      and $1,020,000 in 1995                        56,923,000          44,214,000
   Inventories                                      51,935,000          41,276,000
   Prepaid expenses                                  1,199,000             953,000
   Deferred taxes on income                          2,167,000           5,447,000
   Net assets held for disposition                       -              16,089,000
                                                  ------------        ------------
         TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS                     $112,796,000        $109,114,000
                                                  ------------        ------------

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT:
   Land and land improvements                     $    896,000        $    896,000
   Buildings                                        17,552,000          17,746,000
   Machinery and equipment                          43,173,000          36,532,000
                                                  ------------        ------------
         Total                                    $ 61,621,000        $ 55,174,000
   Less accumulated depreciation                    35,715,000          32,332,000
                                                  ------------        ------------
         TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT AND
            EQUIPMENT                             $ 25,906,000        $ 22,842,000
                                                  ------------        ------------

OTHER ASSETS:
   Excess of cost over net assets
     of companies acquired                        $ 22,251,000        $  6,774,000
   Investment in real estate partnership             1,273,000           1,323,000
   Notes receivable                                  4,311,000           1,500,000
   Prepaid pensions and other                        6,412,000           5,490,000
                                                  ------------        ------------
         TOTAL OTHER ASSETS                       $ 34,247,000        $ 15,087,000
                                                  ------------        ------------

                                                  $172,949,000        $147,043,000
                                                  ============        ============

<CAPTION>
       LIABILITIES  &  STOCKHOLDERS'  EQUITY

                                                             August 31
                                                  --------------------------------
                                                      1996                1995
                                                  ------------        ------------
<S>                                               <C>                 <C>   
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
   Notes payable                                  $  5,100,000        $    787,000
   Accounts payable                                 13,016,000           7,581,000
   Accrued payroll and other expenses               15,721,000          13,181,000
   Dividends payable                                   643,000             589,000
   Taxes on income                                   1,090,000           2,041,000
   Long-term debt due within one year                4,610,000           4,610,000
                                                  ------------        ------------
         TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES                $ 40,180,000        $ 28,789,000
                                                  ------------        ------------

LONG-TERM DEBT,
   less amount due within one year                  24,520,000          32,609,000

DEFERRED TAXES ON INCOME                             2,250,000           1,690,000

ACCRUED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS                            3,355,000           2,942,000

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
   Preferred stock, par value $1:
      Authorized - 100,000 shares
      Issued - none
   Common stock, par value $1:
      Authorized - 20,000,000 shares
      Issued - 11,261,499 shares in 1996
           11,237,172 shares in 1995              $ 11,261,000        $ 11,237,000
   Additional paid-in capital                        8,570,000             999,000
   Retained earnings                                84,922,000          74,499,000
   Cumulative translation adjustments                  517,000             976,000
   Treasury stock (552,877  shares in 1996                                         
      and 1,410,160 in 1995) - at cost              (2,626,000)         (6,698,000)
                                                  ------------        ------------ 
         TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY               $102,644,000        $ 81,013,000
                                                  ------------        ------------

                                                  $172,949,000        $147,043,000
                                                  ============        ============
</TABLE>



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


                                      F-4
<PAGE>   5
                     CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES

               CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           Additional                   Cumulative
                                              Common         Paid-In      Retained     Translation     Treasury
                                              Stock          Capital      Earnings      Adjustments     Stock
                                              -----        ----------     --------     ------------    --------
<S>                                        <C>           <C>           <C>              <C>        <C>
Balance, August 31, 1993                   $11,208,000   $  728,000    $65,372,000      $ 356,000   ($6,698,000)
     Net earnings                                                       10,006,000
     Cash dividends declared,
              $.24 per share                                            (2,353,000)
     Exercise of stock options                   4,500       19,000
     Incentive compensation awards               6,500       63,000
     Foreign currency adjustments                                                         305,000
                                           -----------   ----------    -----------      ---------   -----------

Balance, August 31, 1994                   $11,219,000   $  810,000    $73,025,000      $ 661,000   ($6,698,000)
     Net earnings                                                        3,828,000
     Cash dividends declared,
              $.24 per share                                            (2,354,000)
     Incentive compensation awards              18,000      189,000
     Foreign currency adjustments                                                         315,000
                                           -----------   ----------    -----------      ---------   -----------

Balance, August 31, 1995                   $11,237,000   $  999,000    $74,499,000      $ 976,000   ($6,698,000)
     Net earnings                                                       12,940,000
     Cash dividends declared,
              $.24 per share                                            (2,517,000)
     Exercise of stock options                  24,000       69,000
     Treasury shares issued
         re:  acquisition                                 7,502,000                                   4,072,000
     Foreign currency adjustments                                                        (459,000)
                                           -----------   ----------    -----------      ---------   -----------

Balance, August 31, 1996                   $11,261,000   $8,570,000    $84,922,000      $ 517,000   ($2,626,000)
                                           ===========   ==========    ===========      =========   ===========
</TABLE>


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


                                     F-5
<PAGE>   6
                     CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES

                    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            Year Ended August 31
                                                              -------------------------------------------------
                                                                  1996             1995                1994
                                                              ------------     ------------         -----------
<S>                                                           <C>              <C>                  <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
   Net earnings                                               $ 12,940,000     $  3,828,000         $10,006,000
   Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net
     cash provided by operating activities:
      Depreciation                                            $  4,900,000     $  3,953,000         $ 3,794,000
      Amortization                                                 770,000          412,000             211,000
      Loss from discontinued operations                              -           10,000,000               -
      Discontinued operations                                        -              365,000            (797,000)
      Net gain on sale of division                                   -                -                (915,000)
      (Increase) decrease in assets:
           Accounts receivable                                  (7,206,000)      (2,828,000)         (1,345,000)
           Inventories                                          (2,665,000)      (4,205,000)         (1,969,000)
           Prepaid expenses                                       (215,000)        (322,000)            580,000
           Taxes on income                                        (951,000)         514,000             935,000
           Deferred taxes on income                              3,840,000       (3,500,000)            800,000
      Increase (decrease) in liabilities:
           Accounts payable                                      2,397,000       (1,947,000)           (200,000)
           Accrued payroll and other expenses                    1,472,000        2,208,000           1,147,000
           Other non-current assets and liabilities             (1,131,000)        (225,000)            113,000
                                                              ------------     ------------         -----------
               TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS                              $  1,211,000     $  4,425,000         $ 2,354,000
                                                              ------------     ------------         -----------
      NET CASH PROVIDED BY
         OPERATING ACTIVITIES                                 $ 14,151,000     $  8,253,000         $12,360,000
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
   Capital expenditures                                        ($5,396,000)     ($4,988,000)        ($4,242,000)
   Net proceeds from sale of divisions                               -                -               9,816,000
   Acquisition of businesses                                  ($15,643,000)      (4,325,000)         (2,510,000)
   Discontinued operations                                      13,008,000       (1,728,000)          4,407,000
   Other                                                            10,000          333,000             381,000
                                                              ------------     ------------         -----------
          NET CASH FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES         ($8,021,000)    ($10,708,000)        $ 7,852,000
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
   Net (payments) borrowings on short-term notes              $  3,913,000     $    300,000           ($900,000)
   Reductions in long-term debt                                 (8,089,000)      (8,999,000)         (2,967,000)
   Cash dividends paid                                          (2,517,000)      (2,354,000)         (2,353,000)
                                                              ------------     ------------         -----------
          NET CASH USED IN FINANCING
            ACTIVITIES                                         ($6,693,000)    ($11,053,000)        ($6,220,000)

          NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH
            AND CASH EQUIVALENTS                                  (563,000)     (13,508,000)         13,992,000

          CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,
            BEGINNING OF PERIOD                               $  1,135,000     $ 14,643,000         $   651,000
                                                              ------------     ------------         -----------
                                                                                                        
          CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,
            END OF PERIOD                                     $    572,000     $  1,135,000         $14,643,000
                                                              ============     ============         ===========


SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW DISCLOSURES:
   Interest paid                                              $  4,133,000     $  3,512,000         $ 3,757,000
                                                              ============     ============         ===========
   Income taxes paid                                          $  4,800,000     $  5,500,000         $ 3,200,000
                                                              ============     ============         ===========
</TABLE>


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



                                     F-6
<PAGE>   7





                    CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES

                 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                 YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 1996, 1995 AND 1994


1. PRINCIPLES OF REPORTING AND ACCOUNTING

   Principles of Consolidation - The consolidated financial statements
   include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. 
   Intercompany profits, transactions and balances have been eliminated.

   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 reported in the
   consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes.  Actual results
   could differ from those estimates.

   Inventories - Approximately 91% and 88% of inventories at August 31,
   1996 and 1995, respectively, are valued at the lower of cost or market on a
   first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis.  Other inventories are valued at cost on a
   last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis.  If all inventories were valued on a FIFO
   basis, inventories would have been $1,613,000 and $1,562,000 higher than
   reported at August 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
       Following is the detail of inventories:
                                                   1996          1995
                                                -----------  -----------
<S>                                             <C>          <C>
                Raw materials and supplies      $24,399,000  $17,734,000
                Work in process                   7,864,000    8,225,000
                Finished goods                   19,672,000   15,317,000
                                                -----------  -----------

                Total                           $51,935,000  $41,276,000
                                                ===========  ===========
</TABLE>


   Property, Plant and Equipment - Items of property, plant and equipment,
   including significant improvements to existing facilities and leasehold
   improvements, are recorded at cost.  Expenditures for maintenance and
   repairs are charged to operations in the year incurred.  Long-term lease
   obligations incurred in connection with industrial development revenue bond
   financing have been capitalized at the total principal amount of the
   obligations. Depreciation is computed principally on an accelerated basis.

   Excess of Cost Over Net Assets of Companies Acquired - The excess of
   total cost over net assets of companies acquired is being amortized over
   either 15 or 40 years except for $2,048,000 relating to acquisitions prior
   to October 31, 1970 which is not being amortized.  Amortization expense
   amounted to $584,000 in 1996, $227,000 in 1995 and $84,000 in 1994. 
   Accumulated amortization amounted to $2,734,000 and $2,150,000 at August 31,
   1996 and 1995, respectively.

   Investment in Real Estate Partnership - The Company has a minority
   interest in a partnership formed for the purpose of owning an office
   building, a portion of which the Company leases for its corporate offices. 
   Rents paid were $445,000 in 1996, $382,000 in 1995 and $346,000 in 1994. 
   The investment is accounted for according to the equity method.

   Revenue Recognition - Revenue from sales of products is recognized at
   the time of shipment.  Revenue from long-term construction contracts is
   recognized using the percentage-of-completion method.

   Earnings Per Common Share are computed by dividing net earnings by the
   weighted average shares outstanding (10,453,360 shares in 1996, 9,809,041
   shares in 1995, and 9,800,135 shares in 1994).  The number of common stock
   equivalents was not significant.





                                     F-7
<PAGE>   8

   Foreign Currency Translation - Assets and liabilities of certain
   foreign subsidiaries whose functional currencies are other than the U.S.
   dollar are translated at year-end rates of exchange.  Income and expense
   items are translated at average exchange rates for the year.  The resulting
   translation adjustments are recorded directly into a separate component of
   stockholders' equity.

   Reclassifications - Certain reclassifications have been made to conform prior
   years' data to the current year presentation.

   Cash Flow Statement - In connection with the acquisition of CMB
   Industries and Davis Filters in the second quarter of fiscal 1996, the
   Company issued 857,283 shares of its common stock from treasury valued at
   approximately $11,574,000 and issued notes payable totaling $7,400,000.

2. DEBT AND COMMITMENTS

   The Company has a $20,000,000 unsecured line of credit with a major
   domestic bank at interest rates on an as-offered basis, which have been less
   than the prime rate.  There was $15,300,000 available under this facility at
   August 31, 1996.

   Long-term debt consists of the following:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   1996         1995
                                               -----------  -----------
<S>                                            <C>          <C>
         Notes payable                         $22,330,000  $30,440,000
         Industrial development revenue bonds    6,800,000    6,779,000
                                               -----------  -----------
              Total                            $29,130,000  $37,219,000
         Portion due within one year             4,610,000    4,610,000
                                               -----------  -----------

         Total                                 $24,520,000  $32,609,000
                                               ===========  ===========
</TABLE>


   Notes payable include three unsecured promissory notes to insurance
   companies: one 9.8%, $4,000,000 note and two 10.02% notes aggregating
   $18,000,000.  The notes require semi-annual interest payments with repayment
   of principal in 10 equal annual installments which commenced August 1993 for
   the 9.8% note and commenced May 1995 for the 10.02% notes.  The other note
   payable requires repayment in three annual equal installments.  At August
   31, 1996, letters of credit amounting to $5,500,000 were outstanding.

   Industrial development revenue bonds mature principally in 2006 and
   2013 and include $5,000,000 related to a 15-year loan agreement with a
   variable interest rate entered into during 1991.  Interest rates on the
   bonds change based on prevailing market rates which averaged 3.79% as of
   August 31, 1996.

   Scheduled principal repayments of long-term debt are $4,610,000 in 1997
   and 1998, $4,110,000 in 1999, and $3,000,000 in the two years ending 2000
   and 2001.

   Certain of the Company's loan agreements contain restrictive covenants
   pertaining to the maintenance of working capital and tangible net worth. 
   Under the most restrictive covenant, retained earnings of $27,295,000 were
   available for the payment of cash dividends at August 31, 1996.

   The estimated fair value of the notes payable at August 31, 1996 was
   approximately $23,800,000.  The fair value was estimated based on the
   discounted amounts of future cash flows at the current note rates assuming
   all prepayment options were exercised.  The estimated fair value of
   industrial development revenue bonds is the book value of $6,800,000.






                                     F-8
<PAGE>   9
3. TAXES ON INCOME

   Income taxes on a continuing operations basis are as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     1996        1995        1994
                                  ----------  ----------  ----------
<S>                               <C>         <C>         <C>
           Current:
              Federal             $2,560,000  $5,250,000  $3,654,000
              State and local      1,100,000     950,000     548,000
                                  ----------  ----------  ----------
                 Total            $3,660,000  $6,200,000  $4,202,000
           Deferred                3,840,000           0     800,000
                                  ----------  ----------  ----------

           Total taxes on income  $7,500,000  $6,200,000  $5,002,000
                                  ==========  ==========  ==========
</TABLE>


   Federal income taxes include foreign income taxes of $93,000 in 1996,
   ($17,000) in 1995, and  ($44,000) in 1994.  The foreign pretax earnings
   (loss) amounted to $500,000 in 1996, ($400,000) in 1995, and ($199,000) in
   1994.

   A reconciliation of income taxes computed using the U.S. federal
   statutory rate to the provision for federal income taxes follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             1996        1995        1994
                                          ----------  ----------  ----------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>         <C>
    Computed at U.S. statutory rate       $7,154,000  $5,911,000  $4,974,000
    State and local taxes                    385,000     616,000     356,000
    Goodwill amortization and write-offs     129,000      62,000      62,000
    Foreign income taxes                     (82,000)    123,000      26,000
    Research tax credit                      (45,000)   (353,000)   (235,000)
    Other                                    (41,000)   (159,000)   (181,000)
                                          ----------  ----------  ----------
       Total taxes on income              $7,500,000  $6,200,000  $5,002,000
                                          ==========  ==========  ==========
</TABLE>


   Deferred income taxes result from temporary differences in the
   recognition of income and expenses for financial reporting and tax purposes. 
   The source and deferred tax effect of these differences is as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       1996                1995          1994
                                                     ---------          ---------  ---------
<S>                                                 <C>                <C>          <C>
  Disposed operations                                $3,131,000             -              -
  Depreciation                                          (96,000)        $(185,000)    $(229,000)  
  Employee benefits                                     374,000           144,000       496,000
  Inventory related                                      69,000           (60,000)       67,000
  Accounts receivable allowances                       (148,000)          (84,000)         -
  Tax credit carryforwards                                    -              -          567,000
  Acquisition                                           304,000              -             -
  Other                                                 206,000           185,000      (101,000)
                                                     ----------         ---------     ---------    
     Total deferred                                  $3,840,000         $       0     $ 800,000
                                                     ==========         ==========    =========    
</TABLE>






                                     F-9
<PAGE>   10


Deferred tax (assets) liabilities are comprised of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        1996                    1995
                                                     ----------              ----------
<S>                                                <C>                     <C>
  Discontinued operations                                                  ($3,823,000)
  Inventory related                                  ($901,000)               (693,000)
  Accrued expenses                                    (153,000)               (324,000)
  Accounts receivable allowances                      (239,000)               (358,000)
  Other                                               (365,000)                       -
                                                   -----------              ---------- 
     Gross deferred tax assets                     ($1,658,000)            ($5,198,000)
                                                   -----------              ---------- 
  Depreciation                                        $928,000              $  871,000
  Employee benefits                                    520,000                 296,000
  Other                                                293,000                 274,000
                                                   -----------              ---------- 
     Gross deferred tax liabilities                $ 1,741,000              $1,441,000
                                                   -----------              ---------- 
  Net deferred tax liabilities (assets)            $    83,000             ($3,757,000)
                                                   ===========              ==========  
</TABLE>


4. RETIREMENT PLANS

                                 PENSION PLANS

   The Company has three defined benefit retirement plans covering a
   portion of its domestic employees.  The plans' benefits are based principally
   on years of credited service and on participants' compensation.  The plans'
   assets consist principally of marketable fixed income and equity securities.

   Net pension credit from the Company's defined benefit plans included the
   following components:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               1996         1995         1994
                                           -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                        <C>          <C>          <C>
Service cost                               $   309,000   $   162,000   $  187,000
Interest on projected benefit obligations      728,000       548,000      544,000
Actual return on plan assets                (1,322,000)   (1,963,000)      (4,000)
Net amortization and deferral                 (129,000)      719,000   (1,225,000)
                                           -----------   -----------   ----------

Net pension credit                        ($   414,000) ($   534,000) ($ 498,000)
                                           ===========   ===========   ==========
</TABLE>








                                     F-10
<PAGE>   11



   The following table sets forth the funded status of the defined benefit
   plans at August 31:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              1996                 1995
                                     ------------------------  -----------
                                        Assets    Accumulated     Assets
                                        Exceed     Benefits       Exceed
                                     Accumulated    Exceed     Accumulated
                                       Benefits     Assets       Benefits
                                     -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                             <C>              <C>          <C>
     Vested benefit obligation       $ 7,074,000  $ 1,607,000  $ 6,860,000
                                     ===========  ===========  ===========
     Accumulated benefit obligation  $ 7,363,000  $ 1,712,000  $ 7,208,000
                                     ===========  ===========  ===========

     Plan assets at fair value       $13,594,000  $ 1,469,000  $12,989,000
     Projected benefit obligation     (8,267,000)  (2,304,000)  (8,126,000)
                                     -----------  -----------  -----------
       Assets in excess of (less
          than) projected benefit
          obligation                 $ 5,327,000 ($   835,000) $ 4,863,000
     Unrecognized net (gain) loss:
       From excess funding at
          implementation of SFAS 87      683,000                   776,000
       Other                            (665,000)     440,000     (901,000)
                                     -----------  -----------  -----------
          Prepaid pension cost
             (or pension liability)  $ 5,345,000 ($   395,000) $ 4,738,000
                                     ===========  ===========  ===========
</TABLE>


   The company-sponsored pension plans generally provide benefits based on
   average salary levels and years of service.  The projected unit credit
   funding method was used along with discount rates of 7.75% in 1996 and 1995. 
   The assumed rate of return on assets was 9%, and the assumed rate of increase
   in future compensation levels was 5%.  The primary reason for increases in
   plan assets and benefit obligations relates to the Company assuming a defined
   benefit plan in connection with the acquisition of CMB Industries.

   The Company also contributes certain amounts per labor hour to
   multi-employer union pension funds.  Such contributions amounted to $528,000
   in 1996, $389,000 in 1995, and $427,000 in 1994.





                                     F-11
<PAGE>   12



                      OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS

   Certain divisions and subsidiaries of the Company provide health care
   and life insurance benefits for retirees which are, depending on the type of
   plan, either contributory or non-contributory.  Approximately 31% of
   employees may become eligible for these benefits.

   Net periodic postretirement benefit cost included the following components:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   1996      1995      1994
                                                 --------  --------  --------
<S>                                              <C>       <C>       <C>
  Service cost - benefits attributed
         to service during the period            $ 48,000  $ 42,000  $ 49,000
  Interest cost on accumulated
         postretirement benefit obligation        274,000   263,000   260,000
                                                 --------  --------  --------

  Net periodic postretirement benefit cost       $322,000  $305,000  $309,000
                                                 ========  ========  ========
</TABLE>


   The Company's postretirement plans are not funded.  The status of the
   plans at August 31 follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   1996         1995
                                                ----------  -----------
<S>                                             <C>         <C>          
   Accumulated postretirement benefit
      obligation
         Retirees                               $2,635,000  $2,729,000
         Fully eligible and other
             active participants                   709,000     612,000
                                                ----------  ----------
               Total                            $3,344,000  $3,341,000
   Unrecognized loss                              (361,000)   (399,000)
                                                ----------  ----------
   Total accrued postretirement benefits        $2,983,000  $2,942,000
                                                ==========  ==========
</TABLE>


   For measurement purposes, a 11.2% annual rate of increase in the per
   capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for 1996.  The rate
   was assumed to decrease gradually to 6.0% through the year 2008 and remain
   constant thereafter.  The assumptions for the health care cost trend rate has
   a significant effect on the amount of the obligation and periodic cost
   reported. An increase in the assumed health care cost trend rates by 1% in
   each year would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as
   of August 31, 1996 by approximately 3.7% and the aggregate of the service and
   interest cost components of net periodic postretirement benefit cost for the
   year then ended by 3.2%.

   The weighted-average discount rates used in determining the accumulated
   postretirement benefit obligation was 7.75% as of August 31, 1996 and August
   31, 1995.

   Cash expenditures for postretirement benefits were $282,000 in 1996,
   $270,000 in 1995, and $216,000 in 1994.

5. LEASES

   The Company leases certain office and production facilities and
   equipment under agreements expiring from 1997 through 2006.  Several of the
   lease commitments contain renewal and/or purchase options exercisable at the
   end of the lease terms.






                                     F-12
<PAGE>   13



   The following is a schedule of future minimum rental payments required
   under operating leases for continuing operations that have remaining terms in
   excess of one year as of August 31, 1996:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              Year ending August 31:
<S>                                                 <C>
                   1997                             $  720,000
                   1998                                700,000
                   1999                                600,000
                   2000                                520,000
                   2001                                450,000
                   Later years                       1,070,000
                                                    ----------

                   Total minimum payments required  $4,060,000
                                                    ==========
</TABLE>


   The rental expense for all operating leases was $850,000, $560,000, and
   $610,000 for the years ended August 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

6. STOCK OPTIONS AND AWARDS

   The Company's 1993 Performance Incentive Plan approved during 1994
   permits the grant of up to 490,000 shares of Company common stock for stock
   options, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock to key employees of
   the Company. Options for 222,500 shares ($13.75 to $14.56 per share) were
   granted during 1996 and options for 229,000 shares ($13.31 to $13.56 per
   share) were granted during 1994.  With 13,000 options expiring in 1996 and
   1995, 438,500 shares were outstanding at August 31, 1996.  Vesting of most of
   the shares over the first three years following grant is dependent upon
   appreciating stock market valuation of Core stock.  If the Company's stock
   fails to reach and maintain for defined periods of time those specified
   levels, vesting is delayed until 9 1/2 years after grant.

   Under prior employee stock option plans, options were outstanding as of
   August 31, 1996, for 136,200 shares ($5.25 to $10.94 per share) with
   expiration dates through 2002.  Options for 2,000 and 4,500 shares were
   exercised in 1994 and options for 8,700, 5,000 and 8,900 shares expired in
   1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.

   The 1991 and 1988 Director Discounted Stock Option Plans are for
   non-employee directors of the Company.  In accordance with the Plans,
   directors may elect to receive discounted stock options in lieu of director
   fees payable in cash, with the aggregate discounts equal to the cash fees
   forfeited.  Under the Plan, 300,000 shares were reserved for issuance of
   non-qualified stock options at either 50% or 75% of market value at the date
   of grant.  Stock options for 12,941 shares ($9.56 per share), and 28,128
   shares ($7.3594) were granted in 1996 and 1995, respectively.  Options for
   45,027 shares were exercised in 1996. 173,317 options were outstanding as of
   August 31, 1996, with 81,656 shares reserved for future grants.

   Pursuant to incentive compensation programs, the Company in 1995 and
   1994 awarded 18,620 and 6,594 shares of common stock, respectively, to key
   employees of the Company.

7. PREFERRED SHARE PURCHASE RIGHTS

   In September 1987, the Board of Directors declared a dividend
   distribution of one Preferred Share Purchase Right for each outstanding share
   of common stock. Each right will entitle shareholders to purchase one
   two-hundredth of a share of a new series of junior participating preferred
   stock at an exercise price of $50.  The rights will only be exercisable 30
   days after a person or group acquires 20% or more of the Company's common
   stock or commences a tender offer to acquire 30% or more of the common 
   stock. The Company has reserved 48,876 shares of its preferred stock for the
   outstanding rights.  If the Company is acquired in a merger or other business
   combination after the rights become exercisable, each right will entitle the
   holder to purchase common stock





                                     F-13
<PAGE>   14


   of the acquiring company having a market value of twice the exercise
   price of the right.  The rights may be redeemed by the Company at a price of
   $0.02 per right up to 30 days after a 20% position has been acquired or
   completion of a tender offer for 30% or more of common stock.  The rights
   will expire on September 28, 1997.

8. ACQUISITIONS

   During fiscal 1996, the Company acquired two companies.  Effective
   December 2, 1995, the Company acquired the common stock of CMB Industries, a
   privately held producer of specialty valves, with annual revenues of
   approximately $30 million.  Effective January 1, 1996, the Company purchased
   Davis Filters, Ltd., a manufacturer of pipeline strainers located near
   Birmingham, England, with annual sales of approximately $1 million.  The
   total cost of these acquisitions included a combination of cash, debt
   assumptions and notes payable issued totaling approximately $15.6 million
   plus 857,283 shares of the Company's common stock, which stock was valued at
   $13.50 per share.

   During fiscal 1995, the Company purchased two companies.  Core's Amprobe
   Instrument Division purchased Promax Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of
   refrigerant recycling and recovery products for the heating, ventilating, and
   air conditioning (HVAC) industry.  Core's Fluid Control Group purchased Oil
   and Gas Specialties, Inc. (OGASCO) which designs and fabricates skid-mounted
   pipeline metering systems and fabricated strainers.  The total cost of the
   above acquisitions was approximately $4,800,000, including a short-term note
   payable with a balance due of $487,000 at August 31, 1995.

   During fiscal 1994, the Company purchased the grain drill business of
   Best Manufacturing (Farm Equipment Group), and Hendrix Steel & Fabricating,
   Inc. (Fluid Control Group), a fabricator of strainers and other specialty
   flow control products.  The total cost of these acquisitions was
   approximately $3,370,000, including a five year note payable with a balance
   due of $440,000 at August 31, 1995.

   These acquisitions were accounted for as purchases, and accordingly, the
   operating results of the acquired businesses have been included in the
   Company's financial statements from their respective dates of acquisition.
   The following unaudited pro forma summary reflects the Company's consolidated
   results from continuing operations as if the above-noted acquisitions had
   been acquired as of the beginning of fiscal 1995.  This pro forma summary
   includes adjustments to give effect to amortization of goodwill, interest
   expense on acquisition debt, together with related income tax effects.  The
   pro forma results are not necessarily indicative of what would have occurred
   if the acquisition had been in effect for the entire year, nor are they
   intended to be a projection of future results.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               (Unaudited)
                                          Year Ended August 31
                                        -------------------------
                                            1996         1995
                                        ------------  -----------
<S>                                    <C>           <C>           
  Net Sales                            $237,357,000  $218.600,000
                                       ============  ============
  Earnings from continuing operations  $ 12,937,000  $ 10,443,000
                                       ============  ============
  Net earnings per share                      $1.21         $0.98
                                              =====         ===== 
</TABLE>


9. SALE OF DIVISIONS

   Effective September 23, 1993, the Company sold its Du-Al Manufacturing
   Division, a manufacturer of front end loaders, back hoes and other equipment
   sold to the construction and farm industries.  Effective May 31, 1994, the
   Company sold its Pioneer Industries Division, a manufacturer of metal doors
   and frames for the construction industry.  The total sale price of these
   transactions was approximately $12,000,000, consisting of cash and a
   promissory note for $1,500,000.  The businesses sold had approximately
   $9,000,000 of sales in FY 1994 prior to disposition.





                                     F-14
<PAGE>   15



    Other income for the year ended August 31, 1994 includes pretax gain of
    $1,475,000 (total of $.09 per share) related to the sale of the Du-Al
    Division.

10. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

    On October 6, 1995, the Company adopted a formal plan to divest its
    wholly-owned electronics-related subsidiary, Cherokee International, Inc.
    and its subsidiaries (Cherokee) effective August 31, 1995.  Cherokee        
    represented a separate line of business producing electronic power supplies
    sold to distinct customers and has been accounted for as a discontinued
    operation. Appropriate provisions were recorded in the fourth quarter of
    fiscal 1995 for (a) the estimated losses for the discontinued operation
    through its expected disposal date, (b) reduction of assets to their net
    realizable values, and (c) the anticipated liabilities related to the
    disposal. The total provision amounted to $6,500,000, net of income tax
    benefit of $3,500,000.

    Selected information related to Cherokee's operations prior to 
    discontinuation follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                1995         1994
                                            -----------  -----------
<S>                                         <C>          <C>

            Sales                           $44,669,000  $53,193,000
            Pretax income (loss)               (285,000)   1,845,000
            Income taxes                         80,000    1,048,000
            Net income (loss)                  (365,000)     797,000
            Earnings (loss) per share              (.04)         .08
</TABLE>


    The net assets of the discontinued Cherokee operation held for sale were
    included in the Balance Sheet as of August 31, 1995 under the caption "Net
    Assets Held for Sale."  In 1996 the net assets of the discontinued operation
    were sold for cash and a long-term note receivable.  It is anticipated that
    the provision established in 1995 should be adequate.

11. CONTINGENCIES

    The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits covering a wide range of
    matters.  In some of these pending lawsuits, the remedies sought or damages
    claimed are substantial.  The Company is vigorously defending against these
    claims.  While it is not possible to predict with certainty the ultimate
    outcome of these lawsuits, management believes that resolution of these
    matters will not have a material effect on the consolidated financial
    position of the Company.







                                     F-15
<PAGE>   16



12. PRODUCT SEGMENT INFORMATION

    The Company groups its products and services into three segments. 
    Financial information by segment is summarized below (based upon continuing
    operations). Assets and capital expenditures are also reported net of items
    applicable to discontinued operations.

                                                  (In Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               Earnings
                                                       Depreciation             Before
                                            Capital           and       Net   Income
                                 Assets  Expenditures  Amortization     Sales    Taxes
                               --------  ------------  ------------  --------  -------
<S>                            <C>       <C>           <C>           <C>       <C>
Year ended August 31, 1996:
Fluid controls and
  construction products        $ 87,830      $3,722        $3,399    $115,497  $15,134
Test, measurement and control    38,029         912         1,156      69,131    8,015
Farm equipment                   35,533         711           996      45,529    5,073
Corporate unallocated            11,557          51           119        -      (3,966)
Interest expense                               -             -           -      (3,816)
                               --------      ------        ------    --------  -------

Total                          $172,949      $5,396        $5,670    $230,157  $20,440
                               ========      ======        ======    ========  =======


Year ended August 31, 1995:
Fluid controls and
  construction products        $ 49,951      $2,483        $2,404    $ 80,732  $10,766
Test, measurement and control    34,702         984         1,022      63,819    6,928
Farm equipment                   38,239       1,571           813      43,346    6,075
Corporate unallocated             7,266         139           125        -      (3,521)
Discontinued operations          16,089        -             -           -        -
Interest expense                      -        -             -           -      (3,355)
                               --------      ------        ------    --------  -------

Total                          $146,247      $5,177        $4,364    $187,897  $16,893
                               ========      ======        ======    ========  =======

Year ended August 31, 1994:
Fluid controls and
  construction products        $ 44,606      $1,610        $2,351    $ 78,745  $ 8,624
Test, measurement and control    26,627       1,512           833      49,229    5,328
Farm equipment                   34,082       1,073           693      38,286    7,257
Corporate unallocated            21,112         115           127        -      (3,178)
Discontinued operations          29,960
Interest expense                      -        -             -           -      (3,820)
                               --------      ------        ------    --------  -------

Total                          $156,387      $4,310        $4,004    $166,260  $14,211
                               ========      ======        ======    ========  =======
</TABLE>



                                     F-16

<PAGE>   17



13. QUARTERLY SALES AND EARNINGS SUMMARY (UNAUDITED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 Continuing Operations              Total
                   ------------------------------------------  --------------------
                                                                             Net
                                                      Net         Net     Earnings
                                Cost       Net      Earnings    Earnings   (Loss)
                   Net Sales  of Sales  Earnings    Per Share   (Loss)    Per Share
                   ---------  --------  --------    ---------  --------   ---------
                            (In Thousands, except per share data)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>       <C>        <C>          <C>     <C>          <C>
   FISCAL 1996
   First Quarter    $ 46,437  $ 29,999   $ 2,410      $ .25   $ 2,410      $ .25
   Second Quarter     58,322    38,173     2,862        .27     2,862        .27
   Third Quarter      63,124    41,525     3,620        .34     3,620        .34
   Fourth Quarter     62,274    40,075     4,048        .38     4,048        .38
                    --------  --------   -------      -----   -------      -----

   Total Year       $230,157  $149,772   $12,940      $1.24   $12,940      $1.24
                    ========  ========   =======      =====   =======      =====

   FISCAL 1995
   First Quarter    $ 43,187  $ 27,724   $ 2,250      $ .23   $ 2,021      $ .21
   Second Quarter     44,819    28,745     2,316        .24     2,362        .24
   Third Quarter      52,426    34,269     3,023        .30     3,133        .32
   Fourth Quarter     47,465    30,350     3,104        .32    (3,688)      (.38)
                    --------  --------   -------      -----   -------      -----

   Total Year       $187,897  $121,088   $10,693      $1.09   $ 3,828      $ .39
                    ========  ========   =======      =====   =======      =====
</TABLE>








                                     F-17





<PAGE>   1
                                                                   EXHIBIT 22


CORE INDUSTRIES INC AND SUBSIDIARIES
SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT



            NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                          STATE OF INCORPORATION
  ----------------------------------------------------  ----------------------

            Anilam Electronics Corporation*             Florida
            The Robert Carter Corporation               Indiana
            CII Tustin, Inc.*                           California
               Dynamic Electronics Manufacturing Inc.*  California
            Feterl Mfg. Co.                             South Dakota
            FlexStar, Inc.*                             California
            GSE, Inc.                                   Michigan
            Hilton Industries, Inc.*                    Florida
            Hendrix Steel & Fabricating, Inc.           Texas
            Mueller Asia Pte. Ltd.                      Singapore
            Mueller U.K. Ltd.                           United Kingdom
            Davis Filters Ltd.                          United Kingdom
            Oil & Gas Specialties Co.                   Texas
            Pasar, Inc.                                 Colorado
            Poly-Craft, Inc.                            Ohio
            Sunflower Manufacturing Co., Inc.           Kansas
            CMB Industries, Inc.                        California


  *Discontinued operation






<PAGE>   1
                                                                      EXHIBIT 23

                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statements of
Core Industries Inc and subsidiaries on Form S-3 (File No. 333-5195) and Form
S-8 (File No. 033-56149) of our report dated October 9, 1996, on our audits of
the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of Core
Industries Inc as of August 31, 1996 and 1995, and for each of the three years
in the period ended August 31, 1996, which report is included in this Annual
Report on Form 10-K.

/s/ COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
- ----------------------------
Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.


Detroit, Michigan
October 29, 1996




<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
       
<S>                             <C>                     <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   3-MOS                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          AUG-31-1996             AUG-31-1996
<PERIOD-START>                             JUN-01-1996             SEP-01-1995
<PERIOD-END>                               AUG-31-1996             AUG-31-1996
<CASH>                                         572,000                 572,000
<SECURITIES>                                         0                       0
<RECEIVABLES>                               58,183,000              58,183,000
<ALLOWANCES>                               (1,260,000)             (1,260,000)
<INVENTORY>                                 51,935,000              51,935,000
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                           112,796,000             112,796,000
<PP&E>                                      61,621,000              61,621,000
<DEPRECIATION>                            (35,715,000)            (35,715,000)
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                             172,949,000             172,949,000
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                       40,180,000              40,180,000
<BONDS>                                     24,520,000              24,520,000
                                0                       0
                                          0                       0
<COMMON>                                    11,261,000              11,261,000
<OTHER-SE>                                  91,383,000              91,383,000
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>               172,949,000             172,949,000
<SALES>                                     62,274,000             230,157,000
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                            62,274,000             230,157,000
<CGS>                                       40,075,000             149,772,000
<TOTAL-COSTS>                               15,450,000              57,413,000
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                             (474,000)             (1,283,000)
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                     0                       0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             785,000               3,815,000
<INCOME-PRETAX>                              6,438,000              20,440,000
<INCOME-TAX>                                 2,390,000               7,500,000
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                          4,048,000              12,940,000
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0                       0
<CHANGES>                                            0                       0
<NET-INCOME>                                 4,048,000              12,940,000
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .38                    1.24
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .38                    1.24
        

</TABLE>


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